Welcome to our no-nonsense review of the Rhino Hotel in Kyoto’s Ukyo-ku area. This comfy spot gives you a handy base for exploring the city’s top sights. You’re just a hop and a skip from famous temples like Kiyomizudera and Kinkakuji.
Inside, you’ll find well-equipped rooms, a pool for a dip, and a gym to keep you fit. The staff are friendly, and the rooms are roomy – always a plus in space-tight Japan.
But heads up: there’s some building work going on, so light sleepers might want to pack earplugs. Also, the breakfast might make your wallet wince a bit.
Despite these hiccups, we think this hotel’s a great pick for folks who want to be near the action but not right in the thick of it. It’s perfect for travelers who like a bit of comfort after a long day of sightseeing.
With Saiin Station close by, you can easily zip around to all of Kyoto’s cultural hotspots. So, if you’re after a solid base with good amenities in a quieter part of town, the Rhino Hotel could be just your ticket.
This hotel was selected for the 16 must-visit hotels in Ukyo Ward, Kyoto.
Good To Know
- The Rhino Hotel is located in Ukyo-ku, Kyoto, with convenient access to Saiin Station and major attractions like Kiyomizudera Temple and Kinkakuji Temple.
- The hotel offers well-equipped rooms, an indoor swimming pool, gym, spa, and sauna, as well as an on-site restaurant serving Japanese and Western-style breakfast.
- Guests have reported positive experiences with the facilities and staff, though some have voiced concerns about ongoing construction noise during the day.
- The hotel is accessible, with Kyoto Station just a 15-minute drive away and numerous restaurants, cafes, and convenience stores nearby.
- Upcoming large-scale repairs from April 2024 to August 2024 may cause potential noise and limited views, so guests are advised to consider this when planning their stay.
Hotel Overview
The Rhino Hotel Kyoto, situated in the heart of Kyoto’s Ukyo-ku district, offers a convenient and highly-rated accommodation option for travelers.
With an 8.3 ‘Very Good’ rating based on over 1,150 reviews, the hotel has a great location and excellent amenities. Guests can enjoy the hotel’s proximity to Saiin Station, providing easy access to Hankyu, Randen, and several bus lines.
Plus, the hotel is within a short distance of major attractions like Kiyomizudera Temple, Kinkakuji Temple, and Arashiyama.
Facilities and Amenities
Guests at the Rhino Hotel Kyoto can enjoy an array of excellent facilities and amenities.
The rooms are well-equipped, featuring air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, refrigerators, and private bathrooms with slippers, towels, and free toiletries.
The hotel also offers an indoor swimming pool, gym, spa, and sauna for guests’ relaxation.
A restaurant serving both Japanese and Western-style breakfast is available on-site.
Plus, the hotel provides free WiFi and private parking, though reservations are required.
Guests can take advantage of the 24-hour front desk, daily housekeeping, luggage storage, and laundry services.
The fitness center, however, does incur an extra charge.
Guest Reviews and Feedback
According to the reviews, guests have had a predominantly positive experience at the Rhino Hotel Kyoto.
They’ve praised the hotel’s wonderful facilities and excellent staff, with one guest from Turkey describing it as a "wonderful hotel" with a "good room size."
Travelers from Australia and Turkey have also commended the friendly and helpful staff.
However, some concerns have been raised, such as noise from ongoing construction during the day and the breakfast being considered expensive by certain guests.
Location and Accessibility
Within a short 2-minute walk, guests can access Saiin Station, providing convenient connections to the Hankyu, Randen, and several bus lines.
The hotel’s prime location allows for easy exploration of Kyoto’s top attractions. Kiyomizudera Temple is a 20-minute drive away, while Kinkakuji Temple and Arashiyama can be reached in about 25 minutes by bus and train, respectively.
Kyoto Station is a 15-minute drive from the hotel. Guests will also find numerous restaurants, cafes, and convenience stores within a 2-minute walk, making the hotel’s location highly convenient for their stay.
Check-in and Check-out
The check-in time at the Rhino Hotel Kyoto is from 15:00 to 00:00, while guests must check out by 12:00. This allows for a smooth transition between visitors and ensures the hotel can prepare the rooms for the next guests. The hotel’s flexible check-in and check-out times cater to the varying schedules of travelers.
| Check-in | Check-out |
|---|---|
| 15:00 | 12:00 |
| Flexible | Strict |
| Smooth | Prepare |
| Varying | Schedules |
| Timely | Transition |
Cancellation Policies
Depending on the accommodation type, the cancellation policies at the Rhino Hotel Kyoto may vary. Guests are advised to check the specific conditions for their booking.
In general, the hotel offers flexible cancellation policies, allowing guests to adjust their plans without incurring significant penalties. However, the terms may become stricter for certain room types or during peak travel seasons.
It’s recommended that guests review the cancellation guidelines carefully when making their reservations to avoid any unexpected charges or fees. The hotel’s front desk staff can also provide additional information about the cancellation policies upon request.
Children and Pets
Are children welcome at the Rhino Hotel Kyoto? Yes, children are welcome at the hotel.
However, the hotel doesn’t allow pets on the premises. Parents traveling with children can rest assured that the hotel has the necessary amenities and facilities to accommodate families.
The rooms are spacious and equipped with features suitable for children, such as a refrigerator and an electric kettle.
Plus, the hotel’s central location provides easy access to various family-friendly attractions in Kyoto. Guests are advised to check the hotel’s policies regarding any additional charges or restrictions related to children during their stay.
Upcoming Maintenance
According to the information provided, large-scale repairs are scheduled to take place at the Rhino Hotel Kyoto from April 3, 2024, to August 21, 2024.
These repairs may cause noise and limited views for guests during this period. Guests should be aware of this and plan their stay accordingly.
The hotel has been upfront about the upcoming maintenance, allowing travelers to make informed decisions about their visit.
While the repairs may cause some inconvenience, the Rhino Hotel Kyoto’s commitment to maintaining its facilities is a positive sign for the overall guest experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Smoking Allowed in the Hotel Rooms?
Smoking is not allowed in the hotel rooms. The hotel has a strict no-smoking policy to provide a clean and comfortable environment for all guests. Guests who wish to smoke must do so in designated outdoor areas.
What Are the Payment Methods Accepted at the Hotel?
The hotel accepts a variety of payment methods, including major credit cards like Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. Some guests may also be able to pay with cash upon arrival or departure.
Does the Hotel Offer Any Discounts or Special Packages?
The hotel offers occasional special packages, such as discounts on room rates or inclusive breakfast plans. Guests should check the hotel’s website or inquire at the front desk for any available promotions during their stay.
Can Guests Request Early Check-In or Late Check-Out?
Guests can request early check-in or late check-out, but these are subject to availability and may incur additional fees. The hotel’s standard check-in is from 3 PM and check-out is by 12 PM.
Are There Any Dining Options or Restaurants Nearby the Hotel?
The hotel has an on-site restaurant serving Japanese and Western-style breakfast buffet. There are also numerous restaurants, cafes, and convenience stores within a 2-minute walk of the hotel, providing guests with plenty of dining options nearby.
The Sum Up
The Rhino Hotel Kyoto offers a premier lodging experience in the heart of Japan’s ancient capital. With its convenient location, wide range of amenities, and exceptional guest reviews, this hotel is an ideal choice for travelers seeking a comfortable and culturally immersive stay. Whether visiting for relaxation or exploration, the Rhino Hotel Kyoto promises an exceptional experience that will leave a lasting impression.