Hotel Gran MS Kyoto

There are similar mid-range hotels in the area, but the Gran Ms has a good selection of rooms that draw a wide range of travelers. Simply designed, this property features streamlined Japanese interiors in light tones accented with wooden fixtures and fittings. A few pops of modern art perk things up a bit, most of which are sourced from Junko Funada, who handled the hotel's art direction. There's limited communal space and no restaurant, so guests might not interact with others during their stay. That likely won't trouble anyone, as many travelers here spend their days out doing business or seeing the local temples. The hotel is most popular with couples who enjoy the pretty outdoor gardens in some of the Japanese Rooms. The wide range of room choices also draws a good number of families, particularly during cherry blossom season.

While this hotel is located in the same area as other mid-range options, the property’s proximity to nearby public transport links is a real selling point. It’s only five-minute walk (or less) to two subway stations (Sanjo or Kyotoshiyakusho-Mae), and a 10-minute walk to Kawaramachi Subway station. The hotel’s central location on a main shopping street means a good selection of independent and chain stores can be found nearby. Those who prefer to explore local culture should head to the Gion District, with its preserved geisha scene, which is a 10- to 15-minute walk away. Kyoto is synonymous with cherry blossoms in spring, so guests might visit Maruyama Park, a 10-minute drive away, to see hundreds of trees in bloom. The Nijo Castle complex is also 10 minute away by car and has beautiful gardens to explore. Temples are one of the city's biggest draws, and the major ones will require a drive or subway ride. Kodai-ji Temple is a 14-minute drive away, Kiyomizu-dera temple is a 17-minute drive, and Kinkakuji Temple is 23 minutes away by car. There's no on-site restaurant, but there are plenty of dining options surrounding the hotel. Gran Ms is at least a 60-minute drive from Osaka International Airport. 

The attractive rooms at Gran Ms are simply decorated in a neutral palette, with more of Ms. Funada's art hanging on some of the walls. At 13 square meters (140 square feet), entry-level Small Double Rooms are a tight squeeze, and most suitable for single travelers. Friends traveling together might prefer the Moderate, Superior, or Deluxe Twin Rooms that include relaxed seating areas with coffee tables and televisions. There's ample wardrobe space and electronic safes for valuables. In Japanese-style rooms, furnishings are minimal, with soft-tiled floors under foot, coffee tables, and scatter cushions. Large cupboards conceal futon mattresses, bedding, and plenty of pillows. These authentic spaces lend themselves to relaxation and include a kettle, Japanese tea, and plenty of mugs. The best Japanese Rooms come with a relaxing Tubo Niwa outdoor garden area, thoughtfully filled with polished stones and greenery. Others blend Japanese and international tastes with standard beds and Tatami seating areas. Standard features in all rooms include wall-mounted LCD televisions, air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and mini-fridges. All rooms include a bathroom, with stall showers or shower/tub combos. Plenty of bath products, fresh towels, hairdryers, and slippers are provided. 

This traditional property has a limited selection of facilities for a hotel of its size, and the lack of an onsen is a surprise in a city where they are often standard. There is no restaurant, pool, or fitness center on-site, so the hotel largely caters to guests looking for a no-frills base to explore the city. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel. There is no parking at the hotel, but guests might try the nearby Watagi car park, for a fee. Laundry, vending, and ice machines are available for guests to use as well.