Kyoto’s Finest Stays: A Curated Selection of Luxury Accommodations

Hotel Mood

The atmosphere within Hotel Granvia Kyoto is a sophisticated blend of contemporary luxury and practical elegance, designed to offer a serene escape amidst urban vibrancy. There is an undeniable sense of convenience that permeates the entire property, making transitions smooth and effortless. While the ambiance leans towards a modern, somewhat grand scale, it maintains a welcoming warmth, largely due to the attentive and helpful nature of the staff. For some, the sheer size might feel a touch impersonal, yet the overall feeling remains one of polished comfort and thoughtful service.

Room Information

Rooms at Hotel Granvia Kyoto provide a spacious and well-appointed retreat, with options ranging from the generous Granvia Deluxe Twin/Double Rooms to the expansive Semi-Suite Twin accommodations. Each space is carefully finished, offering a clean canvas for relaxation, often complemented by stunning views of the city. While the majority of the rooms exude a sense of quality, some guests have noted that the decor might feel a little dated, and carpets could show signs of wear. Additionally, it is worth considering requesting a room closer to the elevators, as some accommodations are situated at a considerable distance.

Hotel Services

The service at Hotel Granvia Kyoto is a true highlight, consistently described as excellent and incredibly helpful. The staff members are noted for their proficiency in English, ensuring seamless communication and a warm welcome for international guests. From efficient laundry service and daily housekeeping to prompt room service, every need is anticipated. The concierge team stands out, dedicated to assisting with local recommendations and transportation arrangements, often going above and beyond to ensure a memorable stay. However, a minor point to consider is that phone communication with the front desk can sometimes present a slight language barrier for complex inquiries.

Hotel Dining

Dining at Hotel Granvia Kyoto presents a delightful array of choices, catering to diverse palates. The breakfast buffet at le Temps is particularly praised, offering an extensive selection of both Western and Japanese dishes, ensuring a satisfying start to the day. Beyond breakfast, the on-site restaurants provide international and local cuisine, promising quality and variety. For those preferring privacy, room service is readily available, allowing for a relaxed dining experience within the comfort of one’s own space. The availability of a halal restaurant further enhances its appeal to a broader range of guests.

Dining Options

Hotel Mood

Stepping into Hotel Okura Kyoto, one is enveloped by an atmosphere of refined luxury and sophisticated calm. The property masterfully blends traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern comforts, creating a serene and elegant ambiance throughout its public spaces. The feeling is one of understated grandeur, where every detail contributes to a sense of tranquility and discernment. While the overall mood is undeniably sophisticated, some guests have found the style to lean more towards a modern American aesthetic, which might subtly alter the authentic Kyoto experience for those seeking a purely traditional Japanese feel, occasionally giving off a slightly ‘stuffy’ impression.

Room Information

The accommodations at Hotel Okura Kyoto offer a variety of generous spaces, from comfortable Double Rooms to expansive Corner Twin Rooms, many featuring splendid views of Kyoto’s cityscape. These rooms provide a comfortable and well-maintained environment, with separate shower rooms and bathtubs adding a touch of luxury. While the overall quality is high, a few rooms might present a slightly dated feel in their decor. Guests have occasionally suggested that additional shelving could enhance convenience, and some prefer refillable toiletries over disposable tubes. A minor consideration is the occasional faint odor from a bathroom drain in some specific rooms.

Hotel Services

Service at Hotel Okura Kyoto is consistently lauded for its exceptional quality, with staff members described as kind, considerate, and notably fluent in English. Their warm hospitality and attentiveness create a welcoming environment, ensuring that guests feel genuinely cared for throughout their stay. The concierge team is particularly helpful, adept at providing recommendations and securing sought-after restaurant reservations. While the service is generally outstanding, a few guests have noted that the concierge service did not always meet their specific expectations, and some found certain staff members to be less outwardly friendly compared to other Japanese establishments.

Hotel Dining

Hotel Okura Kyoto provides a compelling dining experience, beginning with a comprehensive breakfast buffet at the hotel’s coffee shop, featuring a delightful array of pastries, fresh fruits, and a selection of hot and cold dishes. For other meals, an elegant on-site restaurant serves a blend of Japanese and international cuisines, promising quality and diverse flavors. Room service is also a convenient option for guests preferring to dine in privacy. While the breakfast offers good variety, some guests have occasionally found the buffet area to be crowded, or felt that the options, while good, could be more expansive to truly elevate the experience.

