Hiei Hotel Review

| | |

Tucked away in Kyoto’s Sakyo Ward, this modest 3-star hotel offers a peaceful retreat near Mount Hiei.

While it’s conveniently close to the impressive Enryaku-ji Temple, you’ll need to factor in a bit of a journey from Itami Airport. The free shuttle service helps, though!

In our experience, the staff here are as warm as a bowl of ramen on a chilly day, and the rooms are kept spick and span.

You’ll find all the usual comforts – free Wi-Fi, parking, and a trio of eateries serving up a global menu. The rooms, while not fancy, offer air conditioning and some nice views to boot.

Now, let’s talk turkey. The location, while great for nature lovers, might feel a bit out of the way if you’re hoping to be in the thick of Kyoto’s bustling city life.

And if you’re expecting 5-star luxury, you might want to look elsewhere.

That said, this spot is perfect for travelers who want to escape the urban hustle and soak in some mountain air.

It’s ideal for hikers, history buffs keen on exploring nearby temples, or anyone looking for a quiet base to recharge after long days of sightseeing.

If that sounds like you, pack your bags and give this place a whirl!

Good To Know

Hiei Hotel - Good To Know

  • 3-star hotel located near Mount Hiei in Kyoto’s Sakyo Ward, offering free WiFi, parking, and shuttle service to Itami Airport 64 km away.
  • Highly rated for staff and cleanliness, with on-site restaurants serving French, Japanese, and European cuisine.
  • Variety of room types available, including Standard Twin, Standard Triple, and Duplex Suite, catering to solo travelers, families, and larger groups.
  • Situated 2.5 km from the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Enryaku-ji Temple, with access to scenic hiking trails and tranquil gardens.
  • Enhanced safety and sanitation measures in place due to COVID-19, with professional host management and legal information on taxes provided.

Hotel Overview

Hiei Hotel - Hotel Overview

The LHotel de Hiei is a 3-star hotel located in Kyoto’s Sakyo Ward, just steps away from the iconic Mount Hiei.

It’s situated 2.5 km from Enryaku-ji Temple and 64 km from Itami Airport.

With a rating of 7.0 based on 9 reviews, the hotel scores well for its staff (8.3), cleanliness (8.1), comfort (7.5), value (7.5), and location (7.5).

Guests can enjoy free WiFi, free parking, an airport shuttle, and three on-site restaurants serving French, Japanese, and European cuisine.

The hotel offers air-conditioned rooms with desks, kettles, fridges, and flat-screen TVs, as well as a 24-hour front desk, bar, and buffet breakfast.

Location and Accessibility

Hiei Hotel - Location and Accessibility

Nestled in Kyoto’s Sakyo Ward, the LHotel de Hiei sits just steps away from the iconic Mount Hiei.

This convenient location places guests in close proximity to the renowned Enryaku-ji Temple, just 2.5 km away.

For those arriving by air, the hotel is situated 64 km from Itami Airport, with a complimentary shuttle service available.

The hotel’s overall rating of 7.0 out of 9 reviews highlights its strong performance, particularly in categories like staff (8.3), cleanliness (8.1), and location (7.5).

With its strategic placement, the LHotel de Hiei offers guests easy access to Kyoto’s renowned landmarks and natural wonders.

Facilities and Amenities

Hiei Hotel - Facilities and Amenities

The LHotel de Hiei offers an array of modern facilities and amenities to cater to its guests’ needs.

The hotel has free WiFi, free parking, and family rooms. It also provides an airport shuttle service at no additional cost.

In terms of dining, the hotel features 3 on-site restaurants serving French, Japanese, and European cuisine. Guests can start their day with a buffet breakfast before exploring the nearby attractions.

The hotel’s 24-hour front desk, bar, and shared lounge provide additional convenience and comfort.

The air-conditioned rooms come equipped with essential amenities like a desk, kettle, fridge, and flat-screen TV.

Room Types and Features

LHotel de Hiei offers a variety of room types to accommodate guests’ needs.

