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The 10 Best Design Hotels in Kyoto, Japan

Check out our pick of great boutique hotels in Kyoto

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Superb: 9+ Very good: 8+ Good: 7+ Pleasant: 6+
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Opened in April 2013 with brand new facilities, Piece Hostel Kyoto is conveniently located just a 5-minute walk from JR Kyoto Station. It features a spacious and comfortable lounge, a tatami (woven-straw) terrace and a wall-size map with latest event information around Kyoto. Free WiFi is provided throughout the property, while portable WiFi devices are available for guests to use during their stay for an additional fee.

Modern hotel/hostel less than 5 minutes walk from Kyoto Station offering everything you need for your stay. Impeccably clean with lots of common areas to enjoy. There was a bar that served several different types of high quality Saki at a discount price. There was a large eating area and kitchen including free tea and the ability to make both instant and pour over coffee There was a cooking demonstration night and a movie night. It's located steps from tons of restaurants, shopping and the largest travel hub in the city. You couldn't posibly be in a better location to explore Kyoto. I stayed in a dorm and the room was large, with big pod style beds with spotlessly clean sheets. Towels, slippers and ear plugs were provided as well as a large selection of books (in Japanesse). It was very comfortable and I slept well. The staff were helpful and professional and were quick to assist you at anytime. My new favorite spot in Kyoto. Highly Recommended.

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9.2
Superb
1,417 reviews
Price from
£19
per night

Ideally located just a 10-minute walk from the iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Guesthouse Soi offers various rooms including private Japanese-style rooms and dormitory rooms. Both Kiyomizu Gojo and Shichijo stations for the Keihan Main Line are situated within a 10-minute walk. Free WiFi is available throughout the property.

Very cozy place where you feel like home. Helpful staff and our room was big and clean. Very close to the traditional street sannenzaka and ninenzaka.

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9.6
Exceptional
618 reviews
Price from
£21
per night

Boasting luxurious guest rooms with each unique design, The Screen is a boutique hotel located just a 3-minute walk to Kyoto Imperial Palace. Jingu Marutabashi Train Station is a 7-minute walk away. Free WiFi is provided in the rooms.

This hotel was fantastic. There was a review that said this place was in the middle of nowhere “with nothing around it”. This hotel is literally across the street from the Kyoto Imperial Palace and Gardens, and surrounded by streets of bakeries and restaurants. It only took us about 15 minutes to get to the Gion district. The staff at this hotel were extremely helpful and sweet, and the room was beautiful and huge.

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9
Superb
206 reviews
Price from
£153
per night

Ideally located just a 2-minute walk from lively Nishiki Market and Ponto-cho Street, Matsui Honkan boasts large public baths and chic Japanese-style rooms. It is within a 10-minute walk from Shijo, Karasuma and Kawaramachi subway stations. Free Wi-Fi is provided at the public area.

The best hotel experience both of us has ever had. The room was huge and the futon beds were very comfortable, the staff were incredibly helpful and kind. We will definitely return here in our next trip to Kyoto.

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9.3
Superb
204 reviews
Price from
£276
per night

* Reservations are usually accepted up to four months in advance. Only a 5-minute walk from Shiyakusho-Mae Subway Station, Nishiyama Ryokan - 1953年創業 features Japanese-style rooms, a garden and rental bicycles. This non-smoking hotel provides in-room massages service can be arranged. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the premises.

the service was good! and everything was clean and spotless!

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9.2
Superb
167 reviews
Price from
£480
per night

Ryokan Kyoraku is centrally located just a 7-minute walk from JR Kyoto Station's north exit. It's a 3-minute walk from Higashi Hongan-ji temple. Free Wi-Fi is available in all rooms.

All rooms have air conditioning and an LCD TV, while some are fitted with an attached bathroom.

Excellent! Friendly and helpful staff, cozy and comfortable room, close to Kyoto station!

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9.3
Superb
574 reviews
Price from
£56
per night

Towa Ryokan is a ryokan located just a 10-minute walk from JR Kyoto Station.

