We loved everything but small things that maybe could be added to improve future stays: A phone number for WhatsApp just so we could communicate with the hosts easier Snacks (pot noodles etc) in the communal area to purchase in case we arrive late Dressing gowns

A safe haven for people who don't eat meat, fish, or dairy, or just anyone looking for something different. The hosts were friendly and we really enjoyed the breakfasts and the facilities. We used Kyoto as a base to explore surrounding areas, and the breakfasts set us up for the day. When we returned it was so nice to have the use of a washing machine after walking so many steps every day. The communal area is very well equipped too with coffee, water, beer etc but could do with some big bottles of water in the fridge to take to your room. The cats were a bonus. We loved our stay! Look no further

Stayed in June 2024

Nothing that the accommodation could’ve changed, however just a note that the location isn’t walkable with a big suit case from the train station. I live in the country at home, thus, don’t have uber, but if you are staying here, setting up uber before you reach Japan is a good idea.

Had a very comfortable stay with Helen and Craig. The breakfast Craig cooks in the morning is restaurant quality, and is fantastic both for being vegan, which I found to be few and far between in Japan, and also because Japan doesn’t really get moving til 10am, so often it was hard to find some where open.

Stayed in June 2024

For some reason we would both wake up with a bit of a scratchy throat each morning - not sure if it was the cats for me (I’m allergic, so it’s my fault for not doing more research and knowing there were cats on the premises), but he thought it could’ve been the Tatami or dust in the room. Not a big deal either way, we had such a great time.

The breakfast was stellar every morning. My friend that I was traveling with is vegan (I am not), and he absolutely loved it - in a place where vegan options are challenging to come by, this was an oasis for him. Helen and Craig are so accommodating and friendly, so we had a great time!

Stayed in May 2024

the only thing we didn't like is that we didn't stay at this ryokan for our entire stay in kyoto....we wish we could have extended our stay but the ryokan was booked up! don't be like us...just stay here forever.

the owners, helen & craig, were extremely kind and welcoming - really enjoyed chatting with them during our stay! we loved how quiet the area was! we slept with our balcony door open and it was the most peaceful sleep we could have gotten. the beds were so comfortable, the breakfasts were so delicious and filling. it felt so nice to know we could eat anything that was prepared for us and we wouldn't have to worry about there being any sneaky fish/bonito ingredients!

Stayed in May 2024

Had the most amazing experience staying here and I can’t wait to come back! Helen and Craig are absolutely lovely and the most friendly and welcoming hosts, giving great recommendations for food and activities. This is the 3rd ryokan I’ve stayed in on my trip and by far the nicest and most comfortable, especially the futon beds - the memory foam pillow was very much appreciated! The place itself is clean, tidy, well equipped and well located with several attractions within walking distance and a well served bus stop 10 mins walk away. The communal social area is a great asset and a lovely space for breakfast, which itself deserves a special mention. Craig is an incredible cook and the effort he puts into both presentation and flavour is incredible, by far the best breakfast food I had in 4 weeks in Japan. Accommodation wise this was the highlight of my trip, thank you so much for being the best hosts!

Stayed in April 2024

The breakfast was excellent, the room was a traditional Japanese decor and very comfortable. Craig and Helen were amazing hosts. Craig was kind enough to help with dinner reservations which was a big plus.

Stayed in May 2024

beautiful place, delicious food and great host!

Stayed in May 2024

Nothing

Everything

Stayed in May 2024

Very clean and comfortable retreat from a surprisingly hectic city. Helen and Craig have built such a nice place with traditional touches and convenience in mind. Bit of a walk in from the main road but happy to experience a residential neighbourhood. Makes all the difference starting the day with restaurant quality Japanese breakfast, and good company from the owners as well as the few other guests. I’d happily stay again if I’m ever back in Kyoto.

Stayed in May 2024

Beautiful property. Spotless. Yummy vegan traditional Japanese breakfast every morning. Craig and Helen were really great hosts, ensuring high quality stay!

