As your savvy travel guide, I’ve scoped out this gem in Kyoto’s historic heart. The Gion Crystal Hotel sits pretty in the Higashiyama Ward, putting you a stone’s throw from must-see spots like Yasaka Shrine and the picturesque Hanamikoji Street.
With free Wi-Fi, family rooms, and an on-site eatery, it’s a solid choice for your Kyoto adventure.
Now, let’s get real. The rooms might feel a tad snug if you’re used to sprawling American-style digs.
And light sleepers, take note: the bustling neighborhood can occasionally leak some street noise into your zen space.
But here’s the scoop: if you’re a culture vulture looking to soak up Kyoto’s ancient vibes without breaking the bank, this place is your ticket.
It’s especially perfect for first-timers who want to dive headfirst into the city’s rich tapestry of sights and sounds. Families will appreciate the extra space and convenient location for sightseeing with little ones in tow.
Good To Know
- The Gion Crystal Hotel is located in Kyoto’s historic Higashiyama Ward, providing easy access to attractions like Yasaka Shrine and Hanamikoji Street.
- The hotel offers free WiFi, family rooms, an on-site restaurant, and essential in-room amenities like air conditioning and flat-screen TV.
- Guests have rated the hotel highly for its location, with a 9.3/10 score, and the friendliness and helpfulness of the staff at 9.2/10.
- The hotel’s spacious and clean rooms, as well as the excellent value it offers, have also received positive reviews from guests.
- The hotel’s central location and proximity to public transportation make it a convenient base for exploring Kyoto’s cultural landmarks.
Hotel Overview

The Gion Crystal Hotel is located in the Higashiyama Ward of Kyoto, Japan. It boasts an impressive 8.5/10 rating based on 256 reviews.
The hotel’s location score is 9.3/10, making it an excellent choice for couples, who rate it 9.4/10. Guests can easily access popular landmarks like Gion Shijo Station (700m), Shoren-in Temple (800m), and Kiyomizu-dera Temple (1.8km).
The hotel offers amenities such as free WiFi, family rooms, a restaurant, and a 24-hour front desk. Rooms are equipped with air conditioning, flatscreen TVs, and essential kitchenette appliances.
Safety features like fire extinguishers, CCTV, and key card access ensure a secure stay.
Facilities and Amenities

Gion Crystal Hotel offers a range of amenities and facilities to cater to the needs of its guests. The hotel provides free WiFi throughout, family rooms, and an on-site restaurant.
Guests can enjoy 24-hour front desk service, daily housekeeping, and facilities for disabled guests.
The rooms feature essential amenities like:
- Air conditioning
- Flat-screen TV
- Electric kettle
- Refrigerator
- Hairdryer
For safety, the hotel has fire extinguishers, CCTV in common areas, smoke alarms, and key card access.
Guest Reviews

According to reviews, guests have provided overwhelmingly positive feedback about their stay at the Gion Crystal Hotel.
The hotel’s location, receiving a 9.3/10 score, is consistently praised for its proximity to popular attractions like Gion Shijo Station and Shoren-in Temple. Guests also commend the friendly and helpful staff, rating them 9.2/10.
The spacious and clean rooms, rated 9.0/10, are another highlight, with many pleasantly surprised by unexpected amenities like air purifiers. The Gion Crystal Hotel offers excellent value, with an 8.7/10 rating in this regard.
Travelers appreciate the hotel’s simple yet appreciated breakfast offerings and the staff’s thoughtful gestures, such as providing umbrellas during rainy weather.
Policies
The Gion Crystal Hotel has clear policies regarding check-in and check-out times, with guests able to check-in between 16:00 and 00:00, and check-out between 00:00 and 10:00.
Cancellation and prepayment policies vary by accommodation type.
Children of all ages are welcome, with those aged 6 and above charged as adults.
Pets aren’t allowed, and parties aren’t permitted.
The accommodation tax isn’t included in the price and must be paid directly at the property.
- Check-in: 16:00 – 00:00
- Check-out: 00:00 – 10:00
- Cancellation/Prepayment: Varies by accommodation type
- Child Policy: Children of all ages welcome, 6+ charged as adults
- Pets: Not allowed
Surrounding Area
The Gion Crystal Hotel benefits from its prime location, with visitors able to easily access a range of nearby attractions. The hotel is situated within walking distance of the iconic Yasaka Shrine and the picturesque Hanamikoji Street, allowing guests to enjoy the rich cultural heritage of Kyoto. Plus, the hotel’s proximity to public transportation options provides convenient access to other popular destinations in the region, including the cities of Osaka, Nara, Amagasaki, Otsu, and Hirakata.
| Nearby Attractions | Distance |
|---|---|
| Yasaka Shrine | Walking distance |
| Hanamikoji Street | Walking distance |
| Gion Shijo Station | 700m |
| Samurai Kembu Kyoto | 600m |
The surrounding area of the Gion Crystal Hotel offers a diverse array of dining options, catering to a variety of tastes and preferences.
Location and Accessibility

