The suite takes up most of the lower floor of a 2-storey traditional Japanese wooden house. 390 sq ft, consists of a tatami room for sleeping on futons, small kitchen with stove, fridge, microwave, small table and chairs for 3, private garden, hi-tech toilet, shower room with washer/dryer. One suggestion - the table in the kitchen is a little small, while there is enough room for a larger table to allow for using a laptop at the same time that another is using the table as well.
The suite was comfortable and well-laid out. Perfect for 2, but could fit 3. There was plenty of storage for bags and jackets. The futons were comfortable and we slept well. There was some noise from the street but due to the location on a quiet side street, this wasn't an issue. We could hear the emergency vehicles from the fire stn 1 block away, these didn’t disturb us. The noise from other tenants was more of an issue. At one point during our stay a noisy family was occupying the suite above us keeping late hours and early rising, often yelling between floors. We had to use earplugs to sleep during this period. Other guests were more considerate and less noticeable.
The suite was clean and well-appointed. Housekeeping came weekly and were efficient and thorough.
Air-con and the under-floor heating in the tatami room, kitchen and shower was very nice!
We arrived late, but were able to find the location by giving our taxi driver the map sent to us. The instructions for the key box were clear, we had no issues with orienting ourselves to the suite. We met the owner the next day and she was very friendly and answered all our questions. Throughout our stay she was available by phone. Checkout was easy. When we booked on VRBO, we found her responses quick and detailed.
The location of the suite is perfect! The only detraction from the location is the distance from the nearest subway. It is in a perfect location for the traditional streets surrounding Kyomizu-dera. There are also many other shrines and temples within a short walk. Nearby there are quite a few excellent places to eat, and the pottery places are amazing!
Bus and taxi is within a couple of blocks. Kyoto station is a short taxi or bus ride away.
There are a number of options for groceries in vicinity.
Wifi worked very well. TV has only Japanese stations. Land-line allows for toll-free calling throughout the area.
Our stay here was so perfect - we have such excellent memories of this beautiful place!