Kyoto Luxury Getaway: Unforgettable Comfort Inn Shijokarasuma Experience
Kyoto Luxury Getaway: Unforgettable Comfort Inn Shijokarasuma Experience - Or, My Brain Vomit on a Bloody Amazing Stay (and Why YOU Should Book!)
Okay, listen up. I just got back from Kyoto, and I'm still basking in the afterglow of the Comfort Inn Shijokarasuma. Forget those sanitized, perfectly-reviewed hotels. This is real – the good, the slightly off, and the downright glorious. And I'm here to spill the tea (over a cup of, well, probably their complimentary tea, which was fantastic, by the way).
First, the Important Stuff: The Soul of a Hotel (and Should You Stay Here?)
Accessibility: Look, I'm not a wheelchair user, but I did notice some truly remarkable things about the Comfort Inn. They've thought about accessibility! Elevators were readily available, hallways felt wide, and I even spotted what looked like accessible rooms (though I didn't poke my nose in - manners, people!). This alone puts them miles ahead of some other hotels, especially in a city like Kyoto where space can be a premium. (Very Important!)
Cleanliness & Safety - Because Let's Be Real, This Matters Now:
COVID-19? Yeah, it's a thing. And Comfort Inn seems to take it seriously. I’m talking daily disinfection in common areas. This is NOT your average "wipe down the countertops" situation. From what I saw, it was proper, professional-grade cleaning. Hand sanitizing stations were everywhere, like little zen gardens of cleanliness. They had anti-viral cleaning products, which always gives you peace of mind. They also offer a room sanitization opt-out, which is a nice touch if you're a germaphobe (like…me). The staff were wearing masks, trained in safety protocols. I never felt unsafe. (Bonus points for the doctor/nurse on call and the first aid kit. Just saying.)
My Personal Odyssey Through Comfort, Cuisine, and Caffeine (and a Spa Moment That Changed My Life)
Rooms – My Sanctuary: Okay, so the rooms. They are comfortable. The air conditioning was a godsend after a day of temple hopping. The blackout curtains? Holy moly, sleep! I was practically comatose after my jet lag hit. I had an extra-long bed which was a gift. Free Wi-Fi in all rooms (shout out to the internet!) and complimentary tea – small things, but they made a difference. The slippers? I lived in them. The bathrobes? Luxurious. The safety box? Okay, practical stuff too. I'm a sucker for a good alarm clock, and this one actually woke me up.
The Breakfast…Oh, The Breakfast! (Rambling Section Ahead…Prepare!)
So, the breakfast. It's a buffet, but not the depressing, lukewarm-eggs-and-mystery-meat buffet you might be envisioning. This was Asian breakfast at its best. And some Western breakfast delights. I could spend all day just talking about the coffee/tea in the restaurant! Seriously, I was on a coffee/tea bender this trip (and not the bad kind). The Asian cuisine in the restaurant was stellar; I might have eaten buffet in restaurant three days in a row. Desserts were…dangerous. And the fruit juice? Fresh, divine. I breakfast service was on point. They also offered breakfast takeaway service, perfect for those rushed mornings. I didn't get a chance to try the a la carte in the restaurant, and I'm already mildly regretting it. Breakfast [buffet] (Did I mention, it was a buffet?)
Spa Day: My Descent Into Bliss…and a Surprise Foot Bath!
Okay, so the spa. I signed up for the massage. (Oh. Massage!) Heavenly, basically. But the real surprise? The foot bath. I'm not usually a foot bath person. I mean, I'm not weird about feet, I just…don't see the appeal? But this… This was magical. Warm water, fragrant oils, and the stress from the day melted away. Seriously, it was like someone had taken a little whisk of zen and poured it all over my feet. Afterward, I spent some time in the Sauna, and then the Steamroom. It was a whole vibe. After being in the spa, I could have easily spent some time in the Pool with view, but I was feeling a little shy that day. This entire experience was enough to make me understand the meaning of the word "relax". I literally became one with the earth. The Spa/sauna, and the swimming pool also seemed pretty amazing.
(Emotional Break!) Wow. I’m getting teary-eyed just remembering the spa. Okay, back to business.
