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.

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!!

Style. Converted traditional machiyas scattered throughout town, Japanese Nordic fusion Setting. Otsu, Southern end of Lake Biwa, only 20 minutes from Kyoto by car or two stations away Explore. Otsu is a quiet languid town with lots of interesting historical buildings. I was here a week before the "Otsu Festival", 1 of the three major festivals in the lake country and an important intangible folk cultural property designated by the country. 2 of the 13 Hikiyamas floats were being assembled near the Hotel’s reception (Ohmiya) & it was fun to listen to the kids practice their music for the festival. Hotel Koo also offers local tours for free and really encourages guests to eat out, shop etc. to revitalize Otsu. I quite enjoyed the walk and visit to the Mitsuhashi Setsuko Museum of Art, and just strolling the rest of Otsu. Rooms. I booked the entry level room which was 32 sq meter only. They have rooms/villas that are up to 100 square meter. My small but immaculate room had no closet but a clothing rack. No slippers either and only two tea bags were provided. I was happy with the bathtub but next time I’ll book a bigger room/villa @ the hotel. The day checking in I had trouble reaching the hotel by phone. Once there, staff were nice and helpful. Refreshing chestnut parfait at checkin and free sake provided in the evening. Food & drinks. Hotel booked Kasen for me, where I had a very satisfying hyperlocal meal. Prices. Value for money @ $174 Rating. 4/5

Good experience overall with a few minor issues

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.

For people who like to experience old Japanese culture coupled with some modern elements, this is the perfect location. The hotel is a very old traditional house, original a tea trader's house. Although completely renovated with modern WC, restrooms etc., the old wooden structure was kept what creates a wonderful cozy atmosphere. There's free coffee and traditional sweets in the lobby and even some alcoholic beverages in the evening + a nice arrangement of seats so that visitors can enjoy a relaxing time together. The place is very calm and relaxing and the ideal location for visitors who want to take a break from the hustle and bustle in the big cities. The breakfast was excellent (for those who enjoy traditional Japanese breakfast). It came arranged in wooden boxes and was a pleasure for the eyes and palate.

Hotel Koo is such an amazing experience! I can't wait to be back. Traditional Japanese House ー renovated beautifully with quality modern elements. The wooden structure gives a very historical and warm vibe while the Scandinavian furniture and lights compliment the overall design of the space. I feel like I'm transported back to ancient Japan but with the comfort of technology. It is such an inspiring place, really perfect for digital artists/nomads! Other highlights of my stay: the unagi chazuke breakfast, the super kind and accommodating staff who will let you in on the best dining spots, the free tours by the hotel where you get to explore the ocal street market and other machiya in town, and the relaxing lounge with free coffee and snacks! At night, they serve alcohol too!

Nothing. Everything was great!

A very unique experience staying in a machiya. It is very tastefully decorated and the service staffs were top notch. Special shout out to Yoko - my husband and I had a lovely chat with her about the building history. The free sake is also a great touch!

Not about the hotel itself but Otsu is a little boring. Good that we were just staying for 1 night.