Rinn Rokujo Machiya

Rinn has different grades of lodging. This one isn’t the highest-end, but I still think it’s worth trying. The kitchen is useful, and I’d suggest buying local ingredients at a nearby supermarket to cook. The outdoor spa bath takes a while to fill with hot water, but it’s a very nice outdoor soak, especially in winter. There’s also a Japanese-style room on the second floor. The living room starts right at the front door, which feels odd and close to the street, and its floor is stone. I also couldn’t find Wi-Fi, though I’m not sure whether there is any. Check-in for all Rinn hotels is at the Rinn counter near Kyoto Station, so follow the website directions. Staff arrange a taxi to the lodging after check-in.

There’s a lovely wood smell in the house, and the small kitchen has an electric rice cooker, induction cooker, and microwave, so it’s handy for picking up groceries and cooking. The semi-open-air bath is great. I do feel a little insecure about the locks on the front door and windows, though.

A lovely house, and the service was excellent.