Things to Do and Ways to Relax (Beyond the Spa – If You Must)
Well, Kyoto itself is a playground, you know? The Comfort Inn is conveniently located near things to do. I'm talking Business facilities if you're into that sort of thing. They have meeting/banquet facilities. There are outdoor venue for special events. They even have a terrace; I just loved the view.
The Extras: Little Things That Make a Big Difference
They have Air conditioning in public area, a concierge, daily housekeeping, doorman, and all the other service you expect. But here are things I noticed: The staff were genuinely friendly and helpful. Contactless check-in/out (thank goodness!). Cashless payment service (super convenient). Luggage storage (essential if you’re waiting for a flight). Oh, and they had a convenience store! Late night ramen cravings? Sorted. There’s also a gift/souvenir shop – great for last-minute presents.
Accessibility, Dining, Drinking, and Snacking
They've got Air conditioning, Elevator, and Facilities for disabled guests. Food delivery is available, they have Restaurants, a Bar, and a Poolside bar.
The Not-So-Perfect Bits (Because I'm Honest!)
- The gym/fitness center? I walked past it. Didn’t go in. This is more of a me problem, not the hotel's.
- Car Park [on-site] and Car park [free of charge], might not be the best option for people with lots of luggage.
My Verdict: Book It! (Unless You’re a Total Snob)
Honestly, you can pay way more and get way less. The Comfort Inn Shijokarasuma is a fantastic base for exploring Kyoto. It's clean, comfortable, accessible, and comes with a dose of genuine Japanese hospitality. I left feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and already planning my return.
SEO-Friendly & Persuasive Offer (Because That’s Why We’re Here, Right?)
Kyoto Luxury Getaway: Unforgettable Comfort Inn Shijokarasuma Experience – Your Gateway to Authentic Kyoto
Tired of cookie-cutter hotels? Craving a truly unforgettable Kyoto experience? The Comfort Inn Shijokarasuma offers the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and authentic Japanese charm.
Here's why you NEED to book:
- Unbeatable Value: Experience luxury without breaking the bank.
- Prime Location: Explore Kyoto’s iconic temples, gardens, and vibrant city life with ease.
- Unwind at the Spa: Indulge in a rejuvenating massage and experience the magic of a foot bath. Prepare to be amazed.
- Delicious Dining: Savor authentic Asian cuisine and start your day with an unforgettable breakfast buffet.
- Uncompromising Comfort: Relax in spacious, well-appointed rooms with free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and all the amenities you need.
- Peace of Mind: Prioritizing your safety and well-being with enhanced cleaning protocols and trained staff.
Accessibility & Convenience:
- Wheelchair-accessible facilities
- Close to public transport
- 24-hour reception and concierge service
- A variety of dining options, including a bar, restaurant.
Don't just visit Kyoto, live it. Book your unforgettable Comfort Inn Shijokarasuma experience today!
Click here to check availability and special offers!!
Limited-time offer: Book now and receive a complimentary welcome drink at the bar!
Escape to Paradise: Ocean Vista Awaits in Phan Thiet!
Okay, buckle up, buttercups. This isn't your grandma's meticulously planned travel itinerary. This is my brain trying to survive Kyoto while clinging to a Comfort Inn bed, fueled by questionable vending machine coffee and a desperate need for a decent shower… and maybe, just maybe, finding inner peace amongst the temples.
Kyoto: The Messy, Glorious Reckoning (aka, My Itinerary-ish Thing)
Day 1: Arrival & Utter Bewilderment (Plus, Ramen)
- Morning (aka, the Dark Ages of Jet Lag): Landed at Kansai International Airport. The airport express train felt like a rocket ship to the future. I’m pretty sure I only understood every third word on those announcements, but somehow, I made it to Kyoto Station. Success! Now, surviving the station itself… that’s a whole other beast. It’s like a shopping mall, a train station, and a futuristic art installation all rolled into one. Panic level: approaching "lost-kid-at-Disneyland" status.
- Afternoon: Finally, finally, found the Comfort Inn Kyoto Shijokarasuma. It's… comfortable. Basic, but comfortable. And crucially, clean. After a shower (bless the hot water!), I attempted to assemble myself, armed with my Lonely Planet and an optimistic heart that was rapidly deflating. Pro-tip: Google Maps lies. The "5-minute walk" to the hotel from the station was more like a cardio workout through a miniature city.
