RYOKAN INN YOSHIDA-SANSO, Kyoto

Ryokan Inn Yoshida-Sanso - A Historic Imperial Villa with Traditional Kaiseki Dining and Mountain Views

Located in Sakyo Ward, this 4.5-star Kyoto hotel occupies the former university villa of Prince Higashifushimi, uncle of Emperor Akihito. Ryokan Inn Yoshida-Sanso features 5 individually decorated accommodations with separate dining areas, safes, and complimentary newspapers. Each room includes air conditioning, balconies, flat-screen TVs, and bathrooms with electronic bidets and shower/tub combinations. The property maintains its Imperial heritage with the Imperial Seal of Japan displayed on ornate door pulls and roof tiles. A private dining room serves traditional Kyoto-style kaiseki meals featuring 10 courses of seasonal dishes, while breakfast options include Japanese fish and tofu or Western selections with omelets and pastries. Guest amenities encompass an indoor public bath, tea salon, bar, and a prince-designed garden. The ryokan stands a 5-minute walk from Yoshida Jinja Shrine, 10 minutes from Kyoto University, and 17 minutes from Heian Jinja Shrine.

Pros

One of few properties in Japan authorized to display the Imperial Seal

Garden personally designed by Prince Higashifushimi

Mountain and garden views from bright corner rooms

Complimentary Japanese leisure wear and skin moisturizer sets provided

Cons

34 miles from Itami Airport

No pets or service animals permitted