HOTEL LEGASTA Kyoto Higashiyama Sanjo

The hotel has a lovely mix of modern design and an eastern aesthetic. It’s in a quieter, upscale area, with a fabulous French bakery across the street and restaurants nearby. Getting to the train is easy, and Gion and the temples are an easy walk. Quite lovely, definitely recommend!

Breakfast being included was a big plus and made things convenient. The staff were so friendly and welcoming, and the location was just right. We loved our stay and found the rooms very stylish and sparkling clean. Highly recommend this place, and we’ll definitely come back!

The location is excellent. The subway station is about 100 feet away, bus stops are a one to two minute walk, Gion is about a ten minute walk or two stops, and the Kamo River and Pontocho Alley area are seven to ten minutes on foot. We mostly got around by bus or walking, and the Kiyomizudera stop was four bus stops away. Arashiyama is a bit of a trek, so leave time for that trip. We stayed five nights in a queen room. The bed was comfortable, though on the firm side, like all the beds we had in Japan. From the fifth floor we could see over some neighboring buildings and enjoy Higashiyama, with Kyoto Tower in the distance and just a hint of the Yasaka Pagoda. Nothing special, but a cool view. I loved the shower and tub. There’s a counter and small table, an upgrade from our last place, though there was still less luggage space than some Americans may be used to. The staff and service were great. Breakfast tasted good, but it was a bit light for the price and our tastes, and didn’t feel filling enough for a full day of walking. We only ate it once.

The room with the bathtub was totally worth it, and the toilet was really cool too. The sink took a while to run hot, so sometimes we brushed our teeth with cold water. Staff were very nice, though communicating with them could be difficult at times. They helped send our bags to our next hotel, which I recommend because it makes traveling so much easier. I’d change the pillows, they were too thin. We really liked the hotel and would definitely come back.