Monday Kyoto Karasuma Nijo Hotel

We had to use a nearby laundromat because the shared laundry machines were filthy and smelled bad. The water dispenser in the lobby also tasted strange to me, and there was no complimentary bottled water. Staff suggested we could skip daily cleaning in exchange for free bottles, which, along with the water and pillow situation, made the place seem very stingy about basic comforts. Each bed had only one pillow. When I asked for another, I was told they had run out. If people need extras so often, why not keep more in the rooms? Other hotels in the same price range in Japan usually provide enough pillows and free bottled water. I can imagine being told to pay for a more expensive hotel if I wanted better quality, but that's not what I expect at this price. Check-out is at 10:00 AM, which feels early. I know some Japanese hotels have similar hours, but the late check-out fees here were almost double what I've seen elsewhere. At another hotel for the same price, I could check out at 11:00 AM and stay two extra hours for half the fee. When staff couldn't meet my requests, their apologies didn't feel sincere. Their expressions made me feel like they thought I was being troublesome, which shocked me. I didn't want to argue at the time, so I'm writing this instead. I honestly don't understand the positive reviews of the service and facilities. I wouldn't recommend this hotel.

The breakfast buffet was affordable, with lots of delicious choices, and the free shuttle went to popular tourist spots. The driver was very nice and helpful. The subway station is also super close, and all the staff were friendly and helpful. We had a great stay, thank you.

The room was clean and spacious, and the staff were all friendly and helpful. For what I paid, it was well worth it. Most places are a bit of a walk, though the metro is only a couple of minutes away.

The location is strategic, close to both bus and train stations. The hotel and service were excellent, and the free Japanese sake discovery was wonderful. Highly recommended.