Hotel Ethnography Gion Shinmonzen
$243
/ night
Avg. for October
Prices for Hotel Ethnography Gion Shinmonzen
Select dates to see prices and availability
$243
/ night
Avg. for October
Monthly average prices
Nightly prices at Hotel Ethnography Gion Shinmonzen average $107 in January, the cheapest month, and $243 in October, the most expensive, based on the last 12 months.
| Month | Average price |
|---|---|
| January | $107 |
| February | $124 |
| March | $198 |
| April | $230 |
| May | $195 |
| June | $146 |
| July | $172 |
| August | $146 |
| September | $171 |
| October | $243 |
| November | $236 |
| December | $154 |
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Oct · $243
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Most expensive: October (~$243)
Cheapest: January (~$107)
About this property
Centrally located hotel in Kyoto with individually decorated rooms and convenient amenities for families.
24-Hour Reception
Babysitting / Child Services
Concierge
Multilingual Staff
WiFi
Designated Smoking Area
Location
219 2 Nishinocho, Gion, Kyoto, Japan
Room options
Double Superior Queen Bed
Sleeps 4
Double Deluxe King Bed
Sleeps 4
Twin Deluxe
Sleeps 4
Twin Superior
Sleeps 4
Twin Comfort
Sleeps 4
Triple Deluxe City View
Sleeps 3
Double Deluxe Queen Bed
Sleeps 4
Twin Japanese Room
Sleeps 4
Triple Deluxe Queen Bed
Sleeps 3
Guest reviews of Hotel Ethnography Gion Shinmonzen
9.2
Superb
Based on 426 verified reviews
Who stays here?
Couple
100%
What guests think
AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Across reviews of Hotel Ethnography Gion Shinmonzen, travellers praise the quiet Gion location, friendly English-speaking staff, comfortable rooms with Japanese touches and deep soaking baths, while noting downsides like spotty Wi‑Fi, occasional damp or light issues, and mixed breakfast experiences.
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What guests think
Across reviews of Hotel Ethnography Gion Shinmonzen, travellers praise the quiet Gion location, friendly English-speaking staff, comfortable rooms with Japanese touches and deep soaking baths, while noting downsides like spotty Wi‑Fi, occasional damp or light issues, and mixed breakfast experiences.
The setting is central and walkable to temples, markets, the river, and multiple subway and bus lines. Room sizes vary from spacious to compact, and some have limited storage or lack windows. Service is widely described as warm, multilingual, and helpful with recommendations and taxis, though a few guests reported inconsistent assistance at busy times. Expect a tasteful boutique stay in a prime Gion spot with strong service and ambience, plus a few practical trade-offs.
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Facilities
Boutique property with limited on-site amenities; guests appreciate complimentary lobby coffee and tea, free bottled drinks like water/ginger ale, and in-room pour‑over coffee in some rooms.
Related guest reviews
10
Kerry
Nov 21, 2024
·
Stayed 2 nights
Room was a bit small but beds were super comfortable and the shower/bath was excellent. The in room coffee (Hario coffee mill and pour over setup) was the best I've had in a long time. Tried both breakfast offerings here and at the sister property around the corner, both good. Super convenient location yet on a quiet street.
Room was a bit small but beds were super comfortable and the shower/bath was excellent. The in room coffee (Hario coffee mill and pour over setup) was the best I've had in a long time. Tried both breakfast offerings here and at the sister property around the corner, both good. Super convenient location yet on a quiet street.
10
Tanisha
Jan 19, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Gorgeous little hotel, very clean and delicious Japanese breakfast. Great amenities with tea, coffee, luggage storage, toothbrush, hairbrush, shaver etc all provided. Great location to train station and Gion entertainment district.
Gorgeous little hotel, very clean and delicious Japanese breakfast. Great amenities with tea, coffee, luggage storage, toothbrush, hairbrush, shaver etc all provided. Great location to train station and Gion entertainment district.
10
Pablo
Jul 11, 2023
·
Excelent place, no 24 hr deskfront but You can get inside at any hour. Weard way of comunícate throught a cello phone if You have a problem, make me think about spying ... But don't think so 😅
Excelent place, no 24 hr deskfront but You can get inside at any hour. Weard way of comunícate throught a cello phone if You have a problem, make me think about spying ... But don't think so 😅
10
Pablo
Aug 16, 2025
·
Stayed 4 nights
Very comfortable. I was surprised about the mini bar being free. It didn't have all the things one finds in a mini bar, but it was nice to get complimentary water and ginger ale. Clean. Great bathtub. The shower head position was a little strange as it didn't point at the bathtub. You were supposed to take a shower standing outside of the bathtub, but it was a minor detail. We just moved the shower head in the direction of the bathtub, and the stream was a little crooked thats all. It was still a good shower. Taking a bath was great, we just don't do that as often. Downstairs they had complimentary coffee and tea. Service excellent, as in all of Japan
Very comfortable. I was surprised about the mini bar being free. It didn't have all the things one finds in a mini bar, but it was nice to get complimentary water and ginger ale. Clean. Great bathtub. The shower head position was a little strange as it didn't point at the bathtub. You were supposed to take a shower standing outside of the bathtub, but it was a minor detail. We just moved the shower head in the direction of the bathtub, and the stream was a little crooked thats all. It was still a good shower. Taking a bath was great, we just don't do that as often. Downstairs they had complimentary coffee and tea. Service excellent, as in all of Japan
10
Steven
Nov 26, 2024
·
Stayed 2 nights
Very quiet street in the midst of busy Gion. Walkable to city markets and sights on the east side. Nice Japanese breakfasts, dining room open all the time for tea or coffee, or just sitting around to schmooze.
