Sowaka, Kyoto ⇒ Browse rooms, reviews & rates for 2026

75 photos

Pay on our site

up to 10% less

than on Booking.com

Key details

About the Hotel

No. 480, Seikei-Cho, Higashiyama-Ku, Kyoto, Japan, 605-0821

Close to Kodai-ji Temple

Perfect

9.7

9.8

/10

4.2

4.7

Loved by Sowaka Hotel guests

Perfect service
Authentically Japanese setting
Delicious food
Warm hospitality

"Our room has direct access to a beautiful garden that is shared with only two other rooms."

Alice from United States

read full review

"Unlimited free cold drinks from the fridge which is replenished daily."

Happytravel

read full review

"The hotel is stunning & perfectly located in the most historic & traditional part of Kyoto."

Kevin

read full review

Amenities

Sowaka offers an authentic ryokan experience featuring seven distinct guest rooms that blend traditional Japanese design with contemporary comforts. Each room is equipped with tatami flooring, futons, and an ensuite bathroom designed to enhance relaxation. The hotel also includes a private onsen, allowing guests to enjoy a tranquil soaking experience within the premises.

Dining

Sowaka offers an exquisite dining experience featuring kaiseki cuisine, a traditional multi-course Japanese meal that showcases seasonal ingredients. The hotel's restaurant incorporates local products, allowing guests to savor the flavors of Kyoto in a serene setting. Guests can also enjoy a breakfast featuring fresh, local ingredients daily.

Wellness

A wellness center at Sowaka provides a range of treatments and therapies designed to rejuvenate the body and mind. Traditional Japanese treatments such as shiatsu massage can be enjoyed while overlooking the serene gardens. The spa area also includes facilities for meditation and relaxation, encouraging guests to reconnect with nature.

Location

Sowaka is conveniently located near the historic Gion district, known for its traditional wooden machiya houses and geisha culture. The hotel is within walking distance of several key attractions, including Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Maruyama Park. Its central location allows for easy exploration of Kyoto's rich history and cultural sites.

Guest Experience

Sowaka emphasizes personalized service, ensuring that guests receive attentive care throughout their stay. Customized itineraries are available, allowing visitors to explore Kyoto's hidden gems with local insights. Evening tea is also offered to enhance the traditional ryokan experience, fostering a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Highlights

Location: Near historic Gion district

Rooms: Seven distinct guest rooms

Dining: Kaiseki cuisine

Wellness: Private onsen & spa services

Must-do experiences

Savor kaiseki at Gion Karyo for an exquisite traditional meal.
Wander through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove at dawn for serenity.
Visit the hidden Otagi Nenbutsu-ji with its unique stone statues.
Taste yudofu at Nanzenji Junsei, a delightful tofu specialty shop.
Explore Nishiki Market for local snacks and vibrant food stalls.

Location: Perfect

9.9/10Review score

View hotel on map

Highlights from guests

DiningExquisite Kaiseki

The Kaiseki meal was outstanding, with incredible attention to detail in both presentation and taste. A truly wonderful experience.

Oliver from Canada

Review on

BathroomWooden Opulence

The traditional wooden bathtub was a highlight, along with the modern, heated toilet seat. The perfect blend of old and new.

Mei from China

Review on

Room FeaturesMini-bar Surprise

The free minibar was a treat! It included sake, beer, water, plus amazing apple and grape juice. Perfect!

Hans from Austria

Review on

BedroomGarden Views

Waking up to a zen garden view was incredibly calming. The room felt like a peaceful retreat.

Isabelle from France

Review on

View all

Select your room type

Sowaka Hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

Standard Double Room Mountain View Main

2 persons

295 sq. feet

1 Double bed

Shower

Heating

room details

Superior King Room City View Main

2 persons

345 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Heating

room details

Superior Queen Room

2 persons

370 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Heating

room details

Suite Garden View Main

2 persons

1045 sq. feet

2 Single beds

Shower

Heating

room details

Click button to see more rooms

Show all rooms

Show all roomsLess

Price and Room Availability Calendar

Check availability and prices for your dates now!

