A genuine experience! Very friendly staff, some spoke good english. Futon matresses, but our backs did not complain. Some rooms have kotatsu (low table with oven underneath), that was a fun to try when it was chilly. Air condition OK, free Wi-fi was a pleasant surprise, free green tea in the rooms. Fridge in corridor. Bathroom OK, but bring hot water in tea kettle. (Downstairs ladies toilet has heated seat!) Shower room in separate building, but clean and lots of warm water if you're early! Washing machine and dryer OK. Breakfast OK. Bus stop around the corner, lots to see on your way to Kyoto station, and one station near Nijo castle, where you have to go to hear the nightingale floors! Bus charge covered by Japan rail pass.