Hotel Okura Kyoto

Just checked out of the Okura and it was simply fantastic bar one item which grated. ||We stayed here for 5 nights whilst in Kyoto and the hotel is spotlessly clean and everything worked really well for us. Terrific staff who were exceptionally attentive and always smiling. |The room (corner deluxe) was spacious, well appointed and had terrifically silent aircon which was just a delight in the summer heat. |Breakfast was brilliant and there was something for everyone. Literally every cuisine was accounted for. |The location of the hotel is just a few mins walk to the tube (under the hotel in fact) and great for exploring downtown Kyoto and Gion. |The unsung heroes were the cloakroom team who were always on hand to help (we borrowed umbrellas, checked in our luggage with Yamato for our onward travel). A very smiley and helpful crew. |The bar on the second floor was a lovely and traditional set up, which we used a couple of times. ||I would have easily given this hotel 5* but for one item. You have to pay ¥3,300 (£16) to use the gym /pool, per person per day. I have travelled the world and never had a hotel charge such a big amount to keep fit! I understand that the gym / pool is a members club so I could easily expect a discounted rate or perhaps limited hours when it was accessible to hotel guests, but to charge so much on a daily basis seemed ridiculous. This should be an item which the management reflect on.

This is a beautifully elegant hotel in central Kyoto, very well located for the city centre and the main sites, and situated just next to a metro station. The public areas are wonderfully spacious, and the staff are the epitome of good service and customer care. We had a corner room overlooking the city, which was very comfortable and spotlessly clean, although possibly feeling a little dated compared to other similar level hotels.||There are several restaurants available to guests, including a Japanese kaiseke restaurant and a Chinese restaurant, both of which we dined in and both of which were excellent. There's a tea room on the ground floor, which we did not try, but which appeared to serve wonderful patisseries.||Breakfast was a slightly different matter. The buffet breakfast is situated on the 17th floor, with wonderful views of the city. However, it as a "cafeteria" style, with guests picking up a tray and cutlery, before queueing at various food stations; definitely not what we expected at a hotel at this level. The food itself was good, with plenty of different options, both western and local. And of course, again, staff were of the highest standard of courtesy and efficiency.||When we checked-in, the member of staff on reception said that we would be "very disappointed with the wifi", and boy, he was right. The wifi was pitiful, and I spent most of the stay using my phone as a hotspot. The bar is a very nice space, although perhaps a little formal for some; it levies a cover charge, and is closed on Wednesdays, both of which seem strange to me. Similarly, the fitness centre is closed on Mondays, and charges guests Y3,300 per visit (about £17 at today's prices), which seems to be a strategy to keep guests away from the gym.||In summary, this is a wonderful, classical hotel with beautiful public spaces and first class staff. Issues with the wifi and the strange approach to closing the bar and fitness centre one day a week took a little bit of the shine off our stay, but nevertheless we really enjoyed spending 4 nights at the Okura.

This gracious, elegant, historic hotel has great charm, and a feeling of luxury about it. It's my favourite place to stay in Kyoto. The staff are very attentive, and helpful with a wide range of things, and also have some humour rather than being over-formal. The food is great, particularly love the breakfasts at the Japanese restaurant Irifune (nice little garden outside the window too!). Ideally located within walking distance of the river, Gion, and many sights and shops, it is also right above a subway station which can be reached via escalator or lift. ||I was only there for three days this time, and rather than the river view I usually choose I had a panoramic city view on the Nijo Castle side, right across to the western mountains, which I very much enjoyed. The spacious twin room had good lighting via lamps, adjustable air conditioning, a humidifier which I didn't have to fill myself all the time, a good desk, a small table, a lounge chair and two other padded wooden chairs of just the right height, heaps of drawers, lots of clothes hanging space, a big mirror, a decent-sized fridge, an electric jug and a safe which I could actually fit my DSLR camera into as well as the other valuables (many hotel safes are too small). Drip coffee and three types of teabags. Beautiful origami cranes on the table welcome visitors, and there is also a printed drawing showing the view's landmarks. There was an attractive artwork and lovely green and gold curtains. There was a choice of pillows and I slept well. The bathroom had great light for applying makeup and heaps of bench space. A deep bath, quality toiletries, and towels which really dry you, with a lovely soft dressing gown and complimentary slippers provided. drip coffe teabags English green and roast tea. ||I also enjoyed two good room service seafood meals and delicious cakes from the lobby cafe. Happy memories, again, and can't wait to return!

