Stay · Downtown / Fuyacho
Tawaraya Ryokan 俵屋旅館
Kyoto's most revered ryokan, run by the same family for over 300 years in a quiet lane off Fuyacho-dori. Most visitors only see its dark wooden facade, but even that, with its lantern and simple noren, is a lesson in restraint.
About
Tawaraya has stood on Fuyacho-dori, downtown, since the early 18th century and is now run by the 11th-generation owner. Its 18 rooms have hosted royalty, writers and film stars, and each looks onto a small private garden. The architecture is deliberately understated: dark latticed wood, a slatted entrance, a stone path and a single lantern. Across the street is Hiiragiya, another historic ryokan, so this short block of Fuyacho is the classic image of Kyoto inn culture. Booking is difficult and primarily by phone or fax; for most travellers the experience is to walk the street, admire the facade from a respectful distance, and visit the family's Gallery Ten shop nearby, which sells items used in the inn.
Highlights
- 300-year-old family ryokan with 18 rooms
- Dark lattice facade with lantern and stone path
- Every room faces a private garden
- Opposite Hiiragiya on the same historic block
- Family's Gallery Ten shop nearby
Tips
- Do not enter unless you are a guest; photograph only the exterior from the street
- Early morning is the best time to see the street without traffic
- Gallery Ten sells the inn's soaps, towels and tableware
Open in Google Maps · Info checked 2026-10-09
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