Very quiet street in the midst of busy Gion. Walkable to city markets and sights on the east side. Nice Japanese breakfasts, dining room open all the time for tea or coffee, or just sitting around to schmooze.
10
Michelle
Jun 30, 2024
·
Stayed 5 nights
Safe, beautiful location on a quiet street but close to everything. Clean, comfortable, and quiet room with good amenities. Coffee, tea, ginger ale, and fridge provided. A 7-11 just around the corner, which we used for breakfast and many other items (including Pokémon cards for my son!). Couldn’t have chosen a better place to stay in Kyoto.
Safe, beautiful location on a quiet street but close to everything. Clean, comfortable, and quiet room with good amenities. Coffee, tea, ginger ale, and fridge provided. A 7-11 just around the corner, which we used for breakfast and many other items (including Pokémon cards for my son!). Couldn’t have chosen a better place to stay in Kyoto.
10
Michael
May 25, 2024
·
Stayed 2 nights
Boutique hotel with good service and newer facilities
Boutique hotel with good service and newer facilities
10
Connie
Jul 18, 2023
·
Stayed 3 nights
This is an absolutely gorgeous inn! We loved it here. The neighbourhood and the decor of the room really added to the authenticity of the place. Gorgeously clean. I didn't originally book the breakfast option, but was allowed to add it on - it was very good (eggs, toast/bread, yogurt, granola, cheese, salad, fruit, juices, coffee/tea) and the western breakfast is served at their sister location around the corner, a short walk. The property has an elevator so that was really appreciated with our heavy bags. The room had two larger twin beds and duvets (really comfy), a desk and chair, a small stool that we used for one of our luggage cases, a safe, coffee/tea facilities, a mini fridge, free ginger ales provided, and an absolutely beautiful, spa-like bath and shower room. The only thing I can say about it is another chair would be great in the room. Staff were quick to assist with dinner recommendations and taxi arranging. a lovely place!
This is an absolutely gorgeous inn! We loved it here. The neighbourhood and the decor of the room really added to the authenticity of the place. Gorgeously clean. I didn't originally book the breakfast option, but was allowed to add it on - it was very good (eggs, toast/bread, yogurt, granola, cheese, salad, fruit, juices, coffee/tea) and the western breakfast is served at their sister location around the corner, a short walk. The property has an elevator so that was really appreciated with our heavy bags. The room had two larger twin beds and duvets (really comfy), a desk and chair, a small stool that we used for one of our luggage cases, a safe, coffee/tea facilities, a mini fridge, free ginger ales provided, and an absolutely beautiful, spa-like bath and shower room. The only thing I can say about it is another chair would be great in the room. Staff were quick to assist with dinner recommendations and taxi arranging. a lovely place!
10
Jinna
Jun 10, 2023
·
Stayed 4 nights
I loved the green tea that was available for guests, it was absolutely delicious! This was a lovely stay, with a really comfortable bed and great water pressure in the shower. Some downsides were the cups in the closet weren't super clean when we arrived and the outlets are awkwardly place behind the pillows in the bed frame, which makes it difficult to charge digital devices, since the chargers tend to fall out when you lay down.
I loved the green tea that was available for guests, it was absolutely delicious! This was a lovely stay, with a really comfortable bed and great water pressure in the shower. Some downsides were the cups in the closet weren't super clean when we arrived and the outlets are awkwardly place behind the pillows in the bed frame, which makes it difficult to charge digital devices, since the chargers tend to fall out when you lay down.
10
margaret
Feb 14, 2024
·
Stayed 11 nights
Close to everything shops dining temples and trains also bike hire walking distance very clean hotel friendly staff coffee always available downstairs Doonas soft like a cloud thank you Hotel Gion Misen we enjoyed our stay
Close to everything shops dining temples and trains also bike hire walking distance very clean hotel friendly staff coffee always available downstairs Doonas soft like a cloud thank you Hotel Gion Misen we enjoyed our stay
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Cleanliness
Most reviews describe the property as very clean and well kept, with housekeeping praised. A smaller number cite issues such as stains, scuffed walls, minor mold, or a damp smell in certain rooms.
Related guest reviews
10
David
Apr 26, 2025
·
Stayed 4 nights
Well appointed boutique hotel in a great location in Gion District. The twin bed room and bathroom were well-sized for Japanese standards and provided with nice amenities. Staff did an exception job at cleaning the room and common areas. The staff was also very friendly and helpful in answering questions and recommending shops and restaurants in the area. Hotel was a located within easy walking distance to the Sanjo-dori, Shijo-dori, Pontocho, Karasuma, and Gion shopping areas and multiple transit lines that will take you throughout the greater Kyoto area so you have access to all of the major attractions. Highly recommend and will definitely stay at this hotel on future visits.
Well appointed boutique hotel in a great location in Gion District. The twin bed room and bathroom were well-sized for Japanese standards and provided with nice amenities. Staff did an exception job at cleaning the room and common areas. The staff was also very friendly and helpful in answering questions and recommending shops and restaurants in the area. Hotel was a located within easy walking distance to the Sanjo-dori, Shijo-dori, Pontocho, Karasuma, and Gion shopping areas and multiple transit lines that will take you throughout the greater Kyoto area so you have access to all of the major attractions. Highly recommend and will definitely stay at this hotel on future visits.
6
Rachel
Mar 28, 2025
·
Stayed 3 nights
The hotel staff was excellent and the location was right in the heart of everything. The few issues were the room had a damp smell, the pillows were so flat even after stacking two of them, and the tub stopper didn't work. Other than that the room was very clean and I would probably stay here again.
The hotel staff was excellent and the location was right in the heart of everything. The few issues were the room had a damp smell, the pillows were so flat even after stacking two of them, and the tub stopper didn't work. Other than that the room was very clean and I would probably stay here again.
