ORI Rokkaku

The neighbourhood was so quiet, which was a real bonus and made it easy to unwind in Kyoto's relaxed mood at the end of the day. The hotel is also just minutes from a bus stop, cafes, and markets. Of the four hotels we tried on our trip around Japan, this was the best. The staff were friendly and always greeted us with a smile, which stood out since personal interaction at hotels feels rare here. The room was great too. We’d struggled for space and somewhere to handle our luggage at the other hotels, but there was enough room here for the three of us. They also provided water and amenities that the others hadn’t.

I woke up at 3:15am to the washing machines, which made me question having them right beside guest rooms. The machines themselves aren't especially loud, but people coming and going make noise, too. One guest even waited for a load while chatting on speakerphone. The laundry is available around the clock, and I think it should have hours, maybe 7am to 10pm. Aside from that, it’s a nice place, and the staff are friendly when you happen to see them, since check-in is mostly digital.

We were four adults and each had a bed, with an individual light and USB outlet at every sleeping spot. The room was quiet and roomy, and there’s a little kitchen with complimentary water. I liked having the toilet separate from the sink, and the tub and shower had great pressure and temperature. It was easy to get to trains and buses, and 7/11 and Family Mart were within walking distance for food and drinks. There’s a washer, too. This was our favorite place we stayed in Japan.

A lovely, spacious, clean room, with a microwave and electric kettle in the kitchenette. The location was really convenient too.