I'm glad I came across this exceptional hotel while planning my trip. It's a stylish and unique hotspot. I wasn’t sure what to expect from Ōtsu, and still don't know completely, but this hotel was definitely a highlight. Warm welcome with tea and ice. The room had a beautiful design; a blend of retro '70s vibe and a traditional Japanese house, fully modernized. The breakfast was exceptional. Delicious. There was also a lounge with great coffee, drinks and snacks. Compliments to the team. Highly recommended.

I’m still undecided about Ōtsu, but it does seem like a good alternative to Kyoto for an overnight stay - and it’s convenient for visiting Kyoto, too.

Hotel Koo Otsuhyakucho is absolutely fantastic. The staff all display a unique blend of supportiveness, professionalism and kindness that made it such a pleasure to stay there. The vibe around the hotel is relaxed, but everything is maintained at a high standard. I really liked the lounge area, with the free drinks and snacks being a particular highlight. The room I stayed in was very large with soft beds and a modern bathroom, albeit designed such that it was in-keeping with the general townhouse vibe of the hotel. I would recommend both the shopping arcade tour and the breakfast to anyone interested in staying here. The staff will also support you in finding local restaurants that suit your taste! It is extremely easy to get to/from Kyoto from here (regular trains, taking around 10-15 mins). Staying here would be the highlight of any trip to the Kansai region.

Everything was perfect.

Nice location in Otsu, Shiga. The hotel owners have done a nice job updating some of the old post town homes, maintaining the external facade while fully updating the interiors in Japanese style.

Be aware, these are tatami mat rooms, albeit with western beds. Stairways are narrow, and the traditional shoji doors and beams are at the 6 foot mark, so if you are a tall person, be prepared to watch your head! The hotel is very nice, clean, and updated. However, at close to $500 per night for a couple (a small but lovely traditional Japanese breakfast is included), it is definitely not a budget or "value" option. Staff is on premises from about 10:30 a.m. to early evening. Any requests outside that time must be communicated via a tablet in the room.

Very beautiful and authentic interior. Furniture was so comfortable and stylish. Lighting in the room is just perfect to have a relaxed and calming atmosphere. You will find everything you need in the amenities provided. I tried Japanese style breakfast, and it was 10/10. Staff is very helpful and polite. One of the members speak a good English and can advise regarding local restaurants or places to visit. I would highly recommend to stay at this hotel if you wish to experience Japanese hospitality.

This little gem is simply outstanding! The staff was warm, attentive, and went above and beyond to ensure every aspect of my stay was perfect. The rooms were beautifully decorated, incredibly comfortable, and filled with thoughtful touches that made me feel right at home. Every interaction was seamless, with exceptional service that was both professional and genuinely caring. This hotel truly sets the bar high for hospitality—highly recommended for anyone seeking a luxurious, memorable experience in Otsu. Thank you, Hotel Koo, for a wonderful stay!

Nothing

We stayed in their larger facility which is basically a whole house detached from their other rooms, lounge, and reception area. This is a wonderful two story residence with a full kitchen, two bathrooms, and areas to lounge. It is located in a market area of a covered street that is easy to access but quiet. We enjoyed walks around the city (esp. down to the lake) and trying out local restaurants where we got to have some fun communicating with a very good-natured local owner. The hotel offers a wonderful breakfast of which we took advantage once during our two night stay. We would encourage anyone booking to take the breakfast as it is very good, but if you are like us you'll also want to reserve a morning or two to try alternates in the area.

We are so pleased we went to Otsu and Hotel Koo. The accommodation was so lovely and we adored the tour of the local area. The rooms are so much better than the photos suggest - full of beautiful danish furniture, great amenities (porlex grinder and pour over coffee, lovely bath products) and beautiful construction. We’ve stayed in a lot of Machiyas and this one was such a beautiful, high quality renovation. The staff were so kind and nothing was too much trouble. I highly recommend to anyone wanting a night or two break from Kyoto, this is real Japan.

Honestly nothing.

This is my third time staying at Hotel Koo, and first time staying at their machiya suite - Koujiya. I love that Koo offers so many types of machiya suite and each has its own vibe and personality. Everything is so original. Koujiya machiya suite is like a designer’s dream – elegant, cozy, and the statement furniture pieces are everything. The lighting? Super hygge, giving off the warmest vibes. I liked it so much, I extended my stay on the spot! This Machiya suite is a total surprise package. From the outside, it's low-key and so unassuming but inside, it's a luxury haven. The kitchen is a personal favorite, connected to the dining area where you can see a mini garden. Actually you can see the garden from the master’s bedroom and bathroom too, thanks to some clever glass magic. Basically, amazing design. Oh another favorite is the statement sofa on the second floor. I have so many favorites in this place, it’s difficult to list everything!! I think it’s great for couples/duo. It's not just a hotel; it feels like a real home, and the local vibe of the neighborhood is the cherry on top. Can’t wait to be back!!

We loved our stay at hotel koo. It was the perfect combination between japanese traditional house and modern scandinave touch. We felt so at peace in this room, a perfect moment of relaxation. Bed was really confortable and the room so big. The staff were super welcoming and it’s nice to have free homemade snacks and drinks. I definitely recommend this hotel to design lovers

This property exceeded my expectations. A hotel where Japanese style meets Danish mid-century modern. Our room was furnished with Hans Wegner’s CH22 lounge chairs. The desk had a Carl Hansen & Søn Elbow Chair. The reception areas were beautiful with a very generous happy hour. I loved it! The staff were very helpful also with suggestions for things to do and places to eat based on our likes.