HOTEL Clam Chowder

The area is lively, with a busy shopping district just a two-minute walk away, plus restaurants, bars, and a 7-Eleven on the corner. The room won us over as soon as we opened the door: brick-red walls that brought Kyoto's autumn leaves to mind, and paper windows with a traditional Japanese feel. I was a little uneasy at first because there weren't many online reviews, but that worry turned out to be unnecessary. There's a bathtub, though water can pool while you're bathing. It drains quickly, so it wasn't a major issue. The location is especially convenient if you like staying somewhere bustling, and I'd recommend the hotel.

We stayed in six hotels in Japan, and this was the most expensive and the least comfortable. At a low-budget price, I'd probably give it around 3.5 stars, but not for what we paid. Shopping in the city centre is easy from here, though you'll still need buses to reach the main sights. The room felt dated and in need of renovation. There was dust in several spots, stains on the tables, and a strange smell in the bathroom. The bed, shower, smell, noise, lack of curtains, and absence of service or cleaning all made it less comfortable than the other hotels.

We loved the room, especially the two twin beds and the extra loft, and the shower was amazing. There was much more space than at the APA hotel where we stayed in Tokyo. The staff were really friendly, too. It's a great spot, only minutes from Nishiki Market, Pontocho Alley, and lots of lively streets with shops and restaurants. Several bike rental shops are right nearby, which worked perfectly for us. My husband and I would definitely come back to this cute little Kyoto hotel.

There's loads of space, and the place is adorable, with everything close by. The people were really friendly, and I'd happily recommend it. Just bear in mind it's beside one of the town's most visited areas, so you can hear people outside early and late. That didn't bother us, but light sleepers may want to consider it.