Are you planning a trip to Japan and wondering where to stay in Kyoto? From historic temples to vibrant shopping streets and peaceful bamboo forests, Kyoto offers a neighbourhood to suit every type of traveller. Each area has its own flavour and offers a range of great accommodation options.
Deciding where to stay in Kyoto? There are several areas that are great for first-time visitors. Nakagyo offers the city centre buzz, shops, and nightlife, while Gion is more historic and cultural. Higashiyama has a wonderful mix of temples and sights, while Shimogyo is ideal if you want to be close to transport links, especially Kyoto Station. Or for a peaceful escape, book a stay in Arashiyama, close to the famous bamboo forests.
I’ve stayed in a variety of neighbourhoods in the city, and while I’d love to give a definitive answer on the best area to stay in Kyoto, it really does depend on what you’re looking for. It’s a special city, filled with traditional culture, nature, historic temples and shrines, and a world-class food scene.
No matter which area you choose, the city is compact and well-connected by public transport, meaning you’ll never be far from the sights.
Tips for your Kyoto stay & how to get around.
While Tokyo and Osaka have complex train networks, Kyoto is much easier to navigate. The city only has a few metro (underground) lines, and the simplest way to get around is with a prepaid travel card, such as the local ICOCA – which works just like London’s Oyster card. Top it up, tap in, and you’re ready to explore.
When booking accommodation, aim for a hotel within a 5–10-minute walk of a transport hub. It’ll make sightseeing easier and help you reach other major cities on your Japan itinerary, such as Tokyo or Osaka.
Kyoto is also a great city to explore on foot. I’d recommend strolling around neighbourhoods such as Gion and Higashiyama. Taxis (including Uber) are surprisingly affordable too.
While Kyoto doesn’t have its own airport, Kansai International Airport in Osaka is only 75 minutes away by train. The bullet trains are of course rapid as well, taking just 15 minutes from Osaka or around two hours from Tokyo.
For the ultimate cultural experience, book a ryokan. These traditional Japanese inns feature minimalist bamboo décor, futon beds, and onsen baths.
The best hotels in Nakagyo, Kyoto.
Staying in the central Nakagyo Ward immerses you in the lively aspects of Kyoto. You’ll find great shops, restaurants, and bars on your doorstep. There are a range of transport options too, so it’s a great place to base yourself. Plus, you’ll be close to the magnificent Nijō Castle and Nishiki Market (nicknamed ‘Kyoto’s Kitchen’).
Node Hotel
Best for: the cool kids
Double rooms from £130 per night
If you are looking for an affordable design hotel in Kyoto, Node is it. Well-designed rooms, cool amenities (including fun sleep-shirts), and a great restaurant with a bar on the property awaits.
This modern hotel offers spacious and comfortable rooms, some with incredible city views. Its location is unbeatable for first-time visitors, with Nijo Station just steps away and the iconic Nijō Castle also nearby.
One of the best hotels in Kyoto if you’re on a budget. Just a five-minute walk from local stations, it offers convenient access to the city’s sights. The amenities are plentiful too, with a sauna and several spa baths.
This cosy boutique hotel in Nakagyo offers compact rooms in a traditional Japanese style. Rooms come with tatami-style décor, and each has its own kitchenette with a stove, fridge, and microwave. It’s a great pick if you’d like the option to self-cater.
Gion provides some of the most postcard-worthy views of Kyoto, with its historic tea houses and geisha culture. Regardless of where you choose to stay, you simply have to visit this area. As you stroll, you’ll discover family-run restaurants, streets lined with lanterns, and Shinto shrines. Gion is popular with tourists, but don’t let that put you off. It’s wonderful to catch a glimpse of old Kyoto!
One of the best Kyoto hotels, this modern and luxurious accommodation offers stylish bedrooms in the heart of Gion. There’s a public onsen (hot spring bath) surrounded by pretty Japanese gardens. Foodies will also enjoy the signature Japanese breakfasts at TAKEDOKORO Restaurant. Plus, don’t miss the chance to round off your evening with a cocktail at the hotel’s chic bar.
This top-rated hotel is a short walk from Gion Shijo Station and offers convenient access to Kyoto’s sights. The highlight? The hotel’s spa suites, which feature serene Japanese décor, private open-air baths, and saunas. If you’re celebrating a romantic occasion, this is one of the best choices in the city.
Best for: families who want both culture & comfort
Double rooms from £323 per night
Spacious and beautifully designed, this boutique hotel offers a range of suites that are ideal for families or groups. Some sleep up to four people, with options of standard beds and futons available. I love the Japanese interior design elements, which include tatami mats, wooden alcoves, and calligraphy on the walls.
