JAPAN is on top of everybody’s list for quite some time now. Travelers flow in and out of the country no matter what season. Never getting enough of the place, most, if not all, return to see more of its unique, rich culture.
Perhaps another reason why people return is the realization that traveling around Japan won’t break the bank as they originally perceived it to be. To the wise traveler, a few bucks will get them a long, long way.
There are countless accommodations across each city. No matter what type of pad you opt for, it will be clean - guaranteed. It’s a Japanese thing.
Now there’s the question of accessibility. The closer you are to the public transportation, the easier to reach the destination, and Japan’s system is comprehensive (more so today with signs translated in English) and punctual.
Kyoto is beautiful and I’m pretty sure it’s on your list. Before you even get there, let me point you to your home base: New Ginkaku Inn.
New Ginkaku bears the traveler’s essentials of convenience, affordability, and accessibility. Clean is a given, as in any Japanese accommodation.
The three-star Kyoto accommodation is the next-door neighbor of the Kyoto Station. Traveling heavy or light, you need not worry. Just cross the street and you’re there.
Don’t be surprised with the sudden change of scene. Even if it’s beside the bustling station, New Ginkaku sits on the tranquil spot of the area. You’d be nodding at this feature knowing time spent in the hotel will be quiet.
Reception is very polite and checking-in will be a breeze. The manager is well versed in English and the staff can speak fairly well. They will extend all the help and information that guests need.
Tranquil and easy-going yet modern best describe the place. The lobby area holds cozy lounge and dining area.
The Western style room size is sensibly sized for transient travelers and has the basic amenities guests will need. I love the kimonos for sleeping. It’s changed daily so expect a crisp, neatly folded set when you get back after a long day of touring.
Let’s talk about New Ginkaku’s location. To tour the city, Kyoto Station is where all buses to the attractions will be stationed. Each bay lists all the spots of interests it will traverse. Line up and board the bus. These buses will also be your ride home to the station. (Tip: buy a regional pass and ride all you can for the duration of the pass).
A few of the attractions though are within its vicinity and a short walk away — Kyoto Tower, Higashi Honganji, and Ryukoku Museum. A little further are the Kiyomizu Temple, Ryozen Kannon, and Kyoto Shijo Minamiza.
The buses can take you to the city center or you can take the subway. Gojo station is just ten minutes away on foot or if you fancy a bit of sightseeing, it will take 30 minutes.
The city center can be an exciting area but you need not stray far from your nest to sate the palate or address the itch to shop. The Kyoto Station building is one of the largest buildings in Japan and under the 15-storey roof is an array of restaurants, a shopping mall, Isetan department store, even a hotel and movie theater.
Having all these conveniences, my stay at the New Ginkaku Inn was great. I enjoyed the clean and quiet comforts of the inn and Kyoto’s wonders via the next door’s transport hub.
New Ginkaku Inn is at 508- 1 Shimogyouku Higashi Douinndoori Nanajo Kudaru , Kyoto, Japan.
Email me at jinggoysalvador@yahoo.com. For more lifestyle & travel stories, visit www.ofapplesandlemons.com & www.jeepneyjinggoy.com
