“If you're a fan of Miyazaki, you'll love this place. The host, Hidoke, has been running Uemura for 60 years. She is the sweetest woman we met during our travels. Don't be mistaken by her old age--Hidoke cooks up and serves the tastiest breakfast, and sees her guests out with the care and warmth of a grandmother. She has such a humble and charming presence--you'll find yourself wanting to give her a big hug. The room was utterly spectacular, decorated in weathered Japanese textiles and papers, overlooking a nearby shrine. In the morning we discovered three kittens cuddling beneath the windowsill and wondered if we could just stay forever.” Read more

“Ryokan Uemura is warm safe haven in an unbelievably central location. The old wooden building with the most charming proprietor makes you feel immediately relaxed and at home. Location is best of both worlds as it is tucked away on a quiet charming alleyway but walking distance to Yasaka shrine, Kodai-Ji temple, Gion and a main street in Southern Higashiyama where you can find convenience stores and restaurants.” Read more

“Excellent hospitality, great view of the little garden in the room, amazing location, truly incredible location. Despite the signs saying photos were prohibited, the surrounding street is so scenic there were always people in kimonos having their photos taken. Excellent access to Kodaiji Temple. The walk to Kimuzu-dera was scenic, quite uphill but gorgeous. Location makes you feel like you are a time traveler.” Read more

“I can’t think of a thing I didn’t LOVE!! Perfect location within walking distance of the main street. So much around that area. The hostess was incredible...she made you feel like you were visiting family. Such a warm and comfortable place to come back to after a day of exploring an amazing city!” Read more

“I have been to Japan almost 10 times and this is by far one of the best ryokan I have stayed. It is situated in a historical, preserved street. While the accommodation is old and traditional, it offers enough amenities that help your stay comfortable. The room I stay has a partial view of pagoda and is very peaceful especially at night time. The host, Ms. Uemura, is very kind and she is a superb cook! The Japanese breakfast is just perfect. I will definitely return on my next visit to Kyoto.” Read more

“The house lady is absolutely adorable. This way of housing the guest is so much more involved than any traditional hotel. Using B&B and capsule hotels before, I was very satisfied not to constrained in space - the room is huge by japanese standard, which definitely adds up to a comfort score. Being located in Gion area, I had a chance to spot real geishas - they look magnificent! ” Read more

“The breakfast was ample, delicious, and made with care. Our host anticipated our every need, and the room was peaceful and comfortable. We loved the view of the garden out our window.”

“Mrs. Uemura is sweet and charming. We felt so welcome. The house is old, but beautiful and a great chance to see what a Japanese home is like. Breakfast was very good, coffee, toast, yogurt, an egg with ham, and three types of fruit, small salad, and a glass of juice! Our room was downstairs & large. It was clean and had air conditioning. The shower was clean and straight from the 60s, had soap, conditioner, body soap, clean towels and we wore Yakata. As others have said, this felt more like a home stay or Minshuku (family run b&b) than other ryokans we experienced.” Read more

“Perfect location for Kyoto temples, shrines and restaurants. Breakfast was delicious. Owner just amazing:)”

“Owner, Hideko san, is the loviest host one could wish for in the sweetest location in Kyoto. If you are looking for a traditional lodging experience, this is the place. You are greeted with tea and cake at check-in and a very warm welcome. Breakfast is ample (American style) and the location really couldn't be better. The beds are traditional tatami mats and the bathrooms are shared, both comfortable and clean. We loved our stay!” Read more