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Hotel Tavinos Kyoto Review: Funky, Affordable & Fun in the Heart of Japan
- Jenn & Leon
- Jun 24, 2023
- 11 min read
Updated: Jul 7
Hotel Tavinos in Kyoto is a manga-themed hotel that is great for digital nomads like us, and general travelers too.
The hotel offers a variety of amenities that are perfect for remote workers, including fast WiFi, comfortable workspaces, and a library of manga.
The hotel is also located close to many of Kyoto's most popular attractions, making it easy to get around.
Tavinos has an awesome and unique manga theme, with artwork and characters from popular manga series displayed throughout the hotel, which we loved.
The rooms are also manga-themed too! Isn't there just so much to enjoy about Japan?
There are a variety of room types, including standard rooms, twin rooms, and family rooms.
It also has several handy services, including automated luggage storage, self-check-in, free unlimited coffee and tea machines, free breakfast snacks, and coin-operated laundry (which is always super handy for travelers).
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The Room at Hotel Tavinos
We had a standard double room which was decorated in the same theme as the main hallways and lobby.
It was small, but the best use was made of the space by adding the table area on the side of the bed, a handy ledge above the pillows for electronics and charging, and storage space beneath the bed for luggage.
The room comes with a TV; however, there is a strict no-eating policy.
There is a phone for emergencies and also the lighting in the hallway was automatic (which timed out after a minute, but prior to us knowing led to a frantic search for the switch!).
There is air-conditioning and the bed was not the most comfortable, but perfectly manageable.
The WIFI worked okay with reasonable speeds for downloading, streaming, and working, but it was not as fast and stable as the lobby area.
There was no safe, mini fridge or wardrobe or shelving (although there was a small coat rack).
This was a slight downer, alongside having no formal seating area that could have been provided where Jenn is standing below.
As in most Japanese hotels and even Airbnb's, the bathrooms are pretty small.
This one was as tight as you can get, but it was modern, clean, and had everything we needed.
Of course, the toilet seat is in true Japanese style too, with seat heating options, cleaning buttons, and even sounds!
The shower was decent with good pressure and temperature, and shower gel & shampoo were included, which we appreciate as we like to travel light.
Hotel Tavinos Facilities
⪢ Hotel Products
Even though you do get some basic toiletries in the room, there is an expansive collection in the lobby which is free to select from and use.
This is fairly unusual for a hotel, but a nice touch!
You can get dressing gowns, cotton buds, slippers, toothbrushes and toothpaste.
Perfect if you arrive late and are caught short!
⪢ Lobby & Dining Area
The lobby and dining area at Hotel Tavinos is spacious and stylish.
It is decorated with manga artwork and characters as with the rest of the hotel, and it has a comfortable seating area where you can relax or work.
There is unlimited coffee and tea available, and every morning the hotel provides some small cakes and snacks for breakfast.
We love books, and there is a cool free-to-use manga library too, with plenty to choose from.
Worth checking out!
⪢ Laundry
Always a real bonus for travelers, the hotel offers laundry facilities, including dryers, which are coin-operated and very efficient!
⪢ Workspace Area
The workspace area in the Hotel Tavinos is clean, quiet, and very comfortable.
Each table has plugs for charging, and the WiFi works very well.
There is a toilet nearby too, so you can focus without having to go to your room.
⪢ Outdoor Balcony
As we were here in December, it was still fairly cold, so we did not use this space.
But it is beautifully presented and also provides another option if you would prefer to eat or work outside.
There is no smoking permitted here though; you have to leave the hotel grounds for that.
⪢ Luggage Storage
We did not need to take advantage of this facility, but we have to say it is an excellent touch.
For a small charge, you can keep your bags secure for up to 24 hours, which is handy if you have a late flight or want to make use of your time luggage-free.
⪢ Self Check-In / Check Out
This was an absolute first for us!
We have used these types of machines plenty of times in airports, but never in hotels.
It worked well, asking all the usual questions and scanning our passports on check-in.
On check out, we literally popped our room key into it and we were good to go. Brilliant.
⪢ 7-Eleven Convenience Store
If you have not experienced a 7-Eleven store in Japan, then you have to try.
The options available here are unlike any other local store you have tried. Trust us!
We like to call the food here gourmet because it is.
There are a ton of fancy options, from main meals to snacks, sweet food to savory.
It can be heated for you, and cutlery will always be provided. Prices are reasonable too!
Of course in addition you can pick up toiletries and other bits and bobs.
It was ideal to have this right beneath the hotel, with direct access from the elevator down from the hotel lobby.
How to Get to Hotel Tavinos Kyoto
Hotel Tavinos Kyoto is conveniently located near several public transportation options, making it easily accessible from various points in the city.
Here's how you can reach the hotel:
From Kyoto Station
⪢ By Bus
● At Kyoto Station Bus Terminal A2, board Kyoto Municipal Bus numbers 4, 17, or 205.
● Alight at the Kawaramachi Gojo Bus Stop; the hotel is directly in front of this stop.
By Train
● Kiyomizu-gojo Station: Take the Keihan Main Line to Kiyomizu-gojo Station. From there, it's a 3-minute walk to the hotel.
● Gojo Station: Ride the Kyoto Municipal Subway to Gojo Station. The hotel is a 7-minute walk from this station.
● Kyoto Kawaramachi Station: Use the Hankyu Kyoto Line to reach Kyoto Kawaramachi Station. The hotel is about a 10-minute walk from here.
From Kansai International Airport
⪢ By Train & Bus
● Take the Kansai Airport Line Limited Express Haruka to Kyoto Station (approximately 90 minutes).
● Then, transfer to Kyoto Municipal Bus numbers 4, 17, or 205 at Kyoto Station Bus Terminal A2.
