Shiraume

Shiraume, located at 78-6 Sueyoshicho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0085, Japan, offers a charming and serene escape in the heart of one of Kyoto's most iconic districts. This traditional inn, built in an Edo-period tea house style, is accessible via a picturesque bridge over the Shirakawa Stream. Guests will immediately feel the tranquil atmosphere created by the surrounding gardens, which are adorned with beautiful plum and cherry trees, enhancing the hotel’s peaceful ambiance. Just a 7-minute walk from Kawaramachi train station and 9 minutes from the historic Yasaka Shrine, the hotel is perfectly situated for exploring Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage. The area is well-known for its traditional geisha district, where visitors can experience fine Japanese cuisine, upscale boutiques, and seasonal festivals at the Yasaka Shrine. The design of Shiraume retains much of the charm and elegance of its historical roots, featuring traditional Japanese interiors with tatami mats, chabudai dining tables, and garden or stream views. The hotel’s blend of old-world charm with modern comforts makes it an ideal retreat for both relaxation and cultural immersion.
Shiraume offers a variety of traditionally decorated rooms, each providing an authentic Japanese experience. The rooms feature modern amenities including TVs, minifridges, and tea and coffeemakers, all designed to enhance your stay. Every room is equipped with living areas, heated floors for added comfort, and a bathroom with a traditional wooden soaking tub. The serene environment of the rooms is complemented by views of the hotel's beautiful gardens or the tranquil Shirakawa Stream.
One of the standout features of Shiraume is the complimentary breakfast and dinner offered to all guests, ensuring that you start and end your day with delicious, authentic meals. Guests often rave about the quality of the food, with many mentioning the exquisite Kaiseki meals served at the on-site restaurant. For those seeking a peaceful moment to unwind, the hotel's bar provides a serene setting to relax, while the library offers a guest computer and CD/DVD rentals.
The hotel’s bathhouse features a traditional soaking tub with massage jets, perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing. Shiraume also provides free Wi-Fi throughout the property, ensuring guests stay connected during their stay.
Transportation is easily accessible from Shiraume, with the Gion-Shijo Station just a 5-minute walk away, making it convenient for guests to explore the rest of Kyoto. The nearest major train station, Kyoto Station, is just 15 minutes by taxi, offering quick access to other parts of Kyoto and beyond. For those arriving from out of town, the hotel is well-connected to major airports, with Osaka International Airport (Itami) about an hour away by taxi, and Kyoto Station only 43 minutes by walking.
Shiraume takes health and safety seriously, ensuring that all necessary precautions are in place to provide a safe environment for guests. The hotel follows strict hygiene protocols and has measures in place to ensure both staff and guest safety throughout the premises.
There is no shortage of things to do while staying at Shiraume. Guests can visit nearby attractions such as the Kiyomizu-dera, a renowned Buddhist temple offering stunning views, or the Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its thousands of red torii gates. For a more immersive cultural experience, visitors can explore Nishiki Market, a 400-year-old market filled with authentic Japanese food vendors. The hotel is also conveniently located near Nijō Castle, the residence of the Tokugawa shoguns, and the tranquil Kinkaku-ji temple, known for its stunning golden pavilion.
Beyond sightseeing, Kyoto offers an array of experiences, including traditional tea ceremonies, calligraphy lessons, and the chance to dress in a kimono while exploring the city’s historical sites. Shiraume is the perfect place to rest and rejuvenate after a day of cultural exploration.
The area surrounding the hotel is also home to a number of excellent dining options. Guests can enjoy a variety of cuisines within walking distance, including うつりぎ食堂, an Italian restaurant just a minute away by taxi, and Kalmia, a Western restaurant located a short 4-minute ride from the hotel. For a more upscale experience, Restaurant Muni, a French restaurant, is only 8 minutes by taxi. Nettai Shokudo, offering Pan-Asian cuisine, and Restaurant MAEKAWA, serving French delicacies, are also within close proximity, providing guests with a variety of dining choices to suit any palate.
In conclusion, Shiraume offers a unique blend of traditional Japanese aesthetics and modern amenities, creating a memorable experience for all who visit. Whether you are in Kyoto for the culture, the cuisine, or simply to relax, Shiraume invites you to experience the tranquility and charm of this beautiful city.