In Kyoto, you have a variety of excellent accommodation options depending on your preferences, whether you want luxury hotels, traditional ryokans, or convenient city-center stays.
Luxury Hotels
- Park Hyatt Kyoto : Located in Higashiyama, this hotel offers a refined experience with a 4.6 rating and excellent reviews.
- Hilton Kyoto : Situated in Nakagyo Ward, it features spa and event facilities, rated 4.4.
- Four Seasons Kyoto : A top luxury hotel in Southern Higashiyama, perfect for a relaxing stay near historic sites
- Ritz-Carlton Kyoto : Located downtown by the Kamo River, it is one of the best luxury hotels in Kyoto
Mid-Range and Boutique Hotels
- Hyatt Regency Kyoto : Modern with elegant rooms, spa, and dining options in Higashiyama Ward.
- Nohga Hotel Kyoto Kiyomizu : Mid-sized hotel near Southern Higashiyama with great dining and rooftop bar
- Solaria Nishitetsu Hotel Kyoto Premier : Stylish hotel in downtown Kyoto with reasonable rates
Traditional Ryokans (Japanese Inns)
- Nishiyama Ryokan : A laid-back inn with communal baths and garden in Nakagyo Ward, LGBTQ+ friendly.
- Kyokoyado Yasaka Yutone : Offers humble rooms with cypress baths and a garden in Higashiyama.
- Mitsuki Kyoto : Traditional house near Nijo Castle with tatami mats and private bathrooms, great local vibe
- Toshiharu Ryokan : Historic Meiji-era building with private onsen and Japanese breakfast near Gojo Station
- Kyoto Takasegawa Bettei : Combines traditional style with modern comforts and private onsen tubs near Kamo River
- Ohanabo Ryokan : Affordable traditional ryokan near Kyoto Station with Kaiseki dinners and onsen
- Yuzuya Ryokan : Located next to Yasaka Shrine, a lovely traditional ryokan in Gion area
Best Areas to Stay
- Downtown Kyoto : Central location with easy access to shops, restaurants, and transport. Ideal for first-time visitors and families
- Southern Higashiyama / Gion : Historic and charming area with traditional atmosphere, close to temples and nightlife
- Kyoto Station Area (Shimogyo-ku) : Convenient for transport and families, close to dining and shopping
- Nakagyo Ward : Central with a mix of modern hotels and traditional inns.
Budget-Friendly Options
- GOZAN Hotel & Serviced Apartment: Located near Gion, suitable for families or groups, with easy access to public transport and local attractions
- Ebisu Ryokan : Casual guesthouse with tatami floors and a cafe, rated 3.9.
In summary, if you want a luxurious stay, consider Park Hyatt, Four Seasons, or Ritz-Carlton. For a traditional Japanese experience, ryokans like Mitsuki Kyoto or Toshiharu Ryokan are excellent. Downtown Kyoto and Southern Higashiyama (Gion) are the most popular and convenient areas to stay, offering a good mix of cultural immersion and accessibility