It was a lovely stay at The Old Modern, and the garden right next to the bed is the main highlight, as it’s a luxury for most from Hong Kong to wake up to a garden like this, this experience definitely add to the travel memories in a pleasant manner. I must say I especially like the blending of old structure from the original building, and the modern amenities like a newly renovated bathroom with a decent washing machine. You can imagine how the previous generations used the space, while enjoying the benefit of latest technologies. It makes me think how I’d like my living space to be like in my own house. I do highly recommend anyone who would like to gain the experience of living in a traditional Kyoto house, the walk from it to the main shopping area is not to be missed as well!

Wow were we blown away by this property! From the moment our taxi dropped us at the door to the moment we checked out, we were mesmerized! It is evident that the owners have put thought into the details of the place including the heated floors, to the soaking tub, to the heated mirror in the bathroom, to the coffee pods and machine, to the washer/dryer! And not to mention that all of these fit in seamlessly with the old style traditional Japanese townhouse! We opted for the Garden Suite because we wanted to enjoy our own garden view and it did not disappoint! This property has everything you need for an extra comfortable stay in Kyoto! The location was perfect, about a 15-20 minute walk or a short taxi ride to Kyoto station! We used this place as a base for exploring Kyoto, Nara and Osaka!If you're looking for comfortable, quality, something unique and funky, look no further! I would stay here again in a heartbeat!

I stayed in the Garden Suite with my husband and baby for four nights in October. We had a wonderful experience, starting with our communications with Curtis through our much-delayed, years-long trip planning process. Curtis and his team were able to provide a Pack and Play for our new baby, and the apartment itself was lovely, even including a small private garden. It's on a nice quiet street that is just a short walk from the subway station, Gion, and Kiyomizu-dera temple, which is a great neighborhood to be in. Highly recommended!

Just got back from our stay at The Old Modern in Kyoto. The place was clean, spacious, and comfortable. It was in a great location...very easy to find..we drove in our personal vehicle and there was a paid parking lot just across the street. We walked quite a bit on our trip and it was a very convenient spot. The neighborhood was quiet and safe and the architecture of the building itself was just lovely. We appreciated all the local information that was provided (maps, restaurant recs, etc.) We would definitely stay here again and would recommend to others!

Our family stayed in Garden and Star Suites. It was perfect for us being 3 generations - private, traditional, beautifully appointed, whilst also being in easy distance from everywhere we wanted to visit.My parents in particular were absolutely blown away by the story of the building and the family who lived there before, the beautiful craftsmanship, super comfy bed, serene gardens and Mum loved your bath __. And Junko was always so helpful, wonderful to know we could always rely on her. Thank you for yet another wonderful stay. I look forward to recommending you to other friends as they come to visit, and also to coming to stay again.

What a beautiful space! A perfect blend of traditional and western style. Both Curtis and Junko san were very helpful and accommodating. There are many wonderful books in the common space to look through if you have free time.

The Old Modern Garden Suite is probably the most exquisite house/apartment I ever stayed. The design is authentically traditional Japanese yet with a contemporary touch. It is very tasteful. There are modern facilities which makes our stay very comfortable. I will certainly recommend this house to anyone who is coming to Kyoto.

We had a wonderful stay in the garden suite. The neighborhood is quiet yet close to restaurants. Check in was easy. Our room was spacious and fully appointed with modern amenities, yet had “old Kyoto” charm. We found it clean and comfortable. I would definitely recommend.

We stayed 7 nights in the beautiful Garden Suite which enjoys a peaceful location at the back of this restored machiya. The Old Modern won it for us with their western beds (and an extremely spacious and comfortable sofa bed in the living area) when we were searching for a machiya to stay at. Having slept on futons before, looking for a place with comfortable beds to sleep on was high on our priority. Having said that, the house’s beautiful interiors also sealed the deal for us. This house is simply pretty breathtaking. It’s also equipped with the most effective dryer we have encountered in Japan. Clothes actually came out dry! Location wise, whilst this isn’t in the heart of Gion, it’s in a quiet neighborhood with Family Mart just down the street. The train station is less than 10mins walk away as well. Last but not least, it was the impeccable service provided by Saki and Junko prior and during my stay that was deeply appreciated. They answered all my queries patiently and clearly, and Saki even reached out to me after we checked out to let me know I had left my daughter’s pjs behind. She very kindly assisted in mailing my daughter’s pj back to me as well. You can’t find better service than at the Old Modern!

Our stay at The Old Modern was an enticing immersion into the Southern Higashiyama district near the Gion, Kyoto. We were steps away from enticing neighborhood cafes and restaurants where we were greeted with traditional Japanese hospitality. We stayed in (and highly recommend) the Garden Suite. Warm and light, it has the feel of a family residence. The "machiya" townhouse was designed by the renowned modernist Kyoto architect Kichitaro Kumakura, in 1928. The light enters the unit through an interior garden court and a private garden in the back. Warm and very comfortable, I was moved to write more than one poem from the futon bed.

This place is a gem. It's tucked away on a quiet street, but located in the heart of east Kyoto (and walking distance to transportation, restaurants, and sites). The Old Modern is true to its title...it is historically authentic and stylish in design, yet has cool modern touches and amenities (Nespresso machine, refrigerator, washer & dryer). We were a family of seven and stayed comfortably in the Garden and Star Suites. The suites and common areas were clean and quiet (almost serene), and all the guests were respectful of each other (we actually never saw the other guests). Kyoto is a unique, amazing city, and our stay at the Old Modern enhanced our experience. I would add Junko and Saki were awesome! They were very responsive to our questions/requests and helpful in navigating restaurant recommendations and reservations. Our only regret was not being able to stay longer.

