In our experience, this centrally located hotel offers a solid home base for exploring Kyoto’s cultural treasures.
You’ll find yourself just a short stroll from two handy subway stations and within easy reach of bustling shopping districts and historic sites. The rooms, while not fancy, provide all the basics you need for a comfortable stay.
On the downside, some travelers might find the decor a bit dated, and light sleepers could be bothered by street noise in street-facing rooms.
However, these minor gripes are often outweighed by the hotel’s unbeatable location and helpful staff.
This place is ideal for budget-conscious travelers who want to be in the heart of the action without breaking the bank.
It’s also great for first-time visitors to Kyoto who want easy access to public transportation and major sights.
If you’re looking for luxury or cutting-edge design, you might want to look elsewhere, but for a practical, well-situated base, this hotel fits the bill nicely.
Good To Know
- Centrally located, within a 5-minute walk of Karasuma and Shijo subway stations, providing easy access to Kyoto’s cultural attractions.
- Offers a variety of room types, including singles, twins, and Japanese-style rooms, catering to different travelers’ needs.
- On-site dining options include Toh Lee Chinese restaurant and Bar Anchor, offering local and seasonal cuisine.
- Rated 7.9 out of 10 overall, with high scores for staff service, location, and cleanliness.
- Provides family-friendly amenities and a relaxed atmosphere, making it suitable for guests of all ages.
Location and Transportation
Karasuma Kyoto Hotel is conveniently situated, less than a 5-minute walk from both Karasuma Station and Shijo Station, providing guests with easy access to the city’s public transportation network.
The hotel’s central location also puts it within a 10-minute walk of the popular Shijo-Kawaramachi downtown area and a 20-minute walk from the historic Nijo Castle.
Blending contemporary design with the surrounding traditional architecture, the hotel offers an ideal base for exploring Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage while benefiting from its proximity to major transportation links.
Room Types and Amenities
The hotel offers various room types to accommodate the needs of different guests. These include Single, Twin, Superior Triple, and Japanese-Style Rooms, catering to up to 4 travelers.
All rooms feature modern amenities such as:
- Air conditioning and heating
- Satellite TV
- Refrigerator
- En suite bathroom
Guests can also take advantage of the hotel’s extensive facilities, including:
- Free high-speed internet
- 24-hour front desk
- Luggage storage
- Currency exchange
- Daily housekeeping
The on-site restaurant Toh Lee serves delectable Chinese cuisine, while Bar Anchor specializes in seasonal cocktails, providing ample dining and entertainment options.
Guest Ratings and Reviews
How has the Karasuma Kyoto Hotel fared in the eyes of its guests?
According to over 1,100 reviews, the hotel has received an overall rating of 7.9 out of 10, categorized as "Good."
Guests have particularly praised the hotel’s staff, rating them 8.7 out of 10, and the convenient location, which earned an 8.6.
Cleanliness and comfort also scored well, with ratings of 8.2 and 8.3, respectively.
However, the hotel’s facilities and free WiFi received slightly lower marks of 7.8 and 7.7.
While most guests have enjoyed their stays, some have noted mixed experiences with the room amenities and overall value for money.
Dining and Restaurant Options
Guests at the Karasuma Kyoto Hotel can enjoy a variety of dining options on-site.
The hotel features the restaurant Toh Lee, which serves up authentic Chinese cuisine. Visitors can also grab a drink at Bar Anchor, known for its seasonal cocktail offerings.
The hotel additionally offers:
- A breakfast service with both local and Western options
- A coffee shop for lighter fare and refreshments
- Easy access to a range of nearby restaurants and eateries
With these diverse dining amenities, the Karasuma Kyoto Hotel caters to a variety of tastes and preferences, ensuring guests can find satisfying meals throughout their stay.
Hotel Facilities and Services
Beyond the guest rooms, Karasuma Kyoto Hotel offers an array of facilities and services to enhance visitors’ experiences.
The hotel features a 24-hour front desk, where staff can assist with luggage storage, currency exchange, and other requests. Free high-speed internet is available throughout the property.
Guests can enjoy Chinese cuisine at the onsite restaurant, Toh Lee, or sip seasonal cocktails at Bar Anchor.
Additional amenities include non-smoking rooms, private parking, and daily housekeeping.
The hotel’s family-friendly environment and convenient location near transport links and attractions make it an appealing choice for travelers to Kyoto.
Family-Friendly Environment
The Karasuma Kyoto Hotel is known for its welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere. Guests traveling with children will find the hotel well-equipped to accommodate their needs.
Some of the family-friendly amenities include:
- Spacious rooms that can sleep up to 4 guests
- Convenient access to nearby restaurants and shopping
- Friendly, attentive staff who can provide recommendations for family-friendly activities
- A casual, relaxed environment that caters to guests of all ages
- Easy transportation links, with the hotel just a short walk from Karasuma and Shijo subway stations.
The hotel’s focus on creating a comfortable, family-friendly experience ensures that guests traveling with children can enjoy a stress-free stay in Kyoto.
Policies and Considerations
For guests planning their stay, the hotel’s check-in time is from 15:00, and check-out is until 11:00.
Children of all ages are welcome, but cots and extra beds aren’t available. Pets aren’t allowed. An accommodation tax per person per night isn’t included in the room rate.
To reach the hotel, travelers can take the Karasuma Subway Line from JR Kyoto Station to Shijo Subway Station, located steps from Exit 6 next to Starbucks.
Directions From Kyoto Station
To reach the Karasuma Kyoto Hotel from JR Kyoto Station, travelers can simply take the Karasuma Subway Line.
The hotel is located just steps from Exit 6 of the Shijo Subway Station, right next to a Starbucks. The journey takes approximately 15 minutes.
Once at the Shijo Station, guests need only walk for a short 2-3 minutes to arrive at the Karasuma Kyoto Hotel. The hotel’s central location provides easy access to various attractions and transport links, making it a convenient choice for visitors to Kyoto.
The directions are straightforward:
- Take the Karasuma Subway Line from JR Kyoto Station
- Alight at Shijo Subway Station, Exit 6
- Walk 2-3 minutes to reach the Karasuma Kyoto Hotel
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Hotel Arrange Local Sightseeing Tours?
The hotel can likely arrange local sightseeing tours for guests, though details aren’t specified. Guests should inquire at the front desk about available tour options and pricing to plan their Kyoto sightseeing experience.
Does the Hotel Have a Fitness Center or Gym On-Site?
The hotel does not have a dedicated fitness center or gym on-site. However, guests can easily access nearby recreational facilities or explore the city’s attractions on foot to stay active during their stay.
Are There Any Eco-Friendly Initiatives or Sustainability Practices at the Hotel?
The hotel has not publicly reported on any eco-friendly initiatives or sustainability practices. However, many hotels these days are implementing measures like energy-efficient lighting, water conservation, and recycling programs to reduce their environmental impact.
What Languages Are Spoken by the Hotel Staff?
The hotel staff speaks Japanese, English, and other languages to accommodate international guests. Multilingual employees ensure a comfortable and welcoming stay for visitors from diverse backgrounds.
Can the Hotel Provide Transport Services to and From the Airport?
The hotel does not offer direct airport transfer services. However, it is conveniently located near public transportation links, allowing guests to easily access the nearest airport via train or bus services.
The Sum Up
The Karasuma Kyoto Hotel offers a convenient location, diverse accommodations, and thoughtful amenities, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking to enjoy Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage. With its attentive staff, on-site dining options, and well-appointed facilities, the hotel provides a seamless and memorable experience for guests looking to discover the timeless beauty of this historic city.