This is a great little hotel run by a family that provides superb service. We wanted to book a room with a private bathroom but they were all reserved. However, I was pleasantly surprised by the public baths. They were very clean and you can use them privately. I definitely recommend this cultural hotel experience to all. more

We stayed a total of 8 nights at Sawanoya Ryokan on a 3 week trip around Japan in November 2009 and had a wonderful time. The rooms are average in size but very clean and comfortable with air con/heating and tea sets all supplied. All have wash basins and one is ensuite, we stayed in both types but the general... more

Sawanoya was the very last place we stayed in on our trip and we were satisfied with our choice, which was made based on the excellent tripadvisor feedback. The inn is lovely, the room was spotless and had everything we needed and the small communal, traditional Japanese bathhouse which is offered to all guests, and allows for private bathing (nice... more

I stayed with my teenage daughter at Ryokan Sawanoya for 2 weeks. Such a safe, quaint friendly neighborhood. The in-keeper, Mr. Sawanoya is super nice and most helpful on giving you valuable tips on travelling in Tokyo. His wife, Mrs. Sawanoya is more business-like and she will try to help you too. A very nice family run inn. I miss... more

Stayed at Ryokan Sawanoya for two nights before our tour of Japan. What a tremendous experience. The hosts were so gracious, friendly and the ryokan was so very clean. We loved it and wouldn't hesitate staying there again. Neighborhood is quiet away from hustle and bustle of busy night life but close enough to subway to get to busy spots.... more

We spent, in total, about 5 nights at the Sawanoya. It is excellent value. The proprietor, Sawa-san, and his family are wonderful - extremely helpful and pleasant to deal with. They always knew the best way to get to wherever you wanted to go. The room was clean and spacious. There is free (wired) Internet available in the rooms and... more

Traveled with my wife, son 12 and daughter 9 and their grandmother (who is Japanese). The family that owns and runs Sawanoya are dedicated to showing foreign visitors what staying at a Japanese Inn is like in a way that is personal, informative and unintimidating. WE met families from Australia, the US and France the three nights we stayed here.... more

Sawanoya is such an incredible place. The stars are aligned for Sawanoya - it is in the most beautiful neighborhood, close to the metro, inexpensive, completely authentic and the staff is super sweet. The best thing about this place is bar far the traditional japanese ofaru (baths.) We had to leave on our third day and stay in Katsutaro Ryokan... more

Stayed here for 3 nights in a single room with Japanese-style bed. The room had it's own sink but toilet and shower/bath were shared with other guests. The Japanese-style bath was rather popular when I was there so had to wait my turn! Room was very clean, staff incredibly helpful and friendly, and I enjoyed the scrambled eggs for breakfast.... more