8
Ashimi
Nov 18, 2023
·
Stayed 1 night
飲み物カウンターにダウンライトが欲しいのと、風呂場のカビが生えつつあった。 壁の汚れやしょうじの汚れも気になりました。
飲み物カウンターにダウンライトが欲しいのと、風呂場のカビが生えつつあった。 壁の汚れやしょうじの汚れも気になりました。
10
Erica
Jul 19, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
Nice and experienced staff. We’re English-speaking and had no language barrier issues. About a 10 minute walk from the station. There was some signs of wear and wall stains in our room, but the bed and bathroom were spotless.
Nice and experienced staff. We’re English-speaking and had no language barrier issues. About a 10 minute walk from the station. There was some signs of wear and wall stains in our room, but the bed and bathroom were spotless.
8
adam
Jan 27, 2025
·
Stayed 3 nights
Cute little hotel in a great area of Kyoto. Friendly, attentive service. The room was spacious by Japanese city standards but smelled kind of dank/damp.
Cute little hotel in a great area of Kyoto. Friendly, attentive service. The room was spacious by Japanese city standards but smelled kind of dank/damp.
8
Colby
Apr 19, 2025
·
Stayed 3 nights
Cute little hotel. Staff was great. Rooms were standard size for Japan. Very clean. Everything was walkable. Metro was close. Perfect for a 3 night stay.
Cute little hotel. Staff was great. Rooms were standard size for Japan. Very clean. Everything was walkable. Metro was close. Perfect for a 3 night stay.
8
Sherri
Sep 20, 2023
·
Stayed 4 nights
Great location in Gion. Close to the train station and an easy walk to shopping areas and many restaurants. Street is nice and quiet at night. Our room was a bit damp and had a bit of a strange smell, but was very nice otherwise. Comfy bed and nice shower.
Great location in Gion. Close to the train station and an easy walk to shopping areas and many restaurants. Street is nice and quiet at night. Our room was a bit damp and had a bit of a strange smell, but was very nice otherwise. Comfy bed and nice shower.
6
Omar
Jun 2, 2025
·
Stayed 3 nights
Very confused about the overwhelmingly positive reviews. WiFi- terrible, never worked for us. Room- in bad condition. Poop stains on the bathroom wall. Lots of scruffs/scratches on the walls in general. Sink was shaky. Poorly designed and broken plugs on top of the bed that were built were your head would go for some reason. No windows in our room which was fine but should’ve been made more obvious in our listing. Amenities- free water and coffee in the lobby but otherwise nothing. Location was the only real redeeming quality for this place. Great location. Again, confused about the positive reviews. I would not stay here again.
Very confused about the overwhelmingly positive reviews. WiFi- terrible, never worked for us. Room- in bad condition. Poop stains on the bathroom wall. Lots of scruffs/scratches on the walls in general. Sink was shaky. Poorly designed and broken plugs on top of the bed that were built were your head would go for some reason. No windows in our room which was fine but should’ve been made more obvious in our listing. Amenities- free water and coffee in the lobby but otherwise nothing. Location was the only real redeeming quality for this place. Great location. Again, confused about the positive reviews. I would not stay here again.
8
yuji
Dec 7, 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
祇園にマッチした施設が良かったです。 部屋もとても清潔でした。
祇園にマッチした施設が良かったです。 部屋もとても清潔でした。
10
Zimu
Apr 27, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
Very clean
Very clean
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Rooms
Rooms mix modern and traditional design, many are spacious for Japan with very comfortable beds and standout deep soaking baths or garden views. Trade‑offs include some compact or windowless rooms, thin pillows, limited storage/workspace, light leakage through shoji, and unreliable Wi‑Fi.
Related guest reviews
6
Lauren
Nov 11, 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
The best features of this hotel are the location and the staff. It's situated in the heart of Gion and is possibly one of the most desirable parts of the city to stay because of the historic ambience and the many interesting antique shops and galleries nearby. The rooms are overpriced and poorly laid out. Most face a parking lot, the street or a wall.. The decor is Faux Scandinavian meets Japanese. The Sliding Paper Screens which covered the blinds did not keep out the light from the parking lot. My room was on the backside and apparently the situation is worse in the street facing rooms. Those don't have blinds and the light shines right through the paper screens. There is no closet or space to store things. Instead 5 hangers rest on a pole in a recess of the wall. The bathroom has no place to hang towels. And the small toilet closet and separate shower and bath room are weird. The sink area outside provides little space to arrange toiletries. The ceiling in the room was low creating a box like feel. And there was no where to sit other than the desk chair. I had a double room which supposedly was bigger than most but I still felt claustrophobic. The staff were very sweet and helpful. I think it is outrageous how much the owner is charging purely based on location. I know that there are much nicer places to stay in Kyoto for the same price that might be located a bit farther away from the center.
The best features of this hotel are the location and the staff. It's situated in the heart of Gion and is possibly one of the most desirable parts of the city to stay because of the historic ambience and the many interesting antique shops and galleries nearby. The rooms are overpriced and poorly laid out. Most face a parking lot, the street or a wall.. The decor is Faux Scandinavian meets Japanese. The Sliding Paper Screens which covered the blinds did not keep out the light from the parking lot. My room was on the backside and apparently the situation is worse in the street facing rooms. Those don't have blinds and the light shines right through the paper screens. There is no closet or space to store things. Instead 5 hangers rest on a pole in a recess of the wall. The bathroom has no place to hang towels. And the small toilet closet and separate shower and bath room are weird. The sink area outside provides little space to arrange toiletries. The ceiling in the room was low creating a box like feel. And there was no where to sit other than the desk chair. I had a double room which supposedly was bigger than most but I still felt claustrophobic. The staff were very sweet and helpful. I think it is outrageous how much the owner is charging purely based on location. I know that there are much nicer places to stay in Kyoto for the same price that might be located a bit farther away from the center.