Stayed in May 2024

I enjoyed my stay at the Vegan Minshuku Sanbiki Neko. Hosts: Helen and Craig were very good hosts. Attentive and helpful. You can easily tell that they respect and admire Kyoto as well as the vegan lifestyle. Facilities: The room was aesthetically pleasing, spacious and the bed very comfortable. In general, the Minshuku was very clean and in excellent condition. Breakfast: Craig is a great cook. Location: Quiet area, safe and a short walk to main activities and/or transportation. I would stay again if I'm in the area. Highly recommended.

Stayed in May 2024

Scenery

Stayed in May 2024

Nothing loved everything!

The breakfast was incredible, and the rooms have a modern Japanese style that feels cosy, futons were really comfy and we really appreciated having a small balcony in the room too. Staying here was like a little home away from home, and we loved meeting all the cats 🐈 They also have great restaurant recommendations if you’re looking for vegan/veggy options in the city. Craig and Helene are just the nicest people, we would 100% stay here again!

Stayed in April 2024

It's a bit of a walk getting to/from public transportation. Not a big issue for me as I was expecting to walk a lot while there, but something to be aware of.

Both hosts were very friendly and had many great recommendations for sightseeing as well as options for vegan food all over Kyoto. Every breakfast I had while there was delicious, and the room was beautifully decorated, clean, and comfortable. If I go to Kyoto in the future, I'd definitely stay here again.

Stayed in March 2024

Craig and Helen were lovely hosts and keen to help get us settled into Kyoto. They were full of advise and tips on where to visit and eat around town and this was very helpful particularly looking for restaurant that served vegan food. The breakfast they prepared each day was amazing and varied each day. The rooms were spotless and very comfortable each with an ensuite which was not something we'd experience before in a traditional Japanese room.

Stayed in April 2024

It’s located in a residential area that’s not super close to main attractions. But it wasn’t a big deal, as the weather was great and I enjoyed the walks to/from points of interest.

Tasty and healthy breakfast, friendly owners, possibility to do laundry, and a very nice/clean room!

Stayed in April 2024

N/A

Clean, modern rooms built to purpose by the owners!

Stayed in April 2024

Loved it all!

I can not emphasise enough how great this place and the owners Craig and Helen are. The inn is beautifully decorated in a traditional style, and everywhere is exceptionally clean! The hosts are very personable, friendly, and a great laugh, with great local knowledge and recommendations for places to visit and places to eat. They kindly let us use the washing machine and store our luggage all day on our final day in Kyoto. There has to be a special shout-out for the breakfasts because they were incredible, and the wheat dumplings were a strong favourite of ours. 100% recommend whether vegan, veggie or not.

Stayed in April 2024

The property is up a hill and a bit removed from the main location. However, I felt very safe traveling alone (at night and in the day time) and was quickly able get a hang of the route.

Clean, comfortable, and exceptional service

Stayed in January 2024

Very nice, clean room and spacious bath tub, which is nice to have after exploring Kyoto all day. The owners are friendly and prepare a delicious and filling breakfast, during which you may be greeted by the cats that also live there.

Stayed in January 2024

Nothing bad to say

Everything! My spacious beautiful room, the breakfast area, the quietness of the neighborhood.

Stayed in January 2024

The vibe was excellent, we were looking for a Ryokan experience and this did not disappoint. The vegan breakfasts were amazing and dietary needs were discussed and respected by Craig and Helen. The location is excellent being slightly away from the hustle and bustle of the major tourist attractions but close enough to walk or taxi. Craig was super helpful with our luggage transfers to and from Tokyo (best way to travel on a Shinkansen is without big luggage) and he and Helen provided a lot of helpful advice in finding local activities and meals. Highly recommend!!!

Stayed in January 2024

Nothing to add here

Nutritious and sumptuous breakfasts, warm hospitality and great rooms

Stayed in December 2023

In a non-commercialized pretty residential area

Stayed in January 2024