This is a lovely hotel, one of the older style ones in Kyoto but full of charm. Spotlessly clean everywhere, large rooms with very comfortable beds and pillows.||The staff are delightful, very welcoming and helpful, always with a smile. ||Breakfast was an excellent choice and good quality. Something for everyone. ||There is a lovely old fashioned bar with service that is absolute perfection!||I’d have given the Okura 5 stars if it were not for one thing - they charge guests 3000 yen to use the gym and pool. In the hundreds of hotels we’ve stayed in across the world we have never experienced this and it’s a major let down. After a hot day’s walking a dip in the pool would have been delightful but there is no way we’re paying £15 each as hotel guests to do that. If they want to limit the numbers using the pool and gym there are far better ways of achieving that, time slots for example. This policy really lets the hotel down as it seems so mean. Sadly, this is what will stay on our minds over what was a lovely stay. Please rethink this Hotel Okura management!

Have to review this outstanding stay I had recently with Okura - So I had a walking tour at around 5:30pm and I reached Kyoto around 5pm via the Shinkansen …I had all my luggage with me … I hurried to the hotel to drop my luggage - ended up at the hotel only at 5:24pm - in hardly 15 sec - They Id-ed me - located their reservation and took my luggage ….I made it back to the tour drop area at exactly 5:30pm …I went back around 9pm - my luggage ready in my room!…just a prime example for exemplary service! I didn’t call in advance …didn’t even go into the hotel … everything ready for me by the taxi drop-off..Stay and room wise - just outstanding!! Very warm and welcoming staff!!!… Thank you so much - Highly recommended!!!

The staff were very attentive and offered to take our luggage up to our room while we checked in with our tour group. The room itself was very spacious with an absolutely gorgeous view over to the East. The room included a paper that described the different buildings and mountains that we could see. The beds were a bit stiff, but that didn’t stop us from being well-rested and enjoying our time in Kyoto. We had breakfast in the Japanese restaurant on the 6th floor and were very impressed by the meal. The location of the hotel is very convenient to many places to see and eat at, and we look forward to returning in the future.

Wow! I chose this place because I wanted a lodging near the university somewhat. They offered a free shuttle to and from Kyoto station. The hotel itself was older but the rooms were quite large compared to typical Japan hotels. The facilities were great as well. The only downside is that the gym cost 3000yen per day. This was a real bummer.

Exceptional hotel! The 5-star reviews are spot on. Friendly, welcoming service. Clean, lovely rooms. Centrally located without feeling overwhelmed by any crowds. Beautiful view of Kyoto city. Pros: Friendly and welcoming reception area. We checked in early without any issues. Our receptionist offered us an extra bed for a family member to be placed in our room unprompted which I was grateful for. Clean. Uncluttered. Calm waiting area. Pros: The view from our room was amazing! I don't know if they upgraded our room but it sure felt like it. House keeping was friendly. Pros: The hotel has several elevators that were not crowded during our stay. The wait time was minimal. Pros: It was very easy to ship our luggage to the next hotel. I'm a bit of a worrier/early planner so I like to do things in advance. Went downstairs the day before shipment in order to understand the process. Three different people approached to help me, which was lovely. The gentleman filled out all of the necessary paperwork for me. Called my following hotel to verify. When I brought my luggage down the next day, everything was set and the final exchange took less than 5 minutes. Pros: The hotel is connected to the subway. If you head downstairs, you will find several very tasty and affordable bakeries/food vendors. Pros: About 15 mins from Kyoto station. The list of pros is near endless. I will definitely stay at Hotel Okura Kyoto during my next visit.

