Kyoto is steeped in ancient history and tradition, making it a must-visit in Japan. Here, you get to catch a glimpse of these traditional roots, learning more about the Japan’s heritage through the city’s temples, gardens, and bustling streets. Also consider this as a guide to visiting Kyoto, helping you find the right accommodation for you under your travel needs and budget.
From downtown Kyoto hotels to rural Kyoto ryokans, there are tons of lodging options around the city that cater to every kind of traveller. Whether you’re travelling with your family, friends, or even just yourself – this accommodation guide will help you discover the best places to stay in Kyoto to make your visit truly memorable.
Kyoto Accommodations
Accommodation in Kyoto: What You Need To Know
A trip to Kyoto doesn’t last just one day — most travelers recommend staying in Kyoto for at least three days because there’s so many places to visit and cultural experiences to discover! That’s why it’s important to find the best accommodation for you after spending a long day exploring Kyoto.
In Kyoto, there are three types of popular lodgings: hotels, hostels, and ryokans. Each lodging has their own set of features and characteristics, from room sizes to amenities. Let’s see which accommodation works best for you, based on what kind of traveller you are!
Top 5 Kyoto Hotels
Hotels in Kyoto are ideal for travellers with the family or those who value comfort, privacy, and straightforward customer service. Although hotels usually require a higher budget than other accommodations, you get your money’s worth through the perks hotels offer you.
There are also cheap hotels in Kyoto that still offer premium service and amenities. Hotels are equipped with private suites, amenities like gyms and spas, and easy access to public transportation. Many hotels also cater to business travellers with meeting rooms and locations nearby business centres.
Luxury Hotels
Aman Kyoto
Nestled in nature at the foothills of Mt. Daimonji is Aman Kyoto, a five-star luxury hotel that serves as a sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of Kyoto City. Designed like a traditional ryokan with modern and minimalist architecture, Aman Kyoto’s ambience emphasizes peace and relaxation, perfect for travellers who are in need of a retreat.
Aman Kyoto’s amenities include premium guest rooms and suites, two large pavilions, a luxury spa with traditional onsen facilities, massage services, and even private yoga sessions. They also have a restaurant called Taka-An that offers kaiseki cuisine. In Aman Kyoto, expect impeccable Japanese hospitality, utmost privacy, and well-deserved rest.
Location: 1 Okitayama Washimine-cho, Kita Ward
Average price per night: ~500,000 – 700,000 JPY
The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto
Where traditional Japanese culture meets modern luxury, The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto is another premium hotel that invites its guests to appreciate the nature that surrounds the area. Situated along Kamogawa River, you can enjoy calming views of the river, surrounding mountains, and the cityscape in a warm and cozy atmosphere.
Amenities at The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto include spacious suites designed with traditional Japanese motifs, premium linens and toiletries, plus multiple dining options including a French patisserie and Michelin-starred restaurants serving authentic Japanese and Western cuisine. This luxury hotel also houses a full-service spa, an indoor lap pool, a fitness centre, and a banquet hall. Every guest’s stay here is nothing but effortless and indulgent!
Location: Kamogawa Nijo-Ohashi Hotori, Nakagyo-ku
Average price per night: ~200,000 – 221,760 JPY
Budget Hotels
TSUKIMI HOTEL
For travellers seeking a more modern and minimalist accommodation, the TSUKIMI HOTEL offers a cleaner and more stylish atmosphere located in the heart of the Gion District. Surrounded by numerous cafés, restaurants, and bars, this hotel is perfect for guests who want to experience the youthful and energetic side of Kyoto.
TSUKIMI HOTEL is designed like a capsule hotel but with more space so it doesn’t feel too cramped. The hotel’s amenities cater well to the needs of their guests, which include shared bathrooms, a communal kitchen, and wide lounge areas ideal for meeting fellow travellers. There’s even a rooftop for guests to chill in! Even with a budget, TSUKIMI HOTEL still provides essential services such as daily housekeeping, clean facilities, and luggage storage.
