Kansai Seminor House

It’s a seminar house out in a suburban part of Kyoto. The rooms are dormitory style, clean, and fairly spacious.

I was there for one night on a business trip and had a fine stay. The place was modern and clean, and the staff were friendly. You could use either the Japanese style public bath or a private bathroom in your room. The meals were quite traditional Japanese food. There were lots of Indonesian themed pictures around the hotel. They also have conference and seminar rooms, though they aren’t very large.

If you’re after peace and quiet, this is a great spot under Mt Hiei, right by Manshuin Temple and other well known places. It’s historic and tranquil, with interesting features you don’t find at every inn. There are lovely gardens, tea rooms, a theater hall by the garden, artistic gates, fountains, a fish pond, seminar space, an art gallery, and music halls. You can also get straight to the mountains behind the property and Mt Hiei. Every room has its own beautiful view, the staff are amazing, and the food is so good. It’s a lovely base for hiking and exploring. People who want a busy city atmosphere may not like the location.

I came for a meditation retreat. There are peaceful places to walk both around the hotel and within its grounds.