Staying here was an absolute dream! We arrived an hour early just hoping to drop off our bags, but they had the room ready for us and showed us to check in early! The room was spacious and the onsen was lovely. They had hot tea and traditional sweets waiting for us as well as a pair of socks and robes. Our first night there we asked for a restaurant recommendation and not only did the hostess call for us to reserve, but since it was the end of her shift she actually walked us there. We decided to pay for the breakfast one of the mornings and it did not disappoint! Everything was stunning and tasty and they even had coffee afterwards! We felt it was a bit too much food for us to we only had the breakfast once but it was definitely worth the experience! At check out, they also let us leave our bags there for a few extra hours without an issue. And the location was incredible- 10 minute walk from the bullet train and across the street from a huge temple. And they even had umbrellas for us to borrow when it rained. Seriously the best accommodations I’ve ever stayed at and the staff were all so kind and gracious. If you’re thinking about staying here, book it!

Our stay at Ryokan Hokkaikan Ohanabo was nothing short of exceptional. From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed with the warmest hospitality, making us feel at home right away. The staff went above and beyond to ensure every detail of our stay was perfect —t hey are truly the heart and soul of this wonderful ryokan. The traditional atmosphere was beautifully preserved, creating a serene and authentic experience. Our room was immaculately clean, comfortable, and thoughtfully prepared, with every touch reflecting genuine care. The futons were plush, the ambiance was peaceful, and the little details — like the perfectly arranged yukatas and the soothing tea — made all the difference. The kaiseki breakfast was an absolute delight! Every dish was crafted with precision and bursting with flavor, offering a true taste of Kyoto’s culinary excellence. It was a highlight of our mornings and something we looked forward to every day. The location is ideal, just a short walk from Kyoto Station, making it incredibly convenient while still being tucked away in a quiet, charming neighborhood. I genuinely cannot think of a single thing that could have been improved. This was one of the most memorable and heartwarming stays we’ve ever had. If you’re looking for an authentic, welcoming, and truly special experience in Kyoto, this is the place. We will absolutely be back! Thank you to the incredible team at Ryokan Hokkaikan Ohanabo — you made our trip unforgettable!

Nothing. Everything was perfect!

Ohanabo was a delight and will always remain in our hearts as a fond memory. It is a special place with special people who are friendly, attentive and accommodating. Best of all, we received a warm and enthusiastic welcome and a genuine farewell with thoughtful gestures by our honest, kind and generous hosts, Ayoko & Mayu. Both exude a beautiful energy, and make you feel as if you have known them for many years. The property was immaculate and well-cared for, with a convenient location. We enjoyed varied breakfasts and dinner during our stay. Everything we ate was consistently delicious and presented masterfully, with no detail overlooked. The traditional kaiseki dinner was particularly impressive. Thank you again; we hope to return someday for another stay! - Shannon & Dominic

Exactly as advertised. This was the quintessential Kyoto ryokan that we read about. Peaceful, welcoming vibe. Quiet except when the Innkeeper greets you in her bright, cheery voice - not shy, she is a beautiful petite woman with true joie de vie! Location could not be better. Easy walk to subway, literally a 10 mins walk (with luggage!) to Kyoto Station. View of the gorgeous Higashi Hogani-ji temple across the steer as well as sight of Kyoto Tower. Excellent amenities which I did not expect, right down to socks and toothpaste paper, as well as sponges to use to clean ourselves before stepping into the shared onsen. FYI - for those shy about getting naked in front of strangers, both nights I went around 8:30 PM and was able to soak and relax by myself, despite the inn being full. Sooooo clean. 10 out of 10 for even those of us particularly picky. And worth every penny for foodies. Kyoto is not always easy for meals as sit down restaurants usually require reservations. So staying at a ryokan with good food is a way to experience the area’s typical dishes. The food at Ohanabo did not disappoint. The innkeeper is third generation as this was originally her grandfather’s inn. Now she runs it and her son is the chef. The first night we had the gorgeous kaiseiki dinner everyone wrote about. It was amazing and met expectations. But I was so happy we had decided to stay two nights. The second night we were able to choose between shabu shabu (Japanese hot pot) or sukiyaki - we chose the latter and ate the most delicious, decadent Omni wagyu beef meal ever. It was so good we could not stop talking about it. The traditional Japanese breakfasts were also top notch, do not pass them up! You can still get regular North American/European coffee - they have a Nespresso machine in the hallway. Come hungry to meals here as the serving size is generous with many courses meant to spoil you.

