Hot Springs Hotels in Kyoto Prefecture, Japan

We stayed here for a family trip over Children's Day in May. Banyan Tree is such a renowned brand even in Korea, so I had high expectations when I booked our stay. However, we were hoping for a mountain view, but instead, we got a cemetery view – and on a dark, rainy night, it was quite enough to give us nightmares. If you're looking for a relaxing experience, like soaking in a Japanese cypress (hinoki) bathtub, you'll be satisfied, but I have to say the view was extremely disappointing. On the positive side, the Japanese tatami room vibe was very pleasing, and the aroma oil program at the spa was really interesting.

Because our flight arrived late at Kansai, I chose the Almont Hotel which is close to Kyoto Station, and it turned out to be a very wise decision. We arrived at 1 AM, and the underpass from the bus stop through Kyoto Station was already closed, so we had to walk around from outside, which took about ten minutes. There was a young man at the front desk who spoke Chinese, making check-in very easy. The lobby is spacious and comfortable, and the self-service amenities downstairs are very comprehensive – you could say they have everything you need. Compared to the hotel we stayed at later in Osaka, this one was such great value. It might not be the most convenient if you're heading to downtown shopping malls, but I think taking public transport is also very quick. The bus stop for Sanzen-in Temple is less than a ten-minute walk away, and Yodobashi Camera is also super close and walkable. There's a convenience store right opposite, making it super easy to grab double skin milk.

This onsen hotel in Kyoto was a delightful find. It's just one stop from Kyoto Station, and only 200 meters from the exit, making it super convenient. As a traditional Japanese onsen hotel, guests can enjoy complimentary access to both public and private hot spring baths, available 24 hours a day. They even offer complimentary ramen as a late-night snack after 9 PM, which is a lovely touch. There's a 7-Eleven right outside and a bus stop nearby, making it easy to get around and explore areas like Kawaramachi for shopping and dining. Highly recommended, I'd definitely stay here again.

My family and I all loved this place so much! This place is very authentic and surely gave a different experience. It’s definitely worth the money as you get welcome drinks, supper like ramen and ice creams and yogurts and also massage chairs

The buffet was quite crowded, offering a wide variety of food. The coin-operated laundry machines and smoking area were well-equipped. The room amenities included everything except a razor. You can wear yukata and slippers throughout the hotel, and there's a great drink bar available in the evening.

Excellent location in Central Kyoto, right in the heart of shopping district, plenty of food options, and a short walk to Gion on the East. Very near to Hankyu train station that goes to Osaka Umeda. Staff were so friendly, always smiling and ready to assist. Rooms on the smaller side, not sure if it's the layout that made it feel more cramped, but Japan hotel rooms are generally like that. Best thing about this hotel is the open air natural hot spring! Amazing view of the mountains and you can even see Kiyomizu Dera temple in the distance. The water temperature was also not burning hot like some other public baths. There are complimentary drinks (including alcohol) on the rooftop terrace everyday from 4.30 to 6pm. Also free drinks from coffee machine all day in the lounge. I did not take hotel breakfast as I saw it is only simple bento box instead of buffet, so you can get better food outside.

My Kyoto trip was particularly satisfying with this Kyoto townhouse. It had a garden, a private hot spring bath, and was brimming with Japanese charm. The breakfasts were especially delightful, with a wide variety and different dishes each day. After breakfast, there was also a traditional Kyoto matcha and carefully selected sweets; the owner even patiently explained the proper way to drink the matcha. It's a bit far from the subway, but there are several bus stops nearby, making it quite convenient. Strolling along Kyoto's charming streets and discovering hidden gems of little shops was also a delightful experience.

This hotel really captures the traditional essence of Kyoto. The staff were incredibly warm, attentive, and even proactively helped us with our luggage. Soaking in a sake bath in the wooden tub after a long day of sightseeing was absolutely blissful and such a memorable experience.

This Japanese-style guesthouse is very authentic. It has an open-air hot spring bath and the meals feature a delicious miso hot pot with plenty of vegetables. We visited during cherry blossom season, so it was crowded, but the customer service team was very helpful and actively assisted us in finding a better room type, which we really appreciated! It's surrounded by forest, and we heard that in autumn and winter, there are bear families around, but the owner seems quite used to it!

Our recent stay at Ujo Soan was, without exaggeration, the finest hospitality experience I have encountered in my 20 years of traveling across Japan. From the moment we arrived, the level of service was nothing short of superb. There are three highlights that made our stay truly unforgettable: 1. Exceptional Culinary Surprise: We were deeply touched by the hotel's generosity in providing a complimentary upgrade to the prestigious ”Tsuiyama Blue Label Crab” set. The quality of the crab and the meticulous preparation were world-class—a true gastronomic journey. 2. Breathtaking Sunset Views: Spending time at the Lounge ”AO” on the 8th floor of Bettei Fuka was a spiritual experience. Watching the sunset over the Kyotango coastline with a drink in hand is a memory we will cherish forever. 3. Outstanding Service (Sakura-san): A special mention must go to Sakura-san. Her professionalism, warmth, and attention to detail were exemplary. She anticipated our every need and represents the very best of Japanese Omotenashi. I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to Mr. Yasuhiko Okita and the General Manager, Mr. Nakanishi, for maintaining such an incredible standard of excellence. If you are looking for a sanctuary that combines luxury, nature, and heartfelt service, Ujo Soan is the only choice. We cannot wait to return.