In our experience, this comfy inn near Karasuma Station hits the sweet spot for budget-conscious travelers who want a central Kyoto base. The rooms are snug but clean, with all the essentials you need for a good night’s sleep.
While the buffet breakfast isn’t exactly a gourmet affair, it’ll fuel you up for a day of temple-hopping.
One potential downside is the compact size of the rooms, which might feel cramped if you’re used to spacious American hotels. Also, light sleepers might notice some street noise, especially on lower floors.
That said, this place is a great fit for solo travelers or couples who plan to spend most of their time out exploring Kyoto’s treasures.
If you’re looking for a no-frills, well-located spot to rest your head after a long day of sightseeing, you’ve found your match. Just don’t expect a luxury resort experience, and you’ll be perfectly happy here.
Good To Know
- The Sotetsu Fresa Inn Kyoto-Shijokarasuma is a highly rated hotel (8.7/10) situated in central Kyoto, just a 3-minute walk from Karasuma Station.
- The hotel offers convenient access to popular Kyoto attractions, including Nishiki Market, Nijo Castle, and Kiyomizu-dera Temple.
- Guests can enjoy free WiFi, a 24-hour front desk, buffet-style breakfast, and comfortable room amenities such as air conditioning and private bathrooms.
- The hotel is praised for its excellent service, cleanliness, and value for money, with high ratings from past guests.
- The hotel is easily accessible, with nearby public transportation options and proximity to Itami, Kobe, and Kansai International Airports.
Hotel Overview
The Sotetsu Fresa Inn Kyoto-Shijokarasuma is a well-regarded hotel located in the heart of Kyoto.
It boasts an excellent 8.7/10 rating based on 1,777 reviews and a superb location score of 9.1/10.
Situated just a 3-minute walk from Karasuma Station, the hotel offers easy access to Kyoto Station via the Karasuma Line, which is just a 5-minute train ride away.
Guests can conveniently explore nearby attractions like Nishiki Market, Nijo Castle, and Kiyomizu-dera Temple.
With its strategic location, the Sotetsu Fresa Inn provides a comfortable and accessible base for travelers exploring the historic city of Kyoto.
Amenities and Facilities
Free WiFi is available throughout the Sotetsu Fresa Inn Kyoto-Shijokarasuma, scoring a high 9.1 out of 10 from guests.
The hotel offers a range of amenities and facilities to ensure a comfortable stay:
- 24-hour front desk and luggage storage for guest convenience.
- Buffet-style breakfast to start the day.
- Non-smoking rooms, air conditioning, and heating for guest comfort.
- Private bathrooms with free toiletries, flat-screen TVs, desks, and fridges in all rooms.
Plus, the property features coin-operated laundry machines, a lounge, and a smoking area.
Accessibility features include wheelchair accessibility, Braille signs, and grab rails in bathrooms.
Guest Experience
Guests award the Sotetsu Fresa Inn Kyoto-Shijokarasuma high ratings for its staff (9.1), cleanliness (9.0), comfort (9.0), and value for money (8.9). Positive guest feedback highlights the comfortable beds, spacious rooms, and convenient location near public transport and popular attractions. The quiet atmosphere despite the central location is also appreciated. The hotel’s rich supply of amenities and helpful staff contribute to the overall positive guest experience.
| Guest Reviews | Score |
|---|---|
| Staff | 9.1 |
| Cleanliness | 9.0 |
| Comfort | 9.0 |
| Value for Money | 8.9 |
| Location | 9.1 |
Policies
Check-in at the Sotetsu Fresa Inn Kyoto-Shijokarasuma is from 15:00 to 00:00, with check-out required by 11:00.
Cancellation and prepayment policies vary by accommodation type. Children 6 and older are charged as adults, while pets aren’t allowed. Groups booking more than 5 rooms may face different policies.
The hotel offers:
- Public transport tickets for an additional charge.
- Convenient access to nearby Karasuma and Shijo railway stations.
- Advice to inform the property of late arrivals to avoid bookings being treated as no-shows.
- Proximity to major airports, including Itami, Kobe, and Kansai International.
