Hotel Sagano — Hotel in Kyoto

PSA: This is a love-hotel and operates as such. This means that check-in isn't until 6pm, you don't get a room key (you need to call the frontdesk to be buzzed out), and obviously this place caters to very specific people.

That being said; there were many positives to this hotel for us specifically. They offer free parking, so considering we were on a roadtrip, this was very practical, as it is not in the touristic center of Arashiyama (half hour walk). The owner does offer transfers from the train station if you let them know a time. Our welcome was very pleasant, with a quick explanation of everything, as well as a request for a time to bring breakfast sandwiches.

The room itself felt very retro. Each room has a different theme, so we didn't know in advance which one we were getting. We ended up in a space themed room with glow in the dark wallpaper and a rocketship/planets headboard with built in lights. The room itself was well cleaned and there were plenty of amenities available to enjoy your stay for the night. We did not hear any noise from neighbors or the hallway during our one night stay. In the morning, the lovely breakfast sandwiches were delivered right on time.

This was an enjoyable stay in a love hotel compared to others I...

Booked on klook. Room was very dirty. You could tell the free toiletries were expired or reused. Toothpaste tasted like hand lotion in toothbrush package. Stains on toilet seat, in bed, and carpets. Smelled like cigarettes. The whole time I slept in bed I was itchy. You can see dust on everything and it floating around. I paid a bit more than a few business hotels while staying in Japan and they were nicer. Not sure how this hotel would inspire any romance. Made me sad. Other reviews mentioned free ride service to train station, we were not offered this. Sure it was probably because we are not locals. Couldn't sleep as its near a main road and cars and motorbikes kept us up. Also none of the instructions written on elevator regarding wifi or how to recieve meal(included breakfast which is just a tiny sandwich that cost $1000 yen extra). Wouldn't recommend anyone go there, unless you are Japanese, I guess they are treated better and foreigners are treated...

My experience was the best in this hotel. After staying at the onsen "Tenzan no yu" (Very good onsen). I Look around hotels to stay one night. But unfortunately in Arashiyama after 10pm, there's no one to attend to at the reception. I was about to give up and stay on the street and sleep 😅 But I came up to talk to some Japanese guys for help. They told about a Love Hotel. They call the hotel and the hotel had a room. It was 1am when I got here and the receptionist was very kind. Even if I don't know Japanese, She help me on everything. The next day I had to arrive early at Torokko Arashiyama station, and suddenly the lady already had a car ready to take me to that station. It's really the best emergency experience. The room's too big. Comfortable bed, television, sofa, big bathroom! all excellent....