Where to Stay in Kyoto? 11 Best Hotel & Airbnb List 2024
Kyoto served as Japan's imperial capital and the emperor's residence for nearly 1,000 years, from 794 to 1868. As the former capital, it remains a city where Japanese traditions and history are beautifully preserved.
Kyoto offers numerous attractions. The city center features many famous temples and shrines, including Kiyomizudera Temple and Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine. Thanks to its comprehensive bus and train network, most tourist attractions are accessible within an hour from Kyoto Station. For those seeking tranquility, areas slightly removed from central Kyoto, such as Takao, Kibune, and Kameoka, are popular destinations. Just a bit further from these peaceful spots, visitors can even find entertainment venues reminiscent of Osaka's karaoke scene.
Due to the increasing number of tourists in recent years, both hotels and Airbnb accommodations are widely utilized.
This article introduces recommended hotels and Airbnbs suitable for various travel purposes in Kyoto.
If you are looking for Comprehensive Kyoto Guide, check the article below! I summarized how and where you can enjoy different areas of Kyoto as much as possible.
Kyoto: A Premier Tourist Destination with Elegant Atmosphere Offering Numerous Hotels and Airbnb Options
Kyoto, known as Japan's ancient capital, is a popular tourist destination with over 1,000 years of history. Its beautiful temples, shrines, and atmospheric streetscapes attract visitors worldwide. The city becomes particularly crowded during cherry blossom season and autumn foliage period.
This historic city offers various accommodations to meet tourists' needs. From luxury ryokans to convenient business hotels and Airbnbs that let you experience local atmosphere, the options are abundant.
However, researching which area to stay in and understanding the features of each facility can be overwhelming.
This article will introduce hotels and Airbnbs to make your Kyoto stay more enjoyable and comfortable. Use this information to find the perfect accommodation for your needs.
Recommended Hotels/Airbnbs by Area in Kyoto
Central Kyoto Area
The Ritz-Carlton
Source: Official website
The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto is a luxury hotel situated along the Kamogawa River. Rooms offer stunning views of Higashiyama, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in Kyoto's atmosphere. The interior seamlessly blends luxury with Japanese culture through traditional motifs.
The meticulous service perfectly embodies the Japanese spirit of hospitality. One of the hotel's attractions is the variety of Japanese cultural activities available on-site. I personally participated in a wagashi (traditional Japanese confectionery) making class and was thoroughly satisfied with the careful instruction from the artisan.
This hotel is perfect for those wanting to experience Japanese culture or enjoy a luxurious stay in Kyoto. Guests can enjoy both the comfort of a luxury hotel and authentic cultural experiences unique to Kyoto.
Address: 543 Hokoden-cho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto
Phone: 075-746-5555
Price: From ¥196,075 per night for two adults
Official Website: https://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/ukyrz-the-ritz-carlton-kyoto/overview/?scid=f2ae0541-1279-4f24-b197-a979c79310b0
Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto
Source: Official website
The Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto is a luxury hotel that beautifully blends tradition and modernity. It offers a peaceful space where you can experience Kyoto's subtle traditional beauty and the changing of the seasons.
What impressed me most was the floor-to-ceiling windows in the rooms. When I visited in autumn, the vibrant fall foliage spread out like a painting, creating a breathtaking view.
You can deeply relax both body and mind while experiencing Japanese culture through the Sado (tea ceremony) experience in the hotel's pond garden and spa treatments inspired by Zen Buddhist meditation.
This hotel is highly recommended for those who want to experience Kyoto's culture through all five senses or enjoy a luxurious relaxing time in Kyoto. It's a wonderful hotel where you can experience Kyoto's seasonal beauty with the finest hospitality.
Address: 445-3 Myohoin Maekawa-cho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto
Phone: 075-541-8288
Price: From ¥144,716 per night for two adults
Official Website: https://www.fourseasons.com/kyoto/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=organicsearch&utm_campaign=tor-kyo-hre-mid-seo-na&utm_content=na-na&utm_term=na
THE SHINMONZEN
Source: Official website
THE SHINMONZEN is a sophisticated hotel that fuses Kyoto's traditions with contemporary design. The architecture, crafted by renowned architect Ando Tadao and others, creates a modern atmosphere while preserving Japanese elements.
The rooms skillfully incorporate natural materials like bamboo, lacquer, and silk. The hinoki (cypress) bathtub is especially recommended. When filled with water, the hinoki fragrance creates a relaxing atmosphere for both body and mind.
At the riverside lounge, guests can relax while viewing the Kamo River and enjoy complimentary seasonal wagashi (Japanese sweets) and matcha. The hotel's boutique offers refined Kyoto traditional crafts and premium tea leaves, making it enjoyable to search for souvenirs.
This hotel is recommended for those seeking a comfortable and luxurious stay while experiencing the essence of Kyoto.
Address: 235 Nishinocho, Shinmonzen-dori, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto
Phone: 075-533-6553
Average price: From 250,000 yen per night for 2 adults
Official website: https://theshinmonzen.com/
Ace Hotel Kyoto
Source: Google Maps
Ace Hotel Kyoto, located in the Shinpuhkan shopping and art complex, is a hotel that perfectly balances tradition and modernity. Directly connected to a subway station, it's extremely convenient for sightseeing.
The lobby is an open space accessible to both hotel guests and the public, featuring rotating seasonal art exhibitions and a authentic café. Many locals gather here, allowing you to experience everyday Japanese life firsthand.
The room I stayed in included a tatami-floored space, offering an atmosphere reminiscent of a traditional Japanese ryokan. The staff are friendly and provide casual, comfortable service that makes you feel at home.
This hotel is recommended for those interested in art and design or seeking a less traditional Kyoto experience. You can discover a new side of Kyoto in this sophisticated space.
Address: 245-2 Kurumaya-cho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto
Phone: 075-229-9000
Average Price: From ¥33,168 per night for two adults
Official Website: https://acehotel.com/kyoto/
K's Villa Kamogawa-an
Source: Airbnb
K's Villa Kamogawa-an is one of the best places to stay in Kyoto, offering an entire renovated Kyomachiya (traditional Kyoto townhouse) located along the Kamogawa River. A Kyomachiya represents the traditional wooden architectural style commonly found throughout Kyoto's streets.
While preserving its authentic Japanese atmosphere, the property has been thoughtfully modified for modern comfort, allowing guests to experience life as if they were true Kyoto residents.
The highlight of this accommodation is the large window in the main bedroom on the second floor, offering breathtaking views of the Kamogawa River flowing through central Kyoto. I found myself lost in time, mesmerized by the scenery.
Additionally, you can enjoy views of the Kamogawa River from the large hinoki (cypress) bath. The combination of the hinoki wood fragrance and the beautiful scenery creates a deeply relaxing experience for both body and mind.
This Airbnb is perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in Kyoto's history while enjoying a private, home-like atmosphere without any disturbances.
Address: 414 Kamininomine-cho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto
Phone: 075-344-9911
Average price: From ¥53,400 per night for 2 adults
Official website: https://www.ksvilla.jp/kamogawa-j/
Airbnb Tabitabi "Shinsen"
Source: Airbnb
Airbnb Tabitabi "Shinsen" is another exceptional place to stay in Kyoto, featuring a renovated century-old Kyomachiya in a quiet neighborhood. This exclusive accommodation hosts only one group per day, offering an entire house rental that beautifully blends traditional elements with modern comfort.
Guests can appreciate traditional Japanese elements including a Japanese garden, shoji (paper sliding doors) that softly filter light, and fusuma (sliding panels) decorated with beautiful artwork.
The property is conveniently located near the locally popular Sanjo Shotengai (shopping street), allowing visitors to experience authentic Kyoto life. The historic Nijo Castle is also within walking distance, making it an ideal base for sightseeing.
This accommodation, harmoniously combining traditional Japanese architecture with modern amenities, promises to create special memories for tourists visiting Kyoto.
Address: 20-72 Nishinokyoikenouchi-cho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto
Phone: 070-3549-4459
Average price: From ¥45,000 per night for 2 adults
Official website: https://www.tabi-tabi.kyoto/
If you stay around Kyoto Station or use it, check the article below! I summarized in details about Kyoto Station and Tips for sightseeing around Kyoto.
Arashiyama Area
Suiran
Source: Official website
Suiran, a Luxury Collection Hotel Kyoto, is a high-end hotel located in Arashiyama that beautifully blends traditional Kyoto aesthetics with modern comfort. Guests can enjoy cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery and clear streams in summer, autumn foliage, and snow scenes in winter.
For the best experience at this hotel, we recommend booking a room with a natural hot spring bath. Soaking in the open-space bath while admiring the beautiful scenery and night sky provides ultimate relaxation.
The hotel offers traditional jinrikisha (rickshaw) transportation service from the nearest station, allowing guests to fully experience Japanese culture.
This is one of the best places to stay in Kyoto for those wanting to experience authentic Japanese hospitality and seasonal landscapes.
Address: 12 Susukinobaba-cho, Saga-Tenryuji, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto
Phone: 075-872-0101
Average price: From ¥102,857 per night for two adults
Official website: https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/ukylc-suiran-a-luxury-collection-hotel-kyoto/overview/?scid=f2ae0541-1279-4f24-b197-a979c79310b0
Hoshinoya Kyoto
Source: Official website
Hoshinoya Kyoto is a luxury resort located in the Arashiyama area. This serene accommodation harmoniously blends with nature and is accessed by a private boat along the Hozugawa River.
