Matsui Honkan Inn

We chose this ryokan as it was central in Kyoto, had an onsen and looked traditional, and offered a kaiseki meal. It exceeded our expectations for a traditional stay. The room was simply and tastefully decorated in Japanese style. We loved using the onsen, our first in Japan, and used the provided kimonos and instructions on how to use it so we did not offend anyone. We took advantage of having the kaiseki dinner meal in our room, which was excellent - come very hungry as there is so much food. It is a real experience to have this dinner, the attendants set up the food in each dish so beautifully, there was such attention to detail, some of the food cooked at the table as we were having other courses. It was wonderful, showed the respect and care the Japanese have towards food. The attendants were so humble and kind, always showing deference and bowing as they left the room (this must be a cultural behaviour in ryokans). The beds were made up after dinner with speed, we slept on futons and they were incredibly comfortable. My husband thought we would be cold but we were not, the best sleep ever. The breakfast was also huge and delicious, another wonderful experience of eating beautifully presented and delicious food. We took advantage of a late breakfast and the check out of 10am. Every person in the ryokan was helpful and excellent. Highly recommend.

There was nothing we didn't like - everything was excellent.

Stayed at Matsui Honkan for 5 nights when we were in Kyoto and my wife and I really enjoyed our stay here. Staff were extremely welcoming and helpful and they even prepared a gift for us as we were travelling for our honeymoon. Rooms were in great condition and very clean. Location was excellent and easy to get around Kyoto with access to nearby train lines or by walking.

The futons were very comfortable and the room was very clean. Breakfast was served to the room and was very delicious. The items were varied over the 2 meals we had, which was good. The bathroom was large and spacious, and the room was spacious as well. They also have a public bath but we didn't use that. If you want to have dinner at the Ryokan as well, you have to inform them after you make your booking and it will be a separate charge on top of the booking price to pay on arrival.

Nothing to not like about this place.

We loved the beautiful and neat traditional Japanese style interior and exterior design, from the wallpaper to the tatami floors. The staff was friendly and kind, extremely sweet and respectful! We were taken to a waiting room for check in and given matcha tea and sweets when we arrived. As we left, they held up a sign wishing us well and seeing us off. We were all so well taken care of! The traditional Japanese breakfast was served in our rooms and the presentation, quantity, and taste were very well worth it! The staff was able to accommodate vegetarian diets for breakfast as well. I'm so happy we chose this amazing place!

I'm having trouble naming anything I didn't like.

We had a wonderful experience from start to finish. The staff greeted us with matcha tea and let us up to our traditional ryokan room. The futons are actually extremely comfortable and they have extra pillows/duvets etc in the cupboard if you need it. The room was large for Japan and also has everything you need like tea/kettle facilities and a good hairdryer. The onsen was also a lovely experience and you’re provided with traditional robes to wear.

We weren’t able to book the breakfast there. Perhaps you had to book it in advance.

So gracious and clean. The breakfast was amazing and the hosts were wonderful. The little details made it special and prime location. The onsen was private and peaceful. We went peak cherry blossom and tourist season and rarely saw anyone else. I went to onsen daily and no one else using in morning. My husband went evening and no one there.

It was perfect

Beautiful traditional hotel. We enjoyed a traditional Japanese room and the traditional breakfast. Great location, in an area full of boutiques and very close to the lively part of the city.

I am not sure if the price responds to the quality. Next to our room was a construction resulting not to be able to enjoy the garden that the room had.

I loved everything about the Ryokan. The staff were very attentive and welcoming, room we stayed in was clean, spacious and exquisitely decorated. The hot spring is clean and well kept. It's a stonethrow away from Nishiki Market and the kaiseiki meals were amazing. A lot of effort is put into making the guests feel very hospitable and welcome. I'd gladly stay here again!

My Caucasian partner was unaccustomed to sitting on the floor so he felt a bit uncomfortable.

staff and owner are very friendly and helpful. Hospitality is great.

there is some issue on charging of the room. I’m not sure if it’s related to the reservation Platform. while I booked for 2 persons per room, I was requested to pay for double At confirmation reflected as 1 adult. it was an enormous amount. it was hard to explain as staff don’t speak much of English. so we decided to pay. fortunately, owner realized the amount was huge and they make a refund to us at night.

Matsui Honkan was an amazing experience in a perfect location close to Nishi Market and shopping! The included breakfast and service with breakfast was perfection and provided insight into the Japanese culture and experience. The little touches Matsui Honkan included added to the experience including origami cranes, a parting gift and banner send off. The onsen bath was incredible! Can't say enough good things about our stay and experience.

Nothing