Dining Options

Hotel Mood

The atmosphere at The Kyoto Brighton Hotel is one of serene luxury, embracing a blend of traditional Japanese charm with understated modern amenities. A quiet tranquility permeates the property, making it a peaceful sanctuary ideal for discerning adult guests seeking relaxation. The ambiance is sophisticated and calming, fostering a sense of well-being that contributes to a truly memorable stay. This lodging truly possesses an ‘old school charm,’ which many find endearing, though some might perceive it as slightly removed from the vibrant pulse of the main tourist areas.

Room Information

Rooms at The Kyoto Brighton Hotel are designed for luxurious comfort, offering generous spaces like the Executive Mountain View Twin Rooms and the opulent Royal Suites. Each room is meticulously maintained, featuring comfortable beds and well-appointed facilities, with some boasting spacious washing areas and large bathtubs. The Premium Twin Room EN, for instance, provides a thoughtful layout with a dining table and separate bedroom, complete with a traditional tea ceremony set. While the quality is evident, a few guests have found the pillows to be on the firmer side. Some rooms also offer a unique atrium view, adding to the distinctive charm.

Hotel Services

The Kyoto Brighton Hotel prides itself on its warm and attentive service, delivered by staff dedicated to ensuring a memorable stay. The team is known for being friendly, helpful, and polite, upholding the revered traditions of old Kyoto hospitality. From comprehensive concierge services to efficient room service and a convenient shuttle to popular transportation hubs, every detail is handled with care. Housekeeping services are notably customizable, and in-room massages add to the luxury experience. While many commend the staff’s professionalism, a few guests have noted occasional difficulties with English proficiency, and some found the staff’s demeanor to be a touch too formal or ‘stiff.’

Hotel Dining

Dining at The Kyoto Brighton Hotel provides a delightful culinary journey, featuring a breakfast buffet with a tempting array of international and local delicacies. The hotel’s restaurant excels in Japanese cuisine, offering exquisite sushi, sashimi, and tempura, alongside a selection of international dishes. Guests have the unique opportunity to choose between a traditional Japanese breakfast, complete with miso soup and grilled fish, or a Western-style buffet with made-to-order eggs. The Midi Bar offers tempting desserts, perfect for an evening indulgence. While the quality is generally high, some guests have found the restaurant prices to be a bit steep, and the buffet selection, while good, occasionally felt a little outdated. The hotel’s dining venues are a popular choice among local residents, signaling their quality and appeal.

Dining Options

Hotel Mood

The atmosphere at HOTEL THE CELESTINE KYOTO GION exudes a tranquil luxury, creating a serene and sophisticated ambiance that reflects Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage. The meticulous attention to detail in its design, combined with an attentive staff, contributes to a genuinely welcoming and memorable experience. Guests often describe the mood as a peaceful oasis, a calming respite after a day of sightseeing. However, some visitors have noted that the lounge area can feel a bit small and crowded, potentially detracting from the desired tranquility. A few guests also felt the hotel, while luxurious, lacked a deeper connection to traditional Japanese customs, resembling a modern business hotel more than a traditional Kyoto stay, and some found the strong eucalyptus scent in the sauna quite potent.

Room Information

The rooms at HOTEL THE CELESTINE KYOTO GION offer a simple, soothing design, equipped with thoughtful amenities like air purifiers and, in some cases, a breakfast nook and Nespresso machine. Many guests find these rooms to be surprisingly spacious for Japanese standards, providing ample comfort. The bathrooms are equally generous, featuring excellent water pressure in the showers and pleasant toilet facilities. While views of the city or surrounding mountains can be stunning, a few guests have noted that some rooms can feel small, particularly lacking in drawer space for clothing. Additionally, occasional noise from nearby construction has been mentioned, which could slightly impact the peaceful ambiance.

Hotel Services

Exceptional service is a hallmark of HOTEL THE CELESTINE KYOTO GION, with the staff consistently praised for their helpfulness, professionalism, and proficiency in English. The concierge service is highly regarded for its ability to provide insightful recommendations and assist with reservations, ensuring personalized attention to every detail. Guests frequently highlight the staff’s attentive and accommodating nature, making for a truly comfortable stay. However, a few guests have reported instances where concierge requests were not fully met, indicating occasional inconsistencies in service. Despite this, the overall impression remains one of dedicated and caring hospitality.

Hotel Dining

HOTEL THE CELESTINE KYOTO GION offers an exceptional dining experience, featuring both Japanese and international cuisine. The breakfast buffet is a particular highlight for many, providing a wide and varied selection of Western and Japanese dishes, including fresh pastries, seasonal fruits, and made-to-order omelets. The hotel’s direct link to an excellent tempura restaurant is a unique draw, with dishes like corn tempura receiving special praise. Room service is also available for those who prefer to dine in their private retreat. While the breakfast is highly rated, some guests have found it to be on the pricier side, and vegetarian options were occasionally noted as limited.