6
Rachel
Mar 28, 2025
·
Stayed 3 nights
The hotel staff was excellent and the location was right in the heart of everything. The few issues were the room had a damp smell, the pillows were so flat even after stacking two of them, and the tub stopper didn't work. Other than that the room was very clean and I would probably stay here again.
The hotel staff was excellent and the location was right in the heart of everything. The few issues were the room had a damp smell, the pillows were so flat even after stacking two of them, and the tub stopper didn't work. Other than that the room was very clean and I would probably stay here again.
10
stephanie
Jul 27, 2025
·
Stayed 4 nights
Beautiful boutique hotel on a lovely quiet street in the heart of Gion. Our room was on the 4th floor with a view over the rooftops of Kyoto- very charming. Decent size room for a small hotel. Staff was friendly- location just perfect.
Beautiful boutique hotel on a lovely quiet street in the heart of Gion. Our room was on the 4th floor with a view over the rooftops of Kyoto- very charming. Decent size room for a small hotel. Staff was friendly- location just perfect.
10
Daniel
Jul 16, 2025
·
Stayed 5 nights
Excellent stay. Staff was very friendly, and would help out at a moment’s notice. We stayed with 3 people and the rooms were quite spacious. Would recommend this property not only for its beauty but also as it is so close to the very busy commercial areas, yet shielded from all the hustle and bustle.
Excellent stay. Staff was very friendly, and would help out at a moment’s notice. We stayed with 3 people and the rooms were quite spacious. Would recommend this property not only for its beauty but also as it is so close to the very busy commercial areas, yet shielded from all the hustle and bustle.
10
Adalina
Jun 24, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
The room was large by Japan standards with chic decor and an excellent traditional bathtub and separate shower.
The room was large by Japan standards with chic decor and an excellent traditional bathtub and separate shower.
8
Mathew
Jul 3, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
This hotel is very western (nothing wrong with that), so if you’re looking for a more authentic experience, this is not it. Staff was fluent in English. Pillows were super thin. Nice location. For $185 a night, you can do better. This hotel is not located on the river as one of the pictures might lead you to believe.
This hotel is very western (nothing wrong with that), so if you’re looking for a more authentic experience, this is not it. Staff was fluent in English. Pillows were super thin. Nice location. For $185 a night, you can do better. This hotel is not located on the river as one of the pictures might lead you to believe.
6
Ellen
May 15, 2024
·
Stayed 5 nights
Clean, quiet, helpful English speaking staff. Comfortable beds, air conditioning. Room had pot for hot water, tea and coffee. Small fridge with ginger ale. Terrible WiFi. Couldn’t make WiFi calls at all. Room was small. Towels were thin. Bathroom sink area was terribly dark. I used a flashlight to try and style my hair. Sink area is tiny. No room for 2 people’s toiletries in the sink area, . We wanted a western style breakfast, which required a 3 minute walk to the sister hotel. It consisted of a green salad with tomatoes, cereal, plain yogurt, white bread, jam, butter, little packets of cheese, hard boiled eggs, pineapple, orange slices and bananas. This hotel is in a good location for walking to shopping, restaurants and local sights. The breakfast was our least favorite of the 5 hotels we stayed in during our Japan vacation. I’m guessing the price reflected the location, more than the amenities. If that’s the case, I would choose to pay more and have better amenities. But the hotel certainly had everything necessary, just not what I expected.
Clean, quiet, helpful English speaking staff. Comfortable beds, air conditioning. Room had pot for hot water, tea and coffee. Small fridge with ginger ale. Terrible WiFi. Couldn’t make WiFi calls at all. Room was small. Towels were thin. Bathroom sink area was terribly dark. I used a flashlight to try and style my hair. Sink area is tiny. No room for 2 people’s toiletries in the sink area, . We wanted a western style breakfast, which required a 3 minute walk to the sister hotel. It consisted of a green salad with tomatoes, cereal, plain yogurt, white bread, jam, butter, little packets of cheese, hard boiled eggs, pineapple, orange slices and bananas. This hotel is in a good location for walking to shopping, restaurants and local sights. The breakfast was our least favorite of the 5 hotels we stayed in during our Japan vacation. I’m guessing the price reflected the location, more than the amenities. If that’s the case, I would choose to pay more and have better amenities. But the hotel certainly had everything necessary, just not what I expected.
10
Brent
Mar 24, 2025
·
Stayed 3 nights
Loved how unique this hotel is. Our room was quite large compared to other places we stayed in Japan. Very clean and so close to so many attractions.
Loved how unique this hotel is. Our room was quite large compared to other places we stayed in Japan. Very clean and so close to so many attractions.
10
Christian
Oct 27, 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
Very nice hotel and great location. My room size is larger than expected. Definitely will stay here again next time.
Very nice hotel and great location. My room size is larger than expected. Definitely will stay here again next time.
8
Carlye
Oct 26, 2024
·
Stayed 3 nights
The hotel was very nice. The room had a great layout and easily fit myself, my husband and our teenager. The beds were the most comfy of anywhere we stayed in Japan. Only negative was the room does not have blinds, only opaque sliding traditional screens that do not block light. Unfortunately our room was right over a bright parking sign so the entire room remained VERY bright all night long. We slept with small bath towels over our eyes. Recommend bringing an eye mask for sleeping.
The hotel was very nice. The room had a great layout and easily fit myself, my husband and our teenager. The beds were the most comfy of anywhere we stayed in Japan. Only negative was the room does not have blinds, only opaque sliding traditional screens that do not block light. Unfortunately our room was right over a bright parking sign so the entire room remained VERY bright all night long. We slept with small bath towels over our eyes. Recommend bringing an eye mask for sleeping.
