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Ryokan · Kyoto · Kyoto

Nihonkan

A modest, traditional ryokan in Shimogyo Ward, within easy reach of Kyoto Station and the city's sights.

  • Traditional Japanese rooms with futons
  • Close to Kyoto Station and public transport
  • Public bath and laundry facilities
8.9 Great 1027 reviews Booking.com 8.9 · 1027 reviews

About

Nihonkan

Nihonkan is a 2-star ryokan located in Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, about 900 metres from Kyoto Aquarium. The property offers a traditional Japanese experience with tatami flooring, futon bedding, and a public bath.

Guests appreciate the convenient location near Kyoto Station and the subway, making it easy to explore the city. The hotel provides essential amenities including air conditioning, heating, free toiletries, and laundry facilities.

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • Safe deposit box
  • No pets allowed
  • Luggage storage
  • Vending machines

In brief

What works, what to weigh

+

Strengths

3 reasons to book
  • Exceptional staff and service — Guests consistently praise the friendly, helpful, and accommodating staff, including free upgrades and early bag storage.
  • Prime location near Kyoto Station — A short walk to Kyoto Station, subway, and bus lines, making it easy to explore the city and beyond.
  • Authentic traditional experience — Tatami rooms, futon bedding, and a public bath offer a genuine ryokan feel at a budget price.
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Worth weighing

4 to weigh
  • Evening curfew at 11pm — The main door locks after 11pm, which may be restrictive for guests wanting to explore Kyoto's nightlife.
  • No in-room electric kettle — Guests must go downstairs to access hot water, as rooms lack a kettle.
  • Potential noise between rooms — Some guests noted that rooms are not fully soundproofed, and noise from neighbors can be heard.
  • Limited bathroom hours — The common bathroom has restricted hours, which may be inconvenient for some guests.

01 — Rooms

Rooms & rates

High season: summer dates usually book out a few weeks ahead.

Japanese-Style Shared Bathroom Quadruple Room

  • Sleeping arrangements for 4 persons

Japanese-Style Private Bathroom Twin Room

  • 2 Single beds
  • Private bathroom

02 — Amenities

Services & amenities

Everything included at this stay — the facilities and essentials, at a glance.

General

  • Wi-Fi
  • Safe deposit box
  • Luggage storage
  • Key access
  • Housekeeping

Bath

  • Public Bath
  • Free toiletries
  • Private bathroom (in some rooms)

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Services

  • Laundry
  • Vending machines

Rules

  • No smoking on site
  • No pets allowed

03 — Reviews

What guests say

Recent verified reviews from guests who stayed here.

8.9
Great 1027 reviews

Guest-rated 8.9/10 from 1,027 reviews

Booking.com · 8.9 · 1027 reviews
8.9Verified guest

“The rooms were clean and cozy, and the hot bath was relaxing.”

8.9Verified guest

“Be sure to get the Japanese-style twin room with tea set and shower; the rate was reasonable, and I was satisfied.”

8.9Verified guest

“Spacious, well-kept rooms with futons. Perfect location close to everything, including a short walk to Kyoto Station and Starbucks, with easy access to sightseeing attractions.”

8.9Verified guest

“Conveniently located near the subway station, making it easy to get around. Close to sightseeing spots, so you save travel time. Rooms are clean and offer a traditional Japanese experience. Staff are dedicated and helpful. There's an 11pm curfew, but late arrivals are accommodated. Downside: no electric kettle in rooms; you need to go downstairs for hot water.”

8.9Verified guest

“Had a very spacious room with private bathroom last time. Enjoyed the traditional decor. Location was close to the Palace, buses, subway, and local trains to Arashiyama and Fushimi Inari.”

8.9Verified guest

“Good location near Kyoto Station and Yodobashi department store. Room is somewhat noisy from neighbors. The common bathroom has limited hours, and the main door locks after 11 pm. At this price, breakfast or Wi-Fi should be included.”

04 — Location

Getting around Kyoto

The property sits in Kyoto.

Kyoto Station: A short walk from the hotel, Kyoto Station offers extensive train, bus, and subway connections, plus shopping and dining at nearby Yodobashi.

Kyoto Aquarium: Located about 900 metres away, Kyoto Aquarium is a family-friendly attraction featuring marine life exhibits.

Public Transport: The hotel is close to subway and bus stops, making it easy to reach popular sights like Arashiyama and Fushimi Inari.

Shimogyo-Ku Higashishiokoji-Cho 696-1, Kyoto, Kyoto, 600-8216, Japan

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05 — Good to know

Policies & conditions

Hotel details are shown for reference. Final rate terms are confirmed on the partner’s site at booking.

Check-in
From 16:00-21:00
Check-out
By 06:00-10:00
Cancellation
Free cancellation on many rates — terms on booking page
Payment
Pay-at-hotel available on many rates; final terms at booking
Pets
Not allowed
Property
25 rooms

06 — Questions

Frequently asked

What are the check-in and check-out times?

Check-in is from 16:00 to 21:00, and check-out is from 06:00 to 10:00.

Is there a curfew at the hotel?

Yes, there is an 11pm curfew, and the main door is locked after that. However, the hotel can accommodate late arrivals.

Are pets allowed at Nihonkan?

No, pets are not allowed on the property.

Does the hotel provide breakfast?

The hotel offers a Japanese breakfast for an additional 500 yen, according to a guest review.

Is there Wi-Fi available?

Yes, Wi-Fi is listed as an amenity, though a review noted that Wi-Fi may not be included in the room rate.

Are there in-room kettles?

No, rooms do not have electric kettles; guests need to go downstairs for hot water.

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The bottom line

Nihonkan offers a solid, traditional ryokan experience in Kyoto at a budget-friendly price. The location is excellent, and the staff are highly rated. However, the 11pm curfew and lack of in-room kettles may be drawbacks for some travelers.

8.9Best for travelers seeking an authentic, affordable stay near Kyoto Station.

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