Dining Options

Hotel Mood

The ambiance at Hotel Nikko Princess Kyoto exudes a luxurious and elegant calm, seamlessly blending traditional Japanese aesthetics with contemporary comforts. It creates a serene and classy retreat, providing a peaceful respite after a day of exploring Kyoto’s vibrant streets and shops. The overall mood is one of understated elegance and attentive service, ensuring that guests feel valued and appreciated. While some might find the decor somewhat dated, many appreciate its traditional charm and the sense of security and comfort it provides, making it a pleasant sanctuary for both leisure and business travelers.

Room Information

Hotel Nikko Princess Kyoto offers a delightful range of spacious and comfortable rooms, from the inviting Superior Semi Double Room to the expansive 11th Floor Plus Junior Suite, providing ample space for relaxation. Each room is meticulously maintained and feels clean, with large bathrooms adding to the sense of luxury. Many rooms offer pleasant views of Kyoto’s surrounding mountains or the iconic Kyoto Tower. While the traditional decor is appreciated by some, a few guests have noted it can feel a bit dated. Thoughtful touches like daily replenished bottled water and Nespresso machines enhance the comfort, though some rooms still use traditional keys, and power outlets by the bedside can be scarce.

Hotel Services

Exceptional service is a consistent highlight at Hotel Nikko Princess Kyoto, with the staff receiving high praise for their friendly, attentive, and incredibly helpful demeanor. They consistently go above and beyond, providing valuable recommendations, arranging transportation, and promptly addressing any concerns to ensure a memorable stay. Room service, concierge assistance, and a ticket service for local attractions are readily available, making every aspect of the visit effortless. The staff’s polite and welcoming approach leaves a lasting positive impression, with their helpful English proficiency being a frequently noted advantage.

Hotel Dining

The Hotel Nikko Princess Kyoto provides a comprehensive dining experience, starting with a varied breakfast buffet at the on-site restaurant, featuring both Japanese and international dishes. Guests can also enjoy a la carte options for lunch and dinner, ensuring a diverse culinary journey. A cozy coffee shop offers lighter fare, pastries, and beverages for a more casual setting. Room service is available for those desiring private dining. The Japanese breakfast option, with its daily changing menu for longer stays, is particularly recommended by some guests, offering an authentic taste of local cuisine. While generally satisfactory, some guests have found the breakfast buffet to be average or on the expensive side.

Dining Options

Hotel Mood

The atmosphere at Hyatt Regency Kyoto is one of sophisticated serenity, where modern comforts beautifully intertwine with traditional Kyoto arts. The hotel exudes a comfortable and relaxing ambiance, marked by exceptional service and meticulous attention to detail. The overall mood is undeniably welcoming, catering to both leisure and business travelers seeking a refined retreat. While the design is elegant, some guests have felt that the decoration could be a bit basic for the hotel’s luxury positioning, and a few have noted that the pricing felt elevated compared to the overall value perceived.

Room Information

Hyatt Regency Kyoto offers a range of luxurious and spacious rooms, from comfortable King Bed rooms to expansive Deluxe options with balconies and city or garden views. These accommodations are often described as cozy and clean, featuring comfortable beds and fantastic showers that enhance the sense of relaxation. Modern amenities are thoughtfully integrated, ensuring a seamless stay. However, a few guests have noted that some rooms can feel a bit small, with occasional awkward views or susceptibility to external noise, which might slightly detract from the otherwise tranquil experience.

Hotel Services

The service at Hyatt Regency Kyoto is consistently praised for its exceptional quality, delivered by a friendly and helpful staff fluent in English. The concierge service is particularly highly regarded, offering invaluable assistance with transport information and insightful restaurant recommendations. The staff members are notably attentive, warm-hearted, and accommodating, ensuring that guests feel genuinely welcomed and well-cared for. While the service is largely impeccable, some guests have reported instances of slow service at the hotel’s restaurants and occasional inconsistencies with amenities like turn-down service.

Hotel Dining

Hyatt Regency Kyoto boasts diverse dining options, promising a culinary journey for every palate. Touzan offers exquisite Japanese cuisine in a traditional teahouse-style setting, while The Grill presents an open kitchen concept with premium steaks and seafood. Trattoria Sette provides a casual yet refined Italian dining experience, and The Bar offers a sophisticated atmosphere for enjoying premium spirits. The hotel’s breakfast buffet is frequently praised for its good selection, ensuring a satisfying start to the day. While the restaurants offer quality, some guests have found the dining options to be on the pricier side, with occasionally limited menu choices.

