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Hotel Tavinos Kyoto Review: Unique Manga Experience in Japan

Writer: Jenn & LeonJenn & Leon

Updated: Mar 1

Hotel Tavinos in Kyoto is a manga-themed hotel that is great for digital nomads like us, and general travelers too.


The hotel offers a variety of amenities that are perfect for remote workers, including fast WiFi, comfortable workspaces, and a library of manga.


Two people in winter clothes at Hotel Tavinos, standing by a lighted sign and cartoon character art. Text: "Our Manga Hotel Review."

The hotel is also located close to many of Kyoto's most popular attractions, making it easy to get around.


Tavinos has an awesome and unique manga theme, with artwork and characters from popular manga series displayed throughout the hotel which we absolutely loved. The rooms are also manga-themed too!





There are a variety of room types, including standard rooms, twin rooms, and family rooms.


It also has a number of handy services, including automated luggage storage, self check-in, free unlimited coffee and tea machines, free breakfast snacks and coin-operated laundry (which is always super handy for travelers).






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The Room at Hotel Tavinos


We had a standard double room which was decorated in the same theme as the main hallways and lobby.


It was small, but best use was made of the space by adding the table area on the side of the bed, a handy ledge above the pillows for electronics and charging, and storage space beneath the bed for luggage.





The room comes with a TV, however there is a strict no-eating policy. There is a phone for emergencies and also the lighting in the hallway was automatic (which timed out after a minute, but prior to us knowing led to a frantic search for the switch!).


Bed with colorful bedding featuring a mountain scene, in a cozy room with dark walls. Floor has a brick pattern, creating a playful mood.

There is air-conditioning and the bed was not the most comfortable, but perfectly manageable.


Modern bathroom with white toilet and bidet, gray walls, sink with colorful tile backsplash, and toilet paper on a shelf.

The WIFI worked okay with reasonable speeds for downloading, streaming and working, but it was not as fast and stable as the lobby area.


There was no safe, mini fridge or wardrobe or shelving (although there was a small coat rack). This was a slight downer, alongside having no formal seating area which could have been provided where Jenn is standing below.


Woman in a blue coat and knit hat uses a phone in a modern room with gray walls, a black floor lamp, and a colorful patterned carpet.

As in most Japanese hotels and even Airbnb's, the bathrooms are pretty small. This one was as tight as you can get, but nonetheless it was modern, clean and had everything we needed.





Of course the toilet seat is in true Japanese style too, with seat heating options, cleaning buttons and even sounds!


The shower was decent with good pressure, temperature and shower gel & shampoo included, which we really appreciate as we like to travel light.


Modern bathroom with gray walls, featuring a white toilet with bidet controls and a shower area with a towel on a rail. Minimalist design.

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Hotel Tavinos Facilities



⪢ Hotel Products


Even though you do get some basic toiletries in the room, there is an expansive collection in the lobby which is free to select from and use.


This is fairly unusual for a hotel, but a really nice touch! You can get dressing gowns, cotton buds, slippers, toothbrushes and toothpaste. Perfect if you arrive late and are caught short!


Man in a beige jacket stands by shelves with folded towels and fans. Colorful art covers the floor. Signs in Japanese and English visible.

⪢ Lobby & Dining Area


The lobby and dining area at Hotel Tavinos is spacious and stylish. It is decorated with manga artwork and characters as with the rest of the hotel, and it has a comfortable seating area where you can relax or work.


There is unlimited coffee and tea available, and every morning the hotel provided some small cakes and snacks for breakfast.


Chair with a round cushion featuring a smiling face, set in a library with colorful manga books on shelves. Floor is dark gray.





A lounge with people reading in a modern space. Large windows, colorful art, shelves with books, and a relaxed atmosphere.

We love books and there is a really cool free to use manga library too, with plenty to choose from. Definitely worth checking out!


Colorful cafe with art-covered tables and stools. Two people sit in the back, using electronics. Bright decor and plants visible.

⪢ Laundry


Always a real bonus for travelers, the hotel offers laundry facilities including dryers, which are coin operated and very efficient!


Laundry room with four stacked dryers, a green step stool, and a colorful wall with "Hotel Tavinos" text and cartoon designs.

⪢ Workspace Area


The workspace area in the Hotel Tavinos is clean, quiet and very comfortable. Each table has plugs for charging, and the WiFi works very well. There is a toilet nearby too so you can really focus without having to go to your room.


Modern lounge with patterned cushions on gray chairs, abstract wall art, and large windows reflecting city buildings at night.




Colorful chairs with artistic patterns surround tables with bright designs in a modern cafe. Large windows show a leafy outdoor view.

⪢ Outdoor Balcony


As we were here in December, it was still fairly cold so we did not really use this space. But it is beautifully presented and also provides another option if you would prefer to eat or work outside.


There is no smoking permitted here though; you have to leave the hotel grounds for that.


Modern outdoor terrace with trees in large planters, purple lighting on the floor. Night city view with cars visible in the background.




View of a busy city street at night with cars and pedestrians. Reflections show a mural and interior lights. Urban and vibrant ambiance.

⪢ Luggage Storage


We had no need to take advantage of this facility but we have to say it is an excellent touch.


