Kyoto, the former imperial capital of Japan, is a cultural treasure trove. A historic city renowned for its heritage and natural beauty, it is home to numerous temples, shrines, traditional gardens and historic buildings, making it a major tourist destination.
In this guide, we’ll show you the different options for staying in Kyoto, from Higashiyama to Shimogyo to Arashiyama.
For each area, we’ll talk about what there is to do, accessibility and the type of accommodation available. At the end of each section, we’ll give you a few recommendations for the accommodation we’ve selected for you.
Things you need to know
Before going into detail on each area to help you decide where to stay in Kyoto, here are some key things you need to know about the city. This’ll give you a better idea of the city.
Our favorite places to stay
If you’re in a hurry, here are our top places to stay in Kyoto:
- $ this hotel in the Shimogyo business district, near the station,
- $$ This establishment is ideally located in the historic heart of Kyoto (Higashiyama).
- $$$ This ryokan, in the same area as the previous one.
Map of different areas to stay in Kyoto
Here’s a map which includes our picks of hotels and flats. You can also use this map to pinpoint the different areas we’ll cover in this guide.
We’ve used the following colour code: green for budget hotels, blue for mid-range hotels and red for luxury hotels.
Essentials to stay in Kyoto
Areas where to stay in Kyoto
Let’s get to the heart of the matter with a review of the main areas where we recommend staying in Kyoto.
Stay in the historic Higashiyama district
Higashiyama is a historic and culturally rich district. Higashiyama literally means mountains to the east, in reference to the mountain range to the east of Kyoto. This area is one of the most popular with tourists, thanks to its traditional charm and picturesque atmosphere.
One of the best-known temples is Kiyomizu-Dera. It offers breathtaking views from its huge wooden terrace. You can also visit the Yasaka Pagoda. This elegant five-storey pagoda is one of the symbols of the city. Part of theKennin-ji temple, it stands majestically in Higashiyama's urban landscape. Alternatively, you can visit Yasaka-Jinja, Gion's sacred temple.
Chion-in is a large Buddhist temple in Higashiyama. It boasts magnificent gardens and vast prayer halls, testifying to the city's rich history, which you're sure to enjoy exploring.
Alternatively, you can visit Gion, the geisha district. Visitors can see geishas and maikos (apprentice geishas) moving through the narrow streets of Gion, especially in the evening as they make their way to their engagements.
Higashiyama is also home to several museums and art galleries, showcasing the crafts and history of Kyoto. You can also visit the famous Hanami-Koji street.
Higashiyama is also known for the Fushimi Inari Taisha. It's a picturesque pathway that passes beneath large torii, along the mountain, offering an opportunity to discover the nature and tranquility of the area. Maruyama Park is one of the most popular parks and an ideal place to enjoy the cherry blossoms during the sakura season.
Higashiyama's traditional architecture, narrow streets, ancient temples and historic atmosphere make it a must for those wishing to discover Japanese culture. Walking around here, you can immerse yourself in a unique atmosphere that will take you back in time to the era of geishas and samurai.
You'll find mainly hotels here, but also a few traditional ryokans to suit all budgets. Higashiyama is very quiet at night, so you can enjoy a peaceful night's sleep.
Historic center: accommodation in the heart of Higashiyama
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Conveniently located, you'll enjoy all the facilities of this accommodation, including a gym, bar and restaurant. The rooftop offers a superb panoramic view of the whole of Kyoto. Rooms are spacious and comfortable.
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In these Japanese-style rooms, you'll sleep soundly. A Japanese or Western breakfast is available. You'll also enjoy access to the Komorebid public bathsoverlooking a lovely Zen garden.
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In an establishment with typical Japanese architecture, you'll discover the habits and customs of traditional Japan. You'll have access to a public bath andmassages, as well as a hearty Japanese breakfast.
Shimogyo: a prime location for staying in Kyoto
Shimogyo is the economic heart of Kyoto. It's home to one of Japan's most important railway stations. As well as being one of the city's main gateways, it is a major transportation hub for the Kansai region.
