Tawara-an is located in Goshominami, the formerly prosperous center of the old capital Heiankyo.
Within walking distance from Kyoto Imperial Palace, Kamo River, Shijokarasuma and Shijokawaramachi, Goshominami is one of the most popular residential areas in Kyoto. The inn, Tawara-an, consists of two buildings, East and West. A courtyard is located between the East and West buildings, providing the peaceful scenery that is unique to a Kyo-machiya house. Signs of classical craftsmanship, irreproducible today, can be seen in many parts of the buildings. The unique appearance of the wood in the East Building’s alcove is very valuable. The hall at the end of the West Building has an atrium seven meters higher and was once a craftsmen’s atelier. The open space is similar to an old version of a loft.

Tawara-an uses meticulous care so that its customers can have a comfortable stay.

Its original pajamas and cushions are manufactured by the Kyoto-based company Daitou Shingu Kogyo. The pajamas, made from Kyo-wazarashi cotton gauze using the traditional wazarashi technique, have a soft and fluffy texture and are so comfortable that you will become attached to them. The original cushions are made to conform to a person’s posture while sitting. The beautiful scroll hung in the East Building is a work by Tatsushi Yoshida, the pattern designer of the renowned Kyoto Nishijin textiles. Masterpieces depicting seasonal changes in the ancient capital are exhibited and replaced monthly, gently comforting the eyes of visitors. Both buildings have a Koyamaki bathtub, the top-of-the-line Japanese wooden bathtub.