Grand Japaning Hotel Shijo-Omiya (Kyoto)

After a few days in Tokyo, we took the Shinkansen to Kyoto.  (note: if you sit on the right hand side of the train, you actually get a view of Mount Fuji on your way to Kyoto).  We didn't reserve a seat on the Shinkansen and didn't have any issues.  We took the fastest option (the Nozomi); we got to Kyoto just after 2 hours.

The train ride was uneventful, although it did get a bit busier when we got closer to Kyoto (more people looking for a place to sit, a few people were standing on the train).  Other than that, it was easy peasy.  We bought snacks and drinks at the train station before we went on the train, otherwise we'd get hangry :)

For our Hotel in Kyoto, we looked for a hotel that's affordable yet close enough to the market and to transit.   And just like Tokyo, we didn't know what to expect.  We were preparing ourselves that the hotel will be just as small (if not smaller).  

In Kyoto, we did most of our trips by bus (as opposed to by the subway/metro when we were in Tokyo).  We didn't feel the need to take the train.  Unless you're planning to buy the JR Pass, which covers a lot more grounds compared to their regular subway.  Bottom line, plan your trip ahead of time and decide whether to just use your ICOCA card for the bus (and local trains), or if you want to buy a JR pass.  

Forward and onward to our Hotel experience!  

The Grand Japaning Hotel Shijo-Omiya is located really close to the train station, and really close to the bus station.  It's also only a block away from Daiso and a few convenience stores.  

Everything was pretty much automated.  We received a welcome package in our email a few days before our trip, with a check in info and a code for the front entrance.  The front entranced has an electronic lock, and you basically can only enter through the door if you have your code.  Please note that this hotel is a self-serve hotel!  There's no receptionist at the front desk most of the time.  Sometimes there is someone at the reception desk, but only for a couple of hours at a time.  Make sure you have all of your check-in information ahead of time.  

So, once you've gotten through the front door, you can do a self-check in using the tablet at the front desk.  Enter your check in information to complete the process.  The system will then give you the access code for your room.  The room is also accessible using a number pad.  Make sure you remember your access code!  

The room itself was surprisingly big! (compared to our hotel room at APA in Tokyo, anyway).  There's plenty of space to put our luggage and hang our coat.  Plus we don't have to step over each other to go to the bathroom!  

This is how we place our bags in the room:  the luggage is placed on the luggage stand, and our travel pack is placed on the table 

Big comfy bed, and also lots of light in the room

spacious entry way! 

Plenty of counter tops, and also a separate "closet" to hang your jackets

Another bonus point: this hotel has a free laundry (washer and dryer, and also including the free detergent).  Yay!  We did a round of laundry, which was super helpful since we traveled light (one carry on suitcase and one travel backpack for both of us, for a 12-day trip).   They also have a smoking room, for those of you who smokes or vapes.  

Overall we were VERY happy to stay at this hotel!! Definitely would come back again.  

Having said that, though.... my parents (who COINCIDENTALLY went on a trip to Japan at the same time as us) stayed at the Grand Japaning Hotel Nijo.  That hotel has a traditional feel (tatami floor, futon bed, a small desk to have your tea in clay cups), and is A LOT BIGGER than the Grand Japaning Shijo Omiya.  It follows a very similar way to check in (everything is automated, self check in, key pad on door, etc); the building is fairly new, the washroom is a traditional washroom, has a laundry, too.  Just the room itself has a more traditional feel.  Worth to check this out too, if the price is good!  :)