Terrace Kiyomizu Kyoto

We stayed 4 days and 3 nights at Terrace Kiyomizu, and really liked the peaceful building and its eco-friendly approach. Our room was clean, modern, well designed, and had all the essentials. It was quiet enough to rest after long sightseeing days. The location was another highlight, with a bus stop nearby and a short walk to Kiyomizu-dera and the lovely streets of Higashiyama. The staff were helpful and accommodating, and communicated everything clearly. We appreciated the free bento breakfast, the coffee machine, and especially the lemon water. The rooftop terrace was cold during our visit, but still a relaxing place to unwind and look over Kyoto’s skyline. The lobby was also a nice spot to chill, with lots of mangas to read. The coin laundry was the one small issue, as our clothes didn’t dry fully. It wasn’t a big deal since a note said they could refund you if it didn’t work. We found it comfortable, good value, and would happily stay here again. 4.9/5, almost perfect.

A fun local detail: nearby temples and shrines may wake you at dawn with the sound of gongs and bells. The room was spacious and clean, with a small balcony door you can open for fresh air. Staff were very nice and attentive, and the hotel is close to attractions, restaurants, and bus lines.

The hotel’s terrace gave me a view of Kiyomizu to the left and Kyoto Tower to the right, and I loved going up there each morning for sunrise. Still, it can’t beat the view from Kiyomizu-dera itself. We stayed five nights on our first trip to Kyoto, and the location made early walks to Kiyomizu-dera and around Gion easy, without having to wake up extra early. We could also take late-night walks and still get an early night’s rest. There are plenty of bus and metro stations within walking distance, with routes to and from Kyoto Station, Arashiyama, Fushimi Inari, and even Osaka without changing at Kyoto St. The twin room was an adequate size, helped by the fact that we didn’t have very big luggage. The staff were friendly, and I appreciated them arranging a quieter room. It’s not the cheapest hotel in Kyoto, or the most attractive or unusual, but I think it’s good for the price.

You can visit Kiyomizu-Dera early, walk up from the hotel, and finish exploring before the 11 o’clock checkout. The location is superb, and there’s a nice view of Kyoto from the roof terrace. The hotel may not be the fanciest, but it’s great value, with friendly, helpful staff. I even got a cookie and a water bottle as a souvenir.