Ishicho

The staff was friendly and the room was spacious. The food was mediocre. Overall the hotel is way overpriced.

A brilliant location, just a short walk from the station, and the heart of Kyoto and Gion.
I particularly loved the Onsen here. Whilst they are public they have 4 different baths so in my experience they were never crowded and you could often get one to yourself.

My husband and I had a great stay with our kids (13 and 9). The futons were very comfortable, I slept like a baby. The room temperature was adjustable, which I liked. The room comes with an electric kettle and staff provided a large (family-sized) bottle of spring water and green tea bags every day.
The front desk staff were kind and helpful. We had breakfast daily. While my picky 9 year old preferred pastry from the bakery up the road, the rest of us enjoyed such a tasty, hearty start to the day, with a combination every day of fresh, cold foods like sushi, pickles, and smoked fish, along with hot rice, soup, and a warm entree. The ladies who served breakfast were lovely. The only con I can think of is that the in-room bath looked a bit tired/dated, but it was clean, the water was hot, and the water pressure was strong, so obviously not a big con. The location is great, we walked everywhere. We would absolutely stay there again.

This hotel is particularly well-suited for international travelers, offering a unique and authentic Japanese experience. The highlight lies in its tastefully designed Japanese-style rooms, providing a glimpse into traditional Japanese aesthetics. Additionally, the inclusion of a Japanese bathhouse in the hotel's basement adds to the allure, allowing guests to immerse themselves in a culturally enriching bathing experience. The culinary offerings at this establishment also shine, with a menu showcasing traditional Japanese cuisine, ensuring a comprehensive cultural experience for discerning travelers.