The Ace Hotel Kyoto was absolutely perfectly situated for our stay in Kyoto. It was around the corner and extremely walkable from the Karasuma Oike station.
It feels like an East meets West oasis in the area. The hotel is easily accessible and taxis know how to get there. When we checked in, it dawned on me that it was the location of the Winter home of Noma, which Food Bestie tried to get a reservation for.
Checking in, it was the exact vibe that I was aiming for in Kyoto. After taking the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Kyoto, I just wanted to secure our dining reservation. Immediately after asking for the front desk’s suggestions, I was given the hotel’s suggestion sheet.
This was so perfect. The fact that they have a recommended list for sushi, ramen and more – already prepared is so, so helpful. I ended up finding Sushi Sigetomi on my own. But, the sheet was a great starting point.
My partner felt that it was the most Western hotel of our three hotels (Conrad Tokyo and voco Osaka Central) due to the music in the lobby. But, I will also say that the music changes throughout the day.
The location of our room at Ace Hotel Kyoto was great. I was happy that I didn’t upgrade to the next category of room, in the separate building. In my opinion, it’s better to stay in the main, more updated building.
The room itself was clean, comfortable and kitsch in the right way. I appreciated that the bed was lower to the ground, more like a traditional Japanese tatami bed than not.
The in room record player was cute and I understand the concept of the vintage throwback vibe. But, slightly unneeded. Didn’t play ’em. But, was cute for decor.
I thought I would have copious amounts of coffee at Stumptown Coffee Roasters. However, I did not. What I did do is get up super early and write at the communal table in the lobby. It was nice to have the opportunity to write in a communal space and watch the sun illuminate the landscape beyond the windows in Kyoto.
Another aspect I loved is Breakfast at Mr. Maurice’s , their breakfast restaurant. If you’re debating on including breakfast in your reservation, my suggestion is to do it. One thing I don’t like worrying about is breakfast in the morning when traveling. At Mr. Maurice’s on the third floor, the space was absolutely gorgeous and the food was delicious and beautifully presented.
Overall, I personally enjoyed the design and vibe of the Ace Hotel. It was a solid choice.
Ace Hotel Kyoto
245-2 Kurumayacho
Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, Japan 604-8185