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Service
Service is widely praised as friendly, multilingual, and helpful with recommendations, taxis, and logistics. A few guests experienced inconsistent assistance or limited availability during busy times.
Related guest reviews
10
Jenny
Jul 11, 2025
·
Stayed 3 nights
We chose this hotel after so much research and finally decided to give it a go! It was a little tricky to find as there is no big sign but once we found it it was easy after that! Check in was smooth and the staff throughout the stay was exceptional with helping us with recommendations, questions and getting cabs for us!! The room was beautiful, we had a ground floor room with a zen garden view. It was spacious and we had a lot of room to spread out! Overall this was such a great stay!
We chose this hotel after so much research and finally decided to give it a go! It was a little tricky to find as there is no big sign but once we found it it was easy after that! Check in was smooth and the staff throughout the stay was exceptional with helping us with recommendations, questions and getting cabs for us!! The room was beautiful, we had a ground floor room with a zen garden view. It was spacious and we had a lot of room to spread out! Overall this was such a great stay!
10
Mohammed
Apr 7, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Very pleasant and informative check in
Very pleasant and informative check in
8
Grainger
Apr 14, 2024
·
Stayed 3 nights
Very nice, clean rooms in an amazing location! We liked the extra room touches like fresh whole coffee beans and a grinder in our room to make our own fresh coffee in the morning. Staff was polite but not always available to help at busy check-in time.
Very nice, clean rooms in an amazing location! We liked the extra room touches like fresh whole coffee beans and a grinder in our room to make our own fresh coffee in the morning. Staff was polite but not always available to help at busy check-in time.
10
Maggie
Apr 30, 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
Excellent location, clean property and the staff were incredibly helpful with all of our needs navigating taxis and dinner reservations. I would absolutely stay here again.
Excellent location, clean property and the staff were incredibly helpful with all of our needs navigating taxis and dinner reservations. I would absolutely stay here again.
10
Bethany
Nov 16, 2023
·
Stayed 4 nights
The Gion Misen was a standout among the many places I stayed during a three week trip to Japan. As a solo female traveler it was safe and welcoming, and supremely convenient for exploring Kyoto. The Japanese breakfast was tasty and changed up daily. A word about the staff: uniformly friendly, well-informed and multi-lingual, they went above and beyond when my passport went missing. A manager handled all the inquiries on the phone and in the police station, and I had my document in hand for my return trip the following day, thanks to her dedication.
The Gion Misen was a standout among the many places I stayed during a three week trip to Japan. As a solo female traveler it was safe and welcoming, and supremely convenient for exploring Kyoto. The Japanese breakfast was tasty and changed up daily. A word about the staff: uniformly friendly, well-informed and multi-lingual, they went above and beyond when my passport went missing. A manager handled all the inquiries on the phone and in the police station, and I had my document in hand for my return trip the following day, thanks to her dedication.
10
David
Feb 12, 2025
·
Stayed 3 nights
This hotel was perfect! The staff were extremely helpful, the breakfast was amazing (we tried both Japanese and Western style) the beds were super comfortable and the rooms spacious and silent - Right in the heart of Gion - well connected by subway to the rest of Kyoto. We loved the extra touches (a coffee grinder in each room to make fresh filtered coffee) a deep bath and automatic toilet seats!
This hotel was perfect! The staff were extremely helpful, the breakfast was amazing (we tried both Japanese and Western style) the beds were super comfortable and the rooms spacious and silent - Right in the heart of Gion - well connected by subway to the rest of Kyoto. We loved the extra touches (a coffee grinder in each room to make fresh filtered coffee) a deep bath and automatic toilet seats!
8
Daniel
Aug 12, 2024
·
Stayed 2 nights
Staff are not friendly and need to be trained!
Staff are not friendly and need to be trained!
10
Austin
Sep 27, 2024
·
Stayed 3 nights
Incredible hotel. Jacopo was especially helpful and found us dinner reservations for one of the best meals I’ve ever had nearby. Walkable to many transit stations and access to great finding and shopping close by!
Incredible hotel. Jacopo was especially helpful and found us dinner reservations for one of the best meals I’ve ever had nearby. Walkable to many transit stations and access to great finding and shopping close by!
6
Amber
Feb 21, 2025
·
Stayed 3 nights
Hotel Gion Misen is located in the beautiful and historic district of Gion, Kyoto. I was very grateful for their effort in coordinating a champagne surprise for my husband’s birthday and writing a thoughtful message ahead of our stay – it was a lovely gesture. However, our experience with the staff left something to be desired. During our visit, we stopped by the sister location just a short walk away, where we experienced excellent hospitality. The staff there helped us with a restaurant reservation we had struggled to make due to a language barrier, something we had hoped to receive assistance with at Hotel Gion Misen. Unfortunately, when we asked the front desk at Gion Misen for help, there was hesitation, followed by an email saying the restaurant was closed, even though we knew it was open (it was only closed on Tuesdays, and we requested for Wednesday). Thankfully, we decided to go to the restaurant directly and had a wonderful time, but had we followed the information in the email, we would have missed out on a great experience. While the location and the thoughtful gesture for my husband’s birthday were highlights, the mixed service from the staff on a couple of occasions at Hotel Gion Misen was disappointing. I hope they can improve in this area for future guests
Hotel Gion Misen is located in the beautiful and historic district of Gion, Kyoto. I was very grateful for their effort in coordinating a champagne surprise for my husband’s birthday and writing a thoughtful message ahead of our stay – it was a lovely gesture. However, our experience with the staff left something to be desired. During our visit, we stopped by the sister location just a short walk away, where we experienced excellent hospitality. The staff there helped us with a restaurant reservation we had struggled to make due to a language barrier, something we had hoped to receive assistance with at Hotel Gion Misen. Unfortunately, when we asked the front desk at Gion Misen for help, there was hesitation, followed by an email saying the restaurant was closed, even though we knew it was open (it was only closed on Tuesdays, and we requested for Wednesday). Thankfully, we decided to go to the restaurant directly and had a wonderful time, but had we followed the information in the email, we would have missed out on a great experience. While the location and the thoughtful gesture for my husband’s birthday were highlights, the mixed service from the staff on a couple of occasions at Hotel Gion Misen was disappointing. I hope they can improve in this area for future guests
10
Mary
Apr 15, 2023
·
Stayed 3 nights
Excellent value and location, and helpful, friendly staff who all speak good English. Will definitely return.
