Watazen Ryokan

Although the Watazen has almost two centuries’ worth of history, the renovated property includes contemporary elements within its traditional framework, like automatic doors at the entrance, an elevator, and vending machines. Ikebana flower arrangements and ceilings bordered with wooden beams keep the classic Japanese vibe intact, and a souvenir shop in the lobby sells lovely local handicrafts. The western-style seating area in the lobby is the only place on the property for lounging, but the stark furniture isn’t the most comfortable or inviting. Also, unlike other quintessential ryokans, this one doesn’t come with a garden, so there are no grounds or views to enjoy. However, the blend of old and new is ideal for tourists wanting an authentic ryokan experience without too much culture shock. 

Tucked in a quiet side street off the louder main roads, Watazen is also conveniently near the shops and restaurants of downtown Kyoto. The bustling maze of food vendors in Nishiki Market is a three-minute walk away, and the historic entertainment center of Gion is 15 minutes away on foot. Attractions like Kiyomizu-dera Temple and the Imperial Palace can be reached in under 30 minutes from the several subway lines located within a 10-minute walk from the hotel. The Golden Temple is about 40 minutes away using public transport.

Osaka’s Itami Airport is an hour’s drive away, while Kansai International Airport is about an hour-and a-half away by car. The hotel offers an airport shuttle service, if reserved prior, for an extra charge. 

With tatami flooring and hand-painted scrolls, Watazen’s spacious and clean rooms are aesthetically the most traditional part of the hotel (the few Western-style rooms available are small and don’t provide nearly as interesting an experience). Rooms vary in size to accommodate four, five, or six guests. Decor is minimal, including natural wood trimmings, low coffee tables with cushioned floor chairs, and single ikebana flower arrangements. One set of sliding screen doors divides the entrance and bathroom area from the main room, and another set sections off a small seating area by the windows. In keeping with Japanese tradition, bedding is stored in the rooms’ closets until evening, when the futons are laid out by the housekeeping staff.

Rooms do offer several modern amenities, including safes, emergency flashlights, flat-screen TVS (though they don’t air English channels) and DVD players, mini-fridges, and tea sets. No coffee-making facilities are available. Individual air conditioners and humidifiers are provided, though they can be loud. In-room Wi-Fi is free. English information sheets are thoughtfully provided to explain the hotel’s amenities and surroundings.

Bathrooms are tiny but modern, with bidet toilets, hairdryers, and toiletries that include razors, combs, and toothbrush kits. All have walk-in showers with handheld showerheads, only some have bathtubs as well. 

There’s no on-site restaurant or bar here, but like most ryokans, breakfast and dinner can be purchased with rooms or reserved separately. Several-course Japanese dinners are served directly in the rooms. Set breakfasts, served in a hall on the ground floor, can consist of varied Japanese or minimal continental items, but guests must specify their preferences in advance. Vegetarian meals can be arranged. While delicious, the meals are expensive, and the windows of time in which they are served are narrow and early. 

Instead of a pool or fitness center, Watazen’s standout features are its small, indoor onsens, or public baths. Separated into two areas by gender, the onsens provide the typical Japanese bathing experience including a locker room, individual rinsing areas, and communal heated tubs. 

Other features are mostly practical; converter plugs for rooms can be borrowed for free and, in the absence of a business center, laptops are available to use for free (minor per-page fees apply for printing). Vending machines in several common areas dispense cold teas and soft drinks, and an ATM on-site is an added convenience. Wi-Fi throughout the property is free. Guests can pay reasonable fees to use the two washer and dryer units in the laundry room, or opt for the hotel’s laundry service, which also comes with extra charges.

An off-site parking lot is a five-minute walk (or a free shuttle ride) away. Watazen sells subsidized parking tickets, but per-day rates are still pricey. Bicycles can be rented for extra fees. The hotel can also arrange activities like city tours and tea ceremony experiences. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.