This picturesque Kyoto ryokan, conveniently situated in the heart of Japan’s ancient capital, offers a welcoming, serene escape from the busy sightseeing spots you’ll be exploring by day.
Many hotels just offer you a place to sleep but what I truly loved about this unique Kyoto ryokan is that your experience of Japanese culture doesn’t have to end when you return to your hotel! There are plenty of opportunities during your stay at Nishiyama Ryokan that will help both the first-time and repeat visitor to Japan to enjoy and develop their understanding of Japanese culture.
Arriving at Nishiyama Ryokan
We were heartily welcomed and offered mugi-cha, a refreshing Japanese summer tea, during check-in. The process was smooth, and the English-speaking staff can help with any questions during your stay.
Family-run by the Nishiyama family for three generations since 1953, Nishiyama Ryokan showcases omotenashi (Japanese hospitality) at its very finest.
The rooms
Despite the long history of this Kyoto ryokan, the rooms have been recently renovated this year. There are several styles for you to choose from, depending on your budget (you can explore all options here).
All of which offer you the delight of staying with traditional Japanese design elements like tatami floors, yet with modern features like smart TVs hidden behind shoji sliding doors.
I stayed in room 401, one of the Japanese Superior Rooms, which was spacious, spotless and so comfortable. Whilst some may have their doubts about sleeping on a futon, I can assure you that I slept so soundly!
I also had the chance to see the Luxury Twin-Bedded Room which is perfect for those who might struggle sleeping on the floor and need/prefer to use a higher western-style bed.
A traditional Japanese breakfast at a Kyoto ryokan
A highlight of my stay is the full Japanese breakfast which I highly recommend you to try! Kyoto is renowned for its delicious fruits and vegetables and the salad, fruits, boiled tofu did not disappoint. With a wide range of dishes, all nutritious and made with the freshest ingredients, you’re ready for a day of sightseeing.
Experience Japanese culture from the lobby
What sets this Kyoto ryokan apart from others is their dedication to foreign customers having a hands-on experience of Japanese cultural activities. Depending on the day, you could experience traditional Japanese tea ceremony, tsumami – pinching & folding fabrics into decorations, ikebana – Japanese flower arranging, calligraphy and koto concerts. As part of your stay, activities are included and are usually held in the early evening (5.30pm+) or in the morning (~10am) before check-out in the lobby.
During my stay, I was lucky to experience tea ceremony and tsumami – a new Japanese art for me to try!
Tea ceremony
The morning after my stay I experienced the beautiful time-honoured art of Japanese tea ceremony hosted by the sweetest Nishiyama-sensei. Japanese tea ceremony has so many steps to follow, and despite taking part in it a few times before, I still struggle to remember it all! Thankfully Nishiyama-sensei was such a kind and patient teacher so I didn’t have to worry about making any embarrassing mistakes! I observed her completing the steps as she made the most delightful matcha for me before it was my turn. Truly a delightful start to the morning!
Tsumami-zaiku
Despite living in Japan for 8 years, I still have much to discover and tsumami was new to me to try yet it also has a long history dating back to the Edo period (1603-1868). It’s still very popular as a hobby in Japan today and you can see tsumami in jewellery, accessories, and decorations. In fact, as you wander around Kyoto you might even be lucky enough to spot tsumami in hair decorations used by geisha and maiko!
The art of tsumami involves taking small square-cut pieces of fabric and using tweezers. You fold the pieces before gluing them down and using pearls for decorations. Despite not being so talented at handicrafts, I even struggle with origami, I made quite a pretty magnet! The blue & purple one is mine – not quite as good as the other two but it’s still pretty right?
Japanese public bath
Whilst central Kyoto lacks onsen, you can still experience the culture of taking a Japanese public bath. I’m certain your body will appreciate it after a long day of exploring the city! Despite taking a bath being not quite as simple as hopping in the tub, the ryokan has an English sign outlining the rules so you don’t have to worry about making any faux-pas! For guests with tattoos, rest assured you’re also able to enter the public bath too.
The Japanese garden
My favourite feature of this Kyoto ryokan is the tranquil & beautifully taken care of Japanese garden. I visited in July so I was surrounded by lush, vibrant greenery. Can you imagine how stunning the momiji tree will look in the fall?
Pick up the perfect souvenir
Before you leave make sure to check out the cute, curated selection of souvenirs that Nishiyama Ryokan have prepared. I absolutely loved this little tea cup!
Location
The closest station to Nishiyama Ryokan is Kyoto Shiyakusho-mae. It’s walking distance to the Imperial Palace, the vibrant Shijo-Kawaramachi shopping area, Nijo castle and even Gion. One thing I love is that it offers convenient access to the many popular tourist attractions Kyoto has to offer.
After your time in Kyoto, why not head to Hikone, a quaint castle town less than an hour away, for a relaxing wellness experience?
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