Grand-Rem Kyoto

I made good friends among the other guests, who were great. The hostel is in a great area, with amazing nightlife right outside. The staff were amazing and went out of their way to make me feel welcome in Kyoto. I talked with them often, and they pointed me to the best sites and restaurants. When I got back from exploring, they were happy to answer my questions about local customs and the history I’d seen. The rooms, showers and bathrooms were extremely clean, and the bunks were cute and comfortable. I’m 176cm tall.

The beds on the fourth floor, where we stayed, were designed like old Japanese shadow theatres, and the whole Old theatre has a beautiful theme of old paper and kimono patterns. It’s been restored amazingly well. The kitchen is fully stocked, and the beds are so comfortable. I don’t think I’ll stay anywhere else in Kyōto. Best hostel in the city, no doubt. The staff were amazing, with at least one of the most helpful people I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with. Reception has tea and maps of the city, which is so much nicer than Tokyo. Take their suggestions for lunch, breakfast and dinner, they’re superb.

The location is one of Khaosan’s best features, and the staff are friendly. It has a nice homey hostel feel, and everything seemed clean. Still, I noticed a backpacker-feet smell and urine odor in the shared toilet. Maybe that wasn’t the hostel’s fault, or maybe I happened to visit during a week with smelly people. The couch by the laundry was ripe too. It wouldn’t be my first choice, but I wouldn’t mind staying again.

I got to try it on opening day, and everything felt new and clean. The box-shaped dorm beds are a nice idea, and there’s a good kitchen and dining area. The bathroom was clean and well equipped too. Hard to beat for a downtown Kyoto hostel.