We had a great stay at the Old Modern Deco Suite (upstairs unit). This charming restored "machiya" townhouse is walking distance to the subway and bus stops, food supplies and convenience stores. As noted on their website it is “…an eclectic blend of traditional Japanese structure with some very early "modern" Western details such as a fireplace, high beamed ceilings, and parquet flooring.” If you’re looking for something more interesting than a hotel stay, this is a solid pick. Book early!
There were nice amenities such as a Nepresso machine and pods, washer/dryer, microwave, a quiet small refrigerator, tea kettle, iron and ironing board, and firm but comfortable Western style mattress. The Wi-Fi connection was solid and fast. The bathroom has a bathtub/shower with quality body wash, shampoo, and conditioner provided. There is a small table and chairs near a courtyard facing window, where you can have a pleasant breakfast. The provided curated list of nearby restaurants was very helpful. Our experience at the Old Modern was elevated thanks to excellent guest services provided by Mina and Junko who both speak English. They assisted with the booking process, and their help making reservations with restaurants in Kyoto was greatly appreciated.
Street noise was significant, but we were able to sleep with earplugs. The stairway is steep with narrow treads which may pose a problem for some. Still the overall experience was great. Highly...
Read moreThe Old Modern is easily the best place for an extended family or group of friends looking to stay in one place but still have some privacy. It consists of four lovely units within one immaculately restored early modern Japanese house (the former house of a prosperous Kyoto architect). There's a lovely common area where people can meet to talk before retiring to their own individual sanctuaries. Each unit has a sitting area, a washer/dryer, a bathroom with a deep bathtub and strong shower, at least one large bed, as well as a fridge and Nespresso machine with all the fixings. But the best part is the folder you'll find on the table with a carefully curated listing of restaurants and cafes which the incredibly helpful staff of the Old Modern can help you reserve. The thing I like most about the Old Modern is the location: It's within walking distance of downtown, Kyoto Station and the southern Higashiyama sightseeing district, but it's in a quiet neighborhood that is blissfully free from the crowds of other areas. If you're planning a trip for the extended family or your friend group, you should check the availability of the Old Modern. It's the perfect base for exploring the...
Read moreWe rented the whole house for 3 couples but one couple had to cancel and it was definitely more space than we required but appreciated the privacy. Every suite was clean and comfortable and the 2 remaining couples chose to stay in the garden and star suite as both were large, comfortable, and at the back of the house away from the street noise. The location was great and within walking distance of several points of interest to us.I appreciated that every suite had a washer and dryer and that umbrellas were available for use in the front entryway. There is also the history and photos of the property that I found interesting. The hosts were very communicative and responsive, they provide a binder with some great recommendations, and were also able to help us fill out the forms for luggage forwarding. They offered the perfect amount of support and privacy. Beautiful, comfortable, clean, well preserved traditional property that I wouldn't hesitate to return to. I'd also be open to checking out their other properties given the opportunity to return to Kyoto. Thank you to Mina and Junko for contributing to our fond Kyoto memories, we hope to be able to return to your...
Read more