Location: 21 Tsukimicho, Higashiyama Ward
Average price per night: ~6,000 – 8,000 JPY
Hearton Hotel Kyoto
Hearton Hotel Kyoto is a three-star hotel that still offers superb facilities, amenities, and services. When you enter the hotel, you will be impressed by its clean and modern interior, with subtle touches of traditional Japanese design. It’s located in central Kyoto, making it a practical base for exploring the city and its popular attractions like the Kinkaku-ji Temple.
In Hearton Hotel Kyoto, there’s free-wifi, Simmons beds, and Japanese-style breakfast daily. Each of their rooms have cable/satellite TV, coffee makers, refrigerators, and pristine bathrooms with complimentary toiletries. In the hotel, there are two restaurants – PATIO and HAMATOKU. Services at Hearton Hotel Kyoto emphasize guest comfort and convenience, with a 24-hour reception desk, room service, and friendly staff.
Location: 405 Funaya-cho, Nakagyo-ku
Average price per night: ~6,500 – 9,000 JPY
Toyoko Inn Kyoto Shijo-Karasuma
Practical, comfortable, and affordable – these are what best describe Toyoko Inn Kyoto Shijo-Karasuma. This budget hotel is perfectly suited for budget-conscious travellers who want convenient access to Kyoto’s culture and shopping districts like Nishiki Market, Gion, and the Kyoto International Manga Museum.
The hotel’s amenities include free Wi-Fi in shared spaces, self-check-in kiosks for smooth arrivals, and clean guest rooms equipped with necessities like private bathrooms, refrigerators, electric kettles, hair dryers, slippers, and flat-screen TVs. Guests can also enjoy a complimentary breakfast buffet! Toyoko Inn Kyoto Shijo-Karasuma is in immediate proximity to Shijo Station, making it an affordable choice with a remarkable location.
Location: 28 Naginataboko-cho, Shijokarasuma-dori, Higashi Hairu, Shimogyo-ku
Average price per night: ~8,000 – 11,000 JPY
Top 5 Kyoto Hostels
For travellers who are looking for a more budget-friendly option, hostels are highly recommended. A hostel is a low-cost accommodation that typically offers shared lodging with dormitory-style rooms or private rooms at lower rates.
Most hostels have communal areas such as study lounges and kitchens, promoting social interaction among travellers. These shared spaces are ideal for big friend groups, backpackers, or solo travellers looking to meet others.
Backpackers Hostel K’s House Kyoto
Social travellers and backpackers may consider staying at Backpackers Hostel K’s House Kyoto as it offers a very lively and welcoming atmosphere under a friendly budget. With shared spaces, common areas, and a rooftop terrace – you’re bound to make friends here! The hostel is also within walking distance of Kyoto Station… convenient, right?
The hostel provides a variety of amenities designed to enhance guest comfort and convenience. With free Wi-fi, communal kitchens, shower rooms, and complimentary coffee and tea – expect a very cozy and hospitable environment. The hostel has helpful and friendly staff support with multilingual team members ready to assist guests.
Location: 421 Nayacho, Shimogyo Ward
Average price per night: ~4,500 – 6,000 JPY per head
Ryokan Hostel Gion
This ryokan-inspired hostel exudes a calm and peaceful vibe, perfect for travellers who want to immerse themselves in a traditional Japanese atmosphere while still getting a lot of bang for your buck. The traditional Machiya-style architecture of Ryokan Hostel Gion integrates beautifully into the quiet streets of Gion District. Guests can easily access the inner corners of Gion, exploring the nostalgic and historic side of Kyoto.
For the hostel’s amenities, the Ryokan Hostel Gion has the basic necessities: Wi-Fi, air conditioning and heating, shared bathrooms, and personal lockers. The shared kitchen has everything you need for making meals, from a stove to a microwave. They have a smoking area on the top floor and even their rooms have soundproof windows for maximum comfort. Security is a priority in this hostel with key card access and 24-hour surveillance.
Location: 391-2 Motomachi, Higashiyama Ward
Average price per night: ~3,500 – 7,000 JPY per head
Santiago Guesthouse Kyoto
The Santiago Guesthouse Kyoto is nothing but cozy and inviting, ideal for those who want to experience Kyoto’s blend of tradition and modernity. The guesthouse is housed in a modern and clean building with open communal spaces including a café and lounge where guests can enjoy coffee and meals while mingling with fellow travellers.
