Piece Hostel Sanjo

If only I could pick a hometown in Japan it would definitely be Kyoto. Even if it's always full of local or international tourists, Kyoto retains its own charm. The comfortable and friendly ambience always invites me to return. Each time I visit Kyoto, I always try different accommodation. As a budget traveller, I mostly stay in a hostel. After having experienced Kyoto Khaosan Theatre Hostel, this time I tried Piece Hostel Sanjo, which was only opened a month before I arrived.

I have also read about the original Piece Hostel Kyoto next to Kyoto Station. Previously I have read about Piece Hostel Kyoto, located next to Kyoto Station. Their second branch is strategically located at Kawaramachi and Sanjo Street in the downtown of Kyoto. It used to be a traditional Japanese inn or ryokan, which was then renovated to be a stylish hostel. We could call it a luxury hostel. While hostels are the cheapest way to get a place to rest, it does not have to be cramp, shabby, dirty or noisy. You will definitely feel the 'luxury hostel' concept here even before you enter the lobby.

This hostel is located in Asakura-cho, Nakagyu-kyu, Kyoto, only 10 minutes by foot from Kawaramachi station - which is the gateway to Kyoto from Osaka using the Hankyu Railway. I really like Kawaramachi as it has so much to offer - from shopping centres to tourist icons like Gion, Yasaka Shrine, Kiyomizu Temple, and many more. All within walking distance.

The exterior shows the building concept - traditional Japanese with modern touch - decorated with elegant trees, refreshing for the eyes. Entering the lobby, you will see the modern design with its industrial theme. The English speaking staff at the lobby will greet you, they are friendly and young spirited - just like any other hostel in Kyoto.

The check-in time is a little late compared to others - 16.00 in the afternoon. If you show up early, you could do an early check-in and put your bag on their concierge. After 16:00, you are welcome to use the room. This procedure is made to accommodate the needs of the guests.

There are five floors and one basement floor with a shower room, toilet and a room for the coin-laundry. The first floor is the lobby and common room, which they also use for breakfast. Unlike most hostels in Japan, Piece Hostel Sanjo offers free breakfast, the menu varies and every guest could have as much as they want. Speaking of freebies, you don't have to bring your own shampoo, soap and conditioner - as it is all free. They also have clean towels - again for free.

There are 6 types of rooms: the 10-bed dorm, 4-bed dorm, single, twin, double and family rooms. I happened to stay in the 10-bed room. Speaking about rooms, you don't have to worry about your privacy. All dorm rooms have a curtain on each cabin, and inside the cabin you will find a comfortable, soft bed with warm sheets and blankets. Not to mention the reading lamp, electric socket and cloth hanger. You could also choose your pillow from the pillow storage available on each floor, your quality of sleep is guaranteed to be perfect!

For the dorm room, the price ranges from 2800-3400 yen per person. And the private rooms start from 4500 yen per room/night.

Contrary to my habit of always choosing a new place to stay during my visit to Kyoto, this time, I will definitely come back here. It is really close to Nishiki Market and Teramachi Street. And you don't have to pay much to have the luxury and comfort you deserve from a holiday.