Best Places to Stay in Kyoto: A Comprehensive Neighborhood Guide

The former capital of Japan for over a millennium, Kyoto is arguably the most picturesque city in the country. Nestled within the Western Honshu mountains, this city is rich in history, culture, architecture, and authentic Japanese traditions. Among the few cities to have avoided World War II bombings, Kyoto maintains a substantial collection of pre-war structures and traditional townhouses.

Despite modernization influencing Kyoto’s traditional architecture over the years, the city continues to be home to numerous century-old Japanese shrines and temples, along with the renowned geisha district. Exemplifying the Japanese aesthetic principle of “wabi-sabi,” which celebrates the art of recognizing beauty in imperfection, Kyoto comprises one of the world’s most extensive collections of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Kinkaku-ji Temple and Nijo-jo Castle.

Now, let us delve into some of the most renowned neighborhoods within the city, facilitating your accommodation decisions during your visit to Kyoto.

Downtown/Nakagyo Ward/City Center

As one of the most dynamic shopping and dining districts in Kyoto, the downtown neighborhood is filled with fashion brands, department stores, and diverse restaurants catering to all budgets and preferences. It is home to the largest and best-preserved castle in the city, Nijo Castle, serving as an exemplary representation of the blend between historic and contemporary elements. Shijō Street, best explored on foot, is a haven for shoppers and those seeking souvenirs. The Pontochō Geisha District, a narrow lane along the Kamogawa River, is among the five famed flower towns (hanamachi) in Kyoto where renowned geishas practice their craft. This area is also recognized for its exclusive dining establishments and vibrant bars.

Ideal for: All kinds of travelers.
Other attractions: The Museum of Kyoto, Honnoji Temple Marker, Nishiki Market, Kyoto International Manga Museum, Mibudera Temple, and Nijo Park.

Accommodation Suggestions:

• Hotel Gracery Kyoto Sanjo – Located within a short walking distance from the prominent shopping streets of Shijo Dori and Kiyomizo-dera Temple, this elegant hotel offers rooms with sophisticated décor and modern amenities. Guests can utilize the complimentary luggage storage service provided at the 24-hour front desk, as well as coin-operated laundry facilities. Business travelers can access the business center. An optional breakfast is available daily, making it suitable for all types of guests.
• The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Sanjo – Conveniently located near Kyoto Shiyakusho-mae Subway Station, this hotel features well-furnished accommodations with comfortable beds, flat-screen TVs, safety deposit boxes, free Wi-Fi, and private bathrooms with complimentary toiletries. The hotel offers exclusive meals and beverages at its on-site bar and restaurant. Additional amenities include luggage storage, a 24-hour front desk, coin laundry, and vending machines for snacks and drinks, making it a great choice for all kinds of travelers.
• Hotel M’s Plus Shijo Omiya – This stylish property offers free Wi-Fi throughout, a 24-hour front desk, and laundry services. Guests can enjoy comfortable accommodations equipped with air conditioning, safety deposit boxes, seating areas, electric kettles, and ensuite bathrooms with free toiletries. A complimentary breakfast is served daily, perfect for all types of travelers.

Gion

As the most renowned geisha district in Kyoto, Gion is situated between Yasaka Shrine and the Kamogawa River. This neighborhood is filled with shops, restaurants, and traditional tea houses (ochaya) where visitors can easily see geishas and maikos performing their arts for audiences. Hanami-koji Street is the most famous area within Gion, recognized for its well-preserved machiya houses, many of which now function as restaurants offering Japanese haute cuisine alongside international dishes. The Shirakawa Area, another popular locale, features the Shirakawa Canal, adorned with willow trees and upscale ochayas, some also providing accommodations with views of the canal. If visiting in July, do not miss the Gion Matsuri, the most celebrated festival in Japan.

Ideal for: All types of travelers.
Other attractions: Kenninji Temple, Tatsumi Bridge, Hanamikoji Street, Maruyama Park, and Gion Corner.

Accommodation Suggestions:

• Hotel Grand Bach Kyoto Select – Just a 5-minute walk from Kawaramachi Train Station, this sophisticated hotel offers luxurious accommodations furnished with state-of-the-art facilities. Guests can benefit from complimentary Wi-Fi, laundry services, and luggage storage. The on-site restaurant serves exquisite Japanese and Western cuisine, with a complimentary breakfast included in select room rates. Ideal for solo travelers and couples.
• Orient Gojozaka – Guest House In Kyoto – Featuring well-appointed studio rooms equipped with modern amenities, this guest house is a brief stroll from the magnificent Kiyomizu-dera Temple. With amenities such as televisions, washing machines, kitchenettes, and sophisticated bathrooms, the property also provides easy access to Kiyomizu-Gojo Station, making it suitable for all types of travelers.
• Hotel M’s Est Shijo Karasuma – Located just a minute’s walk from Shijo Subway Station, this contemporary property offers thoughtfully designed guest rooms featuring facilities such as air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, electric kettles, free Wi-Fi, and private bathrooms. A 24-hour front desk is available to assist guests at any time, and long-term travelers can use the laundry facility at the hotel, making it ideal for solo travelers and couples.

