Description: Kyoto's Cheapest Inn is, as described, a cheap hostel located near Nijo Castle. There are dormitories and private rooms available. The cheapest accommodations are for tatami bunk beds, which means you must bring a sleeping bag if you want to sleep comfortably. The normal bunk beds start at 2,000 yen per night but a sheet charge and possibly a seasonal charge may be added onto the amount. Fortunately, when making a reservation, the inn-keepers outline the full price that you will pay so there are no surprises. A credit card or bank transfer is necessary to secure your reservation.
I stayed on the 3rd floor, with the normal bunk beds. The room was neat and clean and included toilets and tables and chairs. The sheets and blankets were clean and comfortable. There was a curtain for privacy, which was nice. Guests are expected to store their baggage under the bed and keep valuables in lockers which were provided for free. The only problem with the dormitory arrangement was the presence of a snorer in the bed next to mine! Although I had brought earplugs (highly recommended), this particular sleeper managed to nearly break my eardrums with his loud snoring. Otherwise, the arrangements were quite good.
On the bottom floor, there is a communal kitchen and three individual showers. The kitchen was well-stocked with a microwave, toaster, hot water heater, fridge, rice cooker, some pans, cutlery, and mugs. The showers included shampoo and body soap, and hot water was plentiful. You must provide your own towel (which you can dry outside of the shower) or rent one from them. The bottom floor also contained free lockers, a TV, and a coin washing machine. It was a bit cramped but there was a table and some chairs right outside. There was also a nice area on the roof for hanging out.
The staff were efficient and helpful. They also speak passable English and are willing to help you with travel questions. They have some pamphlets and brochures available. They also provide a computer with free Internet use by the reception.
The location was also quite good because it was near Nijo Castle and on the corner of a large street that had many bus connections to places such as Kinkakuji (The Temple of the Golden Pavilion) or Ginkakuji (The Temple of the Silver Pavilion). The closest subway station, Nijomae, was about a ten minute walk. The closest JR rail stop, Nijo, was about a ten minute walk as well. Because of the clean facilities, cheap price, free kitchen, and location, Kyoto's Cheapest Inn is a great deal. You can check availability at their English website located here: www.kyotofashion.com/kyoto-inn/index_eng.html
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