Situated in the vibrant heart of Gion, the APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent offers one of the few truly budget-friendly accommodations in southern Higashiyama—a district renowned for its preserved streets, historic temples, and traditional tea houses. While it follows the reliable, no-frills formula of the APA business hotel chain, its unbeatable location and accessible pricing make it a smart, practical choice for travelers who want to maximize their time exploring Kyoto without overspending on lodging.
APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent – At a Glance
- Ideal for: Solo adventurers, couples, families, and budget-conscious travelers
- Key strengths: Prime central location, competitive rates, clean and functional rooms
- Sample nightly rates: Approximately US$60–$180 (subject to season and demand)
If you’re prioritizing value and want to stay within easy walking distance of both Kyoto’s downtown energy and the atmospheric lanes of southern Higashiyama, this property deserves serious consideration. Perched just steps from the iconic Yasaka-jinja Shrine and the lantern-lit alleys of the Gion geisha district—and less than a five-minute stroll from the shopping and dining hubs of Kawaramachi and Shijo—the hotel places you squarely in the cultural and social heartbeat of the city. Whether you’re chasing sunrise at Kiyomizu-dera or evening strolls along the Shirakawa Canal, you’ll spend less time commuting and more time experiencing.
Guest rooms follow the efficient, compact design typical of Japanese business hotels: thoughtfully laid out to maximize space, equipped with essential amenities, and maintained to a high standard of cleanliness. While modest in size, rooms are perfectly suitable for short stays and include comfortable bedding, private en-suite bathrooms, flat-screen TVs, refrigerators, electric kettles, and complimentary toiletries. Families will appreciate the availability of triple and quad occupancy rooms, which offer a rare and affordable option for group travel in this premium location. For an enhanced experience, consider booking a deluxe room on an upper floor—many offer serene, elevated views over the tiled rooftops of Gion and the verdant hills of southern Higashiyama, especially magical during cherry blossom season or autumn foliage.
As part of the nationwide APA network, guests can expect consistent service, 24-hour front desk support, luggage storage, vending machines, and complimentary amenities like Yukata robes and green tea. The hotel also features a large public bath on the top floor—a welcome retreat after a long day of sightseeing—with panoramic city views to unwind under. While the property doesn’t offer on-site dining, its surroundings are teeming with options: from casual ramen shops and cozy kissaten (traditional coffee houses) to upscale kaiseki restaurants and lively izakayas, all within a 2–3 minute walk.
Property Details
- Name in English: APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent
- Name in Japanese: アパホテル〈京都祇園〉EXCELLENT
- English Address: 555 Gionmachi-minamigawa, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, Japan 605-0074
- Japanese Address: 〒605-0074 京都市東山区祇園町南側555
- Price Range: Budget-friendly (rates vary by season, day of week, and advance booking)
- Nearest Transport:
- 3-minute walk from Gion Bus Stop (Kyoto City Bus Route 206, direct from Kyoto Station)
- 8–10 minute walk from Keihan Railway’s Gion-Shijo Station
- 15-minute walk from Hankyu Railway’s Kawaramachi Station
- Telephone: 0570-072-911 (Japan domestic only; international guests may contact via booking platforms)
- Website: Official APA Hotel Website
Explore the Neighborhood
APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent anchors you in Kyoto’s Southern Higashiyama district—a UNESCO-recognized area brimming with cultural treasures. Within a 10–15 minute walk, you can visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple, wander the philosopher’s path, browse artisan workshops in Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka, or enjoy evening performances at Gion Corner. For dining, the area offers everything from street-side takoyaki to Michelin-recognized kyo-ryori (Kyoto-style cuisine). Nightlife ranges from quiet sake bars to lively pubs along Pontocho Alley.
For travelers seeking affordability without compromising on location or authenticity, APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent delivers a reliable, convenient, and culturally immersive base for discovering the timeless beauty of Kyoto.
FAQs
Where is APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent located?
APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent is located in the heart of the Gion district in Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto.
How far is APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent from Gion Shijo Station?
APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent is just a 1-minute walk from Exit 6 of Gion Shijo Station on the Keihan Line.
Is APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent near Yasaka Shrine?
Yes, APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent is within walking distance of Yasaka Shrine and Maruyama Park.
What are the check-in times for APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent?
Check-in at APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent typically begins at 3:00 PM.
What is the check-out time at APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent?
Guests must check out of APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent by 10:00 AM.
Does APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent have free WiFi?
Yes, APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent provides complimentary high-speed WiFi throughout the property.
Are there non-smoking rooms at APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent?
Yes, APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent offers designated non-smoking rooms for guests.
Does APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent serve breakfast?
Yes, APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent offers a buffet breakfast featuring both Japanese and Western options.
Is breakfast included in the room rate at APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent?
Breakfast inclusion depends on the specific booking plan selected at APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent.
Can I store luggage at APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent?
Yes, APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent provides luggage storage services for guests before and after their stay.
Does APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent have a public bath?
No, APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent rooms have private en-suite bathrooms but no large public communal bath.
Are the rooms at APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent spacious?
Rooms at APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent are compact, typical of Japanese business hotels, but efficiently designed.
Does APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent provide toiletries?
Yes, APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent supplies standard amenities including toothbrushes, razors, and skincare products.
Is APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent suitable for families?
While possible, the compact room sizes at APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent may be tight for larger families.
Can I book a twin room at APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent?
Yes, APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent offers twin rooms which are popular for friends or colleagues traveling together.
Does APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent accept credit cards?
Yes, APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent accepts major international credit cards for payment.
Is there a convenience store near APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent?
Yes, several convenience stores are located within a short walking distance of APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent.
How do I get to APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent from Kyoto Station?
Take the Keihan Line to Gion Shijo Station; APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent is a 1-minute walk from the exit.
Does APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent have vending machines?
Yes, APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent has vending machines on-site for drinks and snacks.
Is APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent near Pontocho Alley?
Yes, APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent is very close to the famous dining and nightlife area of Pontocho Alley.
Can I see the geisha district from APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent?
APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent is located in Gion, the historic geisha district, offering easy access to its streets.
Does APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent have laundry facilities?
Guests can often use coin-operated laundry machines or dry cleaning services at APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent.
Is APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent wheelchair accessible?
Accessibility may be limited due to the building design; contacting APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent directly is advised.
What is the telephone number for APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent?
The phone number for APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent can be found on their official website or booking confirmation.
Does APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent have an English website?
Yes, APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent has an official website with information available in English.
Can I cancel my reservation at APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent?
Cancellation policies vary by rate plan; checking the specific terms for APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent is required.
Is APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent good for solo travelers?
Yes, the secure location and compact efficient rooms make APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent ideal for solo travelers.
Does APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent have air conditioning?
Yes, all rooms at APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent are equipped with individual air conditioning units.
Why is APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent popular?
APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent is popular for its prime location in Gion and proximity to public transport.
Is APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent open year-round?
Yes, APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent operates 365 days a year for guest accommodations.