RIHGA Royal Hotel Kyoto

This hotel offers a blend of classic charm and modern comfort, making it a memorable choice for visitors. Its signature feature is its traditional ambiance combined with spacious rooms and a highly convenient shuttle bus service to the nearby train station. Guests consistently highlight the hotel's cleanliness, comfortable accommodations, and the generally attentive service provided by the staff. It is well-suited for sightseers and families due to its accessibility to attractions and larger room options, while business travelers will appreciate its proximity to the main transport hub. To enhance your stay, consider utilizing the complimentary shuttle service for easy station access and be aware that breakfast can be very busy during peak hours.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel provides a range of facilities designed to enhance guest comfort, though some come with an additional charge. Guests appreciate the presence of water dispensers on each floor, allowing for convenient refills using provided bottles, a thoughtful eco-friendly touch. A well-equipped fitness center and a swimming pool are available, though many guests express surprise and dissatisfaction that their use incurs a separate fee, which some find exorbitant. The hotel also features an air purifier in rooms, contributing to a pleasant environment. While Wi-Fi is generally available, some guests reported it to be unreliable at times. Other conveniences include ice machines and an in-room safe, though the refrigerator is typically empty. Some guests noted issues with EV chargers in the parking area.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests generally find the rooms to be clean and well-maintained, often noting a pleasant aroma upon entering the hotel. While some reviews mention small rooms or small beds, many highlight the spaciousness of the accommodations, particularly the family rooms and suites, which are considered generous by local standards. The beds are frequently praised for being comfortable, complemented by excellent linen, though a few guests found them uncomfortable or experienced issues with slippery duvets. Bathrooms receive mixed feedback, with some describing them as spacious with multiple shower options, while others found them small or noted issues like mold or unpleasant odors. Noise can be a concern, with train noise audible in rooms facing the tracks and occasional disturbances from hallway noise or neighboring rooms. In-room amenities like a coffee machine and skincare products are appreciated, but some guests noted the absence of lotion or a comb.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel offers diverse dining options, with breakfast being a highlight for many guests. The buffet at the all-day dining restaurant, Kaza, is frequently praised for its excellent variety, featuring both Western and Japanese choices, including an omelet station. Specific items like tofu and soy milk receive special mention for their quality. However, the breakfast area can become very crowded during peak times, leading to long lines and a less relaxed experience. The Top of Kyoto revolving restaurant on the 14th floor offers a unique dining experience with panoramic views, though some guests found its set menu limited and its food quality not always exceptional for the price. Other on-site restaurants include Teppanyaki and Kyoto cuisine, which guests found to be of high quality with attentive service.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts a highly convenient location near the main train station, making it an excellent base for exploring the city. It is within walking distance of the station, typically around 10-15 minutes, and also offers a complimentary shuttle bus service that runs frequently, providing easy access for guests with luggage or those preferring not to walk. This proximity allows for convenient access to various shopping malls like Aeon and Avanti, as well as numerous restaurants and transport options. While some guests note the hotel is situated near train tracks, leading to some audible noise, its overall accessibility to major attractions and public transportation is a significant advantage. Parking is available and is a notable benefit for guests traveling by car.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receive high praise for their courtesy, politeness, and attentiveness. Many guests highlight their helpfulness in various situations, from organizing taxis and luggage services to providing directions and accommodating special requests. The check-in and check-out processes are often described as efficient, though some guests experienced long waits during busy periods. The housekeeping staff are commended for their thoroughness and friendly demeanor. While the majority of feedback on service is overwhelmingly positive, a few guests reported instances of staff being perceived as cold or lacking empathy, particularly during peak times or when dealing with specific issues. Overall, the hotel's commitment to providing excellent service is a recurring theme in guest reviews.

Additional Information
The hotel maintains a classic and elegant atmosphere, reflecting its long-standing presence, and guests appreciate the ongoing renovations that keep the property feeling fresh while retaining its traditional charm. A unique eco-friendly feature is the provision of refillable water bottles in rooms, with water dispensers located on each floor, encouraging sustainability. Guests should be aware that there is no on-site convenience store, requiring a short walk to find one. The hotel offers various housekeeping options, allowing guests to choose the level of service that best suits their needs. Some guests noted the absence of alcohol vending machines within the hotel. The hotel also features themed rooms, such as a "train room," which are particularly popular with families.