Guesthouse Soi

My partner and I really enjoyed our stay at Guesthouse Soi. We appreciated the ample morning breakfast (fruits, yogurt, toast, milk, tea, coffee, snacks) and hospitality of our hosts and the front desk - they provided good tips on getting around Kyoto. We were able to rent bikes from them, and biking around Kyoto was a highlight of the trip! Our room was a private twin, Japanese-styled suite - we had lots of space to relax and spread out, and the futon/bedding was thick and comfortable. Overall, the guesthouse and bathrooms were clean and relatively quiet. The location is great for exploring Kyoto, and there are nearby bus stops with access to many local buses. Wifi works well. We would be happy to stay at Guesthouse Soi during our next visit to Kyoto.

From the moment I walked through the door I felt like I was home. The owners and employees are some of the most charismatic and charming people I have met on my journey so far. They are so kind, that when I arrived early before check in they offered to share their lunch with me. The room was spacious by Japan standards and well appointed. Free breakfast was delicious and plentiful. The location was a short walk to a few beautiful temples, and a cheap cab ride to just about anywhere else. I truly enjoyed my time here and will be returning next year in the fall season.

They posted relevant and changing things on a notice board, eg. a light show that was on for winter, a sale on clothing brand, a market. Everything a traveller and tourist might want! Breakfast was so nice, opportunity to have real coffee and fresh fruit and yoghurt. Every touch was great, like there's washing machines and places to hang clothes up on the roof. Always water and tea available to take, and nice areas to socialise and read if you want to, including travel books and novels in English, Japanese, and a few other languages. Our private room with ensuite was modern and clean. Maki our host was amazing, she and Sim seem like really interesting people. By chance realised I had stayed in one of their previous guesthouses in Chengdu, same peaceful and friendly vibes. Great beer and sake bar down the street called the Windmill, he had great music, and local recommendations for food also. Is clearly a guesthouse for made by travellers, for travellers. Best place we stayed out of 6 in Japan.

Mr. Sim, Miyoshi-San and his family (including members of the staff) were all knowledgeable and provided a “locals” way of getting around Kyoto! I’ve never had an experience staying in a guesthouse that was genuinely filled with so much warmth, love and care. It was undeniable infectious! The rooms were clean, spacious, and extremely comfortable. The location is great and easy to move around the East side of Kyoto. They also offer a daily traditional Japanese breakfast that can’t be missed (especially Miyoshi-san’s miso)! I look forward to my next visit with Guesthouse Soi! Thank you for all the memories!

Breakfast was delicious (great coffee!),rooms were lovely and comfortable and great location. Sam and Maki were so kind, helpful and you can tell they genuinely care about their guests and trips. They are very passionate about their guests having the best experience in Kyoto. They helped with our planning too. They have lots of tips a about current events and we saw brilliant fireworks because of their recommendations. Really friendly atmosphere for guests in the communal area. Beautiful family and their daughters were lovely. Highly recommend!! :)