This was our favorite hotel during our 10 day trip thru Japan. First of all, the hotel allow you to adjust the temperature in your room below 20C, which was not the case in the other hotels we stayed at. You had to stay in suites or complain to the front desk, but I found it very annoying. It was not a problem here. Anyhow, the rooms were large, clean and beautiful. The staff was polite and very helpful and food in the restaurant was good. The hotel was located in a good spot to get to the trains and other sights by foot. Very nice hotel, well priced for what you got and I would stay here if I visited Kyoto again.

Our stay at the Okura Hotel was excellent. Located right next to Kyoto City Hall, it's incredibly convenient, with a subway station directly in front of the hotel. Although we arrived early and couldn't check in immediately, the staff allowed us to leave our carry-on luggage with them. Since we had sent our larger suitcases ahead to the hotel, we were free to start exploring Kyoto right away. The room was spacious, especially for a hotel in Japan, and I was very pleased with it. The service was exceptional throughout our stay. If you're someone who enjoys breakfast, I highly recommend booking a room with the breakfast option, as most places outside don't open until 10 a.m. Overall, it was a great experience!

One of the best things about Japan, well...it's the toilets. The Toto toilet has a heated seat, different self and manual flushing speeds, warm water that squirts up to clean your butt and whatever else you may have. The toilet also cleans itself! It is magical! And it is all over town. No matter where you are you can find a clean public toilet. Hotel Okura is a rather old but famous luxury Kyoto hotel. It is across the street from the Kyoto city hall. The rooms, contrary to more modern Japanese hotels, are rather large. Two people do not smash into each other when they pass thru the room to the toilet. The bathroom is large, consisting of a full size tub, shower, sink, large counter, and...a very smart Toto toilet! The furniture is a bit frumpy but very clean and polished. The amenities are top notch and plentiful. The staff is very friendly and the service is excellent. The only drawback was the wedding taking place in the large lobby when we checked in. Totally weird!

We arrived from the train station in a taxi. So I'm not too sure about their whole parking situation. Upon entering, the people working here are very friendly. Every time you walk past them they always greet you and bow. Checking in was very easy and they bring your bags to your room for you. Their lobby is huge and very clean. One thing I noticed is that their elevators are VERY slow lol. But that did not matter. The decor in the room is pretty outdated. If you've been researching this place I'm sure you already heard that they are. From my experience the people working here know little to no English, so a translator app is much needed. The rooms here are big which is a huge upside. Their bathrooms have a standing shower and a separate tub. The water pressure is VERY good. Little things like this goes a long way. The rooms also have a humidifier which blows strong cold air too. They have a small fridge that has beer and soda and a little drawer with hard alcohol. The bathroom comes with disposable razors, toothbrush, his and her hair combs, q-tips, cotton balls and expensive shampoo and conditioner. I forget the brand but my wife said it's really good. We had their breakfast buffet on the top level. They had a mix of American and Japanese food, tons of fruit, pastries, every beverage imaginable and views to die for. There is plenty of seating and a little omelette station that is super good. 3,600 yen per person. 6am-10am I believe. Totally worth it! Enjoy your guys' stay!

Pro: nice staff, restaurant & stores located downstairs, taxi outside on stand by, Japanese and western buffet offer, room are nice, subway station near by. Con: no microwave or laundry. My experience here at the 5 star hotel has been mostly good for my stay here in Kyoto. Upon first checking in we were given room keys and explain about the amenities of the hotel such as a buffet and shops down stair of the hotel. Downstairs also has a train station and an atm machine for the people connivence. The elevator has a sensor that you put your card next to and it will automatically choose your assigned floor. The room while not the most modern is pretty decent with a small tv, big bed, and a shower with high pressure. The hotel does have taxi on standby outside for guest. The hotel is in close proximity to restaurants and connivence stores. They do not have any microwave or washer/dryer area so out of luck there. All in all, it was a decent place to spend a few days at while we explore Kyoto but I wouldn't recommend such a high price hotel if you plan to only stay in Kyoto for a few days.