The guesthouse has free Wi-Fi throughout the property, air-conditioned rooms with measures for privacy such as curtains and personal lockers, and well-maintened shared bathrooms equipped with budgets. Additional amenities include hair dryers, microwaves, refrigerators, and safety deposit boxes. Santiago Guesthouse Kyoto is at a prime location with just a 15-minute walk from famous temples like Yasaka Shrine.
Location: 6-503 Yugyomaecho, Higashiyama Ward
Average price per night: ~4,000 – 6,500 JPY
Len Kyoto
Len Kyoto is the best hostel for travellers who are looking for a more vibrant and energetic atmosphere. Located near the bustling Kawaramachi Street, Len Kyoto gives you access to shopping, dining, nightlife, and cultural attractions along the Kamo River. The hostel itself even has a café and bar that serves as a lively hub where both guests and locals gather.
In Len Kyoto, you are given a selection of room types from mixed dormitories to private twin, triple, queen, and king-size double rooms. Though the private rooms do not have en-suite bathrooms, the shared facilities are clean and thoughtfully maintained. The common kitchen is well-equipped and each room has lockers for personal belongings. Len Kyoto is perfect for both solo travellers and groups looking to mingle and connect!
Location: 709-3 Uematsucho, Shimogyo Ward
Average price per night: ~4,000 – 7,000 JPY per head
The Millennials Kyoto
For a unique hostel experience, The Millennials Kyoto is designed with a sleek, futuristic, and minimalist design featuring capsule hotel rooms known as “SmartPods.” On the 8th floor of the hostel, there’s a co-working space called “.andwork” where guests can access meeting rooms, private phone booths, and unlimited hot drinks. Productivity at its finest!
One of the best features of The Millennials Kyoto is what is included in your SmartPod – high ceilings, a thick mattress, large storage space, electric bed recliner, and even an iPod that serves as a remote to control all of the capsule pod’s functionalities at your fingertips. The Millennials Kyoto combines hospitality with technology to ensure a smooth experience for all!
Location: 235 Yamazakicho, Nakagyo Ward
Average price per night: ~8,000 – 10,000 JPY
Top 6 Kyoto Ryokans
A one-of-a-kind accommodation that you can find in Kyoto is the ryokan. Kyoto ryokans are traditional Japanese inns that offer guests an immersive cultural experience. The distinct features of a ryokan are the tatami-matted rooms, futon bedding, communal baths (onsen), and kaiseki-style meals.
Ryokans are typically situated in scenic areas, near natural hot springs or rural towns, making it the best accommodation for travellers seeking a more peaceful stay in Kyoto. Booking a night at a ryokan is usually expensive, but in return, you get to fully immerse yourself in Kyoto’s heritage in a quiet and intimate atmosphere.
So, now that you have an idea of where you can stay in Kyoto, here are some recommended accommodations for you!
FUFU Kyoto
Settled in the lush nature of Higashiyama, FUFU Kyoto is a ryokan described as luxurious, modern, and traditional – all in one! Guests in FUFU Kyoto experience a quiet sanctuary surrounded by a sakura-lined waterway, showcasing the natural beauty of Kyoto.
As part of the Ryokan Collection, the amenities of FUFU Kyoto are exceptional, featuring guest rooms with heated floors, sound systems, and private hot spring baths with a tub crafted from aromatic hinoki cypress. As a guest, you can visit the ryokan’s Japanese-style garden with a detached teahouse called Yae Hitoe which serves as a venue for exclusive cultural activities like ikebana (flower arrangement), Japanese tea ceremonies, and even geisha performances!
Location: 41-41 Nanzenji Kusakawacho, Sakyo Ward
Average price per night: 70,000 – 100,000 JPY
Yuzuya Ryokan
Located right next to the iconic Yasaka Shrine, Yuzuya Ryokan offers Japanese-style accommodations with traditional multi-course meals and an authentic Kyoto experience. This ryokan is housed in a beautifully preserved 100-year-old townhouse, making you feel like you stepped back into Kyoto’s historic past.
