Daiwa Roynet Hotel KYOTO-SHIJYOKARASUMA

Our stay was a mixed bag with some clear drawbacks, though we acknowledge our own role in one significant issue. We unfortunately didn't pay close enough attention when booking and ended up with a smoking-permitted room. The pervasive smell of stale cigarettes was very strong and unpleasant – definitely (our mistake) for not selecting a non-smoking option, but it significantly impacted our comfort. Beyond the smoke smell, the room it self showed its age and wear. The walls had noticeable scratches and marks, and the overall décor and furnishings felt quite tired and dated. It lacked the freshness and upkeep we'd expect. While the room was functional for our needs (bed was okay, basic amenities present), it didn't feel particularly welcoming or well-maintained. On a positive note, the location was convenient for accessing. The staff interactions we had were generally polite and efficient during check-in/out. The common areas we saw appeared cleaner and better maintained than our specific room. Overall, it served its purpose as a base for exploring, primarily due to the location. However, the combination of the very strong smoke odor (our booking error, but a reality of the room type) and the visibly worn and scratched condition of the room made it feel like a below-average experience for the category/price point. We'd advise future guests to *triple-check* they are booking a non-smoking room and perhaps inquire about recently refurbished rooms if available. The property itself might benefit from some updates.

good: best location around main area of Kyoto. bad: if you driving, the parking lot is closed after 11, and you have to find a place somewhere else. tips: if you have to park here, pay daily, they will ask you to pay for the whole duration of stay. If you back to hotel after 11pm, say goodbye to that park fee. Better to use other parking lot around the area, more flexible.

The hotel is conveniently located and provides a wide range of toiletries at the lobby for self service. However, the rooms are not particularly clean with a lot of markings on the walls, room was not cleaned although we put the sign outside our room before 10am as requested. We were okay with our stay but will not return to this hotel again for our next trip.

Very impressed with the service. The staff here are excellent, friendly and very helpful. For a 3 star hotel I got 5 star service. Highly recommend.

The hotel is near subway. 1 minute walk to subway station. The room is big. It provides free DHC cleansing oil, facial wash, toner, facial cream and body lotion before 11 pm. The price is high.

Hotel staff went out of their way to help.