Kyoto Itoya Hotel

Like many city-center hotels in Kyoto, the Kyoto Itoya is a simple property, though it's a bit more modern than its mid-range competition in town. This hotel is housed in a skinny nine-story black-and-white building with windows across the facade and a little balcony on the second floor. Guests enter on the ground floor and take the elevator up to reception on the second floor. There's not much in the lobby except the reception desk and some bikes for rent, but the cafe and lounge is adjacent. Hallways to guest rooms are modern, and feature touches of mood lighting. With its central location and reasonable rates, this hotel attracts all sorts of travelers, including families, couples, individuals, groups, and businesspeople. 

Situated on Karasuma Street, a major north-south route in town, this hotel is less than a 10-minute walk from a subway station and a popular shopping area. It's surrounded by tall corporate offices and banks, but there are plenty of shops a short walk away, as well as small eateries and bars. Starbucks can be reached in about four minutes on foot, and there are convenience stores nearby. The Shijo Karasuma train station can be reached in about six minutes on foot, and Kyoto Station is about a six-minute car ride. Expect a 15-minute commute to reach the bustling Gion District, and a 20-minute drive to Kinkaku-ji Temple, one of the city's most famous. Osaka International Airport is about a 45-minute drive or a little over an hour away by public transportation. 

Rooms are offered as singles, doubles, twins, or triples, though all will be compact -- not altogether surprising in central Kyoto. Decor is modern and simple, with minimal decoration except for modern wall hangings. Color schemes run toward neutral beige and brown, with wood accents on the walls. Beds are covered in white linens, and walls feature a textured beige wallpaper. Amenities in all include flat-screen TVs (no cable, just local channels), free Wi-Fi, mini-fridges, air-conditioning, hot water kettles, robes, and slippers. In single rooms, sinks are oddly placed right next to the TV. Bathrooms are tiny, but modern and sparkling clean, with square above-counter sinks, shower/tub combos, Japanese toilets, and toiletries. Some rooms have views of the city, while others have no view at all. 

This hotel has little in the way of features. A Japanese breakfast is served each morning in the cafe and lounge for a fee. It's a cozy space with free daily newspapers, books, magazines, and tourist information for guests to read. Floor-to-ceiling windows look out onto the street, and a few guests can choose to sit outside on the little balcony. Upon check-in, guests are given a free drink ticket for coffee or tea, or the ticket can be used to get a discount on an alcoholic drink. Snacks are served along with the free drinks, but reservations are needed. Bicycles are for rent on the first floor and also in the lobby on the second floor. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel.