Solaria Nishitetsu Hotel Kyoto Premier

The hotel offers a serene urban retreat, notably distinguished by its direct access to the Kamo River, providing picturesque views and a tranquil atmosphere. This makes it an ideal choice for sightseers and couples seeking a romantic getaway, as well as families looking for convenience and a peaceful base to explore the city. Guests consistently highlight the hotel's exceptional cleanliness, comfortable accommodations, and the attentive service provided by the staff. The inviting public bath also stands out as a key feature for relaxation. For those who appreciate a blend of modern comfort and traditional Japanese aesthetics, this hotel is a strong fit. To enhance your stay, consider requesting a room with a river view for a truly memorable experience, and be sure to take advantage of the convenient luggage transfer service for a seamless travel experience.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests frequently praise the hotel's public bath, describing it as clean, relaxing, and a significant bonus after a day of exploration, though some note that towels are not provided within the bath area itself. The convenience of a water server near the elevators is highly appreciated, eliminating the need to purchase bottled water. For quick needs, vending machines and a microwave are available in the basement. The coin laundry facilities are a welcome addition for longer stays, though guests report limited machines and frequent busyness, with some experiencing inaccurate availability information from the provided QR codes. The elegant lobby features a striking moss wall and simulated rainfall displays, creating a unique ambiance. Additionally, the hotel offers convenient luggage storage and transfer services, and each floor includes a designated smoking room.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The hotel rooms are consistently described as very clean and well-maintained, offering a comfortable and quiet retreat. Most guests find the beds comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep, though some mention the pillows can be too flat or uncomfortable. The bathrooms are a highlight, often spacious with separate toilet and bath areas, and many feature soaking tubs and good shower pressure. In-room amenities such as pajamas, sleeping wear, and a selection of three pillow types are appreciated. While some rooms offer garden views or river views, a few guests in street-facing rooms noted occasional street noise or sirens. Housekeeping is typically provided every other day, with daily service available upon request, though a few reviews mentioned minor oversights in cleaning thoroughness.

Dining & Food Quality
The breakfast buffet receives high praise for its quality and extensive variety, offering a delightful mix of both Japanese and Western options. Guests particularly enjoy the fresh omelette station and the selection of traditional Kyoto dishes, including daikon and beef curry. The food is consistently described as delicious and satisfying, providing an excellent start to the day. While the hotel restaurant primarily serves breakfast and lunch, the surrounding area boasts an abundance of dining options, including numerous cafes, restaurants, and pubs. Popular spots like Pontocho Alley and the Nishiki Market are within easy walking distance, ensuring guests have a wide array of choices for their other meals.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts an excellent central location, making it incredibly convenient for exploring Kyoto. It is situated right next to the Kamo River, offering pleasant walking and jogging opportunities. Guests appreciate its proximity to major attractions like Pontocho Alley, Nishiki Market, and the Sanjo Shopping Arcade, all within easy walking distance. Public transportation is highly accessible, with Sanjo Keihan Station and Kyoto Shiyakusho-mae Station just a few minutes' walk away, providing seamless access to various parts of the city. Parking is available on-site, though it is chargeable and has limited spots, requiring advance reservation. Some guests found the parking expensive and were directed to off-site alternatives.

Staff & Service
Most guests commend the staff for their exceptional friendliness and helpfulness, highlighting their professionalism and willingness to assist with various requests, from arranging taxis and providing restaurant recommendations to facilitating luggage transfers. The check-in process is generally described as quick and efficient, though some guests found the reliance on self-check-in machines impersonal and preferred more direct human interaction. While many staff members communicate effectively in English, a few reviews noted instances of limited English proficiency. There were isolated reports of less accommodating or rude staff interactions, particularly concerning specific requests or issues. Overall, the staff's dedication to providing attentive service is a recurring positive theme.

Additional Information
Guests often note the hotel's pleasant aroma in the lobby, contributing to a calming atmosphere upon arrival. The hotel's overall design is frequently praised for its elegant blend of modern and traditional Japanese aesthetics, featuring unique elements like a striking moss wall. While rooms are cleaned every other day as a standard policy, daily housekeeping can be requested. It is important to note the tattoo policy for the public bath, as guests with tattoos may face restrictions or require patches, which some found unaccommodating. During certain periods, such as university entrance exam season, the hotel can be very busy with students and their families, leading to longer waits for check-in and breakfast. Some guests also mentioned the absence of luggage carts for moving personal belongings.