More a generalization- but seriously don’t stay at a ryokan unless you have done your reading and know what to expect. This is not a hotel, it’s more like a bed and breakfast albeit a very large one. Shared spaces and thin walls. You need to respect their rules and the quiet times. You will be able to pick your meal times and then are expected to abide by them. They are incredible hosts here, and will call you 5 mins before your booked meal times so you won’t be late. As well, it didn’t bother us (actually I found it rather soothing), but be aware the temple across the street has a bell or soft bong that sounds every few minutes for a bit in the morning starting at 5:50 AM. Only very light sleepers might hear it but thought I should mention it.

Really friendly and always smiling staff! They’re really happy to chat with you and give you recommendations for sightseeing / restaurants. The rooms are spacious, clean and are carefully maintained in the 100 year old traditional Japanese style. The bathing facility is a bit on the smaller side but helps to relieve the sore muscles after a long day in Kyoto. Towels and Kimonos are provided. The traditional breakfast variates on a daily basis which makes each time a new delicious experience.

The toilet rooms are a bit on the smaller side for 175cm and above and keep in mind to lower your head when entering / leaving rooms, otherwise you might get a headache.

From the moment we stepped foot in this property we were greeted by the exceptionally welcoming staff who were so friendly, immediately offering to help us with our luggage! They were an absolute delight to interact with and were so polite and such gracious hosts. We felt truly spoilt! We stayed four nights and would highly recommend getting the breakfast every morning which was so delicious and authentic. Our room was beautiful and the perfect mixture of traditional tatami mats yet with the comfort of a luxurious modern bathroom and heating. Another highlight is the public bath which was the perfect temperature. The whole property was beautiful and very clean. We will be returning and recommending to all our friends and family!!

Nothing. We loved everything!

Property was very clean, beautiful, and comfortable. Our room was spacious and fit our group of 4 perfectly. The tatami mattress and bedding were extremely comfortable and was prepared for us beforehand. The facilities like public bath, shared restrooms, dining rooms were well equipped and added to the wonderful experience we had at this ryokan. Even the toiletries were provided: skincare set, toothbrushes, razors, toothpaste paper strips and mouthwash to name a few. We were provided with yukata and split toe socks for the duration of our stay. Next time we have to stay for more than 1 night! The staff went above and beyond and we were so grateful! They are so warm and attentive, they created a great environment for us to enjoy our stay and use the facilities. The traditional beakfast and dinner are worth any extra cost and prepared with such care and detail- Very yummy and a great experience to add to your trip.

Nothing- everything was wonderful

We had a great stay here! Highly recommended if you are looking for an authentic japanese experience, the staff is great they are there to support you with anything you need. The rooms are very good and traditional, we did not eat in the hotel but if we had the opportunity to go back we would love to try the food. The people running the place have the most welcoming and warm service. Truly a place I would recommend to my friends and family! Also its very close to the train station and one minute walking from one of the most beautiful wooden temples in kyoto.

Ohanabo was hospitable enough to accommodate my family (5 adults) despite only having a room fit for 4 adults, left. (We had reached out to Ohanabo via booking.com and paid for a room of 4 first, before topping up for the additional 5th person when we arrived). Although it was a little squeezy as what Ohanabo had given us a heads up on, it still fit us perfectly for our 2D1N stay in the ryokan as we are all relatively small in size. The staff were extremely welcoming and warm, always with a bright smile on their face and ready to help whenever we needed. The amenities were clean, and we enjoyed having the little treats they provided us, wearing our yukata, and using the onsen after a long day of travelling and walking. We had the kiseki dinner in our own private dining room, which was a wonderful experience - do prepare your tummy for it as it can be very filling despite the seemingly small portions! The breakfast the following day was delightful as well, and gave us the energy we needed for the rest of the day! Despite being situated near the Kyoto station, and by the roadside, the rooms were able to drown out the noise, and we had a restful night. Would definitely return again! Thank you for the memorable stay!

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The staff was so welcoming and nice! Right when we entered we were greeted with an exciting "Welcome!". Our room was ready way before check-in time and we were surprised. We expected to leave our luggage in the morning and explore, but we were able to rest for a while before heading out. They were very thorough in explaining amenities and I always felt like I could ask them questions without feeling like I bothered them.

I don't have a single word of complaint to give, I loved everything!