For a small charge you can keep your bags secure for up to 24 hours, which is really handy if you have a late flight or want to make use of your time after check out luggage-free.


Four black phone charging lockers with instructions, labeled "Baggage Keeper" in a dark tiled room. Signs with text on the wall.

⪢ Self Check In / Check Out


This was an absolute first for us! We have used these types of machines plenty of times in airports, but never in hotels.


It worked really well, asking all the usual questions and scanning our passport on check-in. On check out, we literally popped our room key into it and we were good to go. Brilliant.


Person using a kiosk, decorated with a colorful cat pattern. Red, white, and blue pattern on the floor. Festive item on the right.

⪢ 7 Eleven Convenience Store


If you have not experienced a Seven Eleven store in Japan, then you have to try. The options available in here are unlike any other local store you have tried. Trust us!


We like to call the food here gourmet, because it really is.





There are a ton of fancy options, from main meals to snacks, sweet food to savory. It can be heated for you, and cutlery will always be provided. Prices are reasonable too!


Of course in addition you can pick up toiletries and other bits and bobs. It was ideal to have this right beneath the hotel, with direct access from the elevator down from the hotel lobby.


7-Eleven storefront with glass doors and windows, bright exterior, and red, green, and orange logo. Signs with text are visible on the door.
Image source: hoteltavinos.com



 
 


How to Get to Hotel Tavinos Kyoto


Hotel Tavinos Kyoto is conveniently located near several public transportation options, making it easily accessible from various points in the city. Here's how you can reach the hotel:


From Kyoto Station

By Train

From Kansai International Airport

From Osaka International Airport


⪢ Book Your Stay


If you would like to book a stay here, make your reservation here.


⪢ Contact Information for Hotel Tavinos


● Address: 612番地 Azuchicho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8040, Japan

● Phone: +81 75-320-4111

● Website: hoteltavinos.com

All customer enquiries: Tavinos Hotel

● Instagram: @hoteltavinos_kyoto


⪢ Not Convinced? Find Other Hotels in Kyoto


Use our interactive map to easily locate the top hotels nearby, sourced from a variety of reputable platforms such as Booking, Vrbo, Expedia, Get Your Guide, and Hotels.com.





Our map offers a user-friendly interface that allows you to zoom in and out, providing a comprehensive view of the area and enabling you to identify the most convenient hotel options based on your current location or desired destination.





 
 


Things to Do Near Hotel Tavinos


⪢ Kiyomizu-dera Temple


This is one of the most famous temples in Kyoto, and it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.


The temple is located on a hill overlooking the city, and it offers stunning views. Locate it on Google.


Cherry blossoms frame Kiyomizu-dera temple in Kyoto. Visitors fill the wooden terrace, enjoying the serene view under a clear blue sky.
Image source: japan-guide.com

⪢ Arashiyama Bamboo Forest


This is a beautiful bamboo forest that is located in the Arashiyama district of Kyoto.


The forest is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, and it is a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery. Locate it on Google.





⪢ Kinkaku-ji Temple


This is another UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Kyoto.


The temple is known for its golden pavilion, which is a beautiful example of Japanese architecture. Locate it on Google.


Golden pavilion reflecting on a serene pond, surrounded by lush greenery and trees. Bright, sunny day with a tranquil atmosphere.
Image source: japan-guide.com

⪢ Gion


This is a traditional geisha district in Kyoto, and it is a great place to wander around and explore.


There are many teahouses and restaurants in Gion, and you may even see a geisha or two. Locate it on Google.


People walking along a traditional Japanese street with wooden buildings, red post box, street signs, and shops. Calm atmosphere.
Image source: japan-guide.com

⪢ Nishiki Market


This is a large market that is located in the heart of Kyoto.


The market is a great place to find souvenirs, snacks, local produce and a vibrant atmosphere. Locate it on Google.


People walking in a vibrant market with colorful stained glass ceiling, lanterns, and shops. Bright, lively atmosphere with Japanese signs.




⪢ Maruyama Park


This is a large park that is located in the center of Kyoto.


The park is a great place to relax, go for a walk, or have a picnic. Locate it on Google.


Cherry blossom tree with pink flowers in full bloom, set against a clear blue sky. Green grass and bushes surround the tree. Peaceful mood.
Image source: japan-guide.com



 
 


Our Hotel Tavinos Experience Ratings


Man in dark outfit leaning against illuminated "TAVINOS" sign, black tiled background, casual pose. Mood is relaxed and subdued.

We had a fantastic stay here, enjoying the ease of it being walking distance from the famous Nishiki Market, while utilizing the excellent WIFI and lobby area to work.


There is also the added bonus of a 7 Eleven convenience store directly beneath the hotel with direct access from the lobby to store without even having to go outside. It literally had everything we needed!


Cleanliness: 5/5
Cost & Value for money: 5/5
Food: 4/5
Location: 5/5
Service: 5/5
The Room 4/5




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Your FREE Interactive Map of Japan


Check out all of the places we visited in Japan courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap any of the numbers for more information including directions, our blog posts, links to reviews and much more.





Wanderlog is a free travel planning app for iOS and Android devices that allows users to create trip itineraries, organize flights, hotel and car reservations, view places to visit on a map, and collaborate with friends.


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