Excellent value and location, and helpful, friendly staff who all speak good English. Will definitely return.
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Location
Central Gion location on a quiet street that is walkable to temples, markets, the river, restaurants, and multiple subway and bus lines. Several guests found it hard to spot initially due to subtle signage.
Related guest reviews
10
Jenny
Jul 11, 2025
·
Stayed 3 nights
We chose this hotel after so much research and finally decided to give it a go! It was a little tricky to find as there is no big sign but once we found it it was easy after that! Check in was smooth and the staff throughout the stay was exceptional with helping us with recommendations, questions and getting cabs for us!! The room was beautiful, we had a ground floor room with a zen garden view. It was spacious and we had a lot of room to spread out! Overall this was such a great stay!
We chose this hotel after so much research and finally decided to give it a go! It was a little tricky to find as there is no big sign but once we found it it was easy after that! Check in was smooth and the staff throughout the stay was exceptional with helping us with recommendations, questions and getting cabs for us!! The room was beautiful, we had a ground floor room with a zen garden view. It was spacious and we had a lot of room to spread out! Overall this was such a great stay!
10
Jennifer
Feb 22, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
So very comfortable! Lovely bedding, pjs, slippers, and lots of toiletries. In walking distance to ask the gion sites and temples. Nice bars and restaurants nearby as well. Staff very friendly.
So very comfortable! Lovely bedding, pjs, slippers, and lots of toiletries. In walking distance to ask the gion sites and temples. Nice bars and restaurants nearby as well. Staff very friendly.
10
Cynthia
Apr 27, 2025
·
Stayed 4 nights
Excellent location to the Gion area. Lovely back streets of Kyoto!
Excellent location to the Gion area. Lovely back streets of Kyoto!
10
Joseph
Jul 24, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
This was an amazing gem of the property that was close to the GION district. Super walkable to the metro center we traveled all over the Kyoto area, including going to Nara Park and the bamboo forest on the west side of town. The room was awesome for my family 04 with two small boys and everything was on point easy check-in zero hassle and just overall pleasure to be there.
This was an amazing gem of the property that was close to the GION district. Super walkable to the metro center we traveled all over the Kyoto area, including going to Nara Park and the bamboo forest on the west side of town. The room was awesome for my family 04 with two small boys and everything was on point easy check-in zero hassle and just overall pleasure to be there.
10
stephanie
Jul 27, 2025
·
Stayed 4 nights
Beautiful boutique hotel on a lovely quiet street in the heart of Gion. Our room was on the 4th floor with a view over the rooftops of Kyoto- very charming. Decent size room for a small hotel. Staff was friendly- location just perfect.
Beautiful boutique hotel on a lovely quiet street in the heart of Gion. Our room was on the 4th floor with a view over the rooftops of Kyoto- very charming. Decent size room for a small hotel. Staff was friendly- location just perfect.
10
Dawn
Apr 27, 2025
·
Stayed 3 nights
Cute little hotel in middle of amazing Gion. Very walkable from the metro and great area to explore for culture, shopping & food options. The staff are super nice and very helpful. Would definitely come back here again and stay even longer!
Cute little hotel in middle of amazing Gion. Very walkable from the metro and great area to explore for culture, shopping & food options. The staff are super nice and very helpful. Would definitely come back here again and stay even longer!
10
Linda
Feb 23, 2025
·
Stayed 3 nights
Loved the traditional feel of the neighborhood. The subway line was close and lots of restaurants in the area.
Loved the traditional feel of the neighborhood. The subway line was close and lots of restaurants in the area.
10
Noreen
Dec 23, 2024
·
Stayed 6 nights
The location was great and we did a lot of walking in every direction. There was so much to discover and restaurants were everywhere. The room was lovely and we had all that we needed. Comfortable beds and a lovely bathroom/tub. I would definitely recommend this hotel.
The location was great and we did a lot of walking in every direction. There was so much to discover and restaurants were everywhere. The room was lovely and we had all that we needed. Comfortable beds and a lovely bathroom/tub. I would definitely recommend this hotel.
10
Wilson
Nov 25, 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
Upon arriving to this property is a beautiful walk right next to the river that flows through the area. It was a little hard to find at first but just follow the maps and look closely for there hotel name. It was a nice traditional feel in the room and it was very clean and friendly staffed. Walkable distance to a lot of stations and there is so much to do in the area for sure!
Upon arriving to this property is a beautiful walk right next to the river that flows through the area. It was a little hard to find at first but just follow the maps and look closely for there hotel name. It was a nice traditional feel in the room and it was very clean and friendly staffed. Walkable distance to a lot of stations and there is so much to do in the area for sure!
6
masakatsu
Jan 27, 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
景観を損なわない京都ならではかもしれないが、ホテルの外に看板もなく、暖簾のみで探すの苦労する。 別館もあるみたいで、どちらに電話をかけても外国人スタッフ。 明るいうちにホテルに着くように行って、近くを歩いてる人に聞くしかない。
景観を損なわない京都ならではかもしれないが、ホテルの外に看板もなく、暖簾のみで探すの苦労する。 別館もあるみたいで、どちらに電話をかけても外国人スタッフ。 明るいうちにホテルに着くように行って、近くを歩いてる人に聞くしかない。
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Dining
The Japanese breakfast is frequently praised for quality and authenticity, with a Western option served at a nearby sister property. Some guests found the offerings limited or repetitive, or not to their taste.