A welcome drink of green tea will be prepared upon arrival.

It also offers a spacious basement bath for guests to refresh and free Wi-Fi throughout the property.

We stayed at a Japanese-style townhouse, so we had the whole place to ourselves; hence, it was very quiet and comfortable. The beds were very comfortable, everything was clean, the heating worked well, and the private bath was amazing. The staff were very friendly and accommodating; they welcomed us with matcha tea and snacks, and they did their best to arrange a gluten-free breakfast for me, which was very considerate. The place is a 10-minute walk from Kyoto station, and grocery stores are within walking distance.

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9
Superb
227 reviews
Price from
£118
per night

A 7-minute walk from Kyoto Station, the completely non-smoking Ohanabo provides traditional Japanese-style accommodation with “Kaiseki” multi-course in-room dinners, massages and a hot public bath. Some rooms have an en suite bathroom, and the lobby has free Wi-Fi.

Staff goes above and beyond to make you feel welcome and comfortable- really makes you feel like family. Food was also AMAZING.

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9.6
Exceptional
281 reviews
Price from
£167
per night

Located in the beautiful Gion area and just a 15-minute walk from Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Kyoto Ryokan Gion Sano is a 4-storey reinforced concrete building. It offers traditional Japanese-style rooms with free WiFi. Rooms on the top floor boasts city views of Kyoto and Higashiyama district. Popular Nishiki Market can be reached within a 20-minute walk.

This was a very memorable experience for us. We stayed there for 2 nights in mid November, and it was actually my birthday on the first night. That night we were lucky to see a geisha show at the ryokan, and it was beautiful performance! After the show, were able to pay a game with the geisha and ask questions. It was very unique experience! One of the staff there spoke English and was able to translate the questions to the geisha and answer back in English to the people. Most of the people in the audience were foreigners, so they must get a lot of foreigners, most likely because they are using Booking.com. The ryokan seemed like it's family owed and the owners were very accommodating and friendly. The room itself was very clean and was stocked with snacks and a welcome treat of fresh fruit and tea. There are even more snacks in the hallway for anyone to enjoy. We stayed in the traditional styled Japanese room and the beds were very comfy! I stayed at two ryokans before this one, an this ryokan had the comfiest beds. They also had a laundry service and put our cleaned clothes in our room while we were out! Moreover, they were accommodating in allowing us to park on rented E-bikes in their parking space. Highly recommend this ryokan! You will not be disappointed!

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9.6
Exceptional
252 reviews
Price from
£95
per night

Just 350 metres from JR Kyoto Train Station, Nihonkan offers simple Japanese rooms with tatami (woven-straw) floors and traditional futon bedding. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property.

The air-conditioned rooms at Nihonkan Ryokan include a TV. Guests can choose a room with a private bathroom and attached toilet, or stay in a room with shared bathrooms and toilets. All rooms are non-smoking.

Authentic Japanese ryokan right next to the main station

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9
Superb
217 reviews
Price from
£23
per night

Looking for a boutique hotel?

These hotels offer something a little different in the way of design and usually sit in a trendy, urban part of town. More intimate than your average hotel, they offer high standards with a homely vibe.
Search boutique hotels in Kyoto

Most booked boutique hotels in Kyoto this month

Enjoy breakfast in Kyoto!

  • Toshiharu Ryokan
    Breakfast options
    9.6
    Scored 9.6
    Exceptional
    Rated exceptional
     · 241 reviews

    Built in the Meiji era and registered as a cultural asset, Toshiharu Ryokan offers traditional accommodation just a 3-minute walk from Gojo Station and 1 subway stop from JR Kyoto Train Station.

    Beautiful home with fine art touches and Incredible staff.

  • hotel kanra kyoto
    Breakfast options
    9.2
    Scored 9.2
    Superb
    Rated superb
     · 390 reviews

    Just a 12-minute walk from Kyoto Station, hotel kanra kyoto is an entirely non-smoking hotel, offering spacious rooms and a mix of traditional Japanese, modern and Western decor.

    Great location, comfortable,quiet. Good breakfast.