Dining Options

Hotel Mood

The atmosphere at Arashiyama Hot Spring Arashiyama Benkei Ryokan is one of profound tranquility and luxurious calm, deeply rooted in traditional Japanese aesthetics. Every detail contributes to a sense of serenity and relaxation, fostering an authentic and pampered experience for guests seeking a peaceful retreat. The gentle murmur of the nearby river and the meticulously manicured garden enhance this mood of well-being. The property genuinely aims to provide an unforgettable experience, enveloping guests in a soothing environment that feels both traditional and deeply comforting.

Room Information

The rooms at Arashiyama Hot Spring Arashiyama Benkei Ryokan offer a genuine taste of traditional Japanese living, with many featuring classic futons and private open-air onsen for an exclusive bathing experience. These spaces are thoughtfully equipped with modern amenities like air conditioning and televisions, ensuring comfort. Some suites, located in a separate building, even include private onsen, full kitchens, and washer/dryers, providing exceptional convenience for extended stays. The bathrobes provided add an extra layer of comfort, encouraging relaxation after a soak. The overall design harmonizes traditional elements with the necessities of contemporary travel.

Hotel Services

Arashiyama Hot Spring Arashiyama Benkei Ryokan prides itself on its exceptionally attentive and personalized service. The staff members are consistently praised for their kindness, helpfulness, and multilingual abilities, ensuring every guest feels genuinely welcomed. From a personalized greeting upon arrival, sometimes with a welcome board, to detailed room tours and offerings of tea and snacks, every interaction is thoughtful. They even offer to clean luggage wheels and assist with departure photos. Services like laundry, dry cleaning, daily housekeeping, and luggage storage are seamlessly provided, enhancing the overall comfort and luxury of the stay.

Hotel Dining

Dining at Arashiyama Hot Spring Arashiyama Benkei Ryokan is a highlight, featuring a restaurant serving exquisite traditional Japanese cuisine. Guests can savor dishes like sushi, sashimi, tempura, and sukiyaki, prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients. The multi-course Kaiseki dinners are a particular experience, served either in-room for intimate privacy or in the dining room with captivating river views. The restaurant is also commendable for accommodating various dietary preferences, including vegetarian and gluten-free options. While the Japanese breakfast receives high praise, some guests have suggested that the Western-style breakfast options could see improvement in variety and quality.

Dining Options

Hotel Mood

The atmosphere at Kyoto Nanzenji Ryokan Yachiyo is profoundly serene and tranquil, offering a peaceful escape that permeates the entire property. Guests consistently praise the quietness and peacefulness that define its ambiance, creating a calming environment that feels deeply relaxing. The traditional Japanese elegance, from the meticulously maintained gardens to the exquisite architecture, contributes to a sophisticated and contemplative mood. While some traditional elements, like older furnishings or thin walls, might be perceived by some, these aspects often contribute to the authentic ‘feel’ of the place, enhancing its unique charm.

Room Information

Kyoto Nanzenji Ryokan Yachiyo offers a variety of beautifully designed rooms, each providing a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing retreat. Options range from cozy Economy Japanese Style Rooms to expansive Japanese Style Junior Suites with private semi open-air baths and balconies, many offering stunning views of the surrounding nature. The rooms feature soothing color palettes and comfortable futons, which are notably and discreetly prepared and removed by staff. Modern amenities like air conditioning and televisions ensure convenience. Guests are often greeted with tea sets and traditional wagashi upon arrival, adding a special touch to the experience.

Hotel Services

The service at Kyoto Nanzenji Ryokan Yachiyo is characterized by its warm, friendly, and exceptionally professional staff. They are consistently present yet never intrusive, providing respectful, cheerful, and efficient assistance. The concierge service is readily available, and guests benefit from complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the property. Services like laundry, safety deposit boxes, luggage storage, and daily housekeeping ensure a comfortable and well-maintained environment. While the staff’s dedication is evident, a few guests have noted occasional communication challenges or slower responses to requests, which can be a minor inconvenience.

Hotel Dining

Dining at Kyoto Nanzenji Ryokan Yachiyo is a delightful experience, beginning with a charming coffee shop offering freshly brewed coffee, tea, and light snacks. The on-site restaurant specializes in traditional Japanese cuisine, preparing dishes like sushi, sashimi, tempura, and sukiyaki with the finest ingredients. The Japanese breakfast, often enjoyed with a serene garden view, is a particular highlight for many, described as truly amazing. Guests also appreciate the private booking times available for the onsen, allowing for a more intimate and relaxing experience after dining. While the food quality is generally high, some guests have found it to be on the average or slightly overpriced side, and additional charges for taxes and drinks were occasionally noted as not being clearly stated during booking.

Dining Options