Genhouin is one of the most beautiful ryokan in Kyoto. It’s a classic Japanese structure surrounded by superb gardens. Best of all, it’s in a quiet neighborhood not far from the sights.

Genhouin exterior with garden
Ryokan Genhouin At A Glance
- Great for: couples, families with older children
- Strong points: architecture, gardens, quiet neighborhood
- Sample rates: from US$500 to $1000 per night

Genhouin family room garden view
Genhouin is a charming and largely unknown ryokan in a quiet residential neighborhood in the northern Higashiyama district, a short walk from the Path of Philosophy, Ginkaku-ji and the magical walking paths of Yoshida-yama.

Genhouin main common room
The ryokan is a bit of an oddity: It’s firmly in the luxury price bracket, but some of the rooms have shared bathrooms (it’s a small place so this isn’t really a problem). But some rooms have private hot tubs with garden views. A fine Japanese breakfast is served but not dinner.
Overall, for travelers who want to stay in an absolutely gorgeous property in a quiet area, this ryokan is hard to beat. Just note that children below the age of 13 are not permitted.
Name in English:
Genhouin
Name in Japanese:
山科伯爵邸 源鳳院
English address:
77 Okazaki-hosshoji-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan 606-8333
Japanese address:
〒606-8333 京都市左京区岡崎法勝寺町77
Price range: luxury
Nearest Transport:
4 minutes’ walk from Okazaki Hosshojicho Bus Stop, Kyoto City Bus 5 from Kyoto Station
Telephone: 81-75-752-1110
Website: genhouin.com (Japanese)
:: Check availability and pricing for Ryokan Genhouin on Booking.com or Agoda.com.
Near To Here:
Ryokan Genhouin is located in Kyoto’s Northern Higashiyama district. See our complete list of things to do in Northern Higashiyama, including places to eat, nightlife and places to stay.
Kyoto Vacation Checklist
- For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Kyoto guide
- Check Kyoto accommodation availability on Booking.com and Agoda.com - often you can book with no upfront payment and free cancellation
- You can buy shinkansen (bullet train) tickets online from Klook - popular routes include Tokyo to Kyoto, Kyoto to Osaka and Kyoto to Tokyo
- Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Kyoto
- See my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
- You can buy an eSim to activate in Japan or buy a data-only SIM card online for collection when you arrive at Tokyo's Narita or Haneda Airports or Kansai International Airport. You can also rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
- Compare Japan flight prices and timings to find the best deals
- If you're making frequent train journeys during your visit, you might save money with Japan Rail Pass – see if it's worth it for you
- World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world
- Do you want help planning your trip? Chris Rowthorn and his team of Japan experts at Japan Travel Consulting can help