Hotel Granvia Kyoto

Owned by the Japan Railways group (holders of a Japan Rail Pass get discounts), this hotel boasts Kyoto's most convenient location for travelers arriving by train: It's right atop the futuristic-looking Kyoto Station. Only a minute's walk from city buses and trains, it's a good base for exploring Kyoto, Nara, and beyond. The dimly lit hotel lobby is on the second floor, removed from the foot traffic of the station but still buzzing with activity. If you can, avoid the least expensive rooms -- they have rather unexciting views of the station's glass roof. Otherwise, modern rooms on higher floors facing north have great Kyoto views. Hotel packages are available that include cooking classes, a visit to the inner sanctums of a Shinto shrine, or the opportunity to spend the evening with a geisha.

Facilities:
8 restaurants; bar; 2 lounges; lobby computers (¥100 for 10 min.); concierge; executive-level rooms; health club w/indoor pool, fitness gym, and sauna (fee: ¥1,050); room service; smoke-free rooms

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.