An inexpensive traveler’s hotel next to the Imperial Palace, The Palace Side Hotel is a decent choice for budget travelers who want to be based in midtown.
Overlooking the west side of the Kyoto Imperial Palace Park, the Palace Side Hotel is a basic but serviceable hotel that was designed with foreign travelers in mind. It’s got everything you need: laundry facilities, free internet terminals, an onsite restaurant, and English-speaking staff. Due to its location directly across the street from the Kyoto Imperial Palace Park, this is a good spot for those who like to start their day with a contemplative stroll or a jog.
Most people, however, find that the location isn’t that great for sightseeing: it too far west to comfortably walk to the major sightseeing districts on the east side of town (but, it’s within easy striking distance by bicycle). It’s also very close to a subway station and it not too far from Doshisha University, meaning that there are plenty of cheap restaurants nearby. The major downside here is that the place is getting a bit long in the tooth and some of the rooms need refurbishing. Still, considering the prices they charge, it’s hard to complain.
English address:
Karasuma-dori, Shimotachiuri agaru, Kamigyo-ku,
Japanese address:
上京区烏丸通下立売上ル
Price:
Moderate
Internet: wifi and LAN cable access
Non-smoking rooms: Yes
Nearest Transport:
3min walk from Marutamachi Station Karasuma subway line
Telephone: 415-8887
Website:
:: Check availability and pricing for The Palace Side Hotel on Booking.com or Agoda.com.
Where Is This Place Located?
See these places on our Kyoto Google map:- Open the Kyoto map
- You will see the list of places on the left hand side. (Click the 3-line icon in the top left corner if not). Scroll down or use the map search (the magnifying glass icon) to find the place you want.
- Click the name of the place in the list. Its location pin will be highlighted on the map.
- Map pins are color coded - BLUE: Hotels | VIOLET: Ryokan | PINK: Places to Eat | YELLOW: Things to See and Do
- If you're using the map on your phone, open the map and then search for the name of the place. The map will then zoom in on its location.
Kyoto Vacation Checklist
- For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Kyoto guide
- Check Kyoto accommodation availability on Booking.com – usually you can reserve a room with no upfront payment. Pay when you check out. Free cancellations too
- Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Kyoto
- See my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
- Buy a data-only SIM card online for collection when you arrive at Kansai International Airport (for Osaka and Kyoto) or Tokyo's Narita Airport. Or rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
- Compare Japan flight prices and timings to find the best deals
- If you're visiting more than one city, save a ton of money with a Japan Rail Pass – here's my explanation of why it's worth it
- A prepaid Icoca card makes travelling around Kyoto easy – here's how
- Get travel insurance for Japan - World Nomads is well-regarded (and here's why)