Related guest reviews
8
alice noelle marie
Mar 4, 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
The hotel is wonderful. The staff is wonderful. I just knocked off a star from the amenities because the included breakfast was not a lot of food. It was lacking in that we actually went to eat out after we had the breakfast. That said, the breakfast was really tasty though and everything was wonderful.
The hotel is wonderful. The staff is wonderful. I just knocked off a star from the amenities because the included breakfast was not a lot of food. It was lacking in that we actually went to eat out after we had the breakfast. That said, the breakfast was really tasty though and everything was wonderful.
6
Phuong Anh Ngoc
Apr 13, 2024
·
Stayed 8 nights
Good location, however WiFi connection kept dropping off like nonexistent, I told the hotel staff but staff wasn’t aware of issue hence no fix, we had to constantly use our own data staying here. Breakfast is repetitive with no meat so very plain. No onsen available here.
Good location, however WiFi connection kept dropping off like nonexistent, I told the hotel staff but staff wasn’t aware of issue hence no fix, we had to constantly use our own data staying here. Breakfast is repetitive with no meat so very plain. No onsen available here.
10
Kerry
Nov 21, 2024
·
Stayed 2 nights
Room was a bit small but beds were super comfortable and the shower/bath was excellent. The in room coffee (Hario coffee mill and pour over setup) was the best I've had in a long time. Tried both breakfast offerings here and at the sister property around the corner, both good. Super convenient location yet on a quiet street.
Room was a bit small but beds were super comfortable and the shower/bath was excellent. The in room coffee (Hario coffee mill and pour over setup) was the best I've had in a long time. Tried both breakfast offerings here and at the sister property around the corner, both good. Super convenient location yet on a quiet street.
10
Fausto
Apr 8, 2025
·
Stayed 3 nights
The breakfast is so bad if you don’t like tha Japanese food
The breakfast is so bad if you don’t like tha Japanese food
10
Noriko
Apr 5, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
Very close to river bank(within 5 minutes). Even though nearby big streets and shops were overflowed with so many tourists, once inside the hotel, very quiet, relaxed atmosphere. Only thing I was disappointed was breakfast. Japanese style breakfast only. Quality and quantity is not great
Very close to river bank(within 5 minutes). Even though nearby big streets and shops were overflowed with so many tourists, once inside the hotel, very quiet, relaxed atmosphere. Only thing I was disappointed was breakfast. Japanese style breakfast only. Quality and quantity is not great
10
kevin
May 23, 2024
·
Stayed 5 nights
Loved every detail and the location was perfect! The Japanese breakfasts were lovely.
Loved every detail and the location was perfect! The Japanese breakfasts were lovely.
10
Eva
Jul 17, 2024
·
Stayed 2 nights
Excellent service, highly recommend the traditional Japanese breakfast
Excellent service, highly recommend the traditional Japanese breakfast
10
Madoka
Apr 12, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
Excellent in every way! I’d go back there, and recommend highly to anyone! Friendly staff. Excellent Japanese breakfast! It’s a keeper!
Excellent in every way! I’d go back there, and recommend highly to anyone! Friendly staff. Excellent Japanese breakfast! It’s a keeper!
10
Connie
Jul 18, 2023
·
Stayed 3 nights
This is an absolutely gorgeous inn! We loved it here. The neighbourhood and the decor of the room really added to the authenticity of the place. Gorgeously clean. I didn't originally book the breakfast option, but was allowed to add it on - it was very good (eggs, toast/bread, yogurt, granola, cheese, salad, fruit, juices, coffee/tea) and the western breakfast is served at their sister location around the corner, a short walk. The property has an elevator so that was really appreciated with our heavy bags. The room had two larger twin beds and duvets (really comfy), a desk and chair, a small stool that we used for one of our luggage cases, a safe, coffee/tea facilities, a mini fridge, free ginger ales provided, and an absolutely beautiful, spa-like bath and shower room. The only thing I can say about it is another chair would be great in the room. Staff were quick to assist with dinner recommendations and taxi arranging. a lovely place!
This is an absolutely gorgeous inn! We loved it here. The neighbourhood and the decor of the room really added to the authenticity of the place. Gorgeously clean. I didn't originally book the breakfast option, but was allowed to add it on - it was very good (eggs, toast/bread, yogurt, granola, cheese, salad, fruit, juices, coffee/tea) and the western breakfast is served at their sister location around the corner, a short walk. The property has an elevator so that was really appreciated with our heavy bags. The room had two larger twin beds and duvets (really comfy), a desk and chair, a small stool that we used for one of our luggage cases, a safe, coffee/tea facilities, a mini fridge, free ginger ales provided, and an absolutely beautiful, spa-like bath and shower room. The only thing I can say about it is another chair would be great in the room. Staff were quick to assist with dinner recommendations and taxi arranging. a lovely place!
10
Deborah
Jun 12, 2023
·
Stayed 2 nights
Excellent Japanese breakfast. Lovely small hotel in a great location.
Excellent Japanese breakfast. Lovely small hotel in a great location.
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
10
Robert
Sep 2, 2023
·
Stayed 2 nights
This is my favorite hotel I have ever stayed in. The staff was extremely helpful and fluent in English. Everything in the hotel was tastefully selected and delicious, from the breakfast to the coffee in the lobby or the whole bean coffee pour over in the room, to the excellent bath. It is conveniently near a rail station, excellent restaurants, and the Gion district in general. This is the only hotel I will stay in for Kyoto from now on, and I was so impressed that I will plan another trip to visit the two other hotels with the same owner. I hope they are up to the same standard of excellence. Thank you for the stay!