Kyoto Hotel Okura. Location is perfect. A few blocks away by foot are many bars and restaurants. The hotel will make bicycle rentals for you, which we arranged when we visited Kiyomizudera. About 15 minutes away. Best way to travel. Spacious rooms ( by American standards), highly efficient, courteous, informed bilingual staff and the train station downstairs! Excellent breakfast buffet on the 17 th floor with a view. Many dining options, a bakery shop downstairs, and right now a Van Gogh art exhibit in one of its annexes. So very comfortable. Rates vary depending on the day and if you get a single or double room. Really, you can't beat this location. And my favorite paper store Kyukyodo's main location (established in 1663) is a five minute walk away! You can relax at the Okura knowing you are in good hands.

Kyoto Hotel Okura was a great place to stay in Kyoto. I contacted the concierge a few months ahead of time to see if she could help me get reservations at a nice restaurant. She was able to secure a reservation within a day and sent me the confirmation in advance. When I arrived, there was an envelope waiting for me with the reservation and directions to the restaurant. The hotel is located walking distance from the Sanjo Station and within feet of the Kyoto Shiyakusho-mae Station. The staff here speaks very good English and every single person here was so nice and accommodating. They truly make you feel welcome. The hotel itself is pretty large and very nice. There is a huge lobby area, shops and restaurants on the bottom two levels, a nice gym (about $25 per day) and some restaurants spread throughout the hotel. Our room had a nice bed, beautiful view and standard bathroom. The bathroom has a separate shower and bathtub. Hotel provides shampoo, conditioner, toothbrush, toothpaste, etc. The hotel also provides two complimentary bottles of water each day. The hotel is also walking distance from many restaurants and bars located on Kiya-Machi Dori and Nishi-Kiyacho Dori. What really makes this hotel stand out is its service. Everyone here was so welcoming and helpful. I even left my tablet in the room after check-out and they immediately called me and offered to ship it to me. Luckily I was still int he area and they had it waiting for me, wrapped in bubble wrap when I arrived. Top-notch service.

Amazing hotel view!! Excellent customer service, hands down! Staff are very friendly and efficient. --Clean room with no funky smell. --Big restroom. --Awesome toilet (bidet or spray option)! --Two separate showers in the same bathroom (standing shower stall or tub). --Free Wifi throughout the hotel. --Great room and lobby decors. Definitely would come back here if I visit Japan in the near future!!!

We stayed at this hotel for 1 out of the 2 nights we were in the Kyoto area. The other night was spent at a hot spring hotel. "Okura"-branded hotels are one the top 3 oldest/traditional Japanese hotels in Japan -- at least that's what our guide told us. It's quite famous in town, and we're happy we were able to stay here for at least one evening. The lobby area is huge, and spacious. People are friendly as well. Our room was nice, tastefully decorated, and minimalistic. We had a view of hills surrounding Kyoto. Morning breakfast - we selected the Japanese style breakfast, where you sit at a table and you're served a bento box full of Japanese breakfast delicacies, including congee, miso soup, fish, marinated veggies, tofu, etc. The assortment was so cute, and tasty too. One of the best Japanese breakfasts I've had on my entire trip. :) Outside of the hotel, you have easy access to the shopping area and lots of eateries nearby. You can even take a leisurely stroll down to the Gion district as well to visit the geishas!

4.5*Kyoto Hotel Okura Located across the street from the City Hall Close to Nijō Castle and Imperial Palace Fantastic reception and concierge staff Great breakfast, places to eat

Their service is way beyond my expectations. I booked my hotel from Agoda a month a ago but later noticed we have to add extra beds in some rooms. I then addressed my concerns to hotels reservation team and got fixed right away. They also offer shuttle mini bus to the Kyoto train station. Free of charge! What really impressed me was their hotel clerks were super polite and friendly. Our rooms were spacious and super clean. I couldn't appreciate more about what have offered me. But wait. Japanese people consider its an offense to try to tip them. So don't tip them even when you received maybe best service that you ever had in your life. Just spread the words and let everyone know they deserve 5 stars.

