A Traveler’s Tale: Our Stay at Mercure Kyoto

Our adventure in Kyoto was more than just a trip; it was a deep dive into a city steeped in history, and our home base at Mercure Kyoto made it all the more special. Right from the start, we knew we were in for a treat. Located just a hop away from Kyoto JR Station, the hotel was our gateway to exploring this city that blends the old with the new so beautifully. Mercure hotel chain is owned by Accor Group and you can find their Mercure hotels in Sapporo (Hokkaido), Hibiya (Tokyo), and Ginza (Tokyo).

Walking into Mercure Kyoto, you feel the shift from the bustling city pace to a world of calm and luxury. It wasn’t just a place to drop our bags but a space that reflected the elegance of Kyoto. Each room welcomed us with cozy bedding, fast internet to keep us connected, and a TV for those moments when we just wanted to kick back and relax.

But Mercure Kyoto isn’t just about plush rooms. The hotel restaurant offered dishes made from local ingredients that truly brought the taste of Kyoto to our plates. Every meal was a celebration of the season, crafted to perfection.

Stepping out, the heart of Kyoto’s heritage was just a stroll away. We were mesmerized by Nishi Hongan-ji Temple & Higashi Hongan-ji Temple, the UNESCO Heritage sites, with its stunning architecture and tranquil surroundings. Fushimi, a few stations away from Kyoto Station, provides a full of attractions such as the Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine! Walking through those countless vermillion torii gates felt like stepping into another world—a serene path lined with gates that seemed to continue forever.

Our wanderlust took us to Nishiki Market as well, a bustling stretch where the colors, smells, and tastes of Kyoto come alive. Sampling local snacks and chatting with friendly vendors, we got a real taste of the city’s vibrant culinary scene.

For a change of pace, we escaped to the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. There’s something magical about being surrounded by towering bamboo stalks, the sound of rustling leaves filling the air. It was a perfect spot for some quiet reflection, a place to pause and soak in the beauty around us.

Evenings at the hotel were spent recounting our day’s adventures over delightful meals at the restaurant. The chefs there have a way of making every dish tell a story of Kyoto’s rich culinary heritage, using ingredients that seemed to capture the essence of the region. Right across from the Mercure Kyoto, we found Teppan Izakaya Ittetsu, a local Izakaya, and had a great night!

Staying at Mercure Kyoto felt like being cradled in the lap of luxury with the city’s treasures right at our doorstep. Each day ended with a warm welcome back into an environment that effortlessly blended culture, comfort, and convenience. We left with our hearts full and our memories brimming with the experiences that Mercure Kyoto and the city itself offered us.

Kyoto wasn’t just a stop in our travels; it was a chapter in our life’s journey. And Mercure Kyoto? It was more than just our hotel—it was part of our Kyoto story, a place that bound our memories together and made our experience unforgettable. As we moved on, the warmth and hospitality of Mercure Kyoto lingered with us, a cozy reminder of our wonderful time in a city that’s truly a world unto itself.