SOWAKA
Entrance
Lobby area
Original Kitchen
Junior Suite
Separate Bedroom
Bathtub
Rooftop
Breakfast
Dinner at Gion Loka
See our full feature on Gion Loka HERE
Yasaka Shrine
Shaved Ice at Yasaka Shrine
Site of the Goryo Eji Tonsho
(“Guardians of the Imperial Tomb” Base)
Nishiki Market
Local Shops
Set at the heart of historic Gion, Luxury Hotel SOWAKA is the perfect five star option for your stay in Kyoto. Located in a 110 year old property, the unique and elegant hotel feels like stepping back in time. Formerly a restaurant, SOWAKA has kept many of the building’s original features allowing guests to revel in a slice of the regions long cultural background.
As you weave your way through the narrow bamboo lined entrance you are instantly enveloped in a sense of tranquility. Guests take off their shoes at the entrance and enjoy the traditional experience of natural bamboo and tatami floors. The property is split into two halves with some rooms dating back over 100 years and the modern annex building adding sumptuous Western comforts to the classic Japanese style tatami rooms. We loved our Junior Suite complete with deluxe beds, a nostalgic wooden bath, and sliding screen doors that separated a sleeping are for our children.
Our mornings started with a mouthwatering breakfast at Gion Loka and we highly recommend the unforgettable Japanese fine dining served at the restaurant during lunch and dinner service.
SOWAKA is perfectly located for exploring the historic and cultural Gion neighbourhood. We were surrounded by artisanal boutiques, captivating shrines, and many delicious eateries. The streets felt like stepping back in time. If you’re looking for personalised service in a luxury ryokan style property make sure to check out SOWAKA for your next visit to Kyoto.
480 Kiyoicho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0821, Japon
+81 75-541-5323