Kyo no Ondokoro Nishijin Bettei #5

Kyo no Ondokoro Nishijin Bettei #5, a Michelin Key Selected property in Kyoto Prefecture, offers a unique and highly-regarded stay within a beautifully renovated traditional Japanese townhouse. This villa seamlessly blends historical charm with modern comfort, catering to groups and families seeking an authentic yet luxurious experience in Kyoto.

Overall Rating & Sentiment

The general consensus for Kyo no Ondokoro Nishijin Bettei #5 is overwhelmingly positive. While the Michelin Guide itself indicates "No verified stays yet" for a quality score on its platform, other reputable booking sites reflect exceptional guest satisfaction. On one platform, the property boasts impressive ratings including 9.6 for location, 9.6 for cleanliness, 9.5 for value for money, 9.4 for facilities, 9.5 for comfort, and 9.6 for staff, based on 71 reviews. Guests frequently praise the "amazing design house" and meticulous attention to detail.

Key Highlights

Guests consistently highlight the property's stunning design, the tranquility of its private courtyard, and the modern amenities within a traditional setting. The combination of historical architecture, rejuvenated by architects Yoshifumi Nakamura and Akira Minagawa, with contemporary comforts is a major draw. The personal soaking tub, offering views of the manicured courtyard, is a particularly cherished feature. The villa's spaciousness and suitability for families are also frequently mentioned.

Room Quality

Kyo no Ondokoro Nishijin Bettei #5 is a modernized townhome that can accommodate up to eight guests. It features two bedrooms with two full beds each, and two traditional Japanese rooms equipped with tatami mats and futon bedding. The design thoughtfully preserves elements of a late-Meiji period textile merchant's home while integrating strikingly modern facilities. Rooms open onto a central courtyard, creating a serene atmosphere. The villa includes two bathrooms, with a futuristic stall shower on the second floor and a bathtub in one of the bathrooms. The living and dining areas, with their comfortable charcoal mortar floors (which are cool in summer and heated in winter), and Nordic vintage furniture adorned with "Minä Perhonen" textiles, offer a blend of nostalgia and modernity.

Dining Experience

As a private villa/townhome, Kyo no Ondokoro Nishijin Bettei #5 does not offer an on-site restaurant or formal dining service for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. However, it comes equipped with a "fully-equipped contemporary kitchen," including a refrigerator, microwave, and stove, allowing guests to prepare their own meals. This provides flexibility for guests to experience local markets and cook or enjoy takeout in the comfort of their temporary home.

Service & Staff

The service and staff receive high praise, with a remarkable rating of 9.6. Guests describe the hosts as "extremely friendly" and "very helpful," offering local insights and making visitors feel at home. While the villa itself does not have a traditional front desk, check-in procedures are completed at "The Royal Park Hotel Iconic Kyoto Front Desk" or "Wacoal New Kyoto Bldg 1F," which manages the property. Guests are advised to inform the property of their expected arrival time in advance.

Location & Accessibility

The villa is situated in the Nishijin area of Kyoto, a neighborhood known for its historic streetscapes and the sounds of traditional weaving. It is approximately 2 miles from the center of Kyoto. Key attractions nearby include Kitano Tenmangu Shrine (a 12-minute walk), Nijo Castle (1.7 km away), and the Imperial Palace (2.2 km away). The area offers convenience with convenience stores, drugstores, and restaurants within a five-minute walk. Public transport access is available, with Karasuma-Oike Station (Kyoto Municipal Subway Karasuma Line and Tozai Line) about a 2-minute walk from the check-in location. While parking is available, some sources indicate charges apply for self-service parking and height restrictions.

Value & Pricing

Rates for Kyo no Ondokoro Nishijin Bettei #5 begin at 107,100 JPY per night. Given its selection by the Michelin Key, its spaciousness (accommodating up to eight guests), luxurious design, and comprehensive amenities, guests generally find it to be a worthwhile investment for a high-quality, authentic Kyoto experience. The property's commitment to preserving Kyoto-style traditional houses through renovation also adds to its unique value proposition.

Common Complaints

Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, one recurring issue noted in reviews is related to "Free Wifi," which received a lower rating of 2.5 out of 10 on one platform. This suggests that internet connectivity or speed might occasionally be a point of concern for some guests. Other important policies to note, though not necessarily complaints, include strict prohibitions on smoking, parties/events, and pets, along with designated quiet hours between 10:00 PM and 6:00 AM.

Sources

1. michelin.com
2. booking.com
3. michelin.com
4. michelin.com
5. michelin.com
6. expedia.com
7. michelin.com