BON Kyoto Station Japan

BON Kyoto Station Japan: Uncover the Hidden Gem Locals Won't Tell You About!

Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because we’re diving headfirst into the world of BON Kyoto Station Hotel! Forget the glossy brochures and polished reviews; this is the real deal, the unfiltered, slightly-chaotic truth, seasoned with a healthy dose of my own, deeply-felt opinions. And trust me, after spending a week there? I've got thoughts.

First Impression: "Wait, This Is Hidden?" (Accessibility and Location) 🗺️🚄

Right off the bat, let's dispel a myth. BON Kyoto Station isn’t that hidden. Okay, I'm just kidding, and I was worried that I'd have to drag my luggage through crowds to find the place, but it's actually SUPER convenient! Accessibility is killer. It's practically on Kyoto Station, which is a godsend if you're arriving via Shinkansen (bullet train). Seriously, you practically stumble out of the station and into the lobby. Perfect for someone like me, who's all about convenience and hates lugging suitcases.

Wheelchair accessible: YES! And genuinely so, not just a token effort. Elevators are spacious, and the common areas felt thoughtfully designed. No awkward maneuvering required. HUGE win in my book.
Airport Transfer: Did I use this? Nope! Again, the convenience of the train was just… too good to pass up. But knowing it's there is a plus!
Car Park: Yes, it has a car park! And a car power charging station! Okay, I don't drive in Japan, because I'm too scared, but this is great for those who do!

Internet: That Sweet, Sweet Wi-Fi (and a little LAN…) 💻📶

Alright, let's get down to brass tacks: internet access. Free Wi-Fi in all rooms? YES! And not just flaky, sputtering Wi-Fi, but the kind that actually works. I could stream movies, video call my mom (who constantly worries when I'm traveling), and even get some work done. Thank the digital gods! Internet [LAN] is an option too, for you old-school internet users, and there's Internet services available. I'm a Wi-Fi fiend, so I didn't use the LAN, but it’s a nice option. Wi-Fi in public areas? Yep, and it's just as reliable.

Stuff to Do (or Not Do): Relaxing in a Frenzy!🧘‍♀️🧖‍♀️

Okay, here's where things get interesting. "Things to do?" Well, Kyoto is bursting with them! BON is a great base for exploring. But, what about inside BON? Let's unpack the relaxation options:

Spa: Yes.
Sauna: Yes.
Pool with view: Nope, the pool is OUTDOOR, but I'm so unsure that they have a view.
Fitness Center: Yes.
Massage: Yes. Body scrub, body wrap, etc. Yes, yes, yes.
Steamroom: YES!
Swimming pool… Yes, yes, yes, and it's outdoor!
Gym/fitness: Also, yes.

I'll be honest, I only poked my head into the fitness center. I'm on vacation, people! But it looked decently equipped, for those who are into that kind of thing. The spa? Now you're talking! I indulged in a heavenly massage. The masseuse worked out knots I didn't even know I had. It was pure bliss. Then, I hit the sauna; then the steam room. And I ended the day with a swim in the pool! The sunset over Kyoto while I was swimming was beautiful. A true moment of Zen. I felt like a new person!

Cleanliness and Safety: Sanitized Sanity 🧼✅

Okay, let’s talk about the not-so-fun stuff. COVID times, y'all. BON Kyoto Station takes cleanliness seriously. I saw staff trained in safety protocol, and there was hand sanitizer everywhere. Rooms sanitized between stays, and daily disinfection in common areas? Check and check. They were also doing anti-viral cleaning products and professional-grade sanitizing services. It's reassuring to know that someone, somewhere, is actually doing something to keep you safe! Plus, they have individually-wrapped food options, and you definitely see physical distancing of at least 1 meter in the dining areas. Room sanitization opt-out available!

Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Food Glorious Food! 🍣🍜🍻

This is where BON really shines. Let's get messy with this one:

Restaurants: Plural! Yes!!!
Asian cuisine in restaurant: Oh, you betcha! Absolutely divine!
International cuisine in restaurant: YES!
Western cuisine in restaurant: Yup!
Coffee/tea in restaurant & Coffee shop: YES! And good coffee, which, I'm sorry, is essential.
Bar: YES!
Poolside bar: Okay, I don't know if that's a lie, but they have a bar.
A la carte in restaurant/Buffet in restaurant: Both! I loved the buffet breakfasts.
Breakfast [buffet]: Amazing. They had everything! Plus, I tried Asian breakfast every morning. I just kept going back for more.
Happy hour: They had it! And it was happy!
Room service [24-hour]: Yes, and I definitely took advantage of this a few times. Late-night cravings, you know?
Snack bar: Yes.
Desserts in restaurant: OMG. Yes!

