Kadensho, Arashiyama Onsen, Kyoto - Kyoritsu Resort

The private baths were a big part of why I chose this ryokan after comparing dozens of them, and the budget worked for us too. We didn’t have to wait long, since each person gets a 30 min limit. The extra kaiseki half-board meal was delicate and delicious, and I’d recommend the Japanese style breakfast as well. The recently renovated rooms and hotel facilities were great. There were free popsicles, a coffee station, an ice machine, yukata rental, lounge rooms, and massages or spas you could book separately. The staff were helpful and spoke English. Best stay of our Japan trip. I’d come back if I’m in the Arashiyama area.

The town felt overwhelmed by tourists and expensive, and everything seemed to close early. We finished dinner before 6pm, and it looked like the restaurants were already shutting. I wouldn’t visit this town again, and if I had to, I’d stay somewhere else. We’d booked 2 rooms but ended up needing only 1. There were absolutely no refunds, which was a huge red flag once we’d paid. On arrival, we were told meals had to be booked ahead. The hotel is large, but apparently can’t feed most of its guests otherwise. The rooms were okay, though pretty run down.

The private onsens were the highlight, especially for my partner, who has tattoos. The ryokan sits beside a peaceful town that’s lovely for strolling and finding something to eat. It’s a bit outdated, but that gives it some charm. The staff were patient with my broken Japanese and did their best to answer my questions and give good service at dinner. My only complaint is that the room got very hot at night even with the heating off. Opening a window cooled it down. It was a memorable, beautiful experience in kyoto Japan. ✨️ 💛 💖

We loved the immersive feel, from wearing the traditional robes around the hotel to leaving our shoes in a keyed locker by the lobby. You can also rent more unusual robes. The food and hot springs made for an amazing stay. We had multi-course traditional breakfast and dinner each day, more than enough to eat. There was free soba every night, and sometimes free ice cream near the springs. It’s tucked into a quiet part of Arashiyama but still within walking distance of the station, restaurants, and shops. The hot springs were so relaxing. Our room’s open air bath was just big enough for two, while the shared baths were roomier. We did have to wait a long time for one of those, but I still recommend them.