Transportation and Accessibility
The Sotetsu Fresa Inn Kyoto-Shijokarasuma offers convenient public transportation options, with tickets available for an additional charge. The hotel is situated close to major airports, with Itami Airport, Kobe Airport, and Kansai International Airport all within reasonable distance. Guests can also access nearby railway stations, including Karasuma Station and Shijo Station, making it easy to explore the city.
| Airport | Distance (km) |
|---|---|
| Itami Airport | 37.9 |
| Kobe Airport | 63.7 |
| Kansai International Airport | 78.6 |
Guests are advised to inform the property of late arrivals to avoid their booking being treated as a no-show.
Location and Nearby Attractions
The Sotetsu Fresa Inn Kyoto-Shijokarasuma enjoys an excellent location, situated just a 3-minute walk from Karasuma Station. From there, guests can reach Kyoto Station in just 5 minutes via the Karasuma Line.
The hotel’s central position also provides easy access to several popular attractions:
- Nishiki Market, a lively food market known as "Kyoto’s Kitchen", is just a 10-minute walk away.
- Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, can be reached in 15 minutes.
- The iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple, with its stunning wooden terrace, is a 30-minute walk from the hotel.
- Numerous other cultural and historical landmarks are within easy reach, making the Sotetsu Fresa Inn an ideal base for exploring Kyoto.
Room Features and Comforts
All rooms at the Sotetsu Fresa Inn Kyoto-Shijokarasuma are equipped with a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. Each room features a flat-screen TV, a desk, and a fridge, providing guests with convenient in-room entertainment and storage options. The private bathrooms are stocked with free toiletries, ensuring guests’ basic needs are met.
| Room Features | Description |
|---|---|
| Air Conditioning | Individually controlled for guest comfort |
| Heating | Ensures warmth during colder months |
| Soundproofing | Provides a quiet environment for a restful sleep |
The rooms’ thoughtful design and high-quality furnishings contribute to an overall pleasant and relaxing guest experience at the Sotetsu Fresa Inn Kyoto-Shijokarasuma.
Breakfast and Dining Options
Guests at the Sotetsu Fresa Inn Kyoto-Shijokarasuma can start their day with the hotel’s buffet-style breakfast.
The breakfast spread offers a variety of options to suit different tastes:
- Traditional Japanese items like miso soup, grilled fish, and natto.
- Western-style dishes such as eggs, sausages, and pancakes.
- Fresh fruits, pastries, and a selection of breads.
- Hot and cold beverages, including coffee, tea, and juices.
The breakfast service is highly rated by guests, who appreciate the quality and variety of the offerings.
With its convenient location and ample dining options, the hotel ensures guests can fuel up for a day of exploring Kyoto’s sights.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Store My Luggage Before Check-In or After Check-Out?
Yes, the hotel offers luggage storage for guests before check-in and after check-out. This service is available at the 24-hour front desk, allowing travelers to explore the area without carrying their bags.
Is There a Gym or Fitness Center Available On-Site?
The hotel does not offer an on-site gym or fitness center. However, guests can take advantage of the nearby public transportation to access fitness facilities in the surrounding area.
Can I Rent a Bicycle During My Stay?
The hotel does not offer bike rentals on-site. However, guests can inquire at the front desk about nearby rental options to explore the local area by bicycle during their stay.
Do They Offer Any Discounts for Extended Stays?
The hotel does not seem to offer any discounts for extended stays based on the information provided. However, guests should check with the property directly to inquire about any promotional offers or deals for longer bookings.
How Far Is the Nearest Post Office or Convenience Store?
The nearest post office is a 5-minute walk away, while a convenience store is just a 2-minute walk from the hotel. The hotel’s central location provides easy access to essential amenities.
The Sum Up
The Sotetsu Fresa Inn Kyoto-Shijokarasuma offers a convenient and comfortable stay in the heart of Kyoto. With its prime location near Karasuma Station, guests can easily explore the city’s renowned attractions. The hotel’s exceptional guest ratings, wide range of amenities, and well-appointed rooms make it an ideal choice for both business and leisure travelers seeking a central and highly-rated accommodation in Kyoto.