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Check-in
25Jan2026Select date
Check-out
26Jan2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

No. 480, Seikei-Cho, Higashiyama-Ku, Kyoto, Japan, 605-0821
-
Steps from Yasaka Shrine
Perfect
9.7
9.8
/10
4.2
4.7
/5

The 5-star smoke-free Sowaka Hotel Kyoto is nestled near an entertainment district, only a 6-minute walk from the Hanami Lane. This comfortable hotel is located in the immediate vicinity of Kodai-ji Buddhist Temple and welcomes its guests to use spa therapy, a shared lounge, and spa services or to enjoy Japanese cuisine in the onsite à la carte restaurant.

Location

Kyoto Imperial Palace is 3.1 km from the hotel, while the historic marketplace "Nishiki Market" is 2.4 km away. From the luxury Sowaka Hotel it will take around 25 minutes to walk to Kyoto National Long-Running Museum.

Visit Rokuya-on Garden, 650 metres from this accommodation, and feel complete harmony with the nature of Japan.

The nearest bus stop is Higashiyama Yasui, located nearly 5 minutes' walk away, and Karasuma train station is approximately 25 minutes' walk away.

Rooms

The Sowaka offers 23 rooms with air conditioning, as well as self-catering options such as a minibar fridge and an electric kettle. Bathrooms, fitted with a bidet, a separate toilet, and a shower, also provide guests with hair dryers and dressing gowns.

Eat & Drink

There is a lounge bar onsite. It also features a lounge for guests' comfort. The restaurant Hagisaryo is fairly close to the Sowaka Kyoto.

Leisure & Business

The property’s spa service will ensure a nice stay. Guests can also sigh up for bicycle usage arranged by this Kyoto hotel.

“Sowaka, in Kyoto's Gion district, distinguishes itself through a thoughtful blend of traditional ryokan hospitality and expertly crafted modern comforts. I admire the hotel's dedication to culinary excellence, with dining experiences that reflect Michelin-starred inspiration, along with its painstakingly designed spaces by local artisans. For travelers seeking an immersive cultural experience without sacrificing luxury, Sowaka presents a compelling option.”
Hotel logo
Emily RoseEditor-in-Chief at Luxuryhotels
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Select your room type

The hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Standard Double Room Mountain View Main
2 persons
295 sq. feet 
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
Superior King Room City View Main
2 persons
345 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
Superior Queen Room
2 persons
370 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
Suite Garden View Main
2 persons
1045 sq. feet 
2 Single beds
Shower
Heating
Click button to see more rooms
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Price and Room Availability Calendar

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Facilities

The hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Safe deposit box
  • 24-hour reception
  • No pets allowed
  • 24-hour security
  • Adults only
  • Luggage storage
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key card access

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

Services

  • Room service
  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Dry cleaning
  • Welcome drink

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Bar/ Lounge area

Business

  • Fax/Photocopying

Spa & Leisure

  • Garden area
  • Spa & wellness centre
  • Massage

Room features

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating
  • Mini-bar
  • Terrace
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
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Dining Onsite

At Sowaka, culinary delights await in the vibrant ambiance of its onsite dining options. Experience an extraordinary interpretation of traditional Japanese cuisine at La Bombance Gion, alongside the welcoming atmosphere of 祇園 ろか, where every meal is an opportunity to savor local flavors and rich culinary traditions.

La Bombance Gion

Japanese fine dining
Ambiance
Elegant and contemporary setting inspired by traditional Japanese aesthetics, creating a serene atmosphere perfect for indulging in exquisite dishes.
Key Offerings
An abstract visual interpretation of traditional Japanese cuisine, showcasing seasonal ingredients through an artistic lens, with a thoughtful chef's tasting menu.
Reservation
Recommended
Open for dinner; hours vary.

祇園 ろか

Japanese
Ambiance
A cozy, inviting space infused with the warmth of Japanese hospitality, ideal for leisurely dining at any time of the day.
Key Offerings
A delightful selection of classic Japanese meals, perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner; the simplicity and elegance of each dish reflect authentic culinary traditions.
Reservation
Not needed
07:30 - 22:00 daily

