Kamo-Zen

Hands down this was the BEST accommodation we had in all of Japan! If you want a local neighbourhood stay that is close to all the cultural areas this place is fantastic. I call it the new Gion without all the tourists and crazyness. Great food options and local supermarkets, we didn’t want to leave.

Sorry for english, but this review is for foreign tourists This really is the best way to stay in Kyoto. It's a beautifully maintained kyo-machiya in one of the most beautiful areas of the city In the reviews, the main complaints seem to be about the location, and how its hard for cars and taxi to get there. I would argue that this is actually a benefit. This is not a noisy crowded tourist area. It is a quiet, peaceful, traditional Kyoto neighbourhood. The lack of major car traffic makes it safer to walk, and really helps maintain the feel of the neighbourhood. You can always take a taxi to get close by and then walk for a few minutes But I wouldn't suggest avoiding walking. The walk to the machiya from pretty much anywhere is an absolutely magical walk. The people, the shops, the shrines and temples, its really a magical experience just being able to walk through gion on the way home. It's not that far from bus stops and train stations, and the walk will end up being one of the most memorable parts of your trip. I even loved talking to people in the neighbourhood The machiya itself was expertly reformed. Kyo-machiya tend to be very old, not well insulated, and a bit mouldy, but this one had no problems. It felt modern and traditional, and the bath was absolutely gorgeous. It also has wa****su with well maintained tatami, and tools for doing tea (chawan, chashaku, chasen, kama, etc) This is my favourite place to stay in Kyoto. I hope I can stay there every time I am home