The Kyoto Trip Begins with an Overnight Stay
Staying at sequence KYOTO GOJO
We stayed at sequence KYOTO GOJO, a hotel operated by Mitsui Fudosan — one of Japan’s leading real estate developers. It’s just one subway stop from Kyoto Station and only a short walk from Gojo Station.
Self Check-In and Facial Recognition
Check-in is done not at a staffed front desk, but through a self-service kiosk. During the process, you can register your face as your room key, allowing you to access your room and other areas of the hotel using facial recognition.
Each guest room entrance and the spa area are equipped with cameras and display panels.
The facial recognition system works very well, with hardly any failures. The extensive use of IT throughout the hotel reminds me of the concept behind the “Henn na Hotel” (“Weird Hotel”) chain — a hotel brand operated by HIS, one of Japan’s major travel companies, known for incorporating advanced technology into hospitality.
You can control various room functions using a tablet, which also makes checking out quick and easy. It’s super convenient!
Simple Guest Rooms
The guest rooms feature a sleek, minimalist design with a very simple and refined feel. The predominant use of gray tones creates a calm and relaxing atmosphere.
The bathroom is equipped with a shower only and no bathtub. However, since there’s a large public bath in the hotel, that’s not a problem at all.
Relax and Unwind in the Large Public Bath
One of the highlights of this hotel is its communal bath. There are two types: THE BATH, which features a large soaking tub, and THE SAUNA, which includes a steam sauna room. The facilities alternate between men and women on a daily basis.
That evening, it was the men’s turn to use THE BATH. I was delighted — I’d really been hoping to soak in the tub at night!
Inside, there were only shower booths — without mirrors — instead of the usual washing areas. It looked stylish and modern, though I couldn’t help but wonder about the practicality… (lol)
The hot stone benches weren’t as warm as I expected, so I couldn’t really warm up. I was left wondering how you’re actually supposed to use them…
I also tried THE SAUNA the next morning, but I felt the steam sauna could have been a bit hotter. (Just my personal opinion!)
It seems that at sequence KYOTO GOJO, the all-you-can-eat breakfast available until check-out is very popular. However, this time I decided to eat outside — I wanted to do some sightseeing and didn’t plan on eating multiple meals!
Breakfast at Takagi Coffee Shop Nearby
It seems that at Sequence Kyoto Gojo, the all-you-can-eat breakfast until check-out time is very popular, but this time I decided to eat outside. (I want to do some sightseeing and I won’t eat multiple times)
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