Guesthouse Shiorian, a beautifully renovated Kyomachiya from the early Showa period (circa 1926), blends tradition with comfort. Its exterior preserves the charm of a classic Kyoto-style townhouse, while the interior offers a warm, inviting, and relaxing atmosphere.

Guesthouse Shiorian boasts an unbeatable location, just a 1-minute walk from Kyoto City Subway Gojo Station and the Karasuma Gojo City Bus stop. Kyoto Station is a 10-minute stroll, and Shijo is reachable in 15 minutes, placing shopping and dining hotspots within easy reach. The guesthouse also features a welcoming common area, reminiscent of those in share-houses, fostering a cozy, communal vibe.

Guesthouse Shiorian offers one bath for men and two shower rooms for men and women, ensuring comfort for all guests. Its true charm, however, lies in its cozy, home-like atmosphere. The staff fosters a warm, welcoming environment where guests easily connect, forging new friendships. Many spend their time in the shared spaces, socializing as they would in a share house.

Guest House Oumi, a lovingly renovated Kyoto townhouse, blends timeless charm with modern comfort. It offers traditional Japanese-style rooms steeped in authentic atmosphere alongside cozy Western-style rooms.

Guest House Oumi was founded to connect travelers from around the globe, offering a modern Japanese ambiance within a beautifully renovated Kyoto townhouse. Its tranquil, inviting spaces create a perfect retreat for guests. The guesthouse features unisex dormitories for four, three private rooms, two shared washrooms, two toilets, and two shower rooms. Just a 5-minute walk from JR Kyoto City Subway Nijo Station, it’s conveniently near the World Heritage Site Nijo Castle, as well as cafes, convenience stores, restaurants, shopping streets, and public baths, immersing you in the heart of Kyoto. Guests also rave about the guesthouse’s signature offerings: the finest teas and delicious homemade sandwiches.

At Guest House Oumi, guests delight in sipping complimentary Bogawantalawa tea, a fine import from Sri Lanka, which pairs perfectly with the guesthouse’s beloved homemade breakfast sandwiches. Equally cherished is the warm, attentive service from the owner and staff, who engage effortlessly in English, creating a cheerful and welcoming atmosphere.

Guest House Nanohana, a pristine women-only retreat, sits adjacent to Obanzai Nanohana restaurant in central Kyoto. Guests can savor authentic, traditional Obanzai dishes, showcasing the region’s beloved home-style cuisine.

Nestled in Kyoto’s vibrant central district, Guest House Nanohana is perfectly positioned for sightseeing. Nishiki Market, Gion-Shijo, and bustling shopping streets like Shijo, Sanjo, Teramachi, and Shinkyogoku are all within a short walk, making exploration effortless. The guesthouse offers several private rooms, including Japanese-style and Western-style options, each equipped with air conditioning and a TV. These comfortable spaces can accommodate up to four guests, blending traditional charm with modern convenience.

Guest House Nanohana is housed within the historic Unagi no Nedoko building, its front adorned by the renowned Obanzai Nanohana restaurant, a Kyoto gem. Guests enjoy exclusive discount tickets for lunch and dinner at the restaurant, savoring authentic Obanzai cuisine. Stay six nights or more, and baths, towels, and face towels are provided free of charge.

Established in 2006, Guest House Warakuan was a pioneer among Kyoto guesthouses, offering a rare opportunity to stay in a beautifully restored Kyomachiya at a time when such accommodations were scarce.

Guest House Warakuan’s interiors, lovingly renovated from their century-old Kyomachiya structures, preserve the authentic charm of their origins. The common area, with its serene view of an inner garden, creates a timeless ambiance that feels like stepping back in history. The guesthouse offers a variety of Japanese-style accommodations, including women-only and men-only dormitories, private rooms for 1–3 guests, and deluxe rooms for up to 4. Ideally located near Heian Jingu in Kyoto’s central district, it provides easy access to numerous sightseeing attractions.

From the cozy free salon, guests can unwind with a beer or coffee while gazing at the serene Japanese-style garden, where birds frequently visit and sing. The space exudes nostalgia, featuring a charming eggplant painting at the counter, a retro tiled washroom, and other delightful vintage touches.

Guest House Itoya, a 70-year-old Kyomachiya, retains the authentic charm of its original wooden structure with minimal alterations, offering a true taste of Kyoto’s traditional architecture. Alongside a variety of Japanese-style rooms that showcase the essence of a machiya, the guesthouse provides women-only dormitories and mixed dormitories for men and women, catering to diverse travelers.

Nestled in Nishijin, Kyoto’s historic textile district in the northwest, Guest House Itoya offers easy access to major sightseeing spots. A bus stop, Imadegawa Jofukuji, is just a 1-minute walk away, connecting you to the city’s attractions. For a more leisurely exploration, bicycles are available to rent at a nominal fee.

Guest House Itoya features a charming path from the street to its backdoor, where a traditional smoke-and-heat vent opens to a quaint, fenced garden. Sitting on the porch, you can close your eyes and savor the earthy scents of soil and rain carried by the breeze, a rare connection to nature within a city townhouse that brings deep tranquility. In the lobby, the Itoya Bookshelf library invites exploration with travel guides, architectural design books, and a rich collection of Chinese titles, reflecting the Taiwanese landlady’s influence.

These Kyoto guesthouses offer rooms tailored for solo travelers, women’s trips, or family getaways, immersing you in the charm of traditional Japan. With friendly staff dedicated to enhancing your experience, your stay will be both memorable and welcoming.

Text by: Efeel