Staying at Hiiragiya Ryokan in Kyoto was an unforgettable experience that beautifully captured the essence of Japanese hospitality and tradition. Established over 200 years ago, this historic inn has been lovingly maintained by the same family for seven generations, and that legacy of care and refinement is evident in every detail. Upon arrival, the atmosphere immediately conveyed a sense of calm and timeless elegance. The 7th-generation daughter personally visited our room to introduce herself, sharing the history of her family, the inn, and the customs that have shaped Japanese hospitality for centuries. Her warmth and grace made the experience feel deeply personal and meaningful, connecting us not just to the place but to its living heritage. Every aspect of our stay reflected the highest level of service we have ever encountered. From the meticulous presentation of the kaiseki meals to the attentiveness of the staff anticipating every need, the experience was defined by quiet excellence and genuine care. The rooms, adorned with traditional tatami mats, shoji screens, and seasonal flower arrangements, offered a serene retreat that felt both luxurious and authentically Japanese. It is a rare opportunity to step into a world where tradition, artistry, and hospitality converge in perfect harmony. This was not just accommodation—it was a cultural immersion and a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will be remembered as one of the most special moments of travel in Japan.

A lovely and beautiful traditional ryokan. The staff could not have been nicer, the food was delicious, and the property was beautiful and well maintained. Highly recommend. Thank you for a wonderful stay!

Everything- lol - especially the staff - was unbelievably wonderful.

"A"... perhaps "the" classic ryokan. Relaxed (genuine) gracefullness that is not commercial or something you can teach. It is not a material luxury experience (there are many others who fit this expectation), so much as an unintentional unmannicured view into the past of old Kyoto. Very dreamy for me at least!. It felt like returning to my granny's house in post war Setayaga. Special. There are exceptional people among the staff whose heart beats echo mine and that era.

I left my Patagonia down jacket behind and when I arrived at my hotel in Tokyo, it was waiting for me. They were very kind to mail it to the hotel. I am so impressed by their service and hospitality. I miss them already.

Hiiragiya is one of the three famous "Kyoto Ryokans", and it does its reputation justice. The service is impeccable. I found myself impressed by the surprise teas that they bring to you as you are settling in, the heartwarming recommendations that they make regarding sight seeing, and the careful preparation of your exquisite meals and living arrangements. The building itself is a historical treasure, and the experience overall is just second to none.

This was our second experience at a genuine Ryokan and just like the first one it did not disappoint. The exceptional service, food and ambience of this Ryokan was second to none. It is right in the middle of Kyoto but once you are in you fee like you are in the middle of nowhere. Close to everything and the food was probably the best we had in all Japan.

We were told that if we were going to splurge on something, it should be staying here. That advice couldn't have been more accurate. We loved the ryokan for it's unbelievable service, commitment to authenticity, and everything. This ryokan felt like home. You are greeted with tea upon your return from exploring the city as well as having a hot soak in your room's tub. We were there 2 nights and had dinner and breakfast in our rooms both days. We loved the food and experiencing traditional meals and service. We may not have liked every aspect of the meals, but we wanted to dive into Japanese culture and cuisine. This was the best way to do this. They also have so much food that you will be full even if you don't eat or try everything. For those less adventurous with food, they do have alternative options for western tastes. We really can't recommend this ryokan enough. We felt like we were taken back in time here and were staying in a museum with all the adventure ammenities of modern days.

This was an incredible experience for me and my wife. Easily the most special thing we did in our 7 days in Japan. Cost us a lot, but worth it, from the hot baths, personal attention, 12 course meals, and the quiet calm of the place. You can stay at a Hyatt or other western hotels in Japan for a lot less money, but you will miss the special Japanese feel that Ryokan provides. When you are in this Ryokan, you know you are in Japan, and nowhere else on earth.

A really lovely experience! Beautiful, historical room with private viewing garden, remarkable food and service.

Todo de primera, volvería a este Ryocsn sin dudarlo

EXPÉRIENCE INOUBLIABLE ET SANS PAREILLE !

Täydellinen kokemus - huone oli juuri niin autenttinen kuin voi odottaakin, illallinen kauniine ja maistuvine ruokalajeineen oli erinomainen ja kylpy rentouttava. Palvelu on erinomaista, ja henkilökunta puhuu myös sujuvaa englantia.

Very Japanese. Excellent service. Love the dinner and the breakfast!

Very good ryokan, wonderfull room, excelent and attentive staff.