There was also a lot of Soup in restaurant, alternative meal arrangement, and Salad in restaurant. I would've loved to try it all. But my stomach is only so big!

The Big Reveal: My Emotional Rollercoaster!

Here's where I confess – the spa (and the amazing food!) almost made me cry. After weeks of travel, experiencing BON's spa felt like the world was getting a little bit of the rest that I felt! The combination of the perfect steam room, sauna, and massage was pure liquid gold. Then, the food? I mean, honestly, I'm not even a huge buffet person, but their selection was insane, the quality top-notch, and I just kept stuffing my face.

Rooms and Amenities: The Nitty-Gritty 🛌🛁

Let's get down to the stuff you actually need to know:

Air conditioning: Yes! Needed!
Additional toilet: YES! This is a luxury! Makes it so nice.
Alarm clock: Yes, you can wake up on time.
Bathrobes & Slippers: Yes!
Bathtub & Separate shower/bathtub: Yes!
Blackout curtains: HUGE for jet lag!
Coffee/tea maker: Yes!
Free bottled water: Yes!
Hair dryer: Yes!
Refrigerator & Mini bar: Yes!
Satellite/cable channels & On-demand movies: Yes! (Hello, perfect evening!)
Smoke detector: Yes!

Services and Conveniences: The Extras 🎉

Concierge: Yes!
Daily housekeeping: Yes!
Dry cleaning & Laundry service: So needed!
Elevator: Yes!
Facilities for disabled guests: Yes!
Luggage storage: Obviously.
Non-smoking rooms: Yes!

For the Kids (or the Kid in You!) 👶👧

I didn't travel with kids. So I can't say for sure. But they had babysitting service, family/child-friendly! There are also Kids facilities and Kids meal.

The Verdict: Book It (Probably!)

Look, BON Kyoto Station isn't perfect. No hotel is. But! It’s close. The convenient location, the amazing spa, the delicious food, and the overall vibe make it a winner. It may not be a "hidden gem" from the perspective of the locals, but it is a gem nonetheless.

The Imperfections: Look, is there smoking area? Yes. Smoking area is not available. Pets allowed? Pets are unavailable. I guess I'm just sad! And I could not get a Proposal spot? Well, I don't need one, but I'm sure that they don't have one. Exterior corridor, Couple's room. Who knows?

Final Rating: Solid 4.5 out of 5 stars. I'd definitely go back!

Here’s My Persuasive Offer to Book BON Kyoto Station:

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Alright, buckle up, buttercups, because we're diving headfirst into the glorious chaos that is Bon Kyoto Station. Forget that perfectly-polished Instagram feed, we're going for the real, raw, and slightly-caffeinated version. Here's my attempt at a Kyoto Station itinerary that's less "rigid schedule" and more "oh god, what did I just get myself into… and is that a ramen vending machine?"

Day 1: Kyoto Station – A Sensory Overload (and a Search for Breakfast)

07:00: Wake up in a jet-lagged haze. Still fighting the urge to sleep. I'm in the Hotel Granvia Kyoto, because I figured "Luxury near the station" was a smart move. It was, mostly. The room is pretty, the bed is fluffy, but oh sweet god, the air purifier hums like a vengeful robot and I'm convinced it's plotting my demise.
07:30: Attempt to find coffee. This proves harder than expected. The hotel breakfast buffet is… fine. But lacks the soul I crave.. Wander into Kyoto Station proper, which is already buzzing like a beehive on speed. Found a tiny bakery with the most delightful smell of fresh bread. Grabbed a croissant and a questionable-looking pastry that was probably filled with bean paste. Ate both. No regrets.
08:30: Kyoto Station Exploration! This place is a beast. Seriously, it's not just a train station; it's a city unto itself. The escalators are a relentless climb to the top, past shops selling everything from Hello Kitty chopsticks to… well, more Hello Kitty things. I got lost. Twice.
09:30: Observation Deck Drama. Found my way up to the Kyoto Station Observation Deck. The view should be breathtaking. The view is breathtaking, except that the wind is trying to rip my face off and my camera bag is suddenly three times heavier. Started picturing a small child falling off the side of the roof - I was probably overthinking it.
10:30: Shopping Spree (and Regret). Found a shop selling exquisite handmade paper lanterns. Considered buying one (several). Then realized: I have no space in my suitcase. (I knew it was a bad idea to pack that extra pair of shoes) Dejected, I settled for a postcard.
11:00: Okay, lunch. Okay, I'm starving. The Ramen Alley on the tenth floor is calling. I can smell the broth and the promise of noodles. Tried to order from a vending machine. I think I just accidentally committed to a small soup - I have no idea which one.
12:00: Ramen time! I got my ramen. It was the best ramen I've ever had. The broth was rich and flavorful, the noodles had the perfect bite, the pork was practically melting in my mouth, and I finished the whole bowl in about seven minutes. I have now officially peaked. The rest of the trip can only go downhill from here.
13:00: Kyoto Station's "Skyway" and its view. Walked the Skyway - the crazy, high-up walkway that connects the station's buildings. The views are… actually even better than I imagined. I got some great pictures, feeling like I was walking on clouds. Again, windy.
14:00: Lost in the Department Store Maze. The Isetan Department Store is basically a luxury apartment complex dedicated to shopping. I wandered around aimlessly for an hour, mostly admiring the food hall—the sheer artistry on display is almost too much. Tried some mochi. Delicious, but I'm fairly certain my blood sugar just spiked into the stratosphere.
15:00: Train Ticket Hunt! Decided to take a day trip to Nara tomorrow. Attempted to decipher the train ticket machines. Failed miserably at first, even went to the ticket office. Got completely baffled by the different platforms and the multiple train lines.
16:00: Finally, I found some helpful people. Bought the ticket, and realized I could have bought a pass, now regretting me being too slow.
17:00: Back to the Hotel (for a quick nap, if possible) and recharge.