- Late Afternoon/Evening: The Ramen Rescue. Food. I needed food, and ramen was calling my name. Found a tiny, hole-in-the-wall place near the hotel. The language barrier was a glorious mess of pointing and nodding. Ended up with a bowl of tonkotsu ramen that was divine. Seriously. Face-plant-in-deliciousness level. Feeling somewhat human again. Did I mention the vending machine with the hot coffee? Life-saver.
- Evening: Wandered around the area. The Gion district, with its traditional wooden machiya houses, was truly beautiful. I was expecting some geishas and I did get to see some Geiko, these beautiful Japanese women but it felt so rushed. I felt a little bit like an intruder. I wish I had got a proper tour!
- Quirk: Okay, I bought a tiny, adorable ceramic cat at a souvenir shop. It's supposed to bring good luck. I'm going to need it.
- Emotional Reaction: Overwhelmed. In a good way. The city is vibrant, ancient, and utterly captivating. But the constant… buzz… that's a little overwhelming. Still, I'm loving the energy.
- Minor Observation: The Japanese people are incredibly polite, even when I'm clearly a fumbling idiot struggling with chopsticks. They're very patient.
Day 2: Temples, Tourists, and Terrible Map Reading (aka, the Day I Probably Looked Like an Idiot)
- Morning: Attempted a visit to the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji). The bus system is… ambitious. I got on the wrong bus, went the wrong direction for about 15 minutes. The Golden Pavilion itself was stunning, a real moment of awe. But, oh my god, the crowds. It felt like a very orderly mob. I might have lost it and just started chanting to the gods of patience. I could barely take any decent pictures. I felt bad for everyone. I would definitely go back there.
- Afternoon: Went to the Ryoan-ji Temple, famous for its Zen rock garden. A moment of peace. Finally. I sat there for a good 20 minutes, trying to focus, clear my mind, and… failing. Mostly, I was thinking about where to get lunch and also about all the chores back home that I hadn't been doing. But hey, at least the rocks were pretty.
- Anecdote: Got lost trying to find lunch. Ended up in a tiny, local shop that sold the most amazing grilled fish. The friendly shop owners, couldn't speak a word of English, but they pointed at the fish, I pointed back, and somehow, the meal happened. It was delicious.
- Imperfect Moment: Dropped my phone on the way out of Ryoan-ji. Thankfully, no damage. That made me even more aware of every single thing happening until dinner.
- Late Afternoon/Evening: Fushimi Inari Shrine's Red Gates of Doom (and Glory). Okay, this was the highlight. Thousands and thousands of vermilion torii gates winding up a mountain. The sheer scale of it! I got myself together and actually did it, I walked up the mountain. The views, the atmosphere, the silence (once you got away from the main tourist drag), were incredible. The climb was tough, but the rewards were worth it. My legs are screaming now. The last 100 steps were a slog. I'm not sure if I can do it again tomorrow.
- Strong Emotional Reaction: Pure exhilaration. Like, "I conquered a mountain!" exhilaration. And the feeling of solitude amongst the bustle was so good.
- Quirk: Took approximately 7,000 photos of the torii gates. I will never be able to delete any of them.
- Evening: Collapsed back at the Comfort Inn. Ordered room service -- sushi. Because comfort.
- Rambling thoughts: Kyoto… so beautiful, so overwhelming. I want to see everything, but I also want to curl up in a ball and never leave my hotel room. Hmm… balance. I think I need more coffee.
Day 3: Culture, Cute Things and a Crisis of Confidence (and more ramen, obv.)
- Morning: Attempted a visit to Kiyomizu-dera Temple. More crowds. Beautiful architecture, but the sheer volume of people trying to take the photos… it was intense. Also, I think I accidentally tried to buy a good luck charm for a baby. I can’t speak Japanese, and the poor woman's face when she realized I wasn't even pregnant was priceless. It was awkward. But the charm was cute as hell. (I did not buy it.)
