Ryokan Yachiyo - A Tattoo-Friendly Hot Spring in Kyoto City, Kyoto

Nestled beside the historic Nanzenji Temple in Kyoto's Northern Higashiyama district, Kyoto Garden Ryokan Yachiyo has been welcoming guests since 1915. This century-old establishment blends traditional Japanese architecture with exquisite landscaped gardens designed by Meiji-era master Jihei Ogawa. The ryokan's onsen-style baths, fed by waters from Lake Biwa, offer a serene retreat where you can soak while gazing upon meticulously maintained seasonal gardens. For tattooed travelers seeking an authentic ryokan experience in Kyoto's cultural heart, Yachiyo provides access to traditional Japanese hospitality with modern sensibilities, situated just minutes from UNESCO World Heritage sites and iconic landmarks along the Path of Philosophy.

• Historic Gardens: Experience gardens designed by famed landscape architect Jihei Ogawa, beautifully illuminated in the evenings for magical nighttime viewing
• Cultural Immersion: Located steps from Nanzenji Temple and the Philosopher's Path, offering authentic Kyoto experiences within walking distance
• Traditional Architecture: Preserved wooden structures and tatami rooms offering a genuine ryokan experience with modern comforts
• Seasonal Beauty: Gardens that transform dramatically with cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, fiery maples in autumn, and serene snow in winter
• International-Friendly: English-speaking staff and amenities catering to international guests while maintaining authentic Japanese hospitality

Yachiyo's public baths draw water from Lake Biwa, offering a refreshing bathing experience in facilities that harmoniously blend with the surrounding garden landscapes. The baths are designed to frame seasonal views, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature's changing beauty whether you're visiting during cherry blossom season or autumn's vibrant colors. Available from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM daily, the bathing areas feature six individual shower stalls for pre-bath cleansing—following traditional Japanese bathing etiquette—before entering the communal baths. The tranquil environment emphasizes mindful relaxation and appreciation of seasonal garden views, embodying the Japanese concept of finding wellness through connection with nature.

✈️ Kansai International Airport → 🚅 Haruka Express to Kyoto Station (75 min) → 🚇 Tozai Subway Line to Keage Station (10 min) → 🚶‍♀️ 7 min walk

​

🚅 Kyoto Station → 🚕 15 min taxi ride OR 🚇 Tozai Subway Line to Keage Station (10 min) → 🚶‍♀️ 7 min walk

​

🚇 Keage Station (Tozai Line) → 🚶‍♀️ Exit station, head north toward Nanzenji Temple (7 min walk)

Advance reservations are highly recommended, especially during cherry blossom season (late March to early April) and autumn foliage season (November). Booking directly through their website often provides the best rates and most up-to-date availability.

​

🌐 Website: https://kyoto-ryokan.co.jp  

📞 Phone: +81-75-771-4148  

📍 Address: 34 Nanzenji Fukuji-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8435, Japan  

✉️ Email: info@kyoto-ryokan.co.jp