Where to stay in Kyoto: Best areas & hotels for every traveler.

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 neighborhood to suit every type of traveler. Each area has its own character and offers a range of great accommodation options.

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In this article:

The best areas to stay in Kyoto.
How to find hotels in Kyoto.
Tips for your Kyoto stay & how to get around.
The best hotels in Nakagyo.
The best hotels in Gion.
The best hotels in Higashiyama.
The best hotels in Shimogyo.
The best hotels in Arashiyama.

Best areas to stay in Kyoto.

A main gate of a shrine that features orange pillars supporting two tiered roofs with ceramic tiling.

A woman in a traditional and colourful kimono on a pathway lined with orange pillars with Japanese inscriptions.

A man wearing a hat in his small boat paddling over a lake with clear waters surrounded by trees.

Deciding where to stay in Kyoto? There are several areas that are great for first-time visitors. Nakagyo offers the city center 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, 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 neighborhoods in the city, and while I’d love to give a definitive answer of 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.

How to find hotels in Kyoto.

Kyoto has a wide variety of accommodation available from budget to luxury, and traditional guesthouses (ryokans). You’ll notice Kyoto hotel room prices vary by season.

According to our KAYAK data, the cheapest months are January and February (averaging $98 and $102 per night), while cherry blossom season in March and April, and fall colors in November bring the highest rates (up to averaging $181 per night). Seeing the cherry blossoms in Kyoto is magical, but it’ll mean traveling in peak season.

To help you get the best deal, read our tips on the best time to book your hotel.

To find your ideal hotel in Kyoto, I’d recommend searching by neighborhood on KAYAK’s map view. There are lots of helpful filters including price, style and hotel rating. You can also find hotels near a landmark or station, which is great when you don’t know the district’s name but know where you want to be.

Find stays in Kyoto

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 lines, and the simplest way to get around is with a prepaid IC card (like an ICOCA). 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 neighborhoods 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 so speedy too, 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.

A castle gate with intricate golden carvings of cranes, pines, bamboos, and flower blossoms.

A bustling lane in a vibrant market, illuminated by skylights, is filled with people navigating through a clean environment, showcasing a diverse array of merchandise in lively stalls.

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 base. 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 $123 per night

Two happy couple sits on the sofa next to their black luggage.

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 bar on the properties await.

Book Node

The Royal Park Canvas – Kyoto Nijo

Best for: Couples & business travelers
Double rooms from $137 per night

A laptop and black coffee ware in a white bed with a wooden headboard.

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 close by.

Book Royal Park Canvas

Hotel Canata Kyoto

Best for: Budget-conscious travelers who still want comfort
Double rooms from $92 per night

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.

Book Hotel Canata

Stay Sakura Kyoto Suzaku Oji

Best for: Travelers who want access to a kitchenette
Double rooms from $147 per night

This cozy boutique hotel in Nakagyo offers compact rooms in a traditional Japanese style. Rooms come with tatami-style decor, 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.

Book Stay Sakura

The best hotels in Gion, Kyoto.

Maikos gracefully walks on a rainy day in the streets, elegantly holding red umbrellas.

Two young women enjoy tea at a local Japanese cafe.

A wooden Japanese temple and pagoda surrounded by autumn trees with city buildings in the distance.

Gion is one of the postcard 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!

Kyoto Granbell Hotel

Best for: Lovers of design & luxury
Double rooms from $418 per night

One of the best hotels in Kyoto, Japan, 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 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.

Book Kyoto Granbell

Hotel Gion Ichirin

Best for: Couples & special occasions
Double rooms from $296 per night

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.

Book Gion Ichirin

Kizashi The Suite

Best for: Families who want both culture & comfort
Double rooms from $443 per night

A tender moment between a mother resting her head on her daughter's back while lying on their bed.

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.

Book Kizashi

Gion Ryokan Karaku

Best for: Culture enthusiasts
Double rooms from $253 per night

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.

Book Ryokan Karaku

The best hotels in Higashiyama.

Two ladies in colourful floral kimonos walking in a busy street in the middle of houses.

Locals and tourists visit the park where the cherry blossoms are in full bloom.

Stay in Higashiyama for a flavor of Kyoto’s old-world charm. This historic neighborhood 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 1200 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 $202 per night

A woman donning a colourful kimono walking down a paved alley with a pagoda in the backdrop.

RC is located in the newest building in Higashiyama, and its design makes it a really cool Kyoto boutique hotel. The rooms with a view of the Yasaka Pagoda are the Kyoto equivalent of seeing the Eiffel Tower from your bed.

Book RC Hotel

Hyatt Regency Kyoto

Best for: All types of travelers
Double rooms from $378 per night

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.

Book Hyatt Regency

Hotel Kyotology

Best for: Couples
Double rooms from $264 per night

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.

Book Kyotology

The Machiya Kamiumeya

Best for: A traditional Japanese stay
Double rooms from $126 per night

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 flavor of Kyoto’s heritage.

Book Machiya Kamiumeya

The best hotels in Shimogyo.

The Kyoto Tower soaring over the surrounding buildings into the clear sky.

For a convenient place to stay in Kyoto, you can’t beat Shimogyo. This central neighborhood 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 with easy access.

Dusit Thani Kyoto

Best for: For a luxury base in Kyoto
Double rooms from $522 per night

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, a fine-dining restaurant and a stylish bar.

Book Dusit Thani

ASAI Kyoto Shijo

Best for: Young, hip travelers
Dorm beds from $168 per night

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 travelers who want to soak up some local culture without leaving the hotel.

Book ASAI Kyoto

Hotel Hokke Club Kyoto

Best for: A location close to Kyoto Station
Double rooms from $136 per night

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 travelers up to groups of five. You’ll also be within walking distance of Kyoto Tower and Higashi Hongan-ji Temple.

Book Hokke Club

Piece Hostel Kyoto

Best for: Budget-conscious backpackers
Dorm beds from $21 per night

Two backpackers arriving and registering with a digital tablet at reception.

Looking for cheap hotels in Kyoto? This budget-friendly hostel is conveniently located 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.

Book Piece Hostel

The best hotels in Arashiyama.

Wooden boats with roofs cruising down the river between forested hills with colourful fall trees.

A person dressed in colourful attire walks gracefully along the enchanting Bamboo Grove, surrounded by towering bamboo stalks that create a serene and ethereal atmosphere.

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 center.

The Grandwest Arashiyama

Best for: Nature-loving families
Double rooms from $345 per night

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.

Book the Grandwest

Kadensho, Arashiyama Onsen, Kyoto

Best for: An authentic Japanese experience
Double rooms from $270 per night

kadensho-booking-339941989 — Provided by Booking.com

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.

Book Kadensho

Mulan Hostel

Best for: Budget-conscious travelers
Dorm beds from $43 per night

Latin American woman traveling and entering her room at a hotel - travel concepts

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 travelers.

Book Mulan Hostel

Hotel Binario Saga Arashiyama

Best for: A mid-range budget
Double rooms from $183 per night

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.

Book Binario Saga

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 28.08.2024 for one night 01.12.2025 to 02.12.2025 and are correct at time of publishing, but are subject to change.

The ultimate guide to where to stay in Kyoto: Luxury, mid-range and budget stays.

Best areas to stay in Kyoto.

Tips for your Kyoto stay & how to get around.