The Kyoto Hotel Okura is a luxurious hotel choice for any tourists staying in Kyoto. From the service, to the beautiful and spacious lobby, to the rooms, everything made for the most comfortable stay. The room I stayed in contained two queen beds and had more room than I even needed - with the long desk with large mirror, to the side table and desk, and the HUGE bathroom with toilet, tub, AND shower, it was an incredibly comfortable stay for my 2-night visit. The hotel itself contains some shopping centers on the various floors and is within walking distance of Kyoto shopping district, Shinkyogoku. The food options are also fantastic at the Kyoto Hotel Okura. The Western and Japanese breakfast buffet offers the best of both worlds, with your traditional continental breakfast pastries done with a Japanese-flare, popular treats like bacon and sausage, and the Japanese options like rice porridge, tofu, miso soup, and grilled fish. The traditional Japanese breakfast restaurant, Irifune, also provides a new experience of very delicate bento box and side dishes for enjoyment - for those hooked on coffee, plan to get it elsewhere because Irifune only serves water and tea! And last but certainly not least, the top floor Teppanyaki restaurant, Tokiwa, is phenomenal. Teppanyaki, loosely translated to iron grill, is like your "benihana" type experience, except the cooks are not completely outrageous and they do not do perform any knife tricks. Just simple, basic, iron grill cooking for your viewing pleasure. Something as simple as grilled fish and mushrooms was done so well. Most enjoyable, was the ohmi beef, which was costly, but so worth it! With a variety of grilled vegetables, soy sauce, and three different salts - two mountain salts and one sea salt. Interestingly enough, one of the salts had an egg flavor (maybe from the sulfur), which was nothing like I'd ever tasted. Would highly recommend this special dining experience.

A female friend of mine was engaged in the design of his resort condominium-like hotel. She has been working for a major construction company as an architect. She guided me around this hotel. First we had cake buffet about 20 years ago, next we reunited again after 20 years. When I first came here, it was a brand-new hotel and I was surprised at its layout. The guest rooms looked like a condominium. Different from other hotels between the guest rooms facing each other a stairwell is installed. I was impressed by its novel and stylish design. At the reunion we had iron plate lunch on the top floor and enjoyed panorama from the large window.

You basically have to pay for everything but the room. The TV quality is really bad and they use keys instead of keycards.

I'm really surprised at all the great reviews but notice they're all about a year old and (I'm sure I come off judgmental) written by people who are impressed by having properly folded towels or whatever else. Also I'm not sure if management has changed recently but the service now is really poor. I am actually currently staying at the Kyoto Hotel Okura and after staying at the Hotel Okura Tokyo last week, I have to warn any international travelers used to the level of service at other luxury hotels to stay away from any of the Hotel Okuras in Japan. I work in finance (private equity) in the U.S. and travel frequently for work. I'm a Starwood Platinum member but also frequently stay in other hotel chains so I'm used to having great service. I'm not sure if this is because my family and I were visiting from America but we have candidly received some of the worst service I have ever received at any hotel chain, even budget chains. The biggest issues: 1. I misplaced my briefcase on the shinkansen and enlisted my assistant as well as the concierges at the Hotel Okura Tokyo and the Kyoto Hotel Okura to help locate it. My EA suspects the concierges literally did nothing because they are still asking whether I got my briefcase back and my EA located it and hired a courier to bring it back that same day. If they had actually spoken to the lost and found, they'd know this already. 2. I have a formal dinner in Tokyo that I need a dinner jacket for so I purchased one here with the intention of getting it altered. I asked the concierge to help me locate a tailor. She replied, "Sorry, I don't know." Then please look one up and get back to me. This happened for other requests as well. Don't be fooled into thinking that this is Japanese custom--I've had exemplary service from other hotels in Japan, just not any of the Hotel Okuras. 3. There's this general baseline of unhelpfulness from the concierge desk which is likely one of the worst concierge desks I've ever encountered. If they don't know an answer, they don't tell you that they'll "get back to you." They just say no. And they don't follow up. They occasionally even just leave requests completely unfulfilled. I'd give this hotel zero stars if I could and will be taking my business elsewhere. The only positives? The rooms are fine enough (though a bit oudated) and the location great. Every taxi driver knows where it's located and there's a taxi lineup outside.

This hotel encompases the comfort and luxury of Japan completely. It is relaxing and caters to your every need and want.

Had an awesome time. Great location, right at the end of all the shops and restaurants on main drag. Super friendly staff.