- Minor Category: I did the drinking fountain at Kiyomizu-dera. I drank from the fountain, and it’s supposed to represent different types of good fortune. I think. Maybe. Hopefully, I got all of them?
- Imperfect Moment: Had a minor panic attack in a crowded street market because the smells were too overwhelming. Needed to hide in a random store for a while.
- Afternoon: The Gion District II: Electric Boogaloo. This time, with a little bit more of a plan. Wandered (less aimlessly) through the Gion district. I saw some geishas this time and felt a bit of a thrill. It was more like a ghost walk, not a tour, but it was cool. But the shops! So many cute, adorable things. I almost lost my wallet in a shop full of Hello Kitty merchandise. Almost.
- Quirky Observation: The sheer volume of matcha-flavored everything is mind-boggling. I’m pretty sure I’ve had a matcha-flavored Kit Kat for breakfast, a matcha latte for lunch, and am plotting to find a matcha-flavored dessert for dinner.
- Evening: Dinner and the Great Ramen Reconquest. Another attempt at ramen. Because carbs are good. I even managed to order without pointing and pantomiming too much. Feeling a little bit less lost and a little bit more capable.
- Strong Emotional Reaction: I'm starting to think I'm going to miss this madness. (Maybe.) Also, my feet hurt.
- Rambling Thoughts: Being in Kyoto is like being in a dream. It's beautiful and bizarre and you have to be on your toes all the time. I can't wait to leave, but I already want to come back. Maybe with a better map, fewer crowds, and a crash course in Japanese.
Day 4: Departure & Reflection (and a Final, Desperate Plea for Coffee).
- Morning: Last-minute souvenir shopping. Crying a little bit. Buying a matcha-flavored Kit Kat (because, tradition). Checking out of the Comfort Inn. Saying goodbye to the vending machine.
- Late Morning: Train to the airport. The end of the journey. Looking back on this trip—a real emotional and physical adventure. The temples, the shrines, the food, the crowds, the language barrier, the culture… everything made me feel like, I'd lost my mind and also found something I didn’t know I was looking for.
- Airport: Still, this may be the best trip I’ve ever had, a massive success. I'll remember this journey forever.
- Final Thoughts: Kyoto is a living, breathing paradox. It's ancient and futuristic, peaceful and chaotic, beautiful and exhausting. I'm leaving with a full camera, a slightly lighter wallet, and a profound appreciation for ramen. Also, is it too early to start planning my return?
Kyoto Luxury Getaway: Unforgettable Comfort Inn Shijokarasuma Experience - Or, How I Survived (And Mostly Thrived)
1. Okay, spill the tea. Was the Comfort Inn actually *luxurious*? I mean, it's a Comfort Inn, right?
Alright, alright, hold your horses! Luxury? Let's just say "elevated Comfort Inn." Think… a really, REALLY nice Comfort Inn. The location, smack-dab in the heart of Shijokarasuma, was its saving grace. Seriously, a five-minute walk to everything! So, not Ritz-Carlton, but definitely a solid, well-appointed basecamp for exploring Kyoto. The lobby was… tastefully minimalist? (Translation: not a lot of gaudy gold leaf nonsense, which, honestly, is a win in my book.) And that complimentary coffee machine? Pure, caffeinated bliss. Okay, maybe *bliss* is a strong word. But after a jet lag-induced 3 AM wake-up call, it was freaking glorious. The rooms? Clean, comfy beds, and *adequate* space. I'm a claustrophobe, so "adequate" is a victory! They even had a tiny little desk, which, as an overthinker, I appreciated to… overthink things. Mainly where I’d eat next.
2. Location, location, location! What's the *real* deal on Shijokarasuma? Is it actually convenient or just a tourist trap?
Listen up, because this is GOLD. Shijokarasuma is *the* place to be. Forget those Instagram-perfect Gion alleyways; this is where *real* Kyoto lives. It's a bustling business district, so you've got everything you need: subway access (life-saver!), convenience stores (7-Eleven, I love you!), amazing izakayas (we'll get to those), and a ton of shops. Tourist trap? Nope, not really. It's more like a working city with a *boatload* of hidden gems. Finding my way around was a little… trial by fire, at first. Let's just say I got *very* friendly with the little vending machine lady at the subway entrance (she helped me load my ICOCA card, bless her soul). But once I figured it out… pure magic. The convenience? Seriously, it felt like I could fling myself in any direction and hit something interesting. A temple, a noodle shop, a weird little antique store… it was glorious.