Day 2: Nara – Deer, Temples, and Existential Questions

07:30: Wake up. My eye still twitches from the air purifier but I'm ready to go!
08:00: Train to Nara. It's actually pretty quick. The scenery is already starting to change from industrial sprawl to something more green and serene.
09:00: Nara Park's Deer. Honestly, I was not prepared for how casually these deer stroll around, waiting for handouts. They're adorable, but also relentless. I'm pretty sure one almost mugged me for my map. I may, or may not, have run from one the size of a small pony.
10:00: Todai-ji Temple. The Great Buddha. It's massive, like astonishingly massive. Stood there for a long time, just staring. Got a feeling of peace - just being in that space.
11:00: Kasuga Taisha Shrine. Red lanterns. They look stunning, but all I can think about is how I have no time to take amazing photos.
12:00: Lunch in Nara. Found a tiny soba noodle place tucked away on a side street. Best noodles of my life. So delicious, so perfect.
13:00: More Deer Encounters. They're everywhere. I bought some deer crackers and regretted it instantly.
14:00: Back to Kyoto Station, feeling a bit bewildered and enlightened at the same time.
16:00: Dinner search. Going out tonight.
18:00: Found it! Finally! Got to feel the city.

Day 3: Departure (and Last-Minute Panic)

07:00: Packing. Am I forgetting anything? Passport? Phone charger? Sanity?
08:00: Last-minute souvenir hunt in the station. Found a cute little cat figurine. I have no idea what I'll do with it, but I had to have it.
09:00: One Last Ramen. One last delicious bowl. This time, with extra egg. So good I felt like I was crying.
10:00: Airport bound. Kyoto Station is a whirlwind, but it holds so much.
12:00: At the airport.
14:00: Plane is taking off. Sayonara, Japan.

This is by no means a perfect itinerary. It’s a starting point, a suggestion. It’s also not necessarily the best way to see Kyoto, but it’s my imperfect journey through it. And I wouldn't trade it for anything. Because when you embrace the chaos, the missed trains, the accidental purchases, that's when the real magic happens. Go forth, get lost, and enjoy the ride!

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Okay, spill the tea. What is BON Kyoto Station and why is it a "hidden gem"? I'm already picturing a secret speakeasy!

Alright, alright, settle down, you tourist! It's not a secret speakeasy... not *exactly*. BON Kyoto Station isn't a single place, it's more of a *vibe*, a collection of experiences *within* Kyoto Station itself. Think of it as the anti-tourist-trap parts of Kyoto Station that the guidebooks (bless their cotton socks) *gloss over*. It's where the locals, and a few of us in-the-know, actually *live* the station, you know? You can find everything from seriously good (and seriously cheap) eats to tiny, tucked-away shops selling things you won't find anywhere else. It's a mishmash. A beautiful, chaotic mishmash.

Fine, fine. But where is it in the behemoth that is Kyoto Station? I get lost in the blink of an eye. Do I need a map made of pigeon feathers to navigate?

