Where To Stay In Kyoto 2024 - 7 Best Areas
In this article, we dive deeper into your question about where to stay in Kyoto.
To make it as simple as possible for you as a reader, we start with an overview of all the recommended areas we cover followed by a short description.
Then, we briefly answer a few commonly asked questions:
Where to stay in Kyoto first time?
Where to stay in Kyoto with family?
Where to stay in Kyoto for couples?
Where to stay in Kyoto on a budget?
Where to stay in Kyoto in ryokan?
Where to stay in Kyoto during cherry blossom?
You can always tap on a purple link to go directly to that part of the article.
This will save you a lot of time and only read what you need to read.
Enjoy!
Overview of the best areas to stay in Kyoto
| Name of the area in Kyoto | Description of the recommended area |
|---|---|
Go directly to this part of the article for more in-depth information. ↓ | This area is famous for its traditional wooden machiya houses, teahouses, and geisha culture, and offers a one-of-a-kind atmosphere that many tourists are looking for. It’s centrally located and provides easy access to many historical sites like Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Yasaka Shrine. What makes it so good? Central area with great access to many city highlights and offers many traditional houses to stay in. *You can click on the purple or blue link to directly navigate to that part of the article to read in-depth information about that specific area. |
2. Downtown Kyoto (Shijo-Kawaramachi) Go directly to this part of the article for more in-depth information. ↓ | This bustling area is filled with shopping streets, restaurants, and entertainment options. It’s a great choice for those who want to be in the heart of the action and have easy access to public transportation. What makes it so good? An incredibly convenient area with plenty of things to do and great access to the city’s public transportation system. |
Go directly to this part of the article for more in-depth information. ↓ | Known for its serene bamboo groves, scenic river views, and historic temples, Arashiyama offers a more relaxed atmosphere compared to downtown Kyoto. It’s a beautiful area to explore and is particularly popular during the cherry blossom and fall foliage seasons. What makes it so good? Beautiful area that’s known for its bamboo groves and a popular spot to witness the cherry blossom. |
Go directly to this part of the article for more in-depth information. ↓ | Another historic district that is home to several iconic attractions, including Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Kodai-ji Temple, and the picturesque streets of Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka. A great area for those who want to stay as close as possible to the historical districts. What makes it so good? Great option for those who want to know more about Kyoto’s historical districts. |
Go directly to this part of the article for more in-depth information. ↓ | Ideal for travelers who prioritize convenience, the area around Kyoto Station offers a wide range of accommodation options, shopping malls, and dining venues. It’s also a major transportation hub, making it easy to explore both Kyoto and nearby cities like Osaka and Nara. What makes it so good? The perfect option for those who are planning to take trips to the nearby cities of Osaka and Nara. |
6. Northern Kyoto (Kinkaku-ji and Ryoan-ji Area) Go directly to this part of the article for more in-depth information. ↓ | Home to two of Kyoto’s most famous temples, Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and Ryoan-ji (Rock Garden), this area is slightly removed from the city center but offers a peaceful setting surrounded by nature. What makes it so good? A great option for those who seek a peaceful area. |
Go directly to this part of the article for more in-depth information. ↓ | This area encompasses attractions such as Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its thousands of vermillion torii gates, and Tofuku-ji Temple, known for its stunning autumn foliage. Staying in Southern Higashiyama provides easy access to these must-visit sites. What makes it so good? An alternative area with perfect access to Fushimi Inari Taisha and the Tofuku-ji Temple with beautiful autumn foliage. |
Where to stay in Kyoto first time?
The best areas to stay in Kyoto first time are Gion and Downtown Kyoto (Shijo-Kawaramachi).
Both are incredibly convenient areas in the heart of the city with great access to the historical sights as well as public transportation.
You can easily reach the other great parts of the city from here.
Gion is a popular area that offers many traditional houses to stay in.
Downtown Kyoto is a bustling area with many things to do.
However, you absolutely have alternatives.
Arashiyama is a great spot to witness the cherry blossom.
Higashiyama is another historic district with picturesque streets where you can find several iconic attractions.
The Kyoto Station Area is a convenient area with great access to modern amenities such as shopping malls, as well as access to a major transportation hub to combine your stay with visits to nearby cities.
Those seeking a peaceful area should consider staying in Northern Kyoto.
And those seeking a somewhat alternative area with great access to several major attractions as well as the stunning autumn foilage should stay in Southern Higashiyama.
Where to stay in Kyoto with family?
The best areas to stay in Kyoto with family are Gion, Downtown Kyoto, Kyoto Station Area, and Northern Kyoto.
When travelling with kids, the last thing you want is to have long travelling times.
In theory, you can pick any of the seven areas that we recommend to stay in, but convenience is for most travellers a must when travelling with younger ones.
Gion is a centrally located area that offers many traditional houses to stay in.
Downtown Kyoto is a modern part of Kyoto where you can find all the modern amenities you as a family can think of, and this area is also incredibly conveniently located.
You can easily find international restaurants here, for example, with food that kids love.
And you have great access to public transport.
The Kyoto Station Area is an incredibly convenient area for families who are planning not only to visit the highlights of Kyoto itself but also to take trips to other nearby cities.
You can also find several shopping malls that offer entertainment for all ages.