Kyoto Station Area/Shimogyo

The most significant transportation hub of Kyoto, Kyoto Station is acknowledged as one of the largest railway stations in the world, with its expansive glass structure recognized as one of the country’s largest buildings. Reconstructed after the original structure was destroyed by fire in 1952, the station includes several museums, a shopping mall, a movie theater, Isetan department store, game center, and a hotel. Shimogyo, the southern ward of Kyoto, extends from Kyoto Station to Shijo Dori Avenue, housing various hotels, restaurants, and tourist services. Kyoto Station serves as the principal attraction in this area. With its fascinating architecture, multiple tourist services, and exceptional connectivity to the rest of the country, the Kyoto Station area is an excellent choice for both domestic and international visitors.

Ideal for: All types of travelers.
Other attractions: Kyoto Aquarium, Kyoto Tower, Rokusonnō Shrine, Sumiya Motenashi Museum, Ichihime Shrine, and Bukkoji Shrine.

Accommodation Suggestions:

• Karatachi Nanajo Ainomachi – Japan Hotels – Located in the heart of Kyoto’s famous Shimogyo area, this modern budget hotel features well-furnished twin rooms equipped with free Wi-Fi, electric kettles, kitchenettes, and private bathrooms. Guests can dine at one of the many surrounding restaurants, while a convenience store is just a couple of minutes away. Nishi Honganji Temple is accessible via a leisurely 15-minute walk from the hotel, making it suitable for diverse travelers.
• Hotel Grand Bach Kyoto Select – Featuring modern-style guest rooms with excellent amenities, this hotel provides straightforward access to several key attractions in the city, including Kiyomizu Temple and Nijo Castle. Guests can relax at the public baths to rejuvenate after checking in, with a healthy complimentary breakfast served daily, making it suitable for solo travelers and couples.
• Kaede Guesthouse – Offering facilities such as communal lounges, bicycle rentals, BBQ facilities, and a shared kitchen, this guesthouse provides simple yet satisfactory guest accommodations within a short walking distance from Shijo Subway Station. Long-term visitors can avail themselves of the coin-operated laundry facility or the free luggage storage during their exploration beyond city limits, making it ideal for all types of travelers.

Central Kyoto

Central Kyoto serves as the hub for the city’s primary shopping and nightlife districts, positioned west of the Kamogawa River and north of the Shimogyo neighborhood. The streets of Kawaramachi Dori and Shijo Dori are brimming with shopping arcades and entertainment avenues. This neighborhood also showcases some of Kyoto’s most distinguished craft stores. As the location of the iconic Nijo Castle, Central Kyoto is home to several exclusive ryokans nestled in the enchanting, traditional neighborhoods of old Kyoto. Interestingly, while often seen as separate, the downtown neighborhood is part of Central Kyoto. The Kyoto International Manga Museum, situated in a former elementary school, is a major highlight of the area. One of the most sought-after areas within central Kyoto is Nakagyo-ku.

Ideal for: All types of travelers.
Other attractions: Honmaru Garden, Nijo Park, Pontocho district, Higashi Honganji, Nishi Honganji, Nishiki Market, Kyoto Imperial Palace, and Kyoto Imperial Palace Park.

Accommodation Suggestions:

• Kyoyado Usagi – Adjacent to the distinguished Nijo Castle, this exceptional luxury property features lavish Japanese-style townhouses and suites equipped with luxurious amenities, including spa baths, complimentary Wi-Fi, washing machines, microwaves, safety deposit lockers, kitchenware, and digitized security systems. Guests traveling via private vehicles can make use of the complimentary parking facilities, making it suitable for all types of travelers.
• Japaning Hotel Nijojo Minami – This hotel features complimentary Wi-Fi, luggage storage, a free shuttle service to notable city landmarks, and kimono rental services. Japaning Hotel Nijojo Minami offers contemporary accommodation units with free Wi-Fi, kitchenettes, private bathrooms with complimentary toiletries, and flat-screen TVs. Each room comes with a free smartphone that provides internet access and information about Kyoto, making it suitable for all types of travelers.
• Kyoto Uraraka Guest House – A pleasant walk from Nijo Castle, this inviting guesthouse features elegantly-decorated rooms equipped with air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, workspaces, refrigerators, and private bathrooms. Guests can use the on-site bicycle rental and coin laundry services, with a fresh breakfast served daily, ideal for all types of travelers.

