Hanakiya

Stayed for 4 nights at Eime's place and could not have been luckier to have ended up here as I was very sick for the first day. Eime was wonderful about it (I probably created more laundry than any other guest) and took really good care of me beyond what you would expect from a hotel manager - offering extra mattresses and pillows, giving me fruit once I could eat again... This place feels more like a homestay than a hotel! Eime also offers many great tourism suggestions and maps to help you get around, in addition to interesting conversations on many topics! For the accommodation itself, our room was much bigger than it appears in the pictures. It is traditional japanese style (futon on tatami mat bed, and husk-filled pillows) - these aren't the most comfortable if you are used to western-style thick mattresses and fluffy pillows, but as noted above Eime does have extras that I'm sure you could use if you need it to sleep. There is no real kitchen to speak of, but you do have access to hot water, a microwave and a fridge for storing or preparing basic food. Eime also offers a 500yen western-style breakfast which is good and very filling (and slightly different each day). The washrooms are good and clean, and while there is only 1 shower I only had to wait for it once. The only downside is that the door we had has a ricepaper "window" section which made it not soundproof for things happening in the hall.

Very close to the famous tourist spots but quite at the same time. Close to bus stop. Room is clean and staff is friendly. Because it is an old Japanese style house, some inconvenience for us foreigners, but it gave us experience to try the Japanese style, which is also a part of our trip.

If you are looking for the perfect location - closest to Kiyomizutera - and want a simple, clean, Japanese style place with an owner that is friendly and makes you feel at home - this is it. The location could not be more perfect. You are smack - 100 yards tops from one of the jewels of the world, in my humble opinion. Your initial cab driver from the station might have a bit of difficulty finding the exact location but this place allows you to wander the narrow alley like streets of of the hills that connect the Higashiyama side Shrines. If you go for change of leaves season - a ritual in the mid to late November - or what ever, this place is a slam dunk. Owner is nice, has a warm smile and an - what ever you need to be comfortable - attitude. Loved the room, clean, traditional Japanese mat and clean.