「The Kyoto Marriott Hotel falls well short of expectations. This recently converted property feels more like a budget business hotel than a full-service Marriott, let alone a luxury resort.
The bathroom resembles an outdated prefabricated unit, with a shower inside a deep Japanese-style bathtub that is particularly difficult for elderly guests to access safely. This goes beyond the compact bathrooms commonly found in Japan and is hardly what you’d expect from an upscale Marriott.
Our bedside lights produced a persistent electrical buzzing noise, even when switched off. We were told the issue affected other rooms as well, making a room change pointless. The only solution offered was to cut power to the room, disabling all electrical outlets and bathroom lighting. Even the ground-floor restrooms were out of order, requiring guests to use facilities on the third floor.
The hotel also informed me that it is classified as a resort, exempting it from certain Marriott Bonvoy Elite benefits. With no Executive Lounge or alternative lounge benefit offered, this classification was particularly disappointing given the actual standard of the property.
The staff, however, were exceptionally friendly, professional and hardworking. Unfortunately, the breakfast restaurant was clearly understaffed, with employees visibly struggling to keep up despite working tirelessly.
Overall, a disappointing experience that falls well short of the standards expected from a Marriott Hotel.」