Higashiyama

Perched along the slopes of Kyoto’s eastern mountains, Higashiyama is recognized as one of the city’s best-preserved historical neighborhoods. The narrow streets that connect Yasaka Shrine and Kiyomizudera are adorned with wooden architecture and traditional merchant shops, evoking the essence of traditional Japan. A variety of small boutiques, charming cafes, and aesthetically pleasing restaurants line the streets, catering to tourists and pilgrims alike who journey here to visit Kiyomizudera Temple, one of Japan’s most revered temples. Visitors can acquire unique Kiyomizu-yaki pottery and souvenirs from the local shops. Should you visit during the 10-day Hanatoro festival in March, the streets become illuminated with lanterns, with Togetsukyo Bridge standing out as the most iconic locale to witness this captivating phenomenon.

Ideal for: All types of travelers.
Other attractions: Tofuku-ji Temple, Kodai-ji, Sanjusangen-do, Maruyama Park, Yasaka Shrine, Heian Shrine, and Yasaka Pagoda.

Accommodation Suggestions:

• Rinn Shichijo Ohashi Bridge – Offering well-appointed, modern guest rooms equipped with flat-screen TVs, kitchenware, microwaves, private bathrooms, and free Wi-Fi, this delightful property is within proximity to numerous key tourist attractions in the city, including Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Rinn Shichijo Ohashi Bridge, making it ideal for solo travelers and couples.
• Kyoto Granbell Hotel – A short walk from Gion-Shijo Subway Station, this intriguing property merges contemporary architecture with traditional Japanese design. The hotel’s luxurious amenities include cutting-edge guest rooms, a public bath with a view of a Japanese garden, complimentary Wi-Fi, a 24-hour front desk, an on-site dining facility, and an impressive buffet breakfast, making it suitable for all varieties of luxury travelers.
• M’s Inn Higashiyama – Conveniently located near Gion Shijo Station and Kiyomizu Gojo Station, M’s Inn Higashiyama features bright, spacious guest rooms furnished with modern fixtures, such as washing machines, soundproofing, kitchenettes, microwaves, and free Wi-Fi. Some accommodations offer additional futon beds and seating areas. The Kyoto International Manga Museum is a few kilometers away from the property, making it suitable for various travelers, including larger groups of up to five members.

Arashiyama

A captivating neighborhood located in the western part of Kyoto, Arashiyama is particularly remarkable during the fall and cherry blossom seasons. Having been popular since the Heian Period, the Togetsukyo Bridge in Arashiyama is a well-known landmark in the city. Visitors can explore the area on foot or take a leisurely boat ride along the Hozu River, with both options providing a delightful experience. For a quieter atmosphere, venture to the northern region of Arashiyama, which is less populated and more rural, featuring small Japanese temples in the wooded mountains. Renting a bicycle is perhaps one of the most enjoyable and convenient ways to navigate this charming area. Saga-Toriimoto Preserved Street, adjacent to Adashino Nenbutsuji Temple, is a beautifully preserved town that continues to reflect its Meiji Period heritage.

Ideal for: All types of travelers.
Other attractions: Monkey Park, Tenryuji Temple, Bamboo Groves, Jojakkoji, Gioji, Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple, and Daikakuji.

Accommodation Suggestions:

• The GrandWest Arashiyama – Just a 5-minute walk from Hankyu Arashiyama Station, this modern hotel provides spacious standard and deluxe guest rooms with amenities such as flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, refrigerators, iPads, and private bathrooms furnished with bidets and complimentary toiletries. The knowledgeable staff at the reception can assist with organizing tours and making dinner reservations, making it suitable for all types of travelers, including larger groups of up to five members.
• Ranzan – Situated in the heart of the famous Arashiyama district, Ranzan offers spacious guest rooms surrounded by lush greenery and scenic landscapes. Guests are welcomed to start their day with a hearty complimentary breakfast and later unwind at the public bath or in the Japanese gardens. Traditional rooms featuring Japanese futon bedding and tatami flooring are available for those who seek an authentic Japanese experience. A karaoke room is on-site for entertainment, making it ideal for all types of luxury travelers.
• Riverside Arashiyama – Comprising expansive, warmly decorated apartment units with modern amenities, including soundproofing, free Wi-Fi, hardwood floors, dining tables, microwaves, and ensuite bathrooms equipped with baths and complimentary toiletries, Riverside Arashiyama is conveniently located within walking distance to Bamboo Street. Hankyu Arashiyama Station and the Arashiyama Monkey Park are easily accessible from the property, making it suitable for various passengers.