● Disembark at Kawaramachi Gojo Bus Stop; the hotel is right in front of you.
From Osaka International Airport
⪢ By Bus
● Board the limousine bus bound for Kyoto Station Hachijo Exit and get off at Kyoto Station Hachijo Exit (about 55 minutes).
● Then, transfer to the bus (Shijo Yamashina Daigo Line 312 Keihan Rokuike Jizo area) at Kyoto Station Hachijo Exit Bus Stop, which is a 1-minute walk from the station.
● Get off at Kawaramachi Gojo bus stop (about 13 minutes); the hotel is right in front of you.
⪢ Book Your Stay
If you would like to book a stay, make your reservation here.
⪢ Contact Information for Hotel Tavinos
● Address: 612番地 Azuchicho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8040, Japan
● Phone: +81 75-320-4111
● Website: hoteltavinos.com
● Enquiries: Tavinos Hotel
● Instagram: @hoteltavinos_kyoto
Tips for Visiting Hotel Tavinos Kyoto
● Book early for the best rates: Kyoto is a popular destination year-round, so reserving your room well in advance ensures better availability and pricing, especially during peak seasons like cherry blossom and autumn foliage.
● Choose a room with a view: Many rooms offer stunning cityscape or temple views—request a higher floor or corner room when booking for the best experience.
● Use public transport nearby: Hotel Tavinos is conveniently located near major subway and train stations. Purchase an IC card (like Suica or ICOCA) for easy travel around Kyoto and the Kansai region.
● Pack light and travel smart: The hotel offers efficient luggage storage and delivery services, handy if you plan to explore before check-in or after check-out.
● Enjoy local dining options: The area around the hotel has a variety of authentic Japanese restaurants and cafes—ask the concierge for recommendations.
● Check amenities and extras: Take advantage of the hotel’s free Wi-Fi, laundry services, and any seasonal promotions or package deals available during your stay.
Things to Do Near Hotel Tavinos
Kiyomizu-Dera Temple
Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
Kinkaku-ji Temple
Gion
Nishiki Market
Maruyama Park
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Our Experience Ratings:
Hotel Tavinos
We had a fantastic stay here, enjoying the ease of being within walking distance from the famous Nishiki Market while utilizing the excellent WIFI and lobby area to work.
There is also the bonus of a 7-Eleven convenience store directly beneath the hotel, with direct access from the lobby to the store without even having to go outside.
It had everything we needed!
Cleanliness
The hotel was very clean throughout; no complaints here.
The bathroom in the workspace area was a little smelly, but nothing major. The room was spotless.
Cost & Value for Money
We booked Hotel Tavinos through Airbnb, and it was prior to Japan opening fully from COVID, so prices may have been slightly cheaper.
We paid CAD 58 per night, which we feel was a great price for our experience.
Food
The hotel does not provide food service, probably because of the 7-Eleven, but it was nice that they offered tea, coffee, and some breakfast snacks at no extra cost.
No eating in the room was a bit of a bind, though, and that took our score down to a four.
Location
Hotel Tavinos is in a great spot in Kyoto. It is within walking distance of the train stations, the main high street, and the Nishiki Market.
It is easy to find and overall is very convenient as a base for exploring the city.
Service
The service was efficient and effective. Communication was a little tricky as English was limited, but with self-check-in and out, there was not much need for that anyway.
It was a nice touch to see a Christmas tree in the lobby, and overall, we felt very comfortable and welcome here.
The Room
The room was small, which was to be expected, and whilst it did make good use of the space, the lack of storage and sitting space was a little annoying.
The WiFi in the room was also a bit hit-and-miss, although forcing us into the beautiful workspace area was not necessarily a bad thing. The bed was also a little hard, but overall it was ok.
FAQ: Hotel Tavinos Kyoto – What You Should Know Before Booking
Where is Hotel Tavinos Kyoto located?
The hotel is in the Higashiyama district, near Kiyomizu-Gojo Station on the Keihan Line. It's within walking distance of Gion and other key attractions.
💡 Great location for first-time visitors looking to explore Kyoto on foot or by public transport.
What’s the concept behind the hotel?
Hotel Tavinos Kyoto follows a manga-inspired theme, with comic-style graphics throughout the building, from walls to bed linen. It's designed to be youthful, efficient, and playful.
What are the rooms like?
Rooms are compact but cleverly designed with smart storage, modern bathrooms, and comic-book flair.
Most rooms are private twin or double pods — ideal for solo travelers or couples.
Is it suitable for digital nomads or long stays?
While rooms are not spacious, the hotel offers a clean and fast Wi-Fi connection, USB outlets, and work-friendly spaces in the communal lounge.
Better for short-term stays or city breaks.
Does the hotel include breakfast or dining options?
No breakfast is included, but vending machines, a microwave, and nearby 24/7 convenience stores make it easy to grab a bite.
You're also close to Kyoto’s many local eateries.
Is the hotel quiet and secure?
Yes — despite its playful look, the hotel offers secure keycard access, luggage storage, and a relatively quiet environment with 24/7 reception.
What amenities are available?
● Free Wi-Fi
● Self-check-in/out kiosks
● Coin laundry
● Manga library in the lounge
● Smart concierge robot for recommendations
Is it good value for money?
Absolutely — it’s one of Kyoto’s most affordable themed hotels, offering a unique stay without compromising comfort or location.
Can I store my luggage before or after check-in?
Yes — they offer free luggage storage on the day of arrival and checkout, making it easy to explore the city without bags.
Who is it best for?
Ideal for budget-conscious travelers, solo tourists, couples, and anyone who appreciates quirky, themed accommodations in a well-connected area.
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Really cool hotel, not an experience you will find outside of Japan, or indeed even inside the country! Really well put together and not tacky. Definitely worth the stay, and a decent spot in Kyoto to boot.