For those wanting an international welcome to Kyoto or for those just simply travelling on a tighter budget, Guest House Trip Sound has you covered. Wedged between the Taisanji Temple and the Toyokuni Shrine, Trip Sound makes for a perfect base to cover Kyoto's essentials. A strong international flavor permeates throughout the multi-story guest house which offers accommodation ranging from hostel style bunks to Japanese styled private rooms.
Conveniently located within walking distance from Kiyomizu-Gijo station, the newly established hotel occupies a three floored building. Like most residencies in Japan, footwear is prohibited and a shoe rack is located on the first floor. A laundry service also located on the first floor is available to guests however is not included in the room tariff.
A large entertainment lounge exists on the second floor equipped with a darts machine, couches and a working area. The second floor is also home to a well-kept communal kitchen available for guest usage, however in keeping with the trivialities of Japanese accommodation a large Purikura styled photo booth sits in the middle of the kitchen.
The third and fourth floors consist of varying room types. The pick of the punch is the Japanese styled private room equipped with tatami mats and space to sleep up to three people. The large dormitories are generally well-kept however it is important to note that there are no valuable lockers provided.
Amongst other things, the hotel also offers free high speed Wi-Fi, luggage storage, a name stamp machine and even a kimono/yukata rental service. For a day’s rental of a kimono, expect to pay around the ¥3,000 mark.
A limited bike rental service is also available, allowing guests to discover the wonders of Kyoto on two wheels. However, make sure to book early as there are limited bicycles and plenty of eager guests. A day’s rental costs ¥500 however importantly one does not have to return the bicycle by a specific time.
The prices for the large dormitory rooms start at around ¥2,000 whereas the Japanese styled private room costs around ¥15,000 per night.
Getting there
From Osaka- take the Hankyu line to Kiyomizu-Gijo station. From there it is a 10-minute walk.