  • The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto
    9.0
    Scored 9.0
    Superb
    Rated superb
     · 44 reviews

    Opened in February 2014, this luxury 5-star hotel boasts high-standard services and guestrooms that are among the most spacious in Kyoto.

  • Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Shinmachi Bettei
    8.8
    Scored 8.8
    Fabulous
    Rated fabulous
     · 1,457 reviews

    Opening in March 2014, Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Shinmachi Bettei offers accommodations with a modern yet traditional décor.

    couldn't have ask for more. we are enjoying our stay

  • Hotel Anteroom Kyoto
    Breakfast options
    8.7
    Scored 8.7
    Fabulous
    Rated fabulous
     · 3,058 reviews

    Minimalist design and art works are featured at Hotel Anteroom Kyoto's rooms, restaurant and art gallery. Seasonally decorated, it offers free WiFi, as well as free-use internet PCs and bicycles.

    Facilities, breakfast, location, price and customer service.

  • Hotel Vista Premio Kyoto Kawaramachi St
    8.6
    Scored 8.6
    Fabulous
    Rated fabulous
     · 1,417 reviews

    Hotel Vista Premio Kyoto Kawaramachi St is a 5-minute walk from Shiyakusho-mae Station and the Kamogawa River. It offers modern accommodation with a restaurant and rooms with free Wifi.

    location", "room", and "breakfast

  • Hotel Monterey Kyoto
    Breakfast options
    8.3
    Scored 8.3
    Very good
    Rated very good
     · 1,538 reviews

    Hotel Monterey Kyoto is 150 metres from Karasumaoike Subway Station and a 15-minute walk from the Imperial Palace.

    The room was great! spacious and very comfortable!

  • Matsubaya Ryokan
    Breakfast options
    8.6
    Scored 8.6
    Fabulous
    Rated fabulous
     · 1,133 reviews

    Just a 5-minute walk to Higashihongan-ji Temple and Gojo Subway Station, Matsubaya Ryokan has provided comfortable rooms to tired travellers since 1884. A cosy Japanese garden is located on site.

    Clean rooms, convenient location and friendly staff.

Save money on boutique in Kyoto – budget options available!

  • Piece Hostel Kyoto
    Budget options available
    9.2
    Scored 9.2
    Superb
    Rated superb
     · 1,416 reviews

    Opened in April 2013 with brand new facilities, Piece Hostel Kyoto is conveniently located just a 5-minute walk from JR Kyoto Station.

    Location to the station. The kitchen was spot on.

  • Kyoto Itoya Hotel
    Budget options available
    8.7
    Scored 8.7
    Fabulous
    Rated fabulous
     · 341 reviews

    Newly opened in February 2013, Kyoto Itoya Hotel is a designer’s hotel with modern accommodations. Free Wi-Fi is available at the entire property.

    Very kind staff. Comfortable room. Great location.

  • Guesthouse Hyakumanben Cross
    Budget options available
    8.6
    Scored 8.6
    Fabulous
    Rated fabulous
     · 229 reviews

    Opened in 2012, Guesthouse Hyakumanben Cross offers affordable non-smoking dormitory-style rooms or private accommodations for guests traveling in Kyoto.

    在京都大学附近,位置很好,坐公交车到百万遍,再走几分钟就到了。同住的女孩都很有素质,基本都是静悄悄的。

  • Nagomi-Ryokan Yuu
    Budget options available
    7.5
    Scored 7.5
    Good
    Rated good
     · 364 reviews

    Offering non-smoking Japanese-style accommodation with futon beds, Nagomi Ryokan Yuu is a 5-minute walk from Gojo Subway Station's exit 8.

    Convenient location, common room and onsen were very nice

  • Hotel Grand Fine Kyoto Okazaki Heian Jingu Shrine
    7.3
    Scored 7.3
    Good
    Rated good
     · 64 reviews

    Designed for adults only and situated in Kyoto City, Hotel Grand Fine Kyoto-Okazaki offers air-conditioned rooms with a flat-screen TV. This hotel has a 24-hour front desk and provides room service.

