Piece Hostel Sanjo

The staff made this stay memorable. I like getting to know people who live in the places I visit, and the team here were genuinely happy to share their experiences of life in Japan. Some came from other countries and shared useful perspectives on their home countries too. That made exploring Kyoto feel richer and helped me feel more at ease chatting with other travelers. They also kept everything in great shape and knew plenty about local places to try. The building could've been a cardboard box and they'd still have made the stay special. There are lots of ways to meet people here. The basement lounge in the east building is huge, and turns into a bar at night, with local performers and businesses hosting things there. I caught a live jazz band, and there was even a foot masseuse to help with tired feet after long days wandering around. It made it easy to join in with local activities without leaving the hostel. The location worked really well as a base, near Karasuma Oike subway station, the Kamogawa River and Sanjo Station, and Kyoto National Garden and Imperial Palace. I'm glad I got to stop here and make some new friends, and I'm already thinking about another trip. If you stay, have a chat with the friendly staff.

I picked this hostel as my Kyoto base and was surprised by how elegant and cozy it felt. Getting around was easy, with the nearest station about a 5 to 8 minute walk away, Nishiki Market close by, and plenty of shops and restaurants nearby. It also seems like an area that could be nice to explore by bike. My double room had a private bathroom and was much bigger than I expected for a place in Japan. I could open two medium suitcases comfortably, and there was more storage under the bed. Shared spaces were easy to reach, including a lounge, kitchens in both buildings, and washing machines. Extra pillows and slippers were available on each floor near the elevators, and towels were unlimited. Staff were friendly and accommodating. The person who helped me patiently explained the amenities and suggested things to see and do. The place gave me the impression of a good working environment, and there was luggage storage available. It felt like good value too. I even came across a live band one weekend when I went downstairs to microwave food I'd bought. There was plenty of room to socialize with other travelers. I didn't have time to try all their recommendations, but their curated map alone makes me want to return to Kyoto.

Everything was extremely clean, and the common spaces and bathrooms had the feel of a high end hotel. Staff kept me updated and were accommodating when travel delays pushed my check-in late. Nishiki Market and Teramachi Shopping street are within walking distance, along with plenty more, and bus stops and train stations are just a few minutes away. Easily my best hostel stay so far. I'd happily come back.

The lounge is huge, and the bed was cozy and comfortable. Showers were clean, and there was even a bath tub. I found the USB charging point and shelf by the bed really handy. Reception staff were welcoming and warm. A great value place to stay while exploring Kyoto, highly recommended.