For our last night in Japan, I wanted something special so we splashed out on Sowaka in Gion, a small luxury ryokan. I picked this one for the outdoor bath in the room (on a balcony) and for the restaurant,
La Bombance (
Reviewed here).
The location is great - an easy walk to many of the tourist spots (and I was able to duck out to temples before check out while the rest of the family relaxed before heading to the airport).
However, inside is the real joy of this hotel. It is built on an old restuarant and banquet hall from the end of the Taisho period and beginning of Showra period and the antique 'kitchen' and well are still on display in the lounge and courtyard.
The room was massive for the three us, with a comfy lounge area as well as the tatami space. Traditional touches with modern luxury. It's the perfect oasis cocooned in history. There's a super cute little bar where I chatted with other guests before dinner, enjoying the relaxed ambience, sitting on the floor chairs. The bar staff are in a pit, so you face to face when sitting.
There is a roof top balcony with city views, though in winter it was a little chilly to stay up there for long.
The hotel uses the water from the ground directly beneath the hotel. The legends tell of the magical spiritual power of Kyoto's water, so maybe that's the secret to the enchanting feeling of this accomodation.
Breakfast was a special feast, cooking our toast over charcoals, and seasonal fruits all presented beautifully. If you don't dine in La Bombance for lunch or dinner, at least breakfast gives you a peek into what you're missing.
It is little wonder it is one of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, the only thing I could fault in our stay was that it was only one night, but that was entirely my mistake!
Practicalities:
Sowaka Kyoto
La Bombance Kyoto
Further Reading:
Never say Never
Otagi Nenbutsu-Ji
Kinkakuji
Snow in Kyoto
The garden in Sanjusangendo
And please look at their website because my pictures do not do it justice. Can you imagine the tree in full bloom?
Further Reading:
Oh how amazing! This hotel looks very special. I've stayed in a couple of hotels under the Small Luxury Hotels banner and the little touches and comfort make it worth the cost. I've always wanted to go to Japan. One day! Thanks for linking.
ReplyDeleteI thought it was so lovely, but the very old mixed with the new made it really interesting!
DeleteMagical waters of Kyoto! Ah, sounds divine and the place looks exquisite.
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