Kyoto Travellers Inn

We were a bit apprehensive, because the room was a postage stamp. In truth, however, Kyoto Traveler’s Inn was good. Good price, good location, friendly staff, beautifully painted lobby and staircase, good laundry facility, okay bed and good shower. It has a hostel feel, but that should not deter even older folk. Across the street is the Museum of Art, the Heian-jingū (Heian Shinto Shrine).

I stayed here this past May, and again in November as I was able to return to Japan for Autumn colors and see additional sites and experiences that I missed before (which also included Tokyo). As I said in my earlier review of this hotel, this is a great budget hotel and a great value in an excellent quieter location of Kyoto! It is long-established by the same family, it is modern and very clean and bright with some practical old-school charm, and from what I understand they have many repeat customers such as myself. The hotel is maintained and up-to-date (it had a standard U.S. size shower, that is the same as mine in the U.S., and the bathroom was larger and easier to use than my more expensive hotel in Tokyo that I stayed at). Newer, modern plumbing including the sink, toilet, faucets, and updated shelving plus updated pleasant decor that I mentioned in my previous review...and again, VERY clean. While there is no elevator, they will carry up your suitcase to the room if necessary. I stayed on the 4th (top) floor, and it had a view of the Museum and Torii Gate of Heian Shrine. You can see this view from the lobby, dining area and outdoor dining area. Also, the staff is friendly and professional and HELPFUL!! (Thanks!!). I experienced mostly cool November days with some very cold nights in Kyoto. The room was the perfect temperature for sleeping this time of year. I slept very soundly in a super comfortable bed and appreciated the warm comforter. I made my coffee in the room with the instant coffee packets I purchased at 711 down the street (the hotel provides tea packets). The coffee they serve downstairs if you purchase breakfast is really good. They also have a mini-coffee maker near the lobby (I did not use). There is a mini-fridge in the room. Note that the hotel is very close to many historical sites and that you can walk to many of these sites, including while on quiet morning walks. I also used the convenient bus route is close by and also walked to one of the subway stations. This is my favorite Kyoto spot to stay plus I love the area, and someday I know I will return here again!

We have stayed here four times now and appreciate the friendly, helpful staff, the casual atmosphere, and perfect location. Located on the canal and across the street from the Heian Shrine Torii gate, it’s a pleasant walk to the Philosopher’s Walk, Gion, Kiyomizudera Temple, and local restaurants. The four of us stayed in either Japanese rooms (spacious and comfortable) or western rooms with beds. Both were clean and well maintained. There is a laundry on-site as well as a free coffee machine and vending machines. We had breakfast each morning and chose between the Japanese or western versions. Staff helped us by making reservations at several restaurants and cheerfully greeted us each time we entered the hotel. They have a nice outside deck overlooking the canal which we sat at and shared a drink. Locally owned and operated they have a mix of rooms and styles and work hard to accommodate their guests.