    Amazing location, incredibly spacious rooms, private onsen with chromotherapy, adult entertainment and much, much more! Love this place! Would like to come back and I will definitely recommend it to my friends.

  • Matsui Honkan
    Budget options available
    9.3
    Scored 9.3
    Superb
    Rated superb
     · 204 reviews

    Ideally located just a 2-minute walk from lively Nishiki Market and Ponto-cho Street, Matsui Honkan boasts large public baths and chic Japanese-style rooms.

    The location was perfect - lovely neighborhood hotel!

  • Matsui-Bekkan Hanakanzashi
    Budget options available
    9.5
    Scored 9.5
    Exceptional
    Rated exceptional
     · 108 reviews

    Featuring spacious public baths and antique items on display at the lobby, Matsui-Bekkan Hanakanzashi offers traditional Japanese-style guestrooms fitted with tatami (woven-straw) flooring.

    The staff was very friendly and the onsen was great.

  • Kyoto Higashiyamaso
    Budget options available
    9.2
    Scored 9.2
    Superb
    Rated superb
     · 266 reviews

    Only a 5-minute walk from Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Kyoto Higashiyama offers Japanese-style accommodations with free wired internet access.

    Amazing Japanese breakfast and outstanding service!

Great access to the city centre! Check these boutique hotels in Kyoto

  • Ohanabo
    Central location
    9.6
    Scored 9.6
    Exceptional
    Rated exceptional
     · 281 reviews

    A 7-minute walk from Kyoto Station, the completely non-smoking Ohanabo provides traditional Japanese-style accommodation with “Kaiseki” multi-course in-room dinners, massages and a hot public bath.

    The friendliness and kindness of the staff is remarkable

  • Ryokan Shimizu
    Central location
    9.4
    Scored 9.4
    Superb
    Rated superb
     · 502 reviews

    About a 7-minute walk from JR Kyoto Train Station and a 3-minute walk to Nishi-Hongan-ji Temple, Ryokan Shimizu is a non-smoking property that provides air-conditioned Japanese rooms with free Wi-Fi...

    Such comfortable beds. Wonderful staff. Delicious breakfast

  • IZUYASU Traditional Kyoto Inn serving Kyoto cuisine
    9.3
    Scored 9.3
    Superb
    Rated superb
     · 215 reviews

    Renovated in November 2013, Ryokan Izuyasu was built in 1839 and features traditional Kyoto charm.

    The best hospitality and company we could've asked for!

  • Yuzuya Ryokan
    Central location
    9.3
    Scored 9.3
    Superb
    Rated superb
     · 72 reviews

    Yuzuya Ryokan is a luxurious 5-star hotel located in the famous Gion of Kyoto, steps from the Yasaka Shrine. It features Japanese-style accommodation with traditional multi-course meals and free WiFi.

    Felt very welcoming and real Japanese experience.

  • Gojo Guest House
    Central location
    9.0
    Scored 9.0
    Superb
    Rated superb
     · 258 reviews

    A 15-minute walk from Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Yasaka Shrine, Guest House Gojo offers simple and cosy Japanese-style dormitory accommodation with free Wi-fi, futon beds and shared bathrooms.

    traditional sleeping arrangement, very friendly staff

  • Citadines Kyoto Karasuma-Gojo
    8.9
    Scored 8.9
    Fabulous
    Rated fabulous
     · 1,863 reviews

    Citadines Kyoto Karasuma-Gojo offers serviced apartments on just a 1-minute walk from Gojo Subway Station.

    Great location. Fantastic staff.. Good sized rooms

  • Hotel Granvia Kyoto
    Central location
    8.8
    Scored 8.8
    Fabulous
    Rated fabulous
     · 3,185 reviews

    Ideally located within Kyoto Station, Hotel Granvia Kyoto boasts an indoor swimming pool, a fitness centre and 9 dining options. The hotel offers spacious rooms with chic décor and modern facilities.

