Today, I’d like to recommend the Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Shijo, where I always stay whenever I visit Kyoto! I’ve been here three times already, and each stay has been delightful. Aside from its convenient location and the presence of hot springs, what I love most about this hotel is its “quiet and elegant atmosphere nestled in the alleyways” and the “professional and friendly reception.”
Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Shijo - Address: 〒600-8472 707-1 Nishinotoin-dori, Shijo-sagaru, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto City - Website: Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Shijo - Google Map: Google Map Location - Check-in: 15:00 / Check-out: 11:00
Reception Lobby
Upon entering, you’re welcomed by warm, soft lighting in the lobby, filled with a distinct Japanese design that truly lives up to its four-star reputation. The reception area, usually staffed by three to four attendants, manages even during peak check-in times without much waiting. There are chairs available for a brief rest as well.
I recall they renovated during the pandemic, making the space brighter and adding a more streamlined feel. The central small garden landscape is my favorite spot. Whenever my grandmother visited, she’d relax on the recliners here while waiting to head out.
The staff is always incredibly friendly, whether assisting with travel routes, car rental information, or restaurant reservations – they are genuinely helpful! If encountered the next day, they ask about your experience and engage in a small conversation, making us feel at home.
Accessible Twin Room
This hotel offers an accessible room. You can book a standard twin room on Booking.com and inform them that a wheelchair user will be staying. Upon confirmation, they can arrange the accessible room for you. The room, situated on the second floor near the restaurant, is very convenient.
Upon entering, you’ll find a storage area, a bathroom to the left, and then the beds. There’s a small table between the beds where you can place some snacks (well, it seems more than just a few snacks! 😄)
The beds are comfortable, not too soft – I had a great night’s sleep. The hotel also provides bathrobes for use in the bathhouse, and my grandmother absolutely loved the socks they provided (they replenish them daily)!
Accessible Bathroom
The bathroom is well-equipped for accessibility; wheelchairs can easily access it and there are handrails. If you need a shower chair, please inform them in advance. Moreover, the shower has excellent water pressure and temperature control. The showerhead provides an incredibly comfortable showering experience; I’m tempted to ask them which brand they use! 😄
Transportation and Location
Let me tell you! Although it may seem like there’s no subway station nearby, there’s a direct bus (City Bus 50) from Kyoto Station that drops you off right at the hotel’s doorstep. Plus, there’s a bus stop nearby that takes you directly to popular areas like Kawaramachi and Gion, making it incredibly convenient.
Moreover, next to the hotel, there’s a convenience store (FamilyMart), and just across the street, you’ll find two supermarkets and a variety of restaurants. It’s a convenient location with all necessary amenities without the bustling feeling of popular tourist spots.
Public Bathhouse
Adjacent to the lobby on the ground floor, there’s a public bathhouse – perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring. The lounge area also has massage chairs and vending machines selling ice cream. It’s a fantastic space! Operating hours: 15:00 – 09:00
Breakfast Buffet
Last time I visited for breakfast was in 2018. We had a variety of options like Japanese rice porridge, Western-style salads, bread, and more. What stood out were the freshly cooked Japanese-style pancakes (tamagoyaki) and the fish – absolutely delicious! You can include breakfast with your room reservation or add it at the front desk. Below are images from the official website:
This hotel, which I’ve visited thrice, I hope you don’t like it too much, or else it might become too expensive for me to stay next time! But truly, it’s a high-value, quality stay. If you’re in Kyoto, consider checking it out!
Mr. David's Ratings Room: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Bathroom: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Service: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Location: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Value for Money: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5Mr. David