kodō hotel

This was my second stay at Kodo. I'm rather surprised at the lack of other reviews for this lovely Japanese/minimalist/Zen-like hotel which opened early this year above Kodo Restaurant and Cafe in LA's hot Arts District. Were none of the other hotel guests I saw Yelpers? My first stay was great, but had a few niggles. This stay was not perfect, but improved, mainly because there was more human contact. During my first visit, the only humans I saw were housekeeping staff, aside from the restaurant and cafe workers. Check-in is done digitally and all contact with hotel staff was via text; responses were not always timely. This time, a HUMAN (Stacy) answered the phone and ensured my early check-in. And after check-in, another HUMAN (restaurant worker Yuji (?)) knocked on my door to make sure all was well. The housekeeping staff was again visible, and they kindly let me peek at the vacant rooms. Over 2 stays I was able to look at all the rooms (there are only 8). None are identical, but they are grouped by size into 4 categories: Superior King Plus (2), Superior King (2), Deluxe King (3), Standard Queen (1). I love the hotel's design aesthetic. All rooms have a sunken bed, white river rocks and indirect lighting along the floor, a wooden clothes rack "closet", an open bath (with a rock-like sink, open shower, enclosed WC), Direct TV. Most rooms have a table with low tatami-style chairs (a challenge for those with knee issues), a semi-stocked mini-fridge, hot water machine and Blue tooth speaker, Direct TV. Some rooms have additional closet space and regular-height seating. Note the open shower in some rooms is close enough to the sink that anything on the counter will get wet. Last time water pressure was weak, this time it was better. I was able to get by welcome drink in the Cafe, as well as my morning drink and pastry, without any issues. There is assigned parking behind the hotel for $50 per night. Like last time, I had some stellar meals at several of the many restaurants within walking distance. Overall a great stay.