Ryokan Yoshida-sanso - Kyoto

Calm, peaceful and relax, warm welcome, friendly and good service.

This 'hotel' is not like anywhere else I have ever stayed. The service was so personal, with private dining rooms etc., that most of the time it felt like the entire focus of the place was on you alone. Altogether a unique experience.

It was truly an amazing experience for the 2 of us and our 7-year old kid. This mansion used to be the home of a prince and was mentioned in one of the documentary books of Kyoto. It should be one of those top-serviced Ryokens in town. We were assigned for literally a "house" with 40 years of history and own front garden and gate, spacious living of about 2,000 sq. feet of room, comfortable trad. Japanese futon style, all necessary amenities (even come with iron & ironing board and kimono dressing). A special gratitude to all the smiling staff & their hospitality at the mansion, especially Tomoko, who explained everything well to us. At breakfast time, we were treated a private room and a full set delicious trad. Japanese style breakfast, and Japanese times daily newspaper, which was supplemented with complimentary coffee/tea in their relaxing tea shop, caused us certain delay in activity schedule because it was just so luring to stay a little longer in the mansion for the good mood and ambiance.... There are parking space as well in case you drive. The only thing you need to be aware is that since the surrounding is nature, you just can't avoid the chance of having "special" visitors such as the naughty spider which was attracted by our room lights and came visiting on the first night of arrival.... therefore my kid's comment would be different from us because he would opt for no insects in the future.

If you are in Kyoto this is a must. The staff is friendly, the grounds are immaculate and the food is wonderful. The best accomidation in Kyoto by far!

I have always wanted to stay in a Ryokan, and the experience exceeded my expectations. Hosts were warm, welcoming, and very helpful.