Gion Shinmonso

“Very unique experience in this lovely property”

We stayed here for 2 nights (2 adults and 2 kids, ages 8 and 10) to experience a traditional Ryokan, and what a unique experience it was. Having never stayed in one before we didn't know what to expect, but absolutely loved it. Do not expect to go here with many of the comforts of Western civiliz… more

We stayed here for 2 nights (2 adults and 2 kids, ages 8 and 10) to experience a traditional Ryokan, and what a unique experience it was. Having never stayed in one before we didn't know what to expect, but absolutely loved it. Do not expect to go here with many of the comforts of Western civilization, however, if you have an open mind and want to experience the old Japanese culture, this is a wonderful way to do it. While I'm sure there are higher end Ryokans, this was perfectly comfortable for our family (and budget during the expensive cherry blossom season in the spring). This is a small property with only 21 rooms so it was nice and quaint. The rooms were simple but clean, and sleeping on the futons was certainly different (not the best night of sleep but wouldn't take it back for the experience). The futons are set up after dinner and put away while we were at breakfast. We had a tub in our room but used the public baths for the traditional bathing experience. Our kids thought it was a lot of fun and loved the "rules" of what to do and not do to respect the bathing experience. If you are a foodie, you will not be disappointed as the food was phenomenal. We had dinner in our room one night (many courses were served) and in the dining hall the second night. Breakfast was in the dining hall each morning. Since English was not spoken well, our server could not explain what we were eating, but whatever it was was good. Though English is not well spoken by the staff, you still feel the warmth of the people and their desire to make it a great experience for their guests. The location of this property in Gion was perfect. Just walking around and enjoying the beauty of Kyoto was quite a treat. For a late lunch one day after sightseeing, we enjoyed a nice experience at the sushi restaurant directly across the street from the hotel. Overall, just a very nice, memorable experience and one I'd certainly recommend.

less

“Great experience”

We spent one night in this ryokan while in Kyoto for a week. It was in a really nice location and we purchased a Beef Sukiyaki and sake set. Check-in was easy. We made a booking and one of the staff members came to our room and prepared our food for us in the room. He was really friendly. When that… more

We spent one night in this ryokan while in Kyoto for a week. It was in a really nice location and we purchased a Beef Sukiyaki and sake set. Check-in was easy. We made a booking and one of the staff members came to our room and prepared our food for us in the room. He was really friendly. When that was done they pushed the table over and made our beds for us. The mattresses weren't all that comfortable but it is what one expects from a Ryokan, you are sleeping on futon covered tatami mats There was also a restaurant next door with people who came in and out at all times of night talking quite loudly that kept us up a bit. Also to note, we were in a smoking room even though we dont smoke and other than in the hallways, the rooms themselves dont actually smell of smoke so no need to be worried. While we make these observations of the living area it was an experience I would definitely recommend. The pros definitely outweigh the cons and Gion Shinmonso.

less

“Construction work at the moment ”

Stayed here for 2 nights Staff very helpful and polite Smoking being allowed in the hotel lobby and current construction work on the hotel wall detracted from an otherwise nice ryokan Our room window was taped over with opaque wrap and scaffolding covers the outside of the hotel Also it's quite no… more

Stayed here for 2 nights Staff very helpful and polite Smoking being allowed in the hotel lobby and current construction work on the hotel wall detracted from an otherwise nice ryokan Our room window was taped over with opaque wrap and scaffolding covers the outside of the hotel Also it's quite noisy during the day though that didn't really affect us as we were out most of the day They have a public bathroom downstairs if you have a room without a private bathroom Our private bathroom was quite small Location of the hotel is fantastic as it's situated right in the district of Gion Plenty of dining options nearby though we had a lot of problems finding a non smoking restaurant, so beware if you have young kids or respiratory issues I would say wait until the construction work is completed before staying here

less