Tawaraya ryokan, Kyoto

The Tawaraya ryokan is Kyoto's oldest traditional inn, set in peaceful, serene surroundings. Each room is appointed with ikebana flower arrangements, antique chests and scrolls, beautiful paper lanterns, and lacquered kotatsu tables. End a busy day of sightseeing with tea, followed by an elaborate kaiseki dinner and perhaps a visit to the inn's library through the unforgettable dwarf-sized door.