The amenities at Yuzuya Ryokan include nine Japanese-style guest rooms, each equipped with private bath and toilet facilities. There are gender-segregated shared baths that are infused with a yuzu (Japanese citrus) scent so that you can relax with your family or friends. Yuzuya Ryokan’s main feature is its direct proximity to Gion’s lively streets, allowing guests to easily explore Kyoto’s iconic landmarks and sites.
Location: 545 Gionmachi Minamigawa, Higashiyama Ward
Average price per night: 60,000 – 78,000 JPY
Seikoro Ryokan
For over two centuries, Seikoro Ryokan has been providing guests with premium services and hospitality. It offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of Kyoto and showcases Japan’s classic ryokan culture combined with modern necessities.
Just like any other ryokan, Seikoro Ryokan has individually furnished rooms featuring tatami flooring, futon bedding, and hinoki-wooden soaking tubs in private bathrooms equipped with electronic bidets. Each room also has free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, heating, mini-fridgets, and TV’s. Guests have access to the ryokan’s indoor bath, along with complimentary parking, a gift shop, and luggage storage. Seikoro Ryokan is the best place to come home to after a long day of Kyoto sightseeing.
Location: 467 Nishitachibanacho, Higashiyama Ward
Average price per night: 55,000 – 100,000 JPY
Kanamean Nishitomiya
A little bit more on the upscale level of ryokan accommodations is Kanamean Nishitomiya, a ryokan that showcases traditional Japanese architecture with a modern and sophisticated twist. With only eight suites available, Kanamean Nishitomiya focuses on a more personalized and intimate guest experience.
Within these eight suites feature tatami flooring, private bathrooms, and an interior that combines classic and contemporary design. The suites overlook the garden, providing a scenic and calming view for you. Expect the usual modern amenities as well like air-conditioning, heating, and complimentary Wi-Fi. In Kanamean Nihitomiya, you will receive attentive staff service, 24-hour security, and a peaceful environment all in one.
Location: 562 Honeyanocho, Nakagyo Ward
Average price per night: 60,000 – 72,000 JPY
Hiiragiya Ryokan
Established in 1818, Hiiragiya Ryokan is one of Kyoto’s most iconic and cherished traditional inns and has been in operation ever since. The moment you step into Hiiragaiya Ryokan, you are immediately immersed in a calm and elegant ambiance that feels like ancient Kyoto.
Hiiragiya Ryokan has spacious tatami rooms furnished with futon beds, private in-room toilets and baths, air-conditioning, and heating. Guests can stroll around the ryokan’s lush gardens and take a relaxing dip at the communal indoor baths. You can avail of kaiseki meals here as well as massage services. Their staff are highly experienced, ready to assist you in whatever you need to make your Kyoto trip worth it.
Location: 277 Nakahakusancho, Nakagyo Ward
Average price per night: 147,000 – 162,000 JPY
Seryo Ryokan
If you really want to retreat far from the bustle of the city centre, find yourself at Seryo Ryokan. It’s located in the peaceful village of Ohara, nestled amidst the natural Satoyama landscape surrounded by trees and all kinds of greenery. Here, you are invited to rest and rejuvenate in Japan’s natural scenery.
Seryo Ryokan offers Japanese-style tatami rooms but also has Western-style accommodations with views to the ryokan’s gardens. Public onsen baths are also available. Dining at Seryo is also a highlight, featuring kaiseki dinners, classic Japanese breakfast meals, and other dishes that emphasize Kyoto’s rich cuisine. Seryo Ryokan ensures a peaceful and quiet environment while giving you access to historical sites, hiking trails, and ancient temples.
Location: 22 Oharashorinincho, Sakyo Ward
Average price per night: 62,000 – 65,000 JPY
Top Tips for Booking Kyoto Accommodations
When booking an accommodation in Kyoto, you need to carefully consider a lot of factors to make the most of your stay. One of the most important factors is the season! Kyoto is stunning all year-round, but each season brings a different kind of experience in the city. The seasons of spring and autumn are popular times to visit because of how beautiful nature blooms during these months, but in return, attracts a high number of visitors and crowds.
