Shikokuan Machiya Residence Inn, for tradition near the Kamo River

Shikokuan has all the intimacy of a typical Kyoto guesthouse, set in a historic machiya home constructed from wood and crowned with a small balcony. But alongside the atmosphere, enhanced by soft lighting, sliding doors and deep cypress wood baths, there are touches to suit Western travellers, including raised beds, rather than traditional floor-level ones. You’re just off the Kamo River and only a 20-minute walk from landmark Kiyomizu temple, meaning it’s easy to explore all Kyoto has to offer.