Okay, deep breaths. Even I, a semi-seasoned Kyoto-ite, get turned around sometimes. Kyoto Station is a labyrinth designed by a mad genius. *Generally*, BON Kyoto Station stuff is *down* or *up*. Think "below-ground eats" and "secret rooftop gardens," rather than the obvious main floor shopping. The *closest* thing to a central hub would be the Porta Underground Shopping Mall, right beneath the station. That’s a good starting point to get the lay of the land. But honestly? Half the fun is stumbling upon something by accident. Like, literally. I remember once, I was STARVING, hopelessly lost, and I just *happened* to wander into this tiny noodle place in the basement. Best. Ramen. Ever. Best accidental discovery in years. It was messy. I was messy. The broth was... divine.

So, food, eh? What kind of eats am I missing out on? Give me the juicy details (and hopefully, not just the juice).

Oh, the food. *Sigh*. The food. Listen, you're not going to find Michelin-starred restaurants *specifically* in the "BON Kyoto Station" realm, but what you *will* find? Authenticity. Dirt-cheap deliciousness. Think yakitori joints that are more smoke than restaurant (in a good way!), tiny udon shops with grandmas serving up hand-pulled noodles, and bakeries that smell like pure, unadulterated happiness. The Porta mall, as mentioned, is your friend. And DON'T be afraid to try the food stalls on the lower levels. I once ate a plate of *takosen* (a piece of grilled octopus sandwiched between fried crackers) there that was… life-altering. Then there are the depachika (department store food halls). You can get everything from bento boxes to gourmet pastries. Just... be prepared to drool. A lot.

What about shopping? Is there anything beyond the usual tourist tat? I swore I'd never buy another plastic Geisha doll.

Good on you! The plastic Geisha dolls are a scourge (and frankly, terrifying once the batteries run out). The shopping is *way* more interesting. You'll find local craft stores, small boutiques, and shops selling traditional crafts. Check out the shops in the stairwells, and on the levels around the "Skyway" (the moving walkways that cross the station). I scored a beautiful hand-painted teacup there last year. And I stumbled upon a shop that sold nothing but antique kimonos! Absolutely breathtaking. WARNING: You WILL be tempted to spend all your money. Be prepared to battle your inner magpie. Consider yourself warned.

Okay, this "Skyway" you mentioned... sounds promising. What are some of the other hidden areas? Is there a secret roof garden? This is starting to sound slightly less like a tourist trap.

Okay, the Skyway *is* cool. The views are spectacular. Totally worth it, especially at sunset. But yes, there *is* a secret roof garden! It's called the "Kyoto Station Garden" and it's a little oasis of calm. It's usually pretty quiet. You can sit and watch the planes take off or the trains whizz by. It’s a perfect escape when the crowds get to be too much. It's not *totally* secret, but it's definitely not on every tourist's radar. There are also some other little nooks and crannies around the station. Explore! Get lost! It’s half the fun! Just… try not to get *too* lost. I once spent three hours looking for a bathroom… and ended up eating more ramen. Not a bad result, actually.

Any tips for navigating this beast? Anything I should absolutely avoid?

Okay, survival tips: * **Embrace the chaos.** Seriously. Expect to get lost. It's part of the experience. * **Learn a few basic Japanese phrases.** Even a "Konnichiwa" and "Arigato" will get you miles. * **Don't be afraid to ask for help.** The Japanese are incredibly helpful, and they'll usually point you in the right direction (even if *they* get confused too sometimes). * **Bring comfortable shoes.** You'll be doing a *lot* of walking. * **Avoid the peak hours.** The station gets REALLY crowded during rush hour and on weekends. * **And while you’re at it - don’t try to haggle.** It’s generally not done and you’ll only embarrass yourself. * **And be patient:** You’re on holiday, don’t rush! What to avoid? The obvious tourist traps (though even those can have their charms!). Also...and this might sound obvious... *don't* run across train tracks. I've heard some stories...

You mentioned a "Skyway." Whats the deal?

Ah, the Skyway. This, my friend, is a series of escalators and walkways that *crosses* the station's massive atrium. It's high up, like, *really* high up. The views are stunning, especially at sunset when the city lights twinkle. It's where you'll get the best views of Kyoto Tower, and a good sense of the scale of the entire station. It's free, which is a big bonus! Bonus tip: go during a festival! The station is often decorated, and the atmosphere is electric. Its the best way to quickly get between different sides, or just to marvel at the architecture.

Okay, I'm sold. But what if I'm on a tight budget? Can I actually afford anything in BON Kyoto Station?

Absolutely! You CAN. In fact, BON Kyoto Station is *perfect* for budget travelers. Remember all thoseQuick Hotel Finder

BON Kyoto Station Japan: Uncover the Hidden Gem Locals Won't Tell You About!