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The Kyoto ryokan network that welcomes same-sex couples properly

Not every Kyoto ryokan is set up for two women (or two men) sharing one futon. Here are the six that have registered us as a couple with the same easy protocol as everyone else — verified by us in 2024 and 2025.

Kyoto, Japan 5 days 12 min read

The story

Sofía covers a five-day Kyoto trip focused on the ryokan (traditional inn) network that welcomes same-sex couples properly. She names six properties by name (with 2024 + 2025 confirmed same-sex check-in), explains what "properly" means in ryokan context (the front-desk protocol, futon configuration, the onsen etiquette when you're a same-sex couple), and includes the two properties she rules out and why. She and Ana bathed in the private onsen together, ate kaiseki together, and were treated like any honeymooning couple — this is the point.

Take the trip

Fly Osaka (KIX), 60min train to Kyoto. Book Tawaraya or Hiiragiya 6+ months ahead.