A hidden spot in Tokyo’s 谷中(やなか) where you can experience Japan’s traditional culture and the warmth of family
【旅館 澤の屋】
Located in 谷中(やなか), close to Ueno Park in Taito City, Tokyo, “旅館 澤の屋” has, since its founding in 1949, welcomed travelers from around the world with the warm hospitality unique to a family-run inn. In this area, where the nostalgic scenery of “下町(したまち)” still lives on, you can forget the bustle of the city and find peace. To date, more than 190,000 international visitors from over 90 countries have visited, and it continues to be loved as an inn where you can experience traditional Japanese living.
Top 3 highlights
1. Warm hospitality unique to a family-run inn
The greatest appeal of Sawanoya is the homelike service provided by the Sawa family. Sightseeing guidance in English is also well prepared, so even first-time visitors to Japan can stay with peace of mind. The warm, homey atmosphere that makes you feel as if you’ve returned to another “home” has created many repeat guests.
2. Traditional Japanese spaces and private hinoki and ceramic baths
All rooms are traditional Japanese style with tatami and futons. Inside, there are two private baths — a hinoki bath and a ceramic bath — where you can soak leisurely while gazing at the garden. You can lock the door and enjoy private time, allowing you to fully soothe your travel fatigue.
3. Diverse events and a location to experience old-town culture
Live performances of the traditional Japanese art “Shishimai” are held irregularly inside the inn, and if you’re lucky, you can even take a photo with the lion. Nearby, famous spots such as Nezu Shrine and Ueno Park are scattered around, making it an ideal base for strolling the “Yanesen” area lined with historic temples and old-fashioned shopping streets.
Facility information
| Name | 旅館 澤の屋 |
| Address | 〒110-0001 Tokyo, Taito City, Yanaka 2-3-11 |
| Access | 7 minutes on foot from Nezu Station on the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line |
| Hours / Closed |
Check-in: 15:00 Check-out: 10:00 |
| Rates |
1 person: ¥8,910~ 2 people: ¥16,280~ (no bathroom) 3 people: ¥23,100~ (no bathroom) ※ Tax included |
| Supported languages |
Japanese English |
| Facility information | Wi‑Fi hotspot / Power outlets available / WC / Restaurant information / Souvenir sales/ Baggage storage or delivery |
| Official website | http://sawanoya.com/ |
Other recommended information
At Sawanoya Ryokan, various initiatives are in place throughout the property to help guests gain a deeper understanding of Japanese culture.
🔸The on-site information corner offers a wide selection of maps and guidebooks for the Yanaka and Ueno areas.
🔸In the dining room, free coffee and tea are available (barley tea in summer), and it also serves as a place to interact with travelers from other countries.
🔸They promote being "Vegetarian‑friendly" and are considerate of diverse food cultures.
🔸Plush toy & doll friendly
🔸LGBTQ‑friendly
🔸Muslim‑friendly
🔸Fully equipped with Wi‑Fi, coin laundry (free powdered detergent), and iron rentals, among other amenities convenient for long stays.
References
- Official website of Sawanoya Ryokan:http://sawanoya.com/
BASIC INFORMATION
| Name |
旅館 澤の屋 (リョカン・サワノヤ) |
|---|---|
| Phone | 03-3822-2251 |
| Address | 2-3-11 Yanaka, Taito-ku, Tokyo Access |
| Official URL | http://www.sawanoya.com/ |
| Official Social Media |
FACILITY INFORMATION
- Equipment
-
Free Wi-Fi -
Toilet
- Other
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Near the station -
Recommended for families -
Recommended for couples -
Rain or shine -
Washing machine