Fushimi

Renowned as the sake production hub of Kyoto, Fushimi is a visually appealing neighborhood characterized by its historic buildings, charming wooden breweries, and picturesque tree-lined canals. Originally signifying “underground water,” Fushimi is cherished by visitors for its superior springs—soft, mellow, and delectable, which create ideal conditions for sake production. Historically, the area’s location at the convergence of three rivers—Uji, Katsura, and Kamo—established Fushimi as a key trade and transportation center. Notably, the endless vermilion corridors of Fushimi-Inari-Taisha Shrine, a Japanese temple dedicated to the rice deity, stand out in Fushimi (and across the nation). A hike up Inari mountain rewards visitors with breathtaking views of the city, a sight not to be overlooked. Chushojima serves as Fushimi’s primary sake brewing region and is home to Choken-ji Temple, which is recognized for its red walls and significant gingko trees; the temple is dedicated to Benzaiten, the sole female deity among Japan’s seven lucky gods, representing water, speech, wisdom, music, and, notably, sake.

Ideal for: All types of travelers.
Other attractions: Gekkeikan Ōkura Sake Museum, Jikkokubune Canal Cruise, Daigo-ji, Fushimi Castle, Jōnan-gū Shrine, Araki Shrine, and Hokaiji.

Accommodation Suggestions:

• Japaning Hotel Fushimiinari – Located within a tranquil neighborhood in the renowned Fushimi Area, this hotel features well-maintained guest accommodations furnished with flat-screen TVs, washing machines, rental cookware, free Wi-Fi, and ensuite bathrooms with complimentary toiletries. The property’s close proximity to Fushimi-Inari station and Inari Station allows for easy exploration of the town, making it suitable for all types of travelers.
• Hotel and Spa Lotus Modern (Adult Only) – This adult-only establishment, recognized as a love hotel—an exclusive Japanese hotel concept—provides all guest rooms with spa baths, 70-inch flat-screen TVs equipped with PlayStation 3, microwaves, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Selected rooms include private saunas as well. A remarkable complimentary continental breakfast is served daily, making it an excellent choice for couples.
• Mille Glycine II – Situated a mere 10 minutes’ walk from Fukakusa Station, this charming property provides comfortable accommodations in well-appointed apartment units featuring single beds, Japanese futon beds, balconies, satellite TVs, microwaves, kitchen and dining areas, and private bathrooms with complimentary toiletries and baths. Fushimi Inari Taisha is in close proximity to the property, making it suitable for diverse travelers, including larger groups of up to five members.

Nishijin

Situated in the northwestern quadrant of Kyoto, Nishijin is one of the most traditional neighborhoods in the city, renowned for its weaving heritage. This area is an excellent place to view machiya houses, with the most captivating attractions scattered around the Imadegawa-Horikawa intersection. In addition to various museums and galleries dedicated to their weaving craft, the primary draw of this neighborhood is its authentic Kyoto atmosphere and architecture. Orinasu-kan, not as commercially driven as the Nishijin Textile Center, serves as an insightful venue to explore Kyoto’s rich history of textile weaving. Funaoka Onsen, recognized as the best public bath in the city, offers plenty of tubs to enjoy in the evening hours.

Ideal for: All types of travelers.
Other attractions: Nishijin Textile Center, Urasenke Chado Research Center, Matsuyamainiri Shrine, Nishijinkita Ryokuchi Park, Fukuoka City Museum, Momochi Central Park, and Momochi Seaside Park.

Accommodation Suggestions:

• Kyoto Brighton Hotel – Celebrated with recognition from the Michelin Guide for five consecutive years, Kyoto Brighton Hotel features luxurious guest accommodations and award-winning international cuisine. Nestled in a tranquil residential area, the property provides concierge services, complimentary Wi-Fi, bicycle rentals, as well as souvenir and flower shops, alongside five dining facilities. A complimentary breakfast is served daily, making it suitable for luxury travelers.
• Suzakukan Suzaku Crossing – This beautiful aparthotel located in the heart of the Nishijin neighborhood features contemporary lodging with Japanese décor, ensuite bathrooms with bathtubs, air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, washing machines, and fully equipped kitchens. The attentive staff at the front desk is available to assist with travel tips and bicycle rentals for a nominal fee, making it appropriate for all types of travelers.
• Hotel Dorf Goshonishi – Located 600 meters from the renowned Imperial Palace, Hotel Dorf Goshonishi offers a beautifully landscaped garden, complimentary Wi-Fi, and laundry services. Guestrooms are well-equipped with air conditioning, flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, telephones, refrigerators, and private bathrooms featuring bidets, baths, and complimentary toiletries. A continental breakfast is served daily, suitable for diverse travelers, including large groups of up to five members.