Hirose Shrine

I really enjoyed my stay here. Only issue is that it is a little out of the way from Kyoto station and other more dense areas in Kyoto.

Located just right outside Universal City Station and Universal Studios Japan itself, this is one of the best hotels you can stay at if you're planning for a trip down to USJ. It can be on the pricier side, but if you treasure your sleep and want to be right outside the gate just as it opens, this is your definite go-to for lodging. Also helps that your bed is just a 5-10 min walk away from the gates after a long day of queuing and walking (and of course playing) at USJ! Our feet and back were aching, and it was a relief we could rest up without travelling via train again. It was also a nice touch to have breakfast the next morning waiting for us downstairs. Amenities are great, you've got your usual heated toilet seat with bidet, good hot shower and tub, aircon and all. Pillows could be better, but all the staff there were great. Breakfast was good too. It was a continental breakfast with some japanese dishes. Free flow drinks and ice cream. There was a kids section at the buffet that had all kids would ever want, fries, spaghetti bolognese and some other fried stuff (no veggies HAHA) and these tables were thoughtfully lowered, so that they could help themselves to them. A very nice touch. All in all, will be back again for our next USJ trip when the Donkey Kong land opens

This was a magnificent property. The rigorous protocols around accessing the dining room and bar could bear a revisit including some more options on the menu and flexibility with ordering. A bar where you can just drop by without a reservation and certain meals without reservation like breakfast would be good. It is so beautiful that a fitness center would be a real add. Staff are striving for excellence on all levels but seem to have to follow some cumbersome protocols.