    The location, the lounge, the pool, the staff, the views

  • Kyoto Hot Spring Hatoya Zuihokaku Hotel
    8.8
    Scored 8.8
    Fabulous
    Rated fabulous
     · 648 reviews

    Just a 5-minute walk from Kyoto Train Station’s Karasuma Gate, Hatoya Hotel offers Japanese-style rooms with an LCD TV and a private bath.

    Location - close to Kyoto station Onsen - real onsen

  • HOTEL Clam Chowder
    Central location
    8.7
    Scored 8.7
    Fabulous
    Rated fabulous
     · 39 reviews

    Conveniently located a 5-minute walk from Kyoto-shiyakusho-mae Subway Station, HOTEL Clam Chowder provides chic guest rooms in a historic Japanese townhouse. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout.

    民宿外觀及室內裝潢古色古香,配色讓人感到舒適及溫暖,鄰近錦市場及商店街,距離地鐵走路不到10分鐘,很方便。

  • Chion-in Wajun Kaikan
    8.7
    Scored 8.7
    Fabulous
    Rated fabulous
     · 310 reviews

    Located in the Higashiyama area and directly next to Chion-in Temple grounds, Chion-in Wajun Kaikan offers Japanese and Western-style accommodations.

    夕食、朝食美味しかったです。バイキングかと思っていたら懐石料理でみた感じも器も綺麗で大変満足しました。

  • Kyoto Miyabi Inn
    Central location
    8.7
    Scored 8.7
    Fabulous
    Rated fabulous
     · 28 reviews

    Conveniently located a 3-minute walk from Higashiyama Subway Station, Kyoto Miyabi Inn is a traditional Japanese-style townhouse with modern facilities like free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TV.

    立地 施設等とても良かったです!! バスタブは小さいがシャワーの湯圧はとても強くとても快適でした!!

  • The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Sanjo
    8.6
    Scored 8.6
    Fabulous
    Rated fabulous
     · 984 reviews

    The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Sanjo features stylish modern accommodations with free wired internet access. The hotel offers is a bar and a buffet restaurant with savory dishes.

    The location is perfect. Staffs are nice. Good breakfast

  • Hyatt Regency Kyoto
    Central location
    8.5
    Scored 8.5
    Very good
    Rated very good
     · 483 reviews

    The stylish Hyatt Regency offers spacious rooms, free Wi-Fi at the lobby and 3 restaurants on just a 5-minute drive from Kyoto Station. It features a fitness centre, spa services and rental bicycles.

    Beautiful decor, breakfast, felt welcome, great service

  • Yadoya Nishijinso
    Central location
    8.5
    Scored 8.5
    Very good
    Rated very good
     · 160 reviews

    Located an 8-minute walk from the Imadegawa Subway Station, Yadoya Nishijinso features accommodations with free Wi-Fi. Guests can soak up in the 2 public baths, or relax in the beautiful garden.

    Very good experience, clean and very very good staff

  • Kyoto Ryokan SAKANOUE
    8.4
    Scored 8.4
    Very good
    Rated very good
     · 63 reviews

    Kyoto Ryokan SAKANOUE offers Japanese-style accommodation with tatami (woven-straw) flooring with traditional futon bedding and Japanese Modern Room with Twin and Double bed.

    the staff was very helpful and accomodations clean.

  • Kizashi The Suite 京都祇園
    8.0
    Scored 8.0
    Very good
    Rated very good
     · 21 reviews

    Awarded 4 red pavilions by the Michelin Guide for 2 consecutive years, Kizashi The Suite 京都祇園 offers luxury accommodation right in downtown area Gion.

