I stayed here for 4 nights. I was looking for a single accomodation on a budget. That's exaclty what the Kokusai delivered. The hotel is in a good location, just across the street from Nijo-jo, and just a block from the Nijojo-mae stop on the Kyoto subway system (the east west line). The hotel is mostly filled with larger (Japanese, but also Chinese) tour groups.

With regard to the rooms, I opted for the cheaper single. I get a smaller room decorated in the older Japanese business style (western single bed, carpet, bath, floor light). The service was good.

Most hotels in Kyoto are booked this time of year, so I ended up staying at the Kyoto Kokusai. friendly staff, but needed to change twice to find a room with internet connection. Windows don't open, and it's very stuffy in here! Typical small bath, comfortable bed, 100% Japanese TV. there are pay channels available if you buy the card for 1000 Y, but I didn't bother. Supposedly some HBO, some porn, and some Japanese movies available.

Nijo castle directly across the street, so very convenient. Breakfast at Azalea resturaunt OK, but not great for 2310 Y. Too expensive for what you get, I'd look elsewhere for meals.

Overall not a bad choice, but there are better in the area for the same price.

stayed here for 3 nights. Room and bathroom was super clean. Great space, super comfy. All the usual hotel amenities. Even had japanese robes to relax in. No in room safe. Location is right across the street from nijo castle and about a 2 minute walk to the subway. It is a bit away from the main center of kyoto (about 20 minute subway ride) and the other temple sites (20 min-30 min bus and subway), but still quite central. The only hassel i found was that buses around the hotel finish early (around 21:00-22:00), but the subway closes a bit later (around midnight). Taxis are very $$ in japan, so we try to avoid them as much as possible. But if u r the type to retire early, then this is a non issue. Staff has minimal to functional grasp of english, but they try their hardest to help you. The hotel has a bus route map at the reception desk u can ask for. Area around the hotel at night is pretty isolated, but it is very safe. VERY SAFE. Great Value for the service and price compare to other hotels in japan.

tip: Make sure you get the hotel business card, in case u are lost or there are no subways available. That way you can show the taxi driver the address. Very little english is spoken in kyoto.

The rooms were very comfortable, good beds, nice bathroom, friendly staff we only wish that the TV had some or at least one English channel, and internet connection in the room or Lobby. Just walk down the small streets around the hotel to find some good places to eat.