Kyoto Century Hotel

This hotel offers a highly convenient urban stay, primarily distinguished by its unbeatable proximity to Kyoto Station, making it an ideal base for exploring the city and beyond. Guests consistently highlight the attentive and friendly staff, who are often praised for their professionalism and willingness to assist. The hotel is well-regarded for its cleanliness and comfortable accommodations, with many finding the rooms surprisingly spacious for Japanese standards. It caters well to sightseers and business travelers due to its exceptional transport links, and its quiet atmosphere despite the central location also appeals to couples and solo travelers seeking a peaceful retreat. To maximize your experience, consider utilizing the extensive dining and shopping options available directly within Kyoto Station, and be prepared for a machine-assisted check-in process, though staff are always on hand to help.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel provides a range of amenities that enhance guest convenience and comfort. Guests appreciate the availability of free Wi-Fi throughout the property, ensuring connectivity. While there is no swimming pool or public bath, the hotel offers other thoughtful touches such as ice machines and vending machines for quick refreshments. Rooms are often described as well-appointed, featuring amenities like humidifiers and fine bone china cups, adding a touch of luxury. Some guests noted the absence of USB charging ports in rooms and a limited selection of English language TV channels. The lobby area is often admired for its modern design and a dramatic chandelier, contributing to a luxurious ambiance.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on room comfort and cleanliness is generally positive, with many praising the cleanliness and comfortable beds, often described as large and ensuring a restful sleep. The soundproofing is highly effective, with many rooms remaining quiet despite the hotel's proximity to the train station, though some rooms facing the tracks can experience noise. While many guests found their rooms spacious, a significant number reported them as small or cramped, particularly around the bed, with limited storage space for clothes and luggage. Some room layouts were considered awkward, with the bathroom sink located outside the main bathroom area or a window between the bath and sleeping area. Isolated comments mentioned minor issues like dust or a damp smell in bathrooms.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's breakfast buffet receives widespread acclaim for its huge variety and excellent quality. Guests consistently praise the extensive selection of both Japanese and Western options, including an omelet station, fresh coffee, and even sake tasting. Many found the food delicious and a highlight of their stay. However, some guests noted that the breakfast area could become very crowded, leading to long lines, and a few felt the breakfast was overpriced or that the food quality was inconsistent, occasionally being too salty or lukewarm. The hotel also features a restaurant and a bar, with the evening buffet generally well-received, though some found the bar's pricing and the presence of a cover charge to be a drawback.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is its most frequently praised attribute, situated directly next to Kyoto Station. This provides unparalleled accessibility to the Shinkansen, local trains, and bus services, making it incredibly convenient for exploring Kyoto and other cities. Guests appreciate being within easy walking distance of numerous shopping and restaurant options, including those located within the station complex. Popular attractions like the Kyoto Tower are also just a short walk away. Despite its bustling surroundings, the hotel is often described as being on a surprisingly quiet street. While parking is available, some guests found it to be expensive.

Staff & Service
The hotel staff consistently receive high praise for their friendly, helpful, and attentive service. Many guests highlight the staff's professionalism and willingness to go above and beyond, such as assisting with directions, luggage handling, or even medical issues. The check-in process, while often involving automated machines, is typically described as efficient and smooth, with staff readily available to assist. Most guests found the staff to have good English proficiency, facilitating clear communication. The overall impression is one of excellent service, contributing significantly to a positive guest experience, from the moment of arrival to departure.

Additional Information
The hotel utilizes an automated check-in and check-out process, which some guests found to be impersonal or slow, though staff are always present to guide and assist. Luggage storage services are available, with some guests noting a fee for extended storage, while others experienced complimentary service. The hotel is popular with tour groups, which can occasionally lead to crowded common areas, particularly during peak breakfast hours. Guests should be aware that room cleaning may not occur daily, with some reviews indicating an every-other-day cleaning policy aimed at reducing environmental impact.