Randor Residence Kyoto Classic

The room didn't look like the Expedia pictures. At check-in the hotel asked for an extra 600yen in cash as a lodging fee that hadn't been mentioned during booking. I'd try another hotel.

The room had a comfortable bed, a clean, well-equipped bathroom, plus a fridge, microwave, washing machine, and small kitchen. We were three family members and stayed four nights. My room was on the third floor and had a private balcony. The location was good, about a ten-minute walk to Kyoto station, and I had a comfortable stay with no problems. There isn't a front desk, though a staff member is there during check-in hours, 3-10 pm, to hand over the key. I didn't receive any check-in instructions after booking, so I had to call on the day to get the details.

The road was noisy, and the stark bright lights, stained walls and carpets, and nowhere to hang coats made the room unpleasant. It was tiny, with no space to put luggage, and the opaque window made it feel claustrophobic. We couldn't stay, so we paid to move to their sister hotel Kyoto ‘suites’, which was infinitely nicer. The staff, who work off site at the suites hotel, were very lovely and helped us transfer.

The building is in a nice area and not too far to walk from Kyoto station. We enjoyed the generous space, with a separate bedroom, living room, kitchen and laundry area, and bathroom. There's no front desk, so requests like extra towels have to be sent by text or email. If you're fine without reception or breakfast, this is a good option.