Welcome, savvy travelers! In our quest to uncover Kyoto’s hidden gems, we’ve stumbled upon the Kyoto Universal Hotel Karasuma. This no-frills lodging offers a practical base for exploring the city, with Kyoto Station just a leisurely 19-minute stroll away.
Now, let’s get down to brass tacks. While the hotel has free WiFi and breakfast options, it’s not exactly the Ritz. Some guests have noted that the rooms can feel a bit snug, and the decor might not win any design awards.
But hey, you’re here to see Kyoto, not spend all day in your room, right?
Despite these minor hiccups, this hotel could be just the ticket for budget-conscious explorers or those who prioritize location over luxury. If you’re the type who wants a clean, safe place to rest your head after a day of temple-hopping and sushi-sampling, you’ll feel right at home here.
Plus, with its solid 6.8 rating from over 600 reviews, you can rest easy knowing you’re in good company.
So, if you’re a no-nonsense traveler looking for a wallet-friendly option in the heart of Kyoto, this might just be your home away from home. Just don’t expect any fancy frills, and you’ll be golden!
Good To Know

- The Kyoto Universal Hotel Karasuma is located in Minami Ward, Kyoto, with a 19-minute walk from Kyoto Station and proximity to popular attractions.
- The hotel offers non-smoking and smoking room options, including single, twin, and double rooms, with amenities like free WiFi and private parking.
- The hotel is rated 6.8 based on 666 reviews, with positive feedback on staff, facilities, cleanliness, and comfort.
- Check-in is from 4 PM to 12 AM, and checkout is by 10 AM, with no cash payments accepted.
- Guests have praised the hotel’s location and value for money, with a rating of 7.9 out of 10.
Hotel Overview

The Kyoto Universal Hotel Karasuma is located in Minami Ward, Kyoto, Japan.
It has a rating of 6.8 based on 666 reviews, with the staff, facilities, cleanliness, and comfort receiving positive feedback.
The hotel is a 19-minute walk from Kyoto Station and is within 1.5 to 2.4 miles of several popular attractions.
Amenities include non-smoking rooms, private parking, free WiFi, and breakfast.
Room types range from single to double, with both non-smoking and smoking options available.
Policies include check-in from 4 PM to 12 AM, check-out by 10 AM, and no cash payments.
Location and Distance

The Kyoto Universal Hotel Karasuma is situated in Minami Ward, one of the main districts in Kyoto, Japan.
It’s a 19-minute walk from Kyoto Station, the city’s main transportation hub. The hotel is also conveniently located near several popular attractions:
- 1.5 miles from Sanjusangen-do Temple and Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
- 2.3 miles from Kiyomizu-dera Temple
- 2.4 miles from Kyoto Shigaku Kaikan Conference Hall
The nearest airport is Itami Airport, which is about 25 miles away.
The hotel’s central location makes it easy for guests to explore Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage and modern amenities.
Room Types

Kyoto Universal Hotel Karasuma offers various room types to accommodate the needs of different travelers.
The hotel provides single rooms with either non-smoking or smoking options, each featuring a twin bed.
For those who need more space, the hotel offers twin rooms, also available in non-smoking and smoking variants, with a twin bed and a sofa bed.
For couples, the hotel features double rooms in a non-smoking configuration with a full-sized bed.
Guests can choose between room-only options or include breakfast for an additional fee.
Single-night stays are also available across the various room types.
Amenities
Complementing the hotel’s comfortable accommodations are a range of practical amenities that cater to the needs of guests.
Visitors can take advantage of free WiFi throughout the property, allowing them to stay connected during their stay. Plus, the hotel offers private parking for a daily fee, providing a convenient option for those arriving by car.
For added peace of mind, the property is equipped with important safety features like fire extinguishers, CCTV, and smoke alarms.
- Free WiFi in all areas
- Private parking available (fee applies)
- On-site safety features (fire extinguishers, CCTV, smoke alarms)
Check-in and Checkout
Guests can check in at the Kyoto Universal Hotel Karasuma from 4:00 PM until midnight. The hotel’s checkout time is 10:00 AM.
Check-in and checkout policies may vary by room type. Cancellation and prepayment policies also differ depending on the accommodation booked.
Children of all ages are welcome, but those 12 and older are charged as adults. The hotel doesn’t allow pets.
Payments must be made by card, as the hotel doesn’t accept cash. An accommodation tax per person, per night isn’t included in the room rate.
Policies
Policies at the hotel encompass details regarding check-in, checkout, and accommodating guests of various ages.
Check-in is available from 4:00 PM to 12:00 AM, and checkout is required by 10:00 AM. Cancellation and prepayment policies vary by accommodation type.
Children of all ages are welcome, but those 12 and above are charged as adults, and no cribs or extra beds are available.
Pets aren’t allowed, and cash isn’t accepted as payment; an accommodation tax per person, per night is also not included in the room price.
- Check-in: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Checkout: Until 10:00 AM
- Pets not allowed
Guest Reviews
Guest reviews for the Kyoto Universal Hotel Karasuma paint a generally positive picture, with the staff garnering particularly high praise at 7.5 out of 10.
Guests highlighted the hotel’s amenities, including free WiFi and private parking. Common topics in reviews include the breakfast, dinner, room quality, location, and bathroom facilities.
While the overall feedback suggests a pleasant stay, some areas for improvement were also noted.
The hotel’s location, a 19-minute walk from Kyoto Station, and its value for money at 7.9 out of 10 were also well-received by guests.
Highlights

The hotel’s amenities are a highlight, with free WiFi and private parking available. Guests have praised the accommodations, commenting on the room quality and overall location.
Some key highlights include:
The hotel’s convenient location, situated just a 19-minute walk from Kyoto Station and in close proximity to popular attractions like Sanjusangen-do Temple and Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine.
The availability of both non-smoking and smoking room options, catering to various preferences.
The variety of room types, including single, twin, and double rooms, providing flexibility for different group sizes and needs.
Frequently Asked Questions

Do They Have On-Site Dining Options?
The hotel offers breakfast, though details on other on-site dining options are unclear based on the information provided. Guests will likely need to explore nearby restaurants and cafes for other meal options during their stay.
Is the Hotel Suitable for Long-Term Stays?
The hotel may not be suitable for long-term stays as it doesn’t offer features like kitchenettes or extended-stay amenities. However, its central location and free WiFi could make it a decent option for shorter visits to the area.
Can Guests Book Tours or Activities Through the Hotel?
The hotel doesn’t appear to offer tour booking or activity planning services. However, guests can likely get recommendations from the staff on nearby attractions and how to arrange their own sightseeing plans during their stay.
What Is the Average Room Size?
The average room size at the hotel is not explicitly stated in the provided information. However, it notes the availability of single, twin, and double rooms, suggesting standard hotel room dimensions without providing specific measurements.
Is There a Fitness Center or Gym Available?
The hotel does not have a dedicated fitness center or gym on-site. Guests looking to exercise during their stay will need to make other arrangements, as this amenity is not provided by the Kyoto Universal Hotel Karasuma.
The Sum Up
The Kyoto Universal Hotel Karasuma offers a comfortable and convenient stay for travelers exploring Kyoto’s historic attractions. With easy access to Kyoto Station and praised amenities, the hotel provides a pleasant option for both sightseeing and relaxation. Guests can choose from various room types and enjoy the hotel’s reasonable value for money, making it a suitable choice for those seeking a comfortable base in the heart of the city.
