Mama and Papa were so kind. This place is just so homey, you would want to stay for long. They were so accommodating, they even help you with your itinerary. Plus points for the exceptional breakfast, and super duper cuddly cats.

“A wonderful, homely stay with incredibly kind hosts”

Everything was perfect! If you’re visiting Kyoto, you should definitely stay here! I’m so glad I did. Mama and Papa are the best hosts, they make you feel completely at home

“This place has a heart ❤️”

Owners

“A Cozy and Welcoming Hostel in Kyoto”

A historic-style hostel with a warm, cozy, and clean atmosphere. The hosts are a lovely couple—very kind and helpful. The female host speaks great English, and the male host is a talented artist. I especially loved the thoughtful card he gave me. Breakfast together in the morning was a highlight, creating a nice chance to chat with other guests. The location is also very convenient, with a good supermarket nearby and easy bus access. If you want to experience Kyoto, this place is a great choice.

I have been travelled to many destinations in over 34 countries; yet never being stayed in such a warm, friendly, inclusive and truly a "home-stay" Everything was beyond perfect and thank you so much "mama" and "pappa" for the most memorable stay while in Kyoto, Japan. Will definitely visit again soon.

“One of the best hostels I’ve been to in Japan. The hosts are super sweets and are just amazing, she speaks English reall”

Very clean, beds are super comfortable, 10/10 perfect

This place is outstanding. It's very rare that you have this great opportunity to interact with lovely people and that makes you feel really good.

There are no comparisons for Mama and Papa amazing hospitality, they go above and beyond its crazy good.

“Truly unforgettable.”

Kioto We had an absolutely unforgettable stay at Kyoto Compass Guesthouse. The location is convenient, and the house itself is a beautiful, well-kept traditional Japanese home converted into a cozy hostel. Our room for four was comfortable, and the heated mattresses were a lovely touch. But what truly makes this place exceptional are the hosts — Mama and Papa. They are an adorable couple, incredibly warm, welcoming, and attentive. Mama speaks excellent English, making communication effortless, and she was always making sure we were comfortable. Papa was wonderful as well — he even painted our names in Japanese calligraphy and gifted them to us as laminated keepsakes, which we will treasure forever. Breakfast was included and was both wholesome and filling. The common areas are full of charm, with books, decorations, notes from guests around the world, and heartfelt messages that reflect the love and care Mama and Papa put into this place. Their daughter was also very kind. We were traveling with a lot of luggage, and they went out of their way to help us — Papa even offered to drive one of us with the heaviest bags to Kyoto Station at checkout. This is not just a place to stay — it’s an experience filled with kindness and genuine hospitality. Truly unforgettable.

“Happy! Unforgettable! Memorable and precious！”

It's been many years since we last visited Kyoto. Mama and Papa, our landlords, are old friends we haven't seen for a long time. They were so warm and lovely. The COMPASShouse is beautiful and charming. We are very grateful. Hope to meet Mama Papa and COMPASS again! Love you!

Mama and Papa are very nice and friendly and they have two cute cats, felt like a family when staying there. Great experience!

“Feel like home.”

Since its opening, we have been frequent guests from Canada. The owners are very welcoming and friendly, and we have always felt like we were staying in a second home. Even the cats are nice and loving. It has a great environment where you feel restful and it’s a great place to meet people from all around the world.

“Perfect place to rest your head and soul”

I felt like home there. The place was so cozy and clean and peaceful. Mama & papa are amazing people, truly. They helped me with everything I needed and made my staying unforgettable.

The hosts, the ambiance and the guests

The hosts Mamma and Pappa were awesome. I had the best time of my trip there.

Breakfast was simple and nice. Mama san even packed a little takeaway bag for us when we said we'd be leaving earlier than she normally wakes up to make breakfast!

This Hostel is just great. The house is very pretty and gives an authentic Japanese feel, everything was clean and the breakfast was great. The owners were very kind and make you feel truly at home! Thank you very much! I would definitely come back here :)))

“Must stay if you are in Kyōto!!”

It’s a great place. Mama-san and papa-san are pros at being hosts. Very lovely people and mama-san will help you with planning your day or anything if you are lost. Cutest cats on this planet!

“A genuine 10/10… few hostels would even come close”

A truly exceptional experience in guest hospitality from such generous hosts, including a beautifully prepared full breakfast

“We loved the compass, it was a highlight of our trip, the room was beautiful and traditional, mama and papa were so love”