When choosing an accommodation, think about its location as well and how close it is to the public transit and attractions of Kyoto. Staying in hotels or hostels near key locations like Kyoto Station, Kawarmachi, or the Gion District allows easy access to temples, gardens, and shopping streets – saving travel time. However, if you’d prefer a more peaceful and quieter trip, then it’s better to stay at a ryokan that’s far from downtown areas.
Lastly, make sure that the type of accommodation you’re eyeing completes your checklist for the perfect Kyoto trip. Does it fit your budget? Is it family-friendly? Will it have a complimentary breakfast? Aim for convenience! Booking platforms that offer free cancellation or flexible policies are recommended, especially if travel plans might shift. Verify if the lodging has English-speaking staff, confirm what amenities are included, and check the reviews of the accommodation before booking.
Why Visit Kyoto?
Kyoto has a long history of culture and heritage. What used to be Japan’s ancient capital city is now a major hub for tourism as travellers visit Kyoto to see a rich tapestry of historic landmarks, traditional architecture, local delicacies, and vibrant districts.
In Kyoto, you can visit mesmerizing temples like Kiyomizu-dera, Fushinimi Inari Taisha, and Kinkaku-ji. These temples give you a glimpse of the culture of religion in Japan as you stroll through the temple grounds surrounded by trees and greenery.
Beyond its famous temples, Kyoto also has their legendary Geisha district, Gion! Here, you can walk along Hanamikoji Street, watch a show at Gion Corner, and even experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony with the geisha themselves.
For unique activities to do in Kyoto, you can go on a boat ride in a canal Inari Station, walk through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Monkey Park, explore the Nishijin Textile District, or eat at a kawadoko, an outdoor dining spot located right next to a riverside.
Certainly, we can’t forget about Kyoto’s cuisine either. Kyoto is known for its kaiseki, referring to the traditional multi-course Japanese dinner similar to Western haute cuisine. This type of cooking is elegant, meticulous, and artistic. Besides kaiseki, Kyoto also takes pride in their wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets), tofu, Uji matcha, and sake (rice wine).
Are you travelling to Kyoto for the first time? Check out our extensive travel guide for Kyoto and see what else you can do in the heart of Japan!
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right place to stay in Kyoto enhances not only your comfort but also your immersion in the city’s rich culture and history. You can enjoy the luxury of a hotel, the sociable energy of a hostel, or the peaceful retreat of a ryokan. It’s up to you! What matters is that Kyoto ensures that every traveller finds a perfect home away from home. Pair this guide with our ultimate Kyoto guide to fully maximize your Kyoto trip!
References:
- Kanamean Nishitomiya. (2025). Official Website. https://www.kanamean.co.jp/en/access/index.html
- Kyoto Ohara Ryokan Seryo. (2025). Official Website. https://www.seryo.co.jp/english/
- Japanese Ryokan Seryo Kyoto. (2025, April 30). Hotels In Kyoto. https://japanese-ryokan-seryo.hotels-in-kyoto.com/en/
- Matsuyama, R. (2025). Seryo Ryokan – Tea Ceremony Japan Experiences MAIKOYA. https://mai-ko.com/travel/japan/ryokan/seryo-ryokan/
- TripAdvisor. (2020). Ohara Onsen Ryokan Seryo Reviews. https://www.tripadvisor.com.ph/Hotel_Review-g298564-d1093293-Reviews-Ohara_Onsen_Ryokan_Seryo-Kyoto_Kyoto_Prefecture_Kinki.html
- Yuzuya Ryokan. (2025). Official Website. https://yuzuya-ryokan.hotels-in-kyoto.org/en/
- Hiiragiya Ryokan. (2025). Official Website. https://www.hiiragiya.co.jp/en/introduction/
- The Millennials Kyoto. (2025). Lively Hotels. https://www.livelyhotels.com/en/themillennialskyoto/
- Aman Kyoto. (2024). Official Website. https://www.aman.com/resorts/aman-kyoto
- Ritz-Carlton Kyoto. (2025). Official Website. https://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/ukyrz-the-ritz-carlton-kyoto/
