The OneFive Kyoto Shijo - Vacation STAY 41810v

The laundry setup could be better: there are just two small-capacity washers, and the dryers aren’t very strong. If you plan to do laundry, daytime may be easier than evening. Apart from that, our six-night stay was very pleasant. The room was roomy, spotless, and well cared for, with all the basics we needed. Getting around was easy, with attractions and transport nearby and tourist-friendly prices. Staff were courteous and professional, and check-in and checkout were smooth.

The room was a big reason this became my favorite of the three hotels I stayed in across Osaka, Kyoto, and Tokyo. For what I paid, it was much larger than the usual Japanese hotel room, and the building felt clean, modern, and nearly new. Getting around was simple too: Shijo-Omiya Station is about a five-minute walk, the bus stop is across the street, and Kawaramachi is a short ride or a pleasant half-hour walk away. There’s a Seven Eleven just down the stairs and lots of restaurants close by. The staff were helpful and made things easy. I really enjoyed staying at The OneFive Kyoto Shijo and would recommend it for comfort and value.

The washing machines were the worst part. There are only two, and the one we used was filthy, with a shredded receipt and dirt and lint inside. It ruined both our new clothes and older durable ones, causing tears, pilling, and stretching. We travel light, so now we’ll have to replace everything despite an already packed schedule. That’s easily over $300 in clothes, about what I paid for the hotel. I raised it with the front desk and asked for a manager, but they wouldn’t put us in touch. They said there was no email or phone for the manager, and the other workers dodged me. The room and location are good, but service fell short. Most check-in is handled by kiosk, there’s no water, coffee costs extra, and bathrobes and slippers are free at reception. It didn’t feel like the level of service I’ve had at other hotels, even guesthouses and a two-star place. I’m usually relaxed about these things, so mentioning it says a lot.

The most helpful part for me was having Nepali staff. The location was handy for transport and restaurants, and the staff were friendly and ready to assist. My room was clean, comfortable, and well kept. I had a wonderful stay and would come back.