Stayed in a 1st floor room. Important because they have private gardens. Room was spacious with a delightful soaking tub that looked out onto the garden. Staff was attentive. Meals appeared precisely on time. Enjoyed a kaiseki dinner, Japanese and western breakfasts in the room. We enjoyed a delightful tempura dinner at a separate restaurant owned by the Inn and... More

We dropped our bags off early in the day, as we had to check out of the Okura Hotel where we had been staying. The Tawayara staff was probably a bit surprised to see us arrive at 10:00 in the morning in order to do that, but they swiftly welcomed us and took our bags for safekeeping. The bags were... More

The building is very old but is quiet and immaculately clean. They have set up lots of nooks to relax and read a book in or just enjoy some tea. It is in an excellent location for shopping, eating out and a jumping off point to do touristy things like seeing the sites. They will tell you it is a... More

I really can not add much that others haven't already said, other than to strongly suggest you go stay there if you can. Yes, it's expensive, but you get what you pay for. The service was extraordinary and if the management per chance reads this, Aya was unbelievable; her kazeki service was so beautiful...I will simply never forget it. More

Has been a dream since long ago to be able to spend at least a night at this place.. Finally a dream cone true.. Excellent service, food and experiences.. I will definitely back in very soon!! More

We stayed here on Friday 22 April and loved it. After staying in top end western hotels throughout our stay in Japan Tawaraya was a sublime change. From its historic lodgings and spectacular inner garden to its exquisite kazeki and touching service. We were floored! We often wondered what lay behind the many Japanese house facades and this gave us... More

Staying at the Tawaraya is a bit like getting to spend the night at a friend's grandparent's house—a friend who is Japanese royalty. The inn has an amazing amount of personality and elegance. It is both regal and quirky. Like visiting someone's grandparents, you will enjoy it more if you try to behave and work with the culture of the... More

All the great things said about this ryokan ring true to us recently. We experienced out of this world hospitality and refinement in this unique accommodation. You must stay here for at least 2 - 3 nights to understand the undescrible feelings that we got from it. We are seasoned and high-end international travellers, this is the only place we... More

This place was fantastic. Value is good to, in a way (albeit pricey) since for the price of one great dinner at French Laundry you get two meals and a great night's rest with Japanese ryokan ambience. More