In our review of this Gion gem, we found a cozy retreat that blends old Kyoto charm with modern comforts.
Tucked away in the heart of the geisha district, this small hotel offers a quiet escape after a day of temple-hopping. Clean rooms, friendly staff, and a tasty breakfast will start your day right.
While some might find the traditional furnishings a bit dated, and the lack of an elevator could be a hassle for those with heavy luggage, these minor quirks add to the authentic feel.
This spot is perfect for travelers who want to soak up the local atmosphere and don’t mind trading some luxury for a great location.
If you’re hoping to spot a geisha or just want to be steps away from Kyoto’s best sights, this hotel hits the mark.
Good To Know
- The U-BELL Hotel is a boutique accommodation located in Gion, Kyoto’s historic geisha district, offering spacious and clean rooms with a focus on guest comfort.
- The hotel is highly rated with an 8.3/10 score based on 263 reviews, praised for its cleanliness, quiet atmosphere, and helpful staff.
- Amenities include free WiFi, continental breakfast, and massage services, providing a comfortable experience for guests.
- The hotel’s excellent location near restaurants, public transportation, and popular attractions like Heian Shrine and Kiyomizu-dera Temple makes it an ideal base for exploring Kyoto.
- Check-in starts at 3:00 PM, and check-out is by 10:00 AM, with cash payments accepted and a cancellation policy that varies by accommodation type.
Hotel Overview
The Kyoto Gion U-BELL Hotel is a boutique accommodation located in the heart of Gion, Kyoto’s renowned geisha district.
Rated 8.3 out of 10 based on 263 reviews, this hotel offers guests a quiet and comfortable stay with spacious accommodations.
Key features include the hotel’s excellent location near restaurants and public transport, as well as its focus on cleanliness and helpful staff.
The hotel caters to a variety of travelers, with amenities like free WiFi, continental breakfast, and convenient facilities like luggage storage and massage services (for an additional charge).
Guest Ratings and Reviews
Guests have overwhelmingly praised the Kyoto Gion U-BELL Hotel for its cleanliness, comfort, and quiet atmosphere.
Notable comments highlight the hotel’s spacious rooms, which are larger than typical Japanese accommodations. Guests also commended the helpful staff.
The hotel receives high ratings overall, with a score of 8.3 out of 10 based on 263 reviews. Couples, in particular, gave the hotel’s location a remarkable 9.1 rating.
Common praise from guests includes "great location," "very clean," "helpful staff," and "quiet and comfortable."
Facilities and Amenities
At the Kyoto Gion U-BELL Hotel, guests can enjoy a range of amenities and facilities. The hotel offers non-smoking rooms, free WiFi, and heating throughout. Guests can start their day with a continental breakfast. In-room features include a flat-screen TV, air conditioning, a desk, and a private bathroom with a bath.
| General Facilities | Room Features | Services |
|---|---|---|
| Non-smoking rooms | Flat-screen TV | Luggage storage |
| Free WiFi | Air conditioning | Fax/photocopying (additional charge) |
| Heating | Desk | Massage services (additional charge) |
| Continental breakfast available | Private bathroom with bath |
Room Features
Along With the hotel’s general facilities, the rooms at the Kyoto Gion U-BELL Hotel come equipped with several amenities.
Guests can expect:
- Flat-screen TVs to enjoy entertainment
- Air conditioning for comfort in any weather
- Desks for getting work done
- Private bathrooms with baths for relaxation
- Ample space that exceeds typical Japanese standards
These features, combined with the hotel’s quiet atmosphere and excellent location, provide an ideal setting for a comfortable and enjoyable stay in Kyoto’s historic Gion district.
Nearby Attractions
The hotel’s prime location in Kyoto’s historic Gion district affords guests easy access to several renowned landmarks and attractions.
The Samurai Kembu Kyoto, known for its samurai sword performance, is just a 6-minute walk away. Other notable sights like the Heian Shrine, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, and Kyoto International Manga Museum are all within 1.5 km of the hotel.
For those seeking to explore the Imperial Palace or Nijo Castle, they’re located 2.4 km and 2.7 km away, respectively.
The hotel’s close proximity to bus stops and Gion Shijo Station ensures guests can conveniently travel to these must-see destinations and more during their stay.
Transportation Options
Guests can conveniently access the Kyoto Gion U-BELL Hotel via various transportation options.
The hotel is situated close to bus stops and Gion Shijo Station, providing easy access to the city’s public transit system.
Nearby transportation options include:
- Local buses that stop near the hotel, offering connections to major attractions and landmarks
- Gion Shijo Station, which is just a short walk away and provides access to the city’s subway network
- Taxis, which are readily available in the area and can quickly transport guests to their desired destinations
- Ridesharing services, which are a convenient option for getting around Kyoto
- Walking, as the hotel’s central location in the Gion district makes it easy to explore the neighborhood on foot.
Check-in and Check-out
Guests can check in at the Kyoto Gion U-BELL Hotel from 3:00 PM onwards.
The check-out time is 10:00 AM. This allows the hotel staff ample time to prepare the rooms for the next guests.
Guests are advised to inform the hotel in advance of their expected arrival time to ensure a smooth check-in process.
The hotel accepts cash payments only.
Children of all ages are welcome, but pets aren’t allowed.
The hotel’s cancellation policy varies depending on the accommodation type, so guests should review the terms carefully when booking their stay.
Booking and Payment
Booking the Kyoto Gion U-BELL Hotel is a simple process. Guests can make reservations directly through the hotel’s website or by contacting the property. The hotel accepts cash payments upon check-in.
Some key booking and payment details:
- Check-in time starts from 3:00 PM, and check-out is until 10:00 AM.
- The cancellation policy varies depending on the accommodation type.
- Children of all ages are welcome, but pets aren’t allowed.
- Guests should inform the hotel in advance about their expected arrival time.
- Special requests can be made during the booking process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Late Check-Outs Available Upon Request?
Late check-outs are not explicitly mentioned, but guests should inform the hotel in advance of their expected arrival times. The hotel may be able to accommodate late check-outs upon request, depending on availability.
What Is the Maximum Number of Guests Allowed per Room?
The hotel doesn’t specify a maximum number of guests per room. However, it notes that children of any age are welcome, suggesting the rooms can accommodate families. Guests should inquire about room capacity when booking.
Does the Hotel Offer Airport Shuttle or Transportation Services?
The hotel does not appear to offer airport shuttle or transportation services. The information provided does not mention any airport transfers or transportation amenities being offered to guests.
Are There Any On-Site Dining Options Besides the Continental Breakfast?
According to the information provided, the hotel does not offer any on-site dining options beyond the continental breakfast. There’s no mention of the hotel having a restaurant, cafe, or other meal services on the premises.
Can the Hotel Arrange for Private Tours or Activities in the Local Area?
The hotel can arrange private tours and activities in the local area. They offer concierge services to help guests explore Kyoto’s top attractions and experiences tailored to their interests.
The Sum Up
The Kyoto Gion U-BELL Hotel provides a tranquil retreat in the heart of Kyoto’s renowned Gion district. With high ratings, spacious accommodations, and a helpful staff, it offers an ideal base for exploring Kyoto’s cultural wonders. Guests can enjoy the hotel’s quiet atmosphere and convenient proximity to popular landmarks, restaurants, and public transportation. Whether seeking a peaceful respite or immersing in Kyoto’s rich heritage, the Kyoto Gion U-BELL Hotel is a suitable choice for travelers.