You can visit Tokyo, Osaka or Nagoya prefectures by shinkansen, or take a local line to visit the surrounding area. It's also where all public transport links up, making it an ideal access point for travellers.
The proximity of the station and the concentration of stores, restaurants and bars make Shimogyo a popular place to enjoy the nightlife. You'll find a variety of bars, clubs, karaoke and other entertainment venues.
Near the station, you'll find department stores, shopping malls, boutiques and restaurants. The shopping streets of Kawaramachi-Dori and Shijo-Dori are very lively and popular for shopping.
Here's a list of other must-see tourist attractions:
- Kyoto Tower, a modern structure offering a panoramic view of the city.
- Higashi Honganji Buddhist Temple , with its majestic architecture and magnificent works of art.
- Nishi Honganji Temple , a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Shosei-en Garden, a traditional Japanese garden near Higashi Honganji temple, perfect for a relaxing stroll.
Shimogyo is a vibrant and lively district, offering visitors an opportunity to experience authentic Japanese culture while enjoying urban amenities. With its cultural attractions, lively shopping areas and proximity to the main train station, Shimogyo is an ideal place to start your exploration.
Shimogyo is a good place to stay, as its location makes it an ideal base for visiting Kyoto and the surrounding area. There are a number of fairly inexpensive hotels, ideal for a few nights' sleep.
Good places to stay near the station
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Just two minutes from the Shijo metro station, you'll be in the heart of the station district. Yet you'll be seduced by the quiet, minimalist decor and attractive prices.
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This lodging offers simple rooms, ideal for low-cost accommodation. Ideal for staying close to Kyoto Central Station, you'll also have access to a public bath.
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With its street-side location, this ultra-quiet and pleasant hotel is the ideal place to stay in Shimogyo. Rooms arespacious and clean. You can even rent bicycles for sightseeing.
Accommodation in Nakagyo, in central Kyoto
Nakagyo lies in the heart of Kyoto, surrounded by the districts of Shimogyo, Kamigyo, Nakagyo and Higashiyama. Because of its central location, Nakagyo was a crucial district during the Heian period, when the city was the imperial capital of Japan. Numerous temples, shrines and historic noble residences can still be found here.
Nakagyo is home to several popular tourist sites, includingone of Kyoto'soldest Shinto shrines, Kamigamo-jinja, north of Nakagyo. It's famous for its red torii and traditional architecture. Alternatively, you can visit Pontocho, a picturesque alleyway lined with traditional teahouses, restaurants and bars. It's a great place to stroll in the evening and sample the local cuisine.
Not far away are Shinkyogoku Shopping Street and Teramachi Shopping Arcade, two lively shopping streets where you'll find numerous stores, restaurants and traditional souvenirs. If you're interested in manga culture, don't miss the International Manga Museum.
Finally, take a look at the emblematic stone bridge linking Nakagyo to Shimogyo. It also leads to Nijō Castle, an important historical site with magnificent gardens and buildings dating back to the shogun era.
Although Gion is generally associated with Higashiyama Ward, part of this geisha district is also in Nakagyo.
Nakagyo is well served by public transport, with several subway and bus stations making it easy to get around. It's a great place to stay if you want to spend a few days in Kyoto. Accommodation is not only inexpensive, but also very well located and particularly pleasant to stay in.
Staying in central Kyoto
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Good rooms at low prices, conveniently located near the metro on a fairly quiet street, perfect for low-cost accommodation in comfortable surroundings.
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Lovely, warm, intimate rooms, good breakfast, friendly, helpful staff, quality hot tubs.
Arashiyama: the quiet area west of Kyoto
Arashiyama is located in the far west. The area is famous for its magnificent scenery, ancient temples, verdant bamboo forests and the Katsura River that flows through it. The district is a popular destination for tourists who come to discover the natural and cultural beauty of Kyoto province.
