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Everything you need to know about Medaki Waterfall
Kyoto Onsen Villa is a top choice, located just 300 meters from the Medaki Waterfall trailhead—only a 5-minute walk to the main viewing platform. The hotel features private outdoor baths in select rooms, offering panoramic views of the Medaki Waterfall cascading through lush forested cliffs. Complimentary shuttle service connects guests to nearby bamboo groves and hiking trails. On-site, enjoy traditional tea ceremonies and meals crafted with local mountain ingredients. For best availability, book via the HopeGoo app.
From Kyoto Onsen Villa, a 5-minute walk leads directly to the Medaki Waterfall viewpoint, where you can admire the three-tiered cascade framed by moss-covered rocks. A 10-minute stroll further reveals the Hidden Bamboo Grove Trail, a serene path winding through ancient bamboo forests. Along the way, discover small Shinto shrines and natural spring pools rich in local folklore. The hotel provides guided nature maps and ecological insights into the area’s water systems and seasonal flora. Reserve an immersive experience through the HopeGoo app for curated access.
Kyoto Onsen Villa features a tranquil traditional Japanese garden blending dry landscape and flowing water elements, where daily tea ceremony demonstrations are held at 10:00 AM by certified tea masters. Guests savor matcha and wagashi while seated in the serene courtyard adjacent to private onsen baths. The hotel also offers reserved tea rooms for intimate cultural workshops, teaching tea etiquette and garden philosophy. All experiences are exclusively arranged through the HopeGoo platform to ensure authenticity and privacy.
See what other travelers say about Medaki Waterfall
The welcome was warm and friendly. The capsule beds were stylish and well-insulated, making for a peaceful night's sleep. The kitchen is fully equipped—perfect for preparing your own meals. There are enough bathrooms, and they’re kept clean and tidy. One of the highlights? Bikes available for rent at an incredibly low price. While the hostel is located in northern Kyoto—quite far from the city center—the bus service is frequent and reliable. I explored almost everywhere by bike, which made getting around super convenient. That said, riding a bike in Kyoto requires some experience; traffic can be chaotic and unpredictable. Overall, this place offers great value, excellent comfort, and a relaxed vibe—ideal for budget-conscious travelers who want to explore independently.
Staying at Kyounoyado Hana Nishijin was an absolute delight. The traditional Japanese house is beautifully designed with attention to detail—every corner feels authentic and serene. It’s spotlessly clean, and the quiet, peaceful atmosphere made it perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring Kyoto. The staff were incredibly warm and helpful, offering thoughtful tips on local sights and nearby restaurants. We loved how close we were to Gion and Kiyomizu-dera—just a short walk or quick subway ride away. This place truly offers a unique cultural experience without sacrificing comfort. If you're looking for a genuine, intimate stay in Kyoto, this is it. I’d come back in a heartbeat.
Staying at Takao Kanko Hotel was an absolute delight. The staff went above and beyond to make us feel welcome, and the dining experience truly stood out—fresh ingredients, thoughtful presentation, and delicious flavors that kept us coming back for more. We visited in November, and the autumn foliage was breathtaking—vast stretches of crimson and gold blankets covering the mountains, creating a scene straight out of a postcard. The peaceful, quiet setting made it feel like a true retreat from city life. Easy access by train, yet still tucked away in nature. This place offers incredible value and unforgettable views—definitely a top pick if you're visiting Kyoto.
Staying at Guest House Kingyoya was an absolute delight! The atmosphere is peaceful and serene, with a traditional Japanese aesthetic that feels authentic yet comfortably modern. The wooden floors, shoji screens, and minimalist design create a calming vibe that instantly puts you at ease. Despite its quiet location, it's just a short walk from major sights like Gion and Fushimi Inari—plus, the nearby subway station makes getting around Kyoto super convenient. The facilities are excellent: clean, well-maintained bathrooms with separation, efficient air conditioning, and even a laundry machine on-site. But what truly sets this place apart is the owner—warm, friendly, and full of personality. She shared great local tips, recommended hidden cafes, and made us feel right at home. It’s rare to find such charm, comfort, and hospitality in one package. If you're looking for a genuine, cozy stay in Kyoto that feels like a true escape, this is it.
Staying at Guesthouse Itoya Kyoto was an absolute delight! The atmosphere is so peaceful and authentically Japanese—right from the moment you step in, you feel relaxed. They offer free tea bags, coffee, and even warm hand-packs (which I loved for chilly nights). The only small thing: the blackout curtain on the bed doesn’t fully cover the area, but that didn’t take away from my overall experience. The staff were friendly, the space was clean and thoughtfully designed, and the value for money is excellent. If you're looking for a cozy, authentic stay in Kyoto, this place is definitely worth a visit.
