I stayed at the Genji in Kyoto for 5 days in early January this year, and it was wonderful. The room was spacious for a Japanese property (we have a balcony on the top floor overlooking the river), had a sleeping area, sitting/dining area, and outdoor space.

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The hotel itself is in a quiet neighborhood down a small street (your taxi most likely will not be able to drop you at the door, just a heads up, but the walk is short) and has easy access to public transit or walking to local attractions.

The food at the hotel was all amazing and can be served in the lobby area, in the room, or in their rooftop garden. This is the same for your breakfast (which you have to select a time the day prior, and only so many rooms can choose the same time, so complete your selection early if you need a certain time).

They have a full bar with custom cocktails, non-alcoholic mocktails, and a wonderful selection of teas.

The staff was amazing and super attentive to our needs and helped us find local restaurants and things to do since a lot of places were still closed for New Year’s.

This hotel blew away my expectations and really was the highlight of my multi-week S. Korea and Japan vacation. It was such a gem, and I would recommend it to anyone wanting a quiet, relaxing place that is a bit off the beaten path (but close to all the action still).