Nazuna Kyoto Higashihonganji

Nazuna Kyoto Higashihonganji, a distinguished Michelin Key Selected property, offers guests an exceptional and tranquil retreat that beautifully fuses traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern luxury and personalized service. Housed in meticulously restored machiya townhouses, this boutique inn provides an intimate and unforgettable experience in the heart of Kyoto.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The general consensus for Nazuna Kyoto Higashihonganji is overwhelmingly positive, with guests consistently rating their stays as "exceptional" and describing it as one of the best hotel experiences they have ever had. The property boasts impressive scores for cleanliness (9.9), comfort (9.9), staff performance (9.8), and facilities (9.8). The sentiment is one of profound satisfaction, highlighting the personalized attention and serene ambiance.

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently laud Nazuna Kyoto Higashihonganji for several key aspects:

• Service & Staff: The staff receives nearly universal praise for their unparalleled friendliness, professionalism, attentiveness, and willingness to go above and beyond for guests. Many reviewers mention staff members by name, commending their English proficiency and helpfulness with everything from recommendations to unexpected issues like lost luggage.
• Design & Ambiance: The hotel's design, which thoughtfully blends traditional Japanese elements with contemporary comfort, is a major draw. The restoration of historic machiya townhouses into luxury accommodations with a serene atmosphere is highly appreciated.
• Amenities: The private in-room hot tubs or cedar baths are frequently highlighted as a luxurious and relaxing feature. Amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi, air conditioning, daily housekeeping, and massage services also contribute to a comfortable stay. Welcome drinks and traditional snacks in the lobby further enhance the guest experience.
• Personalized Experience: With only seven beautifully appointed rooms, the hotel ensures a highly personalized and intimate experience for its guests.

3. Room Quality

The rooms at Nazuna Kyoto Higashihonganji are consistently described as spacious, beautiful, and exceptionally comfortable. Each room is uniquely designed, combining historically minded woodwork with modern design interventions. A standout feature in every room is a handsome cedar bath or a private open-air bath, providing a tranquil and luxurious bathing experience. Rooms feature plush linens, carefully selected toiletries, and comfortable Simmons mattresses. Guests appreciate the attention to detail, from heated bathroom floors to well-stocked in-room drinks and snacks. The Superior Twin Room, for example, spans an impressive 84 square meters and can accommodate up to five guests with a choice of double beds or Japanese futons.

4. Dining Experience

Dining at Nazuna Kyoto Higashihonganji is a highlight for many guests. Breakfast is served daily and is often described as "delicious" and an "amazing experience." Guests can enjoy an Asian breakfast, including a colorful bento box and irori-style dishes, with Western options also available upon request. Dinner, specifically a shabu-shabu meal, can be arranged with advance notice. The hotel also offers room service, allowing guests to savor delightful meals in the privacy of their elegantly designed rooms. The focus is on quality and a pleasant culinary experience.

5. Service & Staff

The service and staff at Nazuna Kyoto Higashihonganji are consistently rated as exceptional. Guests report an unparalleled level of friendliness, professionalism, and attentiveness, with staff going "above and beyond" to ensure a memorable stay. Many highlight the staff's excellent English communication skills, making interactions seamless for international guests. Examples of outstanding hospitality include personalized greetings, assistance with luggage, and thoughtful gestures like handmade birthday cards. The concierge service is readily available to assist with recommendations and reservations.

6. Location & Accessibility

Nazuna Kyoto Higashihonganji boasts an excellent and convenient location in the heart of Kyoto. It is situated just a short distance (approximately a 10-minute walk or less than 0.6 miles) from Kyoto Station, providing easy access to the extensive network of trains and buses. This makes it an ideal base for exploring iconic destinations such as Kinkaku-ji, Fushimi Inari Taisha, and Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Nearby attractions within walking distance include Higashi Honganji Temple (1 minute walk), Kyoto Tower (6-10 minute walk), and Kawaramachi Street (7-10 minute walk). Gojo Station is also a short 7-minute walk away. The hotel also offers a complimentary shuttle service to nearby attractions and local hotspots.

7. Value & Pricing

Nazuna Kyoto Higashihonganji is positioned as a luxury property, with average room prices starting around $500, and sometimes reaching upwards of $656 to $692 per night. While this is higher than the average hotel room in Kyoto ($151 to $200), guests widely consider it to be worth the cost due to the exceptional service, serene ambiance, meticulously designed spaces, and personalized experience it provides. Many reviews explicitly state that the stay was "worth every penny" and an excellent value for the quality received.

8. Common Complaints

Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, a few minor recurring issues have been mentioned by guests:

• Noise from Next Door: Some guests have reported noise, particularly in the mornings, due to construction next door.
• Thin Walls: A concern about thin walls and being able to hear conversations from adjacent rooms has been noted.
• Location (Minor Nuance): While generally considered excellent, one review described the location as "a bit in between in terms of locations," suggesting it might sometimes require a taxi or longer walk for certain destinations, though this was generally considered a minor inconvenience.

Sources

1. michelin.com
2. agoda.com
3. michelin.com
4. booking.com
5. booking.com
6. kyotohotelspage.com
7. hotels.com
8. ikyu.com
9. expedia.com