Satoi Omiya Gojo Seishi

The townhouse was much bigger than I’d pictured, and it was fun to look around since I’d never stayed in a traditional Japanese one before. The cat lamps and heart-shaped indirect lights were adorable. It was very clean, I didn’t see a single bug, and it was quiet enough at night to sleep well. A small letdown was the bath water draining slowly, though it did drain eventually and wasn’t a real problem. There were two sinks and chairs, plus two Repronizers, so my friend and I could dry our hair at the same time without squabbling. After getting sweaty while out, the Panasonic drum washer that also dries clothes was a lifesaver. They left two detergent bottles, but I got so used to using it that I bought more at a drugstore and ran it many times during the stay. The room was already cool when I arrived. They’d left a folder with nearby restaurant information, put two liters of water in each mini-fridge, and provided Häagen-Dazs ice cream and a free voucher for an affiliated parking lot. I stayed two nights and, with the voucher, paid just 400 yen for parking. It was a lovely stay, and I’d absolutely come back.

The layout, with a main building and separate cottages, gave the place a real Kyoto feel. I’d received the entry instructions by email a few days ahead, so I knew what to expect, and the front desk staff also explained how to get in. Everything went smoothly. There’s a 24-hour supermarket nearby, and the ramen shop across the street stays open late, which was handy for a late-night bite. I also enjoyed the complimentary parfait at the cafe next door. Such a charming place to stay. I’d happily come back on another Kyoto trip.

This was my third stay, and I keep coming back for the roomy rooms and good value for all the services included. The combination locks are handy since there’s no key to lose or have stolen. My daughter, who’s really into beauty products, loves the Mirable shower head and Repronizer hair dryer. I liked the shampoo too, so I ordered the same one online. I think it’s a Kyoto brand.

We couldn’t book consecutive nights here, so we used another place in the same chain. My last stay was at "Shisei-yado," but the night before that, I had this whole building to myself. The interior was completely different, and it felt like such a luxurious stay. I also liked having the main building separate from the bedroom. Once the kids were asleep, my husband and I could relax with a drink in the evening. Next time, I’d like to come with the girls for a getaway or something.