Welcome, fellow travelers! Let’s chat about the Kyoto City Gardens Hotel, a comfy 4-star spot that’s just a hop, skip, and a jump from Kyoto Station. This place is smack-dab in the middle of the action, making it a cinch to get to those must-see temples and shrines.
Now, in our experience, the staff here are as friendly as can be, and the rooms? Pretty darn cozy. But, as with any hotel, it’s not all roses and sunshine. Some folks have grumbled about cleanliness hiccups and walls that might be a tad thin.
So, if you’re a light sleeper or a neat freak, you might want to keep that in mind.
That being said, we think this hotel is a real gem for travelers who want to be in the thick of things without breaking the bank. You’ve got all the basics covered – free WiFi to plan your adventures, air conditioning to beat the heat, and even an open-air bath to soak your tired feet after a day of temple-hopping.
In our book, this place is perfect for cultural enthusiasts who want to dive headfirst into Kyoto’s rich heritage. It’s also great for budget-conscious travelers who don’t mind a few minor quirks in exchange for a top-notch location.
So, if you’re ready to learn about the heart of old Japan, this might just be your home away from home!
Good To Know

- Centrally-located 4-star hotel in Minami Ward, Kyoto, providing easy access to major cultural sites like Sanjusangen-do Temple and Tofuku-ji Temple.
- Offers comfortable rooms, friendly staff, and good value for money according to guest reviews, with mixed opinions on cleanliness and soundproofing.
- Features amenities like non-smoking rooms, free WiFi, laundry services, and an open-air bath, along with safety measures like CCTV and key card access.
- Well-positioned for exploring the Kansai region, with nearby attractions in Osaka, Nara, Amagasaki, and other cities.
- Accepts cash payments only, with check-in from 15:00 to 00:00 and check-out by 11:00.
Hotel Overview

The Kyoto City Gardens Hotel is located in Minami Ward, Kyoto, Japan, just 1.5 km from Kyoto Station.
This 4-star hotel is situated within convenient reach of several top attractions, including Sanjusangen-do Temple (1.6 km), Tofuku-ji Temple (1.4 km), and Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine (2.6 km).
The nearest airport is Itami Airport, 43 km away.
According to guest reviews, the hotel’s strengths include friendly staff, comfortable rooms, and good value for money.
However, there are mixed opinions on cleanliness, soundproofing, and location.
Location and Accessibility

Situated in Minami Ward, Kyoto’s Kyoto City Gardens Hotel conveniently places guests just 1.5 km from the city’s main transportation hub, Kyoto Station.
The hotel is also within easy reach of several notable Kyoto attractions, including Sanjusangen-do Temple (1.6 km), Tofuku-ji Temple (1.4 km), and the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine (2.6 km).
For those arriving by air, Itami Airport is located 43 km away from the property.
The hotel’s strategic location allows visitors to efficiently explore Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage and easily access the city’s amenities, making it an attractive choice for travelers seeking a centrally-located base during their stay in the ancient capital.
Guest Reviews and Ratings

Guests generally rate the Kyoto City Gardens Hotel as "good", awarding it an overall score of 7.3 out of 10 based on 570 reviews.
The staff and facilities receive favorable ratings of 7.8 and 7.6, respectively. Cleanliness and comfort also score well at 7.8 and 8.0.
However, the hotel’s location, with a 7.1 score, is a bit of a mixed bag. Reviewers highlight the convenient location but note issues with room comfort, cleanliness, and soundproofing.
The free WiFi, rated 7.9, is a plus for guests.
Facilities and Amenities
Among the popular facilities at the Kyoto City Gardens Hotel are non-smoking rooms, free WiFi, and laundry services.
The hotel also offers heating and an open-air bath, though the latter incurs an additional charge.
Guest rooms are equipped with essential amenities like air conditioning, desks, electric kettles, refrigerators, and flat-screen TVs.
Bathrooms feature bidets.
Rooms offer city views and ensure safety with fire extinguishers, CCTV in common areas, and key card access.
Room Amenities
The Kyoto City Gardens Hotel’s guest rooms are outfitted with essential in-room amenities, including air conditioning units, workstations, and electric kettles.
Guests can also enjoy the convenience of a refrigerator, flat-screen TV, and private bathroom with a bidet. Many rooms offer city views, providing a scenic backdrop to the stay.
For safety and security, the rooms are equipped with key card access and smoke alarms.
Safety and Security

Safety and security measures are in place at the Kyoto City Gardens Hotel to ensure guests’ well-being.
The hotel features:
- Fire extinguishers throughout the property to mitigate fire risks.
- CCTV cameras in common areas to monitor activity and deter criminal behavior.
- Smoke alarms in all rooms to provide early detection and warning of potential fires.
Plus, the hotel utilizes a key card access system to control entry and exit, further enhancing the overall safety and security for its guests.
Booking and Policies
Guests can check in at Kyoto City Gardens Hotel from 15:00 until 00:00, and must check out by 11:00. Cancellation and prepayment policies vary by accommodation type. Children of any age are welcome, but those 7 and older are charged as adults. Pets are not allowed. The hotel accepts the following payment methods:
| Payment Methods | |
|---|---|
| Cash | ✓ |
| Credit Card | – |
| Debit Card | – |
| Prepaid Card | – |
| Mobile Wallet | – |
Nearby Attractions and Cities

Kyoto City Gardens Hotel sits conveniently close to several popular nearby cities, including Osaka, Nara, Amagasaki, Otsu, and Hirakata.
These cities offer a diverse range of attractions and experiences for visitors:
Osaka, a vibrant metropolitan area known for its dynamic food scene, lively nightlife, and iconic landmarks like Osaka Castle.
Nara, home to the famous Nara Park and its tame deer, as well as historical sites like Todaiji Temple.
Amagasaki, an industrial city with a mix of modern and traditional elements, including the stunning Amagasaki Castle.
The hotel’s strategic location allows guests to easily explore these neighboring destinations and enjoy the rich cultural tapestry of the Kansai region.
Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Hotel Offer Smoking Rooms?
The hotel does not offer smoking rooms. The hotel’s facilities description clearly states that it only provides non-smoking rooms, indicating that smoking is not permitted anywhere on the premises.
Are There Any Fitness Facilities Available?
The hotel does not mention any fitness facilities being available. It focuses more on providing basic amenities like free WiFi, laundry services, and in-room conveniences.
Is There an On-Site Restaurant or Dining Options?
The hotel offers limited on-site dining options. It has a small cafe that serves basic breakfast and light meals. However, there’s no full-service restaurant on the property. Guests will need to explore the nearby area for more extensive dining choices.
Can Guests Book Airport Transfers Through the Hotel?
Guests can book airport transfers through the hotel. The hotel provides this service to help guests conveniently get to and from the nearest airport, Itami Airport, which is 43 km away.
Are There Any Special Packages or Deals Available?
There’s no information provided about special packages or deals available at this hotel. Guests would need to check the hotel’s website or contact them directly to inquire about any promotional offers or discounted rates.
The Sum Up
The Kyoto City Gardens Hotel offers a tranquil and convenient base for exploring Kyoto’s iconic attractions. Its prime location, modern amenities, and range of services cater to both leisure and business travelers. Whether seeking a relaxing retreat or a starting point for a Kyoto adventure, this 4-star hotel provides a comfortable and well-appointed stay in the heart of Japan’s cultural capital.