Facilities

Sowaka Hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

Facilities: Perfect

9.6/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
Free Wi-Fi
Safe deposit box
24-hour reception
No pets allowed
24-hour security
Adults only
Luggage storage
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key card access

Guest Parking

Electric kettle

Services

Room service
Housekeeping
Laundry
Dry cleaning
Welcome drink

Dining

Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area

Business

Fax/Photocopying

Spa & Leisure

Garden area
Spa & wellness centre
Massage

Room features

Air conditioning
Heating
Mini-bar
Patio
Terrace
Ironing facilities

Bathroom

Free toiletries

Self-catering

Electric kettle

Media

AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

Carpeted floor

Dining Onsite

Sowaka presents an exquisite array of onsite dining options, with an emphasis on authentic Japanese cuisine that invites guests to embark on a memorable culinary adventure. Two unique venues await, each offering a distinct atmosphere and unparalleled taste experiences.

祇園ろか

Japanese

Ambiance

This intimate restaurant exudes traditional Japanese charm, melding modern design elements with warm, welcoming interiors that create a serene dining environment.

Key Offerings

Enjoy a thoughtfully curated menu available for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, showcasing the elegance and simplicity of Japanese culinary traditions. Signature offerings highlight seasonal ingredients and showcase artistic presentation.

Reservation

Recommended

Open daily from 07:30 to 22:00.

La Bombance Gion

Japanese, Michelin-starred

Ambiance

Nestled in the heart of Kyoto, this elegant sister restaurant to Tokyo's La Bombance offers a sophisticated yet cozy atmosphere, perfect for those seeking an intimate dining experience.

Key Offerings

Embark on a culinary exploration with dishes that are an abstract visual interpretation of traditional Japanese fare, blending technique and creativity to delight the senses. Each meal is a work of art, reflecting the spirit of Kyoto.

Reservation

Recommended

Hours vary; check locally for details.

Sowaka Hotel Location

No. 480, Seikei-Cho, Higashiyama-Ku, Kyoto, Japan, 605-0821

Map view

No. 480, Seikei-Cho, Higashiyama-Ku, Kyoto, Japan, 605-0821

City landmarks

Castle

Nijo Castle

1.9 mi

Landmark

Nishiki Market Shopping District

1.2 mi

Market

Nishiki Market

1.5 mi

Pagoda

Chion-in

3600 ft

Landmark

Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine

2.4 mi

Pagoda

Kennin-ji

3600 ft

Tower

Kyoto Tower

1.5 mi

Pagoda

Sanjusangendo Temple

1.2 mi

Pagoda

Nanzen-ji

1.2 mi

Museum

Kyoto National Museum

1.2 mi

Pagoda

Shoren-in

3600 ft

Pagoda

Temple of the Silver Pavilion

2.1 mi

Pagoda

Kiyomizu-dera Temple 3 Storey Tower

3200 ft

Landmark

Heian Shrine

1.4 mi

Palace

Kyoto Imperial Palace

1.8 mi

Pagoda

Rokuharamitsu-ji

3600 ft

Pagoda

Kinkaku-ji

3.8 mi

Museum

Kyoto International Manga Museum

1.3 mi

Pagoda

Nishi-Hongan-ji

1.7 mi

Zoo

Kyoto Municipal Zoo

1.2 mi

Nearby

625 Giommachi Kitagawa

Yasaka Shrine

1400 ft

Pagoda

Kodai-ji

1400 ft

Park

Maruyama Park

1400 ft

Japan

Nineizaka

1400 ft

463 Maruyamacho

Kyoto cherry blossoms

1400 ft

Higashiyama-ku

Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka

1400 ft

３９０−１ Kinencho

Yasaka Koshin-do

1400 ft

Higashiyama-ku

Hanami Lane

1400 ft

70 Benten-cho

Yasui Konpiragu Shrine

1400 ft

Higashiyama-ku

Ishibe Alley

1400 ft

Restaurants

Iyemon Salon Atelier Kyoto

300 ft

481-1 KIyoicho Yasaka Tori Mae Sagaru

Teppan Tavern Gion Tenamonya

500 ft

537-2 Minamigawa Giommachi Higashiyama-ku Hiro Bldg. B1F

Jubanseru

300 ft

Kiyoicho

Cafe Restaurant Yayoi

300 ft

481 Gionshimogawara

Gion Cafe

500 ft

484 Kiyoi-cho

Mavo

400 ft

440 Bentencho

Kyoto Cuisine Jikishonbo Saiki

300 ft

441 Kamibentencho

Mimiko

400 ft

528-6 Giommachi Minamigawa

京都風お好み焼と酒おあがり

500 ft

537-2 Gion Machi Minamigawa

Dari K Gion Akishino

100 ft

492-22 Kiyoicho

Explore Kyoto

Explore Kyoto Near Sowaka

Yasaka Shrine

6 minutes' walk

A Shinto shrine famous for its vibrant festivals and stunning architecture; perfect for a peaceful stroll.