Situated in the heart of Kyoto’s historic Higashiyama Ward, the Gion Crystal Hotel enjoys a prime location that provides guests with convenient access to the city’s renowned attractions.
The hotel is just a short 700-meter walk from Gion Shijo Station, making it easy to explore the area. Guests can also reach popular landmarks like:
- Shoren-in Temple (800m away)
- Heian Shrine (1.6km)
- Kiyomizu-dera Temple (1.8km)
- Samurai Kembu Kyoto (600m)
The hotel is also only 2 minutes away from a nearby bus stop, ensuring seamless transportation throughout Kyoto.
Room Descriptions
Spacious accommodations greet guests at the Gion Crystal Hotel, where rooms are equipped with a range of modern amenities. Each room features air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, an electric kettle, and a refrigerator, ensuring a comfortable stay.
Thoughtful touches, like the inclusion of a hairdryer, complement the well-appointed interiors. Guests appreciate the clean and tidy rooms, which provide a peaceful retreat after a day exploring Kyoto’s historic landmarks.
With free Wi-Fi available throughout the hotel, visitors can stay connected during their visit. The Gion Crystal Hotel’s attention to detail and well-appointed rooms contribute to an overall positive guest experience.
Nearby Attractions
Within easy reach of the Gion Crystal Hotel lie several of Kyoto’s most captivating attractions.
Just a short stroll away is the iconic Yasaka Shrine, a stunning example of traditional Japanese architecture.
Hanamikoji Street, known for its charming machiya townhouses and atmospheric teahouses, is also conveniently close.
Visitors can easily explore these local gems and enjoy the rich cultural heritage of Gion, Kyoto’s renowned geisha district.
- Yasaka Shrine
- Hanamikoji Street
- Gion district
- Traditional Japanese architecture
- Atmospheric teahouses
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Hotel Popular With Business Travelers?
The hotel doesn’t seem particularly popular with business travelers based on the information provided. The focus appears to be more on families, couples, and travelers visiting the nearby attractions in Kyoto.
What Types of Room Views Are Available?
The hotel offers rooms with views of the surrounding neighborhood, which may include sights like historic temples and traditional architecture. Guests can enjoy these scenic vistas from the comfort of their accommodations.
Are There Any On-Site Recreational Facilities?
The hotel doesn’t have any on-site recreational facilities. However, it’s conveniently located near several popular attractions and offers amenities like free WiFi and a restaurant to enhance guests’ overall experience.
Is There a Shuttle Service To/From the Airport?
The hotel doesn’t offer an airport shuttle service. Guests must arrange their own transportation to and from the airport, which can be done through taxis, public transportation, or other private shuttle services in the area.
Does the Hotel Have a Loyalty Program for Frequent Guests?
The hotel doesn’t mention a loyalty program for frequent guests. However, it offers other amenities like free WiFi, family rooms, and a 24-hour front desk to provide a comfortable stay for all travelers.
The Sum Up
The Gion Crystal Hotel offers a convenient and comfortable stay in the heart of Kyoto’s historic Higashiyama Ward. With its excellent service, spacious accommodations, and nearby attractions, the hotel provides great value for money. Whether you’re exploring Kyoto’s cultural heritage or seeking a peaceful retreat, the Gion Crystal Hotel is an excellent choice for your visit to this captivating destination.
