OMO5 Kyoto Gion by Hoshino Resorts — Hotel in Kyoto

I love Hoshino Resorts hotels for their ability to make an experience out of every one of their hotels and the OMO5 Kyoto Gion is no different. This hotel, while it doesn't provide wait-on-your-every-need type service, is truly the perfect place to actually live, breathe, and soak in Kyoto's vibrant culture almost as if you were a resident of the city, enjoying the comforts of a thoughtfully designed space that feels like home.

The rooms here are some of most thoughtfully designed rooms for space that I've ever encountered. They combine traditional aesthetics with modern comfort, including a cozy, nook-like sleeping area that can literally knock you out in minutes (you have to experience it to understand). The addition of a mini kitchen and tatami mats in the living area added what could only be described as a beautiful, yet residential touch. Whether you're here with family or on a romantic getaway, the space is simply perfect (a hard task since most hotels have to prioritize for one or the other, but here they just have it down, I'm telling you).

But here's the kicker: the hotel's unique features are what set it apart. Ever woken up to the smell of freshly baked bread that you made yourself? In your room, they've got this incredible bread-making machine that lets guests bake their own bread overnight using a kit provided by the hotel; it's made very easy and made to be fun, not at all a task. Paired with a selection of jams and sides provided by the hotel, it is hands down one of the most memorable breakfast experiences imaginable. And don't forget about the bar, the on-site patisserie, and the kimono/yukata rental shop that offer those extra layers of enjoyment and convenience, enhancing the overall Kyoto experience.

Location-wise, you couldn't ask for better. Situated in the very heart of Gion, the hotel is the perfect base from which to explore the old and the new of Kyoto, with the city's historic charm right outside and it's more modern areas just a short walk across a scenic bridge away.

In summary, OMO5 Kyoto Gion is rare find of a hotel that strikes a perfect balance between being ideal for families and couples alike, and doing so in style. If you're looking for a place that's convenient, affordable, and offers a phenomenally unique experience, this is easily my top...

Having been in Japan for over 2 weeks & visited some amazing places, initially this Hotel like Gion District, was very disappointing. The location of Omo 5 is a stones throw from the park with the Yasaka Shrine. It’s just all a bit grubby, crowded & touristy. Think Piccadilly Circus & Leicester Square in the height of summer. Omo 5 is not really a hotel, more serviced apartment. You have to make your own breakfast - bread & Japanese condiments one day, sushi is left in the fridge for day2. If you want juice. & jam you have to buy from the vending machine or (as we did, go to the shops). There is no storage - a rail with 4 coat hangers & bench. No shelves or wardrobe for clothes. Shoes not allowed in the living part of the room. I don’t think many people stay 4 nights & require storage / Western sized stuff!The bed is also a standard double but luckily very comfortable. There is free water & ice by the vending machine in reception plus the usual toothbrushes, body towel & razors. However once you get sorted, the apartment is spacious and really quiet. The aircon was amazing in the heat. Laundry on 6th floor. Get out via the back door & explore the side streets. We found an amazing fruit & veg shop to buy fruit & salad. Got butter & jam from Lawson’s! The staff were incredibly polite although English limited. I did Google ‘coat hangers’ in Japanese & managed to secure extra! We liked Omo 5 by the time we left - just not the location! It would be perfect for teenagers / those in their 20’s that like...

Having been in Japan for over 2 weeks & visited some amazing places, initially this Hotel like Gion District, was very disappointing. The location of Omo 5 is a stones throw from the park with the Yasaka Shrine. It’s just all a bit grubby, crowded & touristy. Think Piccadilly Circus & Leicester Square in the height of summer. Omo 5 is not really a hotel, more serviced apartment. You have to make your own breakfast - bread & Japanese condiments one day, sushi is left in the fridge for day2. If you want juice. & jam you have to buy from the vending machine or (as we did, go to the shops). There is no storage - a rail with 4 coat hangers & bench. No shelves or wardrobe for clothes. Shoes not allowed in the living part of the room. I don’t think many people stay 4 nights & require storage / Western sized stuff!The bed is also a standard double but luckily very comfortable. There is free water & ice by the vending machine in reception plus the usual toothbrushes, body towel & razors. However once you get sorted, the apartment is spacious and really quiet. The aircon was amazing in the heat. Laundry on 6th floor. Get out via the back door & explore the side streets. We found an amazing fruit & veg shop to buy fruit & salad. Got butter & jam from Lawson’s! The staff were incredibly polite although English limited. I did Google ‘coat hangers’ in Japanese & managed to secure extra! We liked Omo 5 by the time we left - just not the location! It would be perfect for teenagers / those in their 20’s that like...