Stayed in the Garden Suite. It's even more beautiful and serene than the pictures. I walked in the door and my stress melted away. Everything is upgraded to perfection. Stayed about five nights and I can't wait to go back. Frankly, I would live there. Woke up every morning to the site of the garden outside the bedroom. Shower and bathroom is top-notch. It was 90 degrees and 90% humidity every day when I was in Kyoto. I turned off the A/C when I left and when I returned it took about five minutes for the place to cool down. The owner spared no expense updating this beautiful place.

The Old Modern is perfectly located: it's 5 minutes from the best areas, in a charming street with a great coffee shop and cute restaurant. It's a beautiful house: historical, quiet with a nice garden but fully renovated. We had 3 great days at the Old Modern (Garden Suite). Thank you Curtis and Junko for your warmth and great service!

The house is easy to find and is walking distance from the historic parts of Kyoto and provides easy access to public transportation. The suite is nice and offers the experience of staying at a traditional Japanese apartment while having modern amenities.One surprise though - despite careful planning and reading descriptions of the suite, it came unexpected and unplanned that the suite (and the house) does not have a kitchen. Unfortunately except for a charming place nearby we could not find any place providing breakfast which could have been an easy way out. Nevertheless if you are prepared to start your day on a cup of tea or coffee, this is a great place to stay.

I stayed here in the Garden Suite for my first visit to Kyoto, and I definitely plan to return. The Garden Suite is a beautiful, chic combination of modern and traditional Japanese design/style. The bedroom was extremely comfortable with a beautiful outdoor garden right next to the bed. The bathroom was very spacious and had wonderful heated floors. The location is within a 5 minute to a main road with many restaurants and the Keema Curry shop, next door, is delicious! They had a great notebook with wonderful recommendations with a map for nearby restaurants. It is also only a 5-7 minute walk to subway station. The staff were awesome at communicating and were even able to accommodate a slightly early check in since I had to move my train schedule way up to avoid typhoon railway closures.

This place is a gem. It's tucked away on a quiet street, but located in the heart of east Kyoto (and walking distance to transportation, restaurants, and sites). The Old Modern is true to its title...it is historically authentic and stylish in design, yet has cool modern touches and amenities (Nespresso machine, refrigerator, washer & dryer). We were a family of seven and stayed comfortably in the Garden and Star Suites. The suites and common areas were clean and quiet (almost serene), and all the guests were respectful of each other (we actually never saw the other guests). Kyoto is a unique, amazing city, and our stay at the Old Modern enhanced our experience. I would add Junko and Saki were awesome! They were very responsive to our questions/requests and helpful in navigating restaurant recommendations and reservations. Our only regret was not being able to stay longer.

Stayed with my wife and 8 year old son. We loved the mix of staying in a traditional Kyoto townhouse from the 1930s that is beautifully restored (if you like books the library has some fascinating ones on Japan / Kyoto). The location is great for the transport to various sites and walking to the old quarters. Recommended.

My husband and son stayed in the Garden Suite of the Old Modern as a base for exploring Kyoto. Right from the beginning our experience was fantastic. Curtis and his local team were incredibly helpful in the booking and arrivals process. We wanted a traditional Japanese home feeling for our accommodation but not a Ryokan. This was a perfect solution. The rooms are very clean, the location is excellent, the feeling is very traditional and Japanese yet fully updated and comfortable. This is a wonderful base for exploring the city and having a place like home to come back to and relax in between activities. Perfect!

As I wrote in my other review, my family and I stayed in Garden and circle suite. This property is simply incredible. If there were 10 stars, I would give it. it is a gem, an experience and one that shouldn't be missed. Curtis and his team are amazing in every way and our time in Kyoto was simply outstanding, largely due to our stay in the Old Modern.

Wonderful property. Clean, next door to a great takeout curry place. Walking distance to lots of shops and restaurants. Nice staff who helped with reservations. Great amenities- washer dryer, coffee, and a nice shower/tub. Would love to come back.

The Garden Suite in The Old Modern provided us a charming temporary home in a historic Kyoto neighborhood. The apartment is comfortable, spacious, and stylish. The added amenities of a washer/dryer and coffee setup really helped us feel at home. It was the perfect mix of historic and updated, and the staff were so kind and attentive - we would love to come back! It's a gem.

We really appreciated the hospitality. The Garden suite is very convenient, quiet and full of services. I liked the traditional Japanese decoration style, as well as the modern facilities. Junko is very responsive, and she allowed us to save our luggage in the front counter after checking out. I said hi to some other guests staying at the property, and they seemed well educated and friendly. Very quiet during the night. Overall, my wife and I had a wonderful time during this sakura season in Kyoto. Will definitely come back again, maybe in the autumn and watch the beautiful maple leaves in Kyoto.

The Garden Suite was the highlight of our stay in Kyoto! Curtis and his English-speaking staff were wonderful hosts. The apartment was very clean, comfortable, and beautiful. The Old Modern has been recently refurbished and consists of four apartments. The Garden Suite is located in the back, in between two gardens, which makes it incredibly peaceful. There is also a common area that all the guests in The Old Modern share. We enjoyed living in a place where we could walk to various tourist destinations like Gion, Yasaka Shrine, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Hōkanji Temple, etc. The closest train station is only 5 minutes away (walking) so it was very easy to visit Osaka and places in other parts of Kyoto. We were very grateful that Curtis provided us with an iPhone to use during our stay so we could contact his staff and also use it to look up directions for specific places. We would love to stay here again next time we visit Kyoto!