“Uniqueness of each room, relaxing environment, great staff, peaceful setting”

“Traditional but luxury at the same time. Perfect position to walk to major temples ”

“It was a pleasant experience staying a night at the hotel. The staff is kind and helpful, we were explained about the story of the hotel and served some welcome champagne as welcome drink. The room is wide, clean and cozy. The beds are comfortable and the sheets are very clean. There is a traditional Japanese bathtub in the bathroom, which provides good relaxing moments. We got some complimentary items as fancy chocolates, a bottle of Perrier water, two bottles of juice, a bottle of tea, coffee, etc. The Japanese style breakfast was very delicious. We could try little portions of food from the Japanese culinary.” Read more

“The modern interior design and wooden furnitures match well. The bed is spotless and comfy. Staff are nice and helpful. Food in the restaurant is great with reasonable price.”

“Loved absolutely everything except for the fact that there was no spa and no room service but I understand it’s a traditional Japanese riyokan and maybe this is just not part of that experience as we are accustomed to in western hotels”

“From the moment we arrived, the exceptional staff made us feel welcomed with a glass of champagne and a quick explanation of the hotel and recent renovations. We were brought to our beautiful room that was very clean and spacious with an incredible bathroom and tub. The room was stocked with water and complimentary chocolate and tea, as well as traditional Japanese and western styled robes and slippers. I had emailed the hotel before I arrived to ask for some help in booking dinner reservations around Kyoto. They were so wonderful and helpful- they were able to get us reservations at the restaurants we wanted and were great at communicating. The staff went above and beyond to make our stay fantastic. We would definitely stay here again.” Read more

“Perfect location for exploring old Kyoto. Staff outstanding-friendly and comfortable speaking English. Lots of nearby restaurants to chose from which was convenient since we did not want Kaiseki (@bombance). Room lovely with multiple little gardens. Make sure you ask to see main garden that some rooms look out to. We stayed in old part. Cedar tub so comfortable plus spectacular rain shower. Comfortable chairs plus nice amenities and free mini bar. Western breakfast delicious-fun to make your own toast at table. Five stars if you like a hard bed.” Read more

“It was a old restaurant and renovated into a new hotel. The old building has a very nice atmosphere, can feel the essence of traditional Japanese house, but with modern facility. There is a garden in the central of the building, which gives a tranquil feel. Love the design of the room, very comfy and relaxing. Bathtub, washlet, speaker. They also provide free mini bar, served with Yaesu Beer :))) and coke, you can enjoy a lot in the living room. Very nice location, can walk to Ninezaka and Kiyomizu Temple. Overall, I would recommended SOWAKA:)” Read more

“The concept of the hotel is amazing with it’s simplicity and nature oriented design... the staff makes you feel it is your moment... breakfast is also great!”

“Extremely well located..:location, location, location. Staff was very helpful and friendly ”