Standard Twin Rooms feature 2 single beds, while Standard Triple Rooms provide 3 single beds. For larger groups, the Duplex Suite offers 4 single beds.

For a more luxurious stay, the Junior Suite includes 2 single beds.

All rooms boast mountain, garden, or lake views and include bed linen and towels.

The hotel’s room options cater to a range of travelers, from solo adventurers to families and groups.

Policies and Check-in/Check-out

Guests can check in at LHotel de Hiei between 16:00 and 20:00, and must check out by 10:00.

Cancellation and prepayment policies vary by accommodation type. Children 6 years and older are charged as adults, while cots and extra beds are unavailable.

Guests must also note the following:

  1. No pets are allowed on the premises.
  2. Cash is the only accepted payment method.
  3. Accommodation tax per person per night isn’t included in the price.
  4. Enhanced safety and sanitation measures are in place due to COVID-19, which may affect food and beverage services.

Guest Information

Hiei Hotel - Guest Information

Although the hotel is managed by a professional host, guests can expect the accommodation to comply with EU consumer law for information transparency.

Guests are welcome, with those 6 years and older charged as adults. However, pets aren’t allowed, and cots and extra beds are unavailable.

Cancellation and prepayment policies vary by accommodation type. Visitors should note that the accommodation tax per person per night isn’t included in the price.

Due to COVID-19, enhanced safety and sanitation measures are in place, and limited food and beverage services may apply.

Payment can be made in cash.

Health and Safety Measures

Hiei Hotel - Health and Safety Measures

The accommodation tax per person per night isn’t included in the price.

To ensure a safe and healthy stay, the hotel has implemented enhanced safety and sanitation measures due to COVID-19.

Guests can expect:

  1. Limited food and beverage services may apply.
  2. The hotel is managed by a professional host, complying with EU consumer law for information.
  3. Legal information regarding taxes and management is provided.
  4. Guests can feel confident in the hotel’s commitment to their wellbeing during the pandemic.

Nearby Attractions

The hotel’s prime location places guests within steps of the iconic Mount Hiei, home to the historic Enryaku-ji Temple just 2.5 km away.

Perched atop the mountain, this UNESCO World Heritage Site dates back to the 8th century and offers visitors a glimpse into Japan’s rich Buddhist heritage.

Nature enthusiasts can embark on hiking trails through the scenic forests surrounding the hotel, while those seeking a more serene experience can explore the tranquil gardens and shrines dotting the mountainside.

With the convenience of the hotel’s free airport shuttle, guests can easily access Itami Airport just 64 km away, making it an ideal base for exploring Kyoto and the wider Kansai region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Hiei Hotel - Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Hotel Have a Gym or Fitness Center?

The hotel does not mention having a gym or fitness center. The available amenities focus on dining, outdoor spaces, and standard hotel services, but do not indicate the presence of any fitness facilities.

Are There Any Children’s Activities or Babysitting Services?

The hotel doesn’t offer dedicated children’s activities or babysitting services. However, families can enjoy the garden, picnic area, and BBQ facilities on-site for their own entertainment.

Can the Hotel Accommodate Special Dietary Requirements?

The hotel offers a variety of dining options, including French, Japanese, and European cuisine. They can accommodate guests with special dietary requirements upon request, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free meals.

Is There a Swimming Pool or Spa on the Premises?

The hotel doesn’t have a swimming pool or spa on-site. However, it offers a range of amenities like free WiFi, free parking, and on-site restaurants serving French, Japanese, and European cuisine.

What Time Is Breakfast Served, and Is It Included in the Room Rate?

The hotel offers a buffet breakfast, which is included in the room rate. Breakfast is served from 6:30 AM to 10:00 AM, providing guests a wide window to enjoy their morning meal.

The Sum Up

The LHotel de Hiei offers a serene and convenient base to explore Kyoto’s cultural landmarks. With its proximity to Enryaku-ji Temple and range of amenities, the hotel caters to the diverse needs of travelers. Though its 7.0 rating suggests room for improvement, the LHotel de Hiei presents a solid option for those seeking to enjoy Kyoto’s natural beauty and heritage.