Location

No. 480, Seikei-Cho, Higashiyama-Ku, Kyoto, Japan, 605-0821
Map view
No. 480, Seikei-Cho, Higashiyama-Ku, Kyoto, Japan, 605-0821
Nearby
625 Giommachi Kitagawa
Yasaka Shrine
1400 ft
Pagoda
Kodai-ji
1400 ft
Park
Maruyama Park
1400 ft
Japan
Nineizaka
1400 ft
463 Maruyamacho
Kyoto cherry blossoms
1400 ft
Higashiyama-ku
Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka
1400 ft
390−1 Kinencho
Yasaka Koshin-do
1400 ft
Higashiyama-ku
Hanami Lane
1400 ft
70 Benten-cho
Yasui Konpiragu Shrine
1400 ft
Higashiyama-ku
Ishibe Alley
1400 ft
Restaurants
Iyemon Salon Atelier Kyoto
300 ft
481-1 KIyoicho Yasaka Tori Mae Sagaru
Teppan Tavern Gion Tenamonya
500 ft
537-2 Minamigawa Giommachi Higashiyama-ku Hiro Bldg. B1F
Jubanseru
300 ft
Kiyoicho
Cafe Restaurant Yayoi
300 ft
481 Gionshimogawara
Gion Cafe
500 ft
484 Kiyoi-cho
Mavo
400 ft
440 Bentencho
Kyoto Cuisine Jikishonbo Saiki
300 ft
441 Kamibentencho
Mimiko
400 ft
528-6 Giommachi Minamigawa
京都風お好み焼と酒おあがり
500 ft
537-2 Gion Machi Minamigawa
Dari K Gion Akishino
100 ft
492-22 Kiyoicho
Explore Kyoto
Local Attractions Near Sowaka
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Yasaka Shrine
Yasaka Shrine
6 minutes' walk
Yasaka Shrine is a beautiful Shinto shrine famous for its vibrant festivals and stunning architecture, attracting both locals and visitors.
Maruyama Park
Maruyama Park
6 minutes' walk
Maruyama Park offers tranquil scenery with cherry blossoms, ponds, and walking paths, perfect for relaxation and picnics.
Kodai-ji
Kodai-ji
6 minutes' walk
Kodai-ji features elegant gardens and historic temples that reflect traditional Japanese architecture, attracting cultural enthusiasts.
Heian Shrine
Heian Shrine
25 minutes' walk
Heian Shrine showcases beautiful gardens and a stunning 20th-century shrine, known for its picturesque landscapes and seasonal events.
Hiking in the Hills
25 minutes' walk
Hiking through the surrounding hills offers stunning views of Kyoto's landscape, with trails that vary in difficulty for all skill levels.
Zen Meditation Session
6 minutes' walk
Participating in a Zen meditation session at nearby temples provides relaxation and a deeper understanding of Japanese mindfulness practices.
Iyemon Salon Atelier Kyoto
Iyemon Salon Atelier Kyoto
2 minutes' walk
This chic tea salon offers a fusion of traditional and contemporary dishes, with tea pairings that highlight Japan's culinary heritage.
Teppan Tavern Gion Tenamonya
Teppan Tavern Gion Tenamonya
2 minutes' walk
Teppan Tavern features delicious teppanyaki dishes cooked right in front of you, creating a lively dining atmosphere.
Gion Corner
12 minutes' walk
Gion Corner offers a unique showcase of traditional arts performances, including tea ceremonies and Ikebana, suitable for all ages.
Theater Gion
15 minutes' walk
Theater Gion features local performances, including traditional puppet shows and live music, providing a glimpse into Kyoto's rich culture.
Getting around
City Centre
Kyoto18 min  ·  5000 ft
Airports
Osaka International Airport (ITM)74 min  ·  30.5 mi
Kobe Airport (UKB)119 min  ·  49.3 mi
Train
Gion Shijo Station9 min  ·  2300 ft
Kawaramachi Station11 min  ·  3000 ft
Underground
Higashiyama11 min  ·  3000 ft
Sanjo Keihan12 min  ·  3300 ft
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-22:00
Check-out
until 11 am
Guest Parking
No parking available.
Internet
is available in for free.
Breakfast
You can start your day with a full breakfast, which costs JPY5,445 per person per day. 
Children & extra beds
There are no extra beds provided in a room.  There are no cots provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Number of rooms:
23
FAQs
About Sowaka
What is the check-in and check-out policy at Sowaka?
Check-in is at 15:00 and check-out is at 11:00.
What amenities are provided in the rooms at Sowaka?
Rooms include air conditioning, an electric kettle, a minibar, a private bathroom with bathrobes, and heated floors.
Is there on-site dining available at Sowaka?
Sowaka features an on-site restaurant that serves Japanese cuisine for lunch and dinner.
How far is Sowaka from Kiyomizu-dera Temple?
Sowaka is located 1 km from Kiyomizu-dera Temple.
What are some nearby restaurants to Sowaka?
Nearby restaurants include 京都風お好み焼と酒おあがり, Jouvencelle, Saijiki Toshigami, Kyo Tsukudani Shop Yayoi, Gion Cafe, Jubanseru, and Mavo, all within 0.5 km.
Does Sowaka have spa services?
The hotel offers spa services to ensure a relaxing stay.
What types of payment are accepted at Sowaka?
Sowaka accepts American Express, Visa, and MasterCard.
How accessible is the Higashiyama Yasui bus stop from Sowaka?
Higashiyama Yasui bus stop is located adjacent to Sowaka.
What is the approximate distance from Sowaka to Itami Airport?
Sowaka is approximately 39 km from Itami Airport.
What features does Sowaka include for guest convenience?
Guest conveniences include free Wi-Fi, luggage storage, a 24-hour reception, and laundry services.
What type of hotel experience does Sowaka offer?
Sowaka is a luxury hotel that combines traditional ryokan elements with modern comforts, situated in the historic Gion district.
What are the check-in and check-out times at Sowaka?
Check-in is from 15:00 and check-out by 11:00.
How can guests enjoy their stay at Sowaka?
Guests can enjoy features such as a Japanese garden, individually furnished rooms, and a lounge area.

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