Kyoto Granbell Hotel

My daughter and I had a lovely stay at this hotel. It is situated on a side street in Gion away from the crowds. The location is close to so many local restaurants. We had a lunch set at the gyoza restaurant next door. An amazing deal. Also nearby is yakitori or Tempura restaurant. Down south from the hotel about 200-300 m is a fish market place that is packed and has amazing fish to grill -well priced compared to restaurants in the touristy parts. The hotel is understated and very well serviced. We had a superior double room (17 square meters ) in a Japanese room which has a tatami floor and bed a bit lower to the floor, and table /chair closer to the ground. Not recommended of you have poor knees. It was located on the fourth floor. Like many hotels is was small but sufficient with carry on luggage. The hotel has a public onsen which I used after a long day of sight seeing and walking. I used it twice between 4-5 and was the only one there. It is separated into men’s and women’s baths. You need a special key card to enter. Breakfast buffet was extensive including Japanese and western options. Personally , I prefer the Japanese rice, fish , veggie and miso meal over eggs and sausages. They also have free coffee and tea all day, and serve snacks from 11-5 pm ( rice crackers). The amenities bar is very good ie. face products, sunscreen, etc. There is also a laundry facility which we used . Thee is a small bar. The staff at the reception are very kind and helpful . If I return to Kyoto I would be happy to stay here again! Book early (30 days in advance ) to get a better rate. Also, if you like matcha go to Uji town about 45 min south and enjoy that town. There is a green tea museum that has educational programs - must book in advance to participate in the green tea grinding programs. However, the museum, albeit small, can be entered any time for a fee (600 yen). Enjoy Kyoto !