Sowaka Kyoto ✓ Spa Hotel | Gion District

Name: Sowaka, Kyoto
Address: No. 480, Seikei-Cho, Higashiyama-Ku, Kyoto, Kyoto, 605-0821
Price range: US$462+
Rating: 9.7

75 photos

Sowaka Hotel Kyoto Exterior photo The photo shows a serene and inviting courtyard scene, likely part of a luxury hotel or resort. It's nighttime, and the ambiance is softly lit with warm, inviting lights that illuminate the greenery and architecture.

The courtyard features traditio

Sowaka Hotel Kyoto Exterior photo The photo captures a narrow, dimly lit alleyway at night, likely in a traditional Japanese setting. The alley is paved with uneven cobblestones that reflect the warm glow of several lanterns lining the path.

On the left side of the alley stands a p

Sowaka Hotel Kyoto Exterior photo The photo captures a charming, old-world street scene in what appears to be Japan. The focus is on a narrow alleyway, flanked by traditional wooden buildings with dark tiled roofs.

On the left, a building with a dark wooden door and a traditional l

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Key details

About the Hotel

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

Close to Kodai-ji Temple

Perfect

9.7

9.8

/10

4.5

4.7

Loved by Sowaka 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

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

Happytravel

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

Kevin

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5-star luxury ryokan-style accommodation in Kyoto

Accommodations

Sowaka offers 23 rooms, each combining traditional Japanese design with contemporary comforts. Guests can choose between the Onsen Suite, featuring an outdoor hot spring, and the Deluxe Room, complete with a private balcony. Room amenities include premium linens, TOTO toilets, and locally sourced toiletries.

Dining

Sowaka's dining options include an on-site restaurant that serves authentic Kyoto cuisine made with seasonal ingredients. Guests can enjoy a set menu that showcases local flavors and culinary traditions. The bar offers a variety of sake and craft cocktails to complement the dining experience.

Onsen Experience

The hotel features its own onsen, providing an authentic Japanese hot spring experience. The onsen is designed for relaxation and rejuvenation, with natural geothermal waters sourced from the region. Spa treatments and massages are available to enhance wellness.

Location

Sowaka is located in the picturesque Higashiyama district, surrounded by historic temples and cultural sites. The hotel is within walking distance of the famous Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Gion district. Guests can easily explore the area's rich history while enjoying a tranquil atmosphere.

Wellness

A wellness center is available, offering yoga sessions and wellness classes throughout the week. The onsen also contributes to wellness, promoting relaxation and healing. Customized wellness programs are tailored to individual guest needs.

Highlights

Location: Higashiyama district, walking distance to temples

Accommodations: 23 traditional Japanese-style rooms

Dining: On-site restaurant serving Kyoto cuisine

Wellness: Onsen experience with natural geothermal waters

Spa: Variety of treatment options available

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

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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

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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

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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

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BedroomGarden Views

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

Isabelle from France

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Select your room type

Sowaka 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
27 sq. feet
1 Double bed
Mountain view
Air conditioning
Bathtub
room details
Superior King Room City View Main
2 persons
32 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
City view
Air conditioning
Bathtub
room details
Superior Queen Room
2 persons
34 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Air conditioning
Bathtub
room details

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Check-in/ Check-out

Facilities

Sowaka offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

Facilities: Perfect

9.7/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
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
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.

Location

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

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
Kyoto 18 min · 5000 ft
Airports
Itami (ITM) 74 min · 30.5 mi
Kobe (UKB) 119 min · 49.3 mi
Train
Gion Shijo Station 9 min · 2300 ft
Kawaramachi Station 11 min · 3000 ft
Underground
Higashiyama 11 min · 3000 ft
Sanjo Keihan 12 min · 3300 ft

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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 the entire hotel 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 from previous guests about their experience.

Review score

Based on 212 verified reviews

9.6 /10

Perfect

95 %

Recommend

Breakfast

9.5/10

Cleanliness

9.7/10

Comfort

9.7/10

Facilities

9.7/10

Free WiFi

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

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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.