For an authentic Kyoto experience, nothing beats a ryokan stay, and there are some amazing hotels in Gion to choose from. At this traditional inn, you’ll stay on a futon and indulge in a traditional multi-course kaiseki dinner. Plus, you’ll be a short walk from Yasaka Shrine.
Stay in Higashiyama for a flavour of Kyoto’s old-world charm. This historic neighbourhood is full of winding lanes, traditional wooden houses, and some of the city’s most famous temples and shrines. There’s the spectacular Kiyomizudera Temple (Pure Water Temple), with its history spanning 1,200 years. Also popular is Maruyama Park, which transforms into a sea of delicate pastel pinks during cherry blossom season.
RC Hotel
Best for: photographers
Double rooms from £154 per night
RC is located in the newest building in Higashiyama, and its design gives it the feel of a stylish Kyoto boutique hotel. The rooms with a view of the Yasaka Pagoda are the Kyoto equivalent of seeing the Eiffel Tower from your bed.
This large hotel combines modern luxury with traditional Japanese design. Rooms and suites are spacious and elegant. The location is ideal too, close to Sanjusangendo Temple and the National Museum.
Looking for the best boutique hotels in Kyoto? Hotel Kyotology is perfect if you want something stylish yet intimate. Some of the hotel’s design mimics the look of Kyoto’s characterful alleyways. Private courtyard gardens add to the zen-like atmosphere, making it an ideal escape for couples.
For a more traditional stay, this beautifully restored wooden townhouse offers a warm and authentic atmosphere. Rooms are full of character, with futons available. While it’s not a full ryokan experience, it certainly gives a flavour of Kyoto’s heritage.
For a convenient place to stay in Kyoto, you can’t beat Shimogyo. This central neighbourhood has Kyoto Station at its heart and is where you’ll find a range of shops, restaurants, nightlife, and hotels. It’s not got as much character as some of the historic areas, but you’ll find sightseeing within easy reach.
This luxury Thai hotel brand brings its signature warm hospitality to Kyoto, blending Thai elegance with Japanese sophistication. It’s ideal if you like the finer things in life but still want a central base for your trip. Alongside chic rooms, there’s the hotel’s top-rated spa, Devarana Wellness, as well as a fine-dining restaurant and a stylish bar.
Looking for the coolest hotels in Kyoto? Along with comfortable rooms and trendy communal spaces, this hotel offers a range of activities. With cooking classes, craft workshops, and DJ nights, it’s ideal for travellers who want to soak up some local culture without leaving the hotel.
If you’ve got an early train to catch, this top-rated hotel couldn’t be more convenient – it’s right next to Kyoto Station. Rooms are simple yet comfortable, with options for solo travellers up to groups of five. You’ll also be within walking distance of Kyoto Tower and Higashi Hongan-ji Temple.
Looking for cheap hotels in Kyoto? This budget-friendly hostel is conveniently located just five minutes from Kyoto Station. Choose from dormitories or private rooms, then spend time hanging out in the communal areas. It’s a great choice if you’re looking to meet fellow backpackers.
For a peaceful stay surrounded by nature, head west to Arashiyama. This nature-filled area of Kyoto is home to Bamboo Grove, the serene Togetsu-kyo Bridge, and Arashiyama Monkey Park. It’s less central (around 15 minutes by train from Kyoto Station), but the beauty and calmness offer a welcome contrast from the hectic city centre.
One of the best family hotels in Kyoto, the Grandwest Arashiyama offers spacious apartment-style suites complete with kitchenettes and living areas. Families with young children will love the playroom area. The location is excellent too, with the bamboo forest and monkey park just a short walk away.
If you’re craving a traditional stay in Kyoto, this ryokan-style retreat is ideal. It features both private and shared onsen baths, traditional Japanese furnishings, and multi-course kaiseki dinners filled with interesting delicacies. It’s close to the station too, meaning you can combine the nature of Arashiyama with time sightseeing in central Kyoto.
Backpacking in Kyoto and looking for a base in Arashiyama? Mulan Hostel offers light and airy dormitories and private rooms, close to the train station. With a welcoming feel and budget-friendly rates, it’s a great choice for solo travellers.
This mid-range hotel is ideal if you want the convenience of being near a station while still staying within walking distance of Arashiyama’s bamboo groves and temples. Rooms blend Japanese design with modern comforts, and each morning begins with a traditional Japanese breakfast featuring a variety of seasonal delicacies.
Kyoto hotel prices are based on hotel searches made on KAYAK & associated brands in the period between 13.08.2023 and 13.08.2025 for travel days between 01.01.2024 and 31.12.2025. All prices are average for 1 night in a double room. Prices may vary and savings cannot be guaranteed.
Individual hotel prices were sourced on 17.09.2024 for one night (01.12.2025 to 02.12.2025) and are correct at the time of publishing but subject to change.
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