Kodai-ji

6 minutes' walk

A historic temple featuring beautiful gardens and Zen architecture; known for its tranquil ambiance.

Nishiki Market Shopping District

25 minutes' walk

A lively market offering local delicacies, crafts, and souvenirs; a must-visit for food lovers.

Kiyomizu-dera Temple 3 Storey Tower

15 minutes' walk

An iconic temple with stunning views of Kyoto; renowned for its wooden stage and cherry blossoms.

Wellness at Okazaki Park

13 minutes' walk

Relax in Okazaki Park, offering serene walking paths and green spaces; perfect for yoga or contemplation.

Cultural Tour at Nishiki Market

25 minutes' walk

Immerse yourself in local culture at Nishiki Market; experience food tastings and artisan crafts.

Hiking at Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine

40 minutes walking

Famous for its thousands of vermillion torii gates; offers adventurous hiking trails with scenic views.

Iyemon Salon Atelier Kyoto

2 minutes' walk

A stylish café serving traditional Kyoto tea and desserts; perfect for a quick, delightful treat.

Teppan Tavern Gion Tenamonya

2 minutes' walk

Casual dining experience focused on teppanyaki dishes; note the lively chef interactions at the grill.

Jubanseru

2 minutes' walk

Offers a variety of local soba noodles and seasonal dishes; cozy atmosphere ideal for families.

Gion Corner

2 minutes' walk

A venue featuring traditional arts and crafts performances; great for cultural immersion and family-friendly shows.

Kyoto National Museum

25 minutes' walk

Home to numerous exhibitions on Japanese art and history; ideal for art enthusiasts and families.

Getting around

City Centre

Kyoto18 min · 5000 ft

Airports

Osaka International Airport (ITM)74 min · 30.5 mi

Kobe Airport (UKB)119 min · 49.3 mi

Train

Gion Shijo Station9 min · 2300 ft

Kawaramachi Station11 min · 3000 ft

Underground

Higashiyama11 min · 3000 ft

Sanjo Keihan12 min · 3300 ft

Interested in Exclusive Early Booking Rates?

Take advantage of special rates!

Check Rates

Property information and rules

Check-in

from 15:00-22:00

Check-out

until 11 am

Guest Parking

No parking available.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in for free.

Breakfast

You can start your day with a full breakfast, which costs JPY5,445 per person per day.

Children & extra beds

There are no extra beds provided in a room. There are no cots provided in a room.

Pets

Pets are not allowed.

Number of rooms:

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Sowaka Hotel from previous guests about their experience.

Review score

Based on 136 verified reviews

9.5/10

Perfect

94%

Recommend

Breakfast

9.5/10

Cleanliness

9.7/10

Comfort

9.8/10

Facilities

9.6/10

Free Wi-Fi

10.0/10

Location

9.9/10

Paid Wi-Fi

10.0/10

Staff

9.9/10

Value for money

8.8/10

Pros

Beautiful hotel

Wonderful staff

Delicious breakfast

Calm atmosphere

Cons

Low beams

Expensive property

No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.

Open reviews

FAQs

About Sowaka

What is the distance from Sowaka to Kiyomizu-dera Temple?

Sowaka is located 1 km from Kiyomizu-dera Temple.

What dining options are available at Sowaka?

The hotel features an on-site restaurant that serves Japanese cuisine inspired by Michelin-starred dishes.

Is breakfast included at Sowaka?

Breakfast is available for an additional charge of 5445 JPY.

What check-in and check-out times does Sowaka have?

Check-in at Sowaka starts at 15:00, and check-out is by 11:00.

What are some nearby restaurants to Sowaka?

Nearby restaurants include 京都風お好み焼と酒おあがり, Jouvencelle, and Saijiki Toshigami, all located within 0.5 km.

What amenities are provided in the rooms at Sowaka?

Rooms at Sowaka include air conditioning, an electric kettle, minibar, fridge, and private bathrooms with bathrobes and hairdryers.

How far is Sowaka from Itami Airport?

Sowaka is located 39 km from Itami Airport.

What wellness services are available at Sowaka?

The hotel offers a spa and wellness centre, as well as massage services.

Does Sowaka provide internet access?

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout Sowaka.

What features are included in the bathrooms at Sowaka?

Bathrooms at Sowaka include deep soaking bathtubs and rainfall showerheads.

What is unique about the design of Sowaka?

Sowaka combines traditional Kyoto-style decor with modern furnishings, highlighted by individually furnished rooms with premium bedding and heated floors.