Published date: March 18, 2025
A Relaxing Hotel Stay in Umekoji, Kyoto
Room Type Stayed
Some info has been automatically translated by AI.
Experience of the stay
"Umekoji Potel Kyoto" is within walking distance from Kyoto Station. Positioned in Umekoji Park, it is very close to the Kyoto Aquarium and the Railway Museum. It's convenient as a base for sightseeing, but the hotel's charm lies in its leisurely atmosphere as well.
Relax in spacious public areas
One of the features of this hotel is its well-equipped public spaces. After checking in, I first dropped off my luggage and headed to the free drink area. On the arrival day, feeling tired from traveling, I enjoyed a cooling draft beer, having a truly relaxing time. The variety of drinks available like coffee, wine, original sours, and plum wine was also a delightful point.
Feel the hot spring atmosphere with "Pote-yu" & saunas
The hotel features "Pote-yu," which is reminiscent of a public bath, and it also has a sauna. It was a great way to fully relax from my travel fatigue.
Enjoy a stay with music and coffee
• Music Room on the 4th floor
I couldn't help but feel a sense of joy in a space where THE BEATLES' "1" was playing. I enjoyed a relaxed time surrounded by nostalgic melodies.
• Coffee Area on the 3rd floor
Using beans supervised by COFFEE BASE, there's also a corner where you can experience hand-drip coffee. You can enjoy grinding your beans with a Kalita electric grinder, selecting your preferred flavor from three options: deep roast, medium roast, and light roast. I brewed light roast upon arrival and deep roast the next morning, savoring both. Watching the beans bloom as I brewed my coffee made for an extraordinary cup.
Rooftop terrace with stunning views of Kyoto
I also visited the rooftop terrace. Although it was a bit dark at night, it provided a sense of openness, offering a great view of Kyoto Tower, the five-story pagoda of Toji, and the Shinkansen. During the daytime, I'm sure even more beautiful views await.
Public spaces with endless enjoyment
The hotel also has a Book area, board gaming area, and kids' area, providing more than enough activities to fill the day. Its charm lies in the myriad of ways to have fun within the hotel itself. Additionally, the separate-type loungewear enhances comfort, significantly increasing relaxation.
"Umekoji Potel Kyoto" is not only a great base for sightseeing in Kyoto, but it also boasts a space full of delights for enjoying the hotel stay itself. It is perfect for those seeking a stay where they can unwind and enjoy their own time, as well as sightseeing.
Experiences during the trip
Participated in the HafH Travel Week in Kyoto
I joined the HafH event where travel enthusiasts gather. The time spent exchanging travel information and discussing future travel plans was very fulfilling. Making new travel friends is one of the unique joys of such events.
On the first day, I participated in the "Haf-de-Kanpai🍺 Flying Night!" held at SIGHTS KYOTO. It was an opportunity to experience the deep charms of Kyoto that are usually not known, and I enjoyed an evening at a standing bar with three guests.
Indulged in exquisite Kyoto oden at "Issunboushi" near Toji
During this trip to Kyoto, I also stopped by an oden shop called "Issunboushi" near Toji. It's a favorite counter-style restaurant that I always visit whenever I come to Kyoto. I enjoy the interaction with local people so much that I often end up staying longer than planned. The owner mentioned, "Please don’t spread the word too much," but (laughs) the oden here is indeed exceptional. The combination of tofu sourced from Ogino Tofu and the Kujo green onion topping was outstanding, making me want to eat it again and again. Additionally, the "oden dashiwari" that keeps getting better each time I visit was absolutely the best this time, warming me to the core.
Nearby attractions that kids can enjoy
"Umekoji Potel Kyoto" is located within Umekoji Park, where a train-cafe is set up right at the "Streetcar Square" nearby. For family trips, a unique experience of enjoying a café inside a train car is a must.
Moreover, the Kyoto Aquarium and the Railway Museum are very close by, and my child had a great time during our previous visit, enjoying the exhibits for the whole day. Especially at the Railway Museum, seeing actual train cars and experiencing a driving simulation is irresistible for train enthusiasts.