It feels like living in an art museum—a gallery-style Tokyo hostel!

Text and photos by /Annie

KYOTO ART HOSTEL kumagusuku is the latest gallery-style accommodation space in Kyoto created by artist and writer Yazu Yoshitaka, following his kumagusuku クマグスク in Shōdoshima. By combining art exhibitions with a hostel, Yazu has crafted not just a place to stay, but an entirely new space where you live within art—making you feel as though you're staying in an art museum.

The location of KYOTO ART HOSTEL kumagusuku is not far from Shijō-Ōmiya. Just a few meters down the alley, you’ll find the bus stop Mibu Sōsaichi-mae. I really like this location—it’s near Hankyu Ōmiya Station, not far from JR Nijō Station, and right beside a major bus terminal. The transportation options are fairly abundant. If you want breakfast in the morning, there are also several nice cafés nearby, such as Clamp Sarasa Coffee. And if you’re in the mood for an izakaya in the evening, there’s Torikizoku in Shijō-Ōmiya.

Just a few steps down an alleyway from the main road, you’ll find KYOTO ART HOSTEL kumagusuku. Its façade is quite understated—most people would never guess it’s a hostel.

As soon as you walk in, you’re greeted by a wall full of art and cultural posters.

The hostel is a two-story building, with guest rooms located on the second floor. The first floor mainly houses bathrooms and art spaces. The guest rooms feature numerous pieces of art and cultural works. I asked for permission before taking photos.

Current exhibition theme—The Cave of Light

First-floor washbasin area

The shower room is equipped with what looks like a luxury-hotel-style bathtub, and even the shower area is beautifully designed.

Amenities

The room type I stayed in this time was a single room for 7,560 JPY. The space is about the same size as a typical business hotel, but this time I wasn’t just here to stay—I came to experience another kind of art and culture space.

The space isn’t large, but it’s quite comfortable for one person. In the future, I’d love to decorate my own room in this style.

Dormitory room with four beds—also looks pretty nice

KYOTO ART HOSTEL kumagusuku
http://kumagusuku.info/
 

Annie @ Travel, Food & Play
Returning to the essence of travel