    房间面积在日本算大的了,出门就是花间小路,周边吃饭很多,附近的几个景点也都可以走到,打车很快很方便。

FAQ about boutique hotels in Kyoto







Boutique hotels that guests love in Kyoto

  • Avg. price/night: £126.53
    9.1
    Scored 9.1
    Superb
    Rated superb
     · 655 reviews
    Lovely, fresh, modern hotel. Clean and well designed bathroom. Central location, made it easy to see the stunning sights of Kyoto. Kind staff. Great breakfast and coffee available at Common Well café in the lobby. Great products available.
    Hayley
    Family with young children
  • Avg. price/night: £178.58
    9.0
    Scored 9.0
    Superb
    Rated superb
     · 206 reviews
    Nice boutique hotel in a great location (right across imperial palace and within short walk of bus and JR stations), sbove average room size (executive suite), room design, cleanliness, breakfast as well as super friendly and helpful staff
    Woodhammer
    Young couple
  • Avg. price/night: £309.96
    9.6
    Scored 9.6
    Exceptional
    Rated exceptional
     · 226 reviews
    Lovely boutique 5 star hotel with cool history, beautiful design, over-the-top amenities, and wonderful staff. Kid friendly. I would come to Kyoto again and stay here :)
    Rina
    Family with young children
  • Avg. price/night: £184.09
    9.2
    Scored 9.2
    Superb
    Rated superb
     · 820 reviews
    Boutique hotel with modern interior design, good quality furniture, spacious family room and good location. The staff service was great.
    Jess
    Family with young children
  • Avg. price/night: £137.76
    9.4
    Scored 9.4
    Superb
    Rated superb
     · 574 reviews
    Best of the 5 hotels we’ve stayed at on our two week trip to Japan. Beautiful boutique hotel. Lovely stylish room with great bathroom and walk in shower. Had king bed as well and more and well designed space in room. Super guest lounge with coffee, juices and snacks and in the evening beer and wine too. Very friendly staff. Quiet location but walking distance to all key points of central city and lots of little local restaurants and bars if you explore.
    Craig
    Young couple
  • Avg. price/night: £435.32
    9.2
    Scored 9.2
    Superb
    Rated superb
     · 1,990 reviews
    This hotel was so stunning. Beautifully appointed, sleek stylish interiors, beautifully crafted breakfast menu. Every little detail was so thought out. The staff were incredibly helpful and spoke wonderful English. The coffee at the coffee shop was some of the best we had in the country The location and facilities around the hotel were amazing, from the tranquil gardens, to the craft beer spot and designer boutiques. We can't wait to come stay again!
    Karl
    Family with young children
  • Avg. price/night: £280.62
    8.8
    Scored 8.8
    Fabulous
    Rated fabulous
     · 211 reviews
    node is a beautiful boutique hotel with clean interior design. It will be a joy for everyone who likes aesthetic things. The hotel bar and restaurant serve impeccable drinks and food. The staff has been nothing but amazing to us and left us with nothing to wish. If we return to Kyoto, we will definitely stay here again.
    Manuel
    Young couple
  • Avg. price/night: £58.14
    8.9
    Scored 8.9
    Fabulous
    Rated fabulous
     · 3,633 reviews
    My second time staying with Piece during my visit to Kyoto. This time round, we tried a different branch. From the moment I arrived, I knew I was in for a treat. The stays truly exceeded my expectations in terms of its location, cleanliness, and stunning interior design. Their common area was stylish and inviting, despite post-covid the place is very well-maintained and the entire property is very tidy. Will definitely visit again if we're visiting Kyoto.
    Yan Ting
    Group
  • Avg. price/night: £119.65
    8.7
    Scored 8.7
    Fabulous
    Rated fabulous
     · 1,721 reviews
    A lovely boutique hotel - well designed with friendly staff and great facilities for guests, including a communal kitchen and lounge. Our Japanese-style standard room was very roomy and stylish - we loved the tatami and the seperate bathroom off the shoji-screened entrance. The Japanese breakfast included in the very reasonable room rate was delicious.
    Leigh
    Family with young children
  • Avg. price/night: £270.42
    8.7
    Scored 8.7
    Fabulous
    Rated fabulous
     · 3,159 reviews
    Lovely mix of old Kyoto and modern design hotel, in a convenient central location, great onsen, stylish and spacious (for Japan) room, and incredibly cheap by international city standards. There's a Gold's Gym round the corner that does one day passes if you want some exercise, and it's a short walk to Teramachi and the river.
    CHRIS
    Solo traveller

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