Families who seek a peaceful stay in Kyoto should stay in Northern Kyoto, although public transportation is not as good compared to the central areas.
Where to stay in Kyoto for couples?
The best areas to stay in Kyoto for couples are Gion, Downtown Kyoto, Arashiyama, and Higashiyama.
These four areas are either central and bustling areas or historical and romantic areas.
If you prioritize convenience, choose between Gion and Downtown Kyoto.
Gion is home to many traditional wooden houses where you can stay in together.
Downtown Kyoto is a modern part with all the modern amenities you can think of for a carefree stay.
If you prioritize history and romance, choose between Arashiyama and Higashiyama.
Arashiyama is known for its serene bamboo groves, scenic river views, and historic temples and is particularly popular during the cherry blossom and fall foliage seasons.
Higashiyama is a historic district home to several iconic attractions and picturesque streets.
Where to stay in Kyoto on a budget?
The best areas to stay in Kyoto on a budget are Kyoto Station Area, Downtown Kyoto, and Northern Kyoto.
Kyoto Station Area is a convenient area to not only explore Kyoto with public transport but also cities beyond.
It’s the major transportation hub and luckily for those traveling on a budget, it also offers plenty of affordable accommodation options, including budget-friendly hotels, hostels, and guesthouses.
Also, you can find plenty of affordable dining options in the station’s underground shopping mall as well as its surrounding streets.
Downtown Kyoto also has many budget-friendly options, although it’s not particularly a budget-friendly area.
Make sure to look for budget-friendly eateries and street food stalls, because it’s not difficult to find these food options.
While this area tends to be more residential, Northern Kyoto still offers some budget-friendly accommodation options such as guesthouses and budget hotels.
The area is just not as convenient as the other two but does offer a far quieter experience.
Where to stay in Kyoto in ryokan?
The best areas to stay in Kyoto for a ryokan are Gion, Higashiyama, and Southern Higashiyama.
The most popular area to find ryokans in Kyoto is the streets of Gion.
These ryokans provide guests with an authentic Japanese experience, featuring traditional tatami mat rooms, futon bedding, communal baths (onsen or sento), and kaiseki meals prepared with seasonal ingredients.
But there are also other areas where you can find this experience.
Within the vicinity of Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Higashiyama, there are plenty to choose from.
And in Southern Higashiyama, you can find several ryokan options near the popular attractions like Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Kodai-ji Temple, and Yasaka Shrine.
The fun thing about Southern Higashiyama is that you’re located near some of Kyoto’s famous landmarks.
Where to stay in Kyoto during cherry blossom?
There are several areas in Kyoto that are particularly famous for cherry blossom viewing.
In Higashiyama, you can find the Philosopher’s Path, a picturesque stone path along a canal lined with hundreds of cherry trees.
In Gion, you can find Maruyama Park, one of Kyoto’s most famous cherry blossom spots, with a massive weeping cherry tree (shidarezakura) at its center.
In Arashiyama, you can find the Togetsukyo Bridge with riverside paths that are lined with cherry trees.
Of course, you can visit the Kyoto Imperial Palace as well as Nijo Castle if you stay during cherry blossom season.
These areas are a few examples of the most popular spots in Kyoto for cherry blossom viewing during the springtime.
1. Gion
Gion is one of the few places in Japan where you can still experience the traditional atmosphere of old Kyoto.
The neighborhood is known for its well-preserved wooden machiya houses, narrow streets, and historic teahouses, providing a glimpse into the city’s rich cultural heritage.
The area is particularly known for its geisha (known locally as geiko and maiko) culture.
You have the opportunity to catch a glimpse of these skilled entertainers as they make their way to appointments in the evening.
Some establishments in Gion even offer geisha performances or traditional tea ceremonies for a unique cultural experience.
But aside from its traditional heritage, there are also several other perks that make Gion such a well-desired area among tourists.
It’s located in the heart of Kyto, which means that Gion offers easy access to many of the city’s top attractions, including Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Yasaka Shrine, and Kodai-ji Temple.
You can either walk to these city highlights or take a short ride with the bus.
The area is also home to plenty of shops, boutiques, and traditional restaurants, where you can shop for souvenirs, sample local delicacies, or enjoy a meal in a historic setting.
The nearby Hanamikoji Street is particularly renowned for its upscale dining establishments and exclusive shops.
Gion is situated along the eastern bank of the Kamo River, offering beautiful panoramic views of the water and surrounding mountains.
During the spring, cherry blossoms line the riverbanks, and it’s one of the most popular areas in Kyoto to witness this natural beauty.
In the evenings, Gion comes alive with a vibrant nightlife scene.
You can explore the area’s izakayas (Japanese pubs), bars, and entertainment venues, where they can enjoy traditional performances, live music, and karaoke.
Gion offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty and history of Japan’s ancient capital with so many things to do.
Keep in mind that this is also by far the most popular part of Kyoto and it attracts a lot of crowds.
And because it’s so popular, prices here are significantly higher than in other areas.
But for most tourists, Gion is the best option to truly experience Kyoto the the fullest.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Kyoto in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and is the best option for booking a hotel in Asia. They often offer significantly cheaper options compared to their competitors, including Booking.com. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
2. Downtown Kyoto (Shijo-Kawaramachi)
Shijo-Kawaramachi is located in the