This is my favorite hotel I have ever stayed in. The staff was extremely helpful and fluent in English. Everything in the hotel was tastefully selected and delicious, from the breakfast to the coffee in the lobby or the whole bean coffee pour over in the room, to the excellent bath. It is conveniently near a rail station, excellent restaurants, and the Gion district in general. This is the only hotel I will stay in for Kyoto from now on, and I was so impressed that I will plan another trip to visit the two other hotels with the same owner. I hope they are up to the same standard of excellence. Thank you for the stay!
10
Michel
Aug 11, 2023
·
Stayed 1 night
This hotel is very well situated and the area is very nice a secure.
This hotel is very well situated and the area is very nice a secure.
8
Moez
Aug 9, 2023
·
Stayed 3 nights
Feels like old time Kyoto..
Feels like old time Kyoto..
10
Yi
Aug 7, 2023
·
Stayed 4 nights
The property has excellent location and is close to many bus and subway stations. Also shopping and many resturants nearby. Hotel staffs are very friendly and speak English which are very helpful.
The property has excellent location and is close to many bus and subway stations. Also shopping and many resturants nearby. Hotel staffs are very friendly and speak English which are very helpful.
10
Hongyu
Aug 3, 2023
·
Stayed 1 night
Although the hotel is small, it is very clean and equipped with nice amenities. It is not too far from the famous Pontocho Alley where you can find all kinds of Resturants. I highly recommend it.
Although the hotel is small, it is very clean and equipped with nice amenities. It is not too far from the famous Pontocho Alley where you can find all kinds of Resturants. I highly recommend it.
Property Policies
Check-in
Check-out
Check-in from 14:00
Before 11:00
FAQs about Hotel Ethnography Gion Shinmonzen
What type of breakfast is offered and what are the serving hours?
Japanese breakfasts are available daily from 7:30 AM to 10:30 AM for a fee of approximately JPY 2000 per person.
What are the standard check-in and check-out times?
Check-in is from 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM, and check-out is by 11:00 AM. Early or late check-in/check-out may be available upon request and could incur additional charges.
What is the location of the property in relation to key landmarks?
The property is centrally located in Kyoto, just a 4-minute walk from Shijo Street and 8 minutes by foot from Yasaka Shrine. It is also close to Pontocho Alley and Kawaramachi Street, both within 0.5 miles.
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Prices for upcoming dates
October 2026
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November 2026
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Cheaper
Pricier
Average nightly price across deals, with taxes & fees.
Prices in USD for 2 guests, updated daily.
- 2026-10-06: NO DATA
- 2026-10-07: 180.62964133239745USD
- 2026-10-08: NO DATA
- 2026-10-09: 231.75043060791015USD
- 2026-10-10: NO DATA
- 2026-10-11: 327.6213587939453USD
- 2026-10-12: 210.2049927130127USD
- 2026-10-13: NO DATA
- 2026-10-14: 390.0058312536621USD
- 2026-10-15: 384.59949162109376USD
- 2026-10-16: NO DATA
- 2026-10-17: NO DATA
- 2026-10-18: 424.5362278515625USD
- 2026-10-19: NO DATA
- 2026-10-20: NO DATA
- 2026-10-21: 448.2297485583496USD
- 2026-10-22: NO DATA
- 2026-10-23: 298.5016080078125USD
- 2026-10-24: NO DATA
- 2026-10-25: 331.10464765380857USD
- 2026-10-26: 429.0233691052246USD
- 2026-10-27: NO DATA
- 2026-10-28: 253.4891168383789USD
- 2026-10-29: 332.47134690917966USD
- 2026-10-30: NO DATA
- 2026-10-31: 450.0802436291504USD
- 2026-11-01: NO DATA
- 2026-11-02: 427.2575280493164USD
- 2026-11-03: 386.1838921582031USD
- 2026-11-04: NO DATA
- 2026-11-05: NO DATA
- 2026-11-06: 301.8596417346191USD
- 2026-11-07: NO DATA
- 2026-11-08: NO DATA
- 2026-11-09: NO DATA
- 2026-11-10: 554.796166418457USD
- 2026-11-11: NO DATA
- 2026-11-12: NO DATA
- 2026-11-13: 300.638088059082USD
- 2026-11-14: NO DATA
- 2026-11-15: NO DATA
- 2026-11-16: NO DATA
- 2026-11-17: NO DATA
- 2026-11-18: 340.6352816784668USD
- 2026-11-19: 339.2201891711426USD
- 2026-11-20: 553.9495579174804USD
- 2026-11-21: NO DATA
- 2026-11-22: 271.090709755249USD
- 2026-11-23: 382.55549189453126USD
- 2026-11-24: 234.59285063964845USD
- 2026-11-25: NO DATA
- 2026-11-26: NO DATA
- 2026-11-27: 431.9503064477539USD
- 2026-11-28: 553.9374596044922USD
- 2026-11-29: NO DATA
- 2026-11-30: 399.1736525927734USD
- 2026-12-01: 394.1785188977051USD
- 2026-12-02: 256.5486400714111USD
- 2026-12-03: 432.8452740246582USD
- 2026-12-04: 386.1355330822754USD
- 2026-12-05: 327.80276513671873USD
- 2026-12-06: 234.21394104614257USD
Popular amenities
24-Hour Reception
Babysitting / Child Services
Concierge
Multilingual Staff
WiFi
Designated Smoking Area
Services
Concierge
24-Hour Reception
Babysitting / Child Services
Multilingual Staff
Designated Smoking Area
General
Wheelchair Accessible (Limited)
Internet
WiFi