The rooms feature extensive use of wood in traditional Japanese style, creating a comfortable space with views of the Hozugawa River and Kyoto's seasonal natural beauty from the windows.
Guests can enjoy garden walks and seasonal cultural experience programs, fully immersing themselves in Kyoto's charm.
Hoshinoya Kyoto is particularly recommended for those who want to spend time in nature or deeply experience Kyoto's traditions. It's perfect for a special, relaxing getaway from the bustle of city life.
Address: 11-2 Arashiyama Genrokuzan-cho, Nishikyo-ku, Kyoto
Phone: 050-3134-8091
Average price: From ¥164,148 per night for two adults
Official website: https://hoshinoresorts.com/ja/hotels/hoshinoyakyoto/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=mybusiness&utm_campaign=2408&utm_content=
If you are interested in Arashiyama Area, check the article below! I summarized how and where you can enjoy Arashiyama Area as much as possible.
AirBnB 1-Minute Walk from Randen Station
Source: Airbnb
This AirBnB is a private house in Ukyo-ku, Kyoto, accommodating up to 6 guests. Its prime location, just a 1-minute walk from both the bus and Randen tram stops, offers excellent transportation convenience.
The house features an attractive modern Japanese design with a spacious living room and beautiful courtyard. Guests can experience the traditional Japanese lifestyle by sleeping on futons in tatami rooms, creating the feeling of staying at a Kyoto friend's home.
The property is fully equipped with necessary appliances for a comfortable stay.
Various tourist attractions are within walking distance, perfect for exploring Kyoto.
This is ideal for travelers seeking good access to tourist sites while enjoying a relaxing space. It's particularly suitable for those wanting to fully experience the Arashiyama area.
Address: Ukyo-ku, Kyoto (exact address provided after booking)
Phone: None
Average price: From ¥26,572 per night for two adults
Official website: https://www.airbnb.jp/rooms/45866768?_set_bev_on_new_domain=1726720984_EAMDhkNGEzYzJlOG&source_impression_id=p3_1726725122_P31TwooJ_VnnrDh-
The Kibune and Takao Areas: Best Places to Stay in Kyoto for Kawadoko Experience (May-September)
Kawadoko is Kyoto's signature summer dining experience featuring outdoor seating areas. In the Kibune and Takao areas, visitors can enjoy meals in an atmospheric setting while listening to the soothing sounds of flowing water.
While Kyoto's famous "Noryoyuka" along the Kamo River is well-known, these platforms are built above small streams parallel to the Kamo River, different from Kawadoko. In the Kibune and Takao areas, the dining platforms extend directly over the river, offering a unique experience of dining right above flowing streams. Surrounded by deep greenery in mountain valleys, guests can savor Kyoto cuisine and river fish dishes while escaping the urban bustle.
Kibune Fujiya in Kibune Area
Source: Official website
Kibune Fujiya is a historic ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) famous for its river fish cuisine, located in the secluded Kibune area. It's one of the best places to stay in Kyoto for those seeking an authentic Japanese experience. The inn prides itself on seasonal ingredients and Kyoto cuisine, with special Kawadoko dining available in summer.
The tranquil Japanese-style rooms overlook the crystal-clear Kibune River, offering stunning views of the surrounding greenery. Nearby attractions include the famous Kifune Shrine and Kurama Temple, perfect for early morning spiritual walks.
This traditional Japanese inn is ideal for travelers wanting to experience authentic ryokan accommodation or those seeking a nature-immersed retreat.
Address: 40 Kurama Kibunecho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto
Phone: 075-741-2501
Average price: From ¥46,200 per night for two adults
Official website: http://www.kibune-fujiya.co.jp/
Takao Kanko Hotel in Takao Area
Source: Official website
For those looking for alternative accommodation options to standard hotels and AirBnB in Kyoto, Takao Kanko Hotel offers a traditional ryokan experience in the mountains of Takao. Rooms face the Kiyotaki River, providing views of lush mountain greenery and the sound of flowing water.
From early to mid-June, guests can witness fireflies from their balconies. The Kawadoko dining experience offers close-up views of the clear stream and swimming fish while enjoying Kyoto cuisine.
The area is cooler than central Kyoto, making it a popular summer retreat. It's perfect for those seeking to immerse themselves in Japanese tradition and nature, away from city noise.
Address: 5 Takao-cho Umegahata, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto (Near Jingoji Temple entrance)
Phone: 075-871-2991
Average price: From ¥17,600 per night for two adults
Official website: http://takaokanko-hotel.com/
If you stay in Kibune, check the article below! I summarized how and where you can enjoy Kibune's Summer Culture as much as possible.