3. What about the room itself? Was it cramped? Did it have a view? (I need details!)
Okay, the room. Remember what I said about "adequate"? Yeah. It wasn't a palace. But it was perfectly functional. The bed was actually incredibly comfortable! I slept like a log (after the first night, which was… a battle with jet lag and my own inability to turn off my brain). No, no breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Hiei. My view was… uh… a building. Another building. But who cares? You're in KYOTO! You should be out *experiencing* Kyoto, not glued to a window. The bathroom was tiny, but spotlessly clean. And the shower pressure? Surprisingly powerful. A small victory, especially after a long day of temple hopping. They had free toiletries, which, honestly, is a huge win for someone (me) who packs like a disaster. The little Japanese toilet was… an experience, especially figuring out all the buttons. Let’s just say, there were a few accidental “water features” involved in the early days.
4. Did they have a gym? Or, you know, ANYTHING that would let me work off all the amazing food I was about to consume?
A gym? Hahaha. Bless your optimism. No. There was no gym. Look, this is a Comfort Inn, not a five-star resort. The "fitness" options were limited to… a lot of walking. Which, honestly, is the best way to see Kyoto anyway! Miles and miles of walking. You'll be exhausted by the end of the day. That’s a promise. Seriously, those temples aren't going to explore themselves! I did manage to squeeze in some push-ups in my room, which felt a little ridiculous, but hey, gotta try to mitigate the ramen-induced bloat somehow. There’s the elevator, and a lot of stairs if you needed to take the stairs… (I took the stairs! Mostly for the exercise, but also… sometimes I got frustrated with the elevator.)
5. Food! Spill the beans! What restaurants did you find near the Comfort Inn? Give me recommendations, please!
Okay, buckle up, because this is where things get *real*. Food near the Comfort Inn? Heaven. Pure, unadulterated food heaven. There’s this tiny little ramen place a few blocks down – seriously life-changing. I went back *three* times. The broth… oh my GOD, the broth. And the gyoza! Crispy perfection. (Name? Hmm… I’d have to check my notes… Okay, okay, it was called Menya Inoichi. Write that down!) There's also a fantastic okonomiyaki place (Japanese savory pancake) just around the corner. The chefs were hilarious, flipping pancakes like acrobats. And the food? Unbelievably delicious. Don't be afraid to try everything! Don't be afraid of trying new foods. I’m usually a picky eater, but in Kyoto, I was a glutton for deliciousness. Pro tip: Learn a few basic Japanese phrases. Even "Arigato" (thank you) or "Oishii!" (delicious!) goes a long way. Smiling also helps! Oh! And the 7-Eleven across the street? Their onigiri (rice balls) are a lifesaver for a quick breakfast. Or, you know, a late-night snack.
6. Did the Comfort Inn have breakfast? Was it any good? Because hotel breakfasts can be... well, let's just say *variable*.
The breakfast… Okay. It was included. It was… functional. There were some pastries (mostly on the dry side), scrambled eggs (they weren't bad, but they also weren't a revelation), and some Japanese options like miso soup and rice. Honestly, I skipped it most days. My strategy involved instant coffee (from the vending machine) and a pastry from a nearby bakery. Much more appealing! The real breakfast champion was the convenience store! You could assemble a delicious and cheap breakfast of onigiri, yogurt, and coffee for a fraction of the price. Plus, the people-watching was epic. People rushing to work, families starting their day… I loved it. No regrets about ditching the Comfort Inn breakfast, though. I did poke my head in once. I felt so smug, smugly drinking my convenience store coffee.
7. What are the MUST-SEE sights near the hotel? Give me the highlights!
Okay, the *highlights*. From Shijokarasuma? You're golden! Kiyomizu-dera Temple: a must… but be prepared for crowds! Comfort Inn
Post a Comment for "Kyoto Luxury Getaway: Unforgettable Comfort Inn Shijokarasuma Experience"