Cross Hotel Kyoto

The hotel offers a memorable stay in Kyoto, distinguished by its central location and spacious, modern rooms that often exceed expectations for accommodations in Japan. Guests consistently highlight the hotel's exceptional cleanliness, comfortable beds, and the attentive service provided by the staff. The extensive breakfast buffet is also a frequently praised feature. This hotel is an excellent fit for sightseers, shoppers, and food enthusiasts looking to explore Kyoto's vibrant downtown, as well as families and couples seeking a comfortable and convenient base. To enhance your experience, consider utilizing the complimentary coffee and tea available in the lobby throughout the day, and don't hesitate to consult the concierge for local recommendations.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests appreciate the hotel's modern design and the convenience of various amenities. The lobby offers free coffee and tea, providing a welcoming space for relaxation. While the hotel generally provides a comfortable experience, some guests noted the absence of laundry facilities on-site, though staff can direct guests to nearby options. The hotel also features free Wi-Fi throughout, ensuring connectivity. Most guests found the self-check-in kiosks efficient, though some found them impersonal or initially cumbersome, requiring staff assistance. A notable point for some guests was that the hotel's restaurant and bar were often not open in the evenings, despite being advertised, which was a disappointment for those looking for on-site dining or drinks.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The rooms are consistently described as clean, modern, and surprisingly spacious for Japanese standards, offering ample room for luggage and movement. Guests frequently praise the comfortable beds and high-quality linens, ensuring a restful night's sleep, though some found the beds to be on the firmer side. A standout feature is the well-designed bathroom, often featuring a separate toilet and bathroom area, a large bathtub, and a dedicated shower room with excellent water pressure. In-room amenities like toiletries, pajamas, and daily water bottles are appreciated. While generally quiet, some guests on lower floors or facing certain streets reported occasional street noise. A few guests noted that the AC control was capped at 20 degrees Celsius, and that windows do not open.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's breakfast buffet receives widespread acclaim for its extensive variety and high quality. Guests can choose from a wide array of both Japanese and Western options, including popular items like steak, chicken, and fish dishes, ensuring a satisfying start to the day. The food is consistently described as delicious and well-prepared. However, some guests noted that the coffee machines could become congested during peak hours, leading to waiting times. While the breakfast is highly rated, the hotel's restaurant and bar are frequently mentioned as being closed for dinner service, which was a drawback for guests hoping for evening dining or drink options on-site.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts an excellent central location, making it an ideal base for exploring Kyoto. Guests can easily walk to numerous restaurants, shops, and popular attractions such as Nishiki Market, Pontocho Alley, and the scenic Kamo River. The Gion district is also within comfortable walking distance. For public transportation, the hotel is conveniently close to Sanjo Station, subway stations, and various bus stops, providing easy access to other parts of the city and major train stations like Kyoto Station via a short bus or taxi ride. The area is vibrant with plenty of dining and shopping options, yet the hotel itself is often described as surprisingly quiet.

Staff & Service
The hotel staff consistently receives high praise for their exceptional friendliness, politeness, and helpfulness. Guests frequently highlight their attentive service and willingness to go above and beyond to assist with various needs. Many staff members speak good English, facilitating smooth communication. The check-in process is generally described as quick and efficient, with staff readily assisting guests who prefer not to use the self-check-in kiosks. Specific services like arranging taxi arrangements, providing restaurant recommendations, and assisting with luggage forwarding to other hotels are frequently mentioned as being handled with professionalism and care, contributing significantly to a positive guest experience.

Additional Information
The hotel is noted for its commitment to eco-friendly practices, allowing guests to choose their preferred level of room cleaning and offering self-serve amenities in the lobby to reduce waste. For guest security, the elevator system requires a key card to access floors, which is appreciated by many. While the hotel provides a comfortable and modern environment, guests should be aware that the on-site restaurant and bar are typically not open in the evenings, which may require planning for off-site dinner and drink options. The hotel's overall ambiance is often described as stylish and clean, making it a highly recommended choice for a pleasant stay.