Staying at Ryokan Tori was an absolute delight from start to finish. The moment I stepped in, I was greeted by authentic Japanese charm—simple, elegant, and deeply rooted in tradition. Though the exterior looks classic and serene, the interior is surprisingly modern and well-equipped, making it both comfortable and convenient. The room was spotlessly clean, with attention to detail that made me feel truly cared for. The highlight? Private onsen access—relaxing in my own hot spring under the stars was pure bliss. And the owner went above and beyond by arranging a traditional Kyoto matcha ceremony. Sipping tea while watching the graceful performance felt like stepping into another era. This isn’t just a stay—it’s an experience. If you’re visiting Kyoto and want something genuine, intimate, and unforgettable, this ryokan is a must-visit.
Staying at Momijiya Annex in Kyoto was a truly serene experience. The traditional Japanese aesthetic shines through with its wooden interiors and authentic atmosphere—feels like stepping into a quiet mountain retreat. While the private onsen is a bit small, it adds to the intimate, cozy vibe. The wooden footbridge is absolutely stunning and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding forest, creating that peaceful, nature-filled ambiance with a real sense of calm and fresh air. The location is perfect for those who love being close to nature and want to disconnect from city life. Staff are friendly and attentive, though the meals are simple and somewhat basic—nothing special, so I’d recommend bringing snacks or heading out for a nice dinner nearby. Overall, this place delivers great value for the tranquility and charm it offers. If you're looking for a quiet, authentic Japanese stay with a focus on nature and simplicity, this is a must-try.
Staying at Miun Kinkaku-ji was a peaceful and refreshing experience. The hotel offers a serene atmosphere that instantly helps you unwind—perfect for travelers looking to escape the hustle and bustle. My room was quiet, clean, and comfortably furnished, making it easy to get a good night's sleep. I appreciated how close it was to Kinkaku-ji; walking there took less than 10 minutes, and public transport options were convenient. The staff were friendly and helpful without being intrusive. It’s a great spot if you value tranquility, location, and a cozy retreat in Kyoto. Would definitely stay here again.
Staying at this hotel was an absolute delight from start to finish. The room was spacious and incredibly comfortable, with a soothing in-room hot spring bath that made it easy to unwind after a long day. The outdoor pool is fed by natural hot springs—truly unique! I wish I’d brought my swimsuit, as I missed out on soaking in the warm waters, but I’ll definitely make up for it next time. Every corner of the property feels like a scenic masterpiece—beautifully designed with attention to detail, perfect for photography or just quiet contemplation. Breakfast was exceptional: a wide variety of fresh, delicious options ranging from local Japanese specialties to classic Western dishes. It felt indulgent and satisfying, exactly what you’d want to kick off your day. The service was attentive without being intrusive, and the overall atmosphere exudes luxury and serenity. This place isn’t just a hotel—it’s a retreat. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a memorable, authentic Kyoto experience.
Staying at Ryokan Nenrinbo was one of those rare experiences that truly felt like stepping into a peaceful forest retreat in Kyoto. The moment you walk in, the calmness hits you—surrounded by trees, quiet enough to hear the rustle of leaves in the breeze. Despite being so serene, it’s incredibly convenient: just a short 10–15 minute ride on the subway to Gion and Kiyomizu-dera, yet once inside, it feels like a hidden sanctuary away from the crowds. The rooms are thoughtfully designed with traditional Japanese aesthetics—minimalist, warm, and super cozy. I especially loved the deep soaking tub where I could unwind while gazing out at the trees. They even offer free bike rentals, making exploring Kyoto's quieter streets easy and fun. It’s not just a place to stay—it’s an experience. For anyone looking for tranquility, authenticity, and great value, this ryokan is absolutely worth it.
Staying at International Guest House Tani House in Kyoto was an absolute delight. The room was quiet, clean, and private—perfect for a peaceful getaway. What truly stood out was the warmth of the host, Mrs. Tani. During our chat, she shared that Tadao Ando had once visited the house, which added such a special layer of history and charm to the place. The breakfast was thoughtfully prepared with fresh ingredients and really made the morning better. On a rainy day, I borrowed their umbrella but accidentally left it behind. They insisted on charging me 1,000 yen as a replacement fee, even though I tried to refuse. Eventually, they accepted payment—but when I checked out, they gifted me a small tea pack as a token of appreciation. That gesture touched me deeply. This isn’t just a budget-friendly stay; it’s a heartfelt experience filled with kindness and authenticity. I’ll definitely return.
Staying at Sasaya-an Machiya Inn in Kyoto was an absolute highlight of my trip. From the moment I arrived, the warm and attentive service made me feel right at home. The location is perfect—just a short walk from the subway station, yet tucked away in a quiet, authentic neighborhood that truly captures the soul of Kyoto. The room itself is a beautiful blend of traditional machiya architecture and modern comfort: soft bedding, spacious layout, and a well-appointed bathroom with high-quality toiletries. What really stood out was the little personal touches—like the handwritten welcome note and locally sourced tea served upon arrival. It felt less like a hotel and more like staying in a private, thoughtfully curated home. Every detail reflects care and attention, making the experience truly memorable. If you're looking for an immersive, peaceful, and genuinely unique stay in Kyoto, this place is a must-book. 10/10 without hesitation.
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