Kyomachiya Ryokan Sakura Urushitei Guest House

The staff were courteous and helpful, and we enjoyed the warm hospitality. Rooms are cleaned daily. Even if you skip a cleaning, they still do a required one every three days, so things stay fresh and neat. The bedding is a thin futon on the floor, which could be tough if you have difficulty getting up or want a soft, cushioned mattress. If you're after a traditional Japanese stay, though, it delivers.

The staff's hospitality is what I'll remember most. We stayed just one night, but they looked after our bags all day while we explored. When we came back in the early evening before heading to Osaka, they welcomed us to use the restroom and have refreshments. The room was spacious and comfortable, and sleeping on the floor worked well for us. We only wish we'd stayed longer.

We were sad to leave after three nights. Sakura Urushitei is well placed near Nishiki Market, the GION district, shops, and lots of small restaurants and cafes. The place has lovely decor, little ceramic displays, a Japanese garden, and torii gates linking its two buildings. Our Japanese-style room had comfortable tatami and futon bedding. Breakfast was filling, served in an impressive space with soft jazz playing. Best of all, the staff made us feel at home and went out of their way to help with every request. Karuki helped us with everything we needed, while Pierre was a knowledgeable host and a great barman.

A lovely hotel, and the service was generally fine at first. We booked for five, including two children, but at checkout were told our child under six couldn't receive bedding under their rules. Since we'd asked for a traditional Japanese futon set for her, they wanted another ¥7000. I've never had a hotel take a booking for five and then say only four people qualified for a bed. That policy should be made clear in the booking information and advertising.