I stayed in 2 hotels during my stay in Kyoto. The ANA was right across the road from Nijo Castle and had a free shuttle to Kyoto station, perfect for me to get the cycle shop where I had hired my bike for the 2 days. The hotel was a little dated but the service and cleanliness were excellent. I was also lucky enough to get a castle view. There is also an underground station across the road (all very important if you are using public transport). I moved to another area for my 3rd day as I wanted to be in the Gion area of the city but this hotel suited my needs perfectly for the first part of my stay.

The Ana Hotel is located opposite Nijo Castle and is well located for local sights. The furniture and fittings in the rooms are dated but are perfectly adequate. The rooms are gigantic for Japan. The staff were all very helpful and freindly. There is a great coffee shop a few metres from the hotel, go out the front and turn left...good for breakfast.

Husband and I stayed here for six days on Priority Points. Were upgraded to castle view room and allowed to check in early. Room was not huge but it was more than adequate. Clean. Beds comfortable, Water hot. Water pressure terrific. Tub deep. Amenities nice. Lovely view overlooking Nijo Castle and evening sunset. Staff was very helpful with information on sights (temples, shrines, museums) most worth seeing. Six days is really not enough to see all there is to see in Kyoto. Staff explained how we could join free tour in English of Imperial Palace. It was wonderful.

By taking hotel shuttle bus to Kyoto station each day, we were able to buy an 'all-day' bus pass and visit a variety of sights most conveniently. (Taxis can be expensive.) Also, buses are wonderful for people watching. Observe and learn: the Japanese are most polite and helpful. Also, Kyoto Station is amazing.

Hotel has buffet for breakfast and dinner, as well as a la carte menu. As elsewhere in Japan, food may not be cheap, but it is good quality, well prepared, and professionally served. There are also specialty restos, but as we mostly ate our big meals at lunch in noodle shops while in town, we did not avail ourselves of those.

We stayed at the ANA hotel for 2 nights in December 2010 and loved it. The hotel is in a good location and only a short taxi ride away from Gion corner. The rooms were ok (a little dated for a 4.5 star hotel), but they were clean and well serviced.

The highlight was the fantastic service provided by all staff members. We felt very welcome from the moment we arrived. We particularly appreciated the concierge services, as they provided good suggestions as to sightseeing etc. The hotel also provided maps, info on public transport and arranged bookings at restuarants. The free shuttle bus from the train station is also a plus and leaves every 15 minutes (or thereabouts).

The only thing that let the experience down for us was the buffet breakfast. The selection was good but a lot of the dishes were cold and it took a long time for stocks to be replenished throughtout the breakfast service. I'd skip the buffert breakfast and eat outside the hotel before starting your day.

Would recommend.