Richmond Hotel Premier Kyoto Ekimae

The room was tiny for opening a full-size suitcase, had no blackout curtains, and the TV only got one news channel. We could also hear street noise at night, as the hotel is near a hospital. Even so, this was my favorite hotel on our week in Japan. The lobby and room decor were super cute, and there were lots of free lobby amenities, including hair oil and postcards of local temples. The beds and pillows were comfy, and the separate tub and shower meant two people could use the bathroom at once. Breakfast had a great mix of Western and Japanese food, and the afternoon ice cream was a treat. We paid under $100 for one night with breakfast, so it was definitely worth it.

The staff were exceptionally well trained and made the whole stay feel like a real five-star experience. Free ice cream, coffee and other thoughtful extras added to it. This was the best hotel of our two-week trip, and excellent value for money. Thank you for a great stay.

Breakfast was a real pleasure, with local dishes served thoughtfully, and the staff were consistently kind and welcoming. The hotel is just steps from Kyoto Station, but inside it’s surprisingly peaceful. The rooms feel modern, clean and purposefully laid out, with a Japanese sense of space. It’s comfortable without feeling fussy or pretentious, and made a handy base for exploring Kyoto whether you’re there for a night or a week.

I was impressed by the hotel itself. Richmond Hotel Premier Kyoto Ekimae is beautiful and modern, and the rooms are spacious, especially by Japanese standards. The service was excellent, and the afternoon happy hour with free sake and wine was a thoughtful touch. Still, I probably wouldn’t return because it’s quite far from Gion and central Kyoto. Reaching the main areas by train or bus takes at least 40 minutes. If that distance doesn’t bother you, it’s a lovely, comfortable place with great service. For sightseeing and dining right in the heart of Kyoto, somewhere closer to Gion may suit better.