The Arashiyama bamboo forest is an emblematic image of Kyoto. You can stroll along paths surrounded by tall bamboo stalks, creating a magical, peaceful atmosphere. The bamboo forest is particularly beautiful in the early morning or late afternoon, when sunlight filters through the leaves.
Tenryu-ji temple, founded in 1339, is one of Japan's most important Buddhist temples and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tenryu-ji 's Zen garden is particularly renowned for its beauty and serenity.
The Togetsukyo Bridge crosses the Katsura River, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and river. The name Togetsukyo means “bridge across the moon”, as it is said that the moon is reflected in the river when it is full.
You can take a hiking trail to the top of Mount Arashiyama to admire the panoramic view of Kyoto and its surroundings. Alternatively, take a traditional boat trip along the Hozu River to enjoy picturesque views of mountains, forests and rural landscapes.
Arashiyama hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Summer Fireworks Festival and the Autumn Leaf Festival.
The Arashiyama district offers a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, with plenty of opportunities to connect with nature, discover the history and culture of ancient Japan, and sample delicious local dishes at restaurants and street food stalls. It's a must-see destination for anyone visiting Kyoto.
Accommodations in this area are fewer and more expensive, but they enjoy a more authentic and tranquil setting. However, since it's quite out of the way, it's not ideal if you're visiting Kyoto for the first time. In fact, you risk making a lot of round-trips, which could be very inconvenient. If you still wish to stay in this area, we recommend you book as soon as possible.
Where to stay in Arashiyama?
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These attractive Japanese-style suites offer visitors the feeling of being at home, thanks to the layout and comfort of the premises. Ideal for families.
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These prestige suites, fully equipped and tastefully decorated, offer superb views of the Katsura River. With private parking, gym, garden and terrace, the Muni Kyoto has it all.
Kamigyo: staying overnight north of Kyoto
Kamigyo is located just north of Kyoto and is home to a number of historical andtourist sites. Here are the main ones:
The Kyoto Imperial Palace is the former residence of the Emperor of Japan and a major historical site surrounded by gardens. Many areas are open to the public, but it is advisable to book a private tour to immerse yourself in Japan's imperial history. The palace is surrounded by a magnificent park, offering a peaceful view of nature in the heart of the city.
The Nishiki Market is an iconic market and one of the city's main tourist attractions. It offers an incredible variety of traditional Japanese dishes. As well as food, the market also sells souvenirs, traditional cooking utensils and other typical Japanese products. It's a great place to immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Kyoto while sampling delicious traditional dishes.
- Kinkaku-ji, a Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf.
- Ryoan-ji, a Zen temple famous for its minimalist stone garden.
- Nijo Castle, a historic 17th-century castle built as a residence for the shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu.
- The Kamishichiken Kaburenjo Theatre; if you're interested in traditional Japanese arts, particularly kabuki theater, you can attend performances at this historic theater.
- Kitano Tenmangu, a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of learning, and its flea market.
Apart from these historical and tourist attractions, Kamigyo also offers a charming atmosphere with many traditional residential areas, narrow streets and local stores where visitors can discover Japanese culture.
Although a little out of the way, Kamigyo has excellent transport links and allows you to fully immerse yourself in the authentic atmosphere of Kyoto. You'll also find a number of ryokans and hotels where you can stay.
Good places to stay in Kamigyo
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In this traditional house, ideally located for staying in Kyoto, you'll enjoy discovering Japanese culture and customs.
Kyoto is a must-see if you’re visiting Japan. Depending on your interest in the various cultural sights and how you visit the imperial city, you’ll spend an average of 3 to 4 days here. Given all these tourist attractions, it’s best to select a single base and stay there for the duration of your stay.
In any case, your choice of accommodation in Kyoto depends above all on your budget. Given the low cost of accommodation, you’ll easily be able to find a place to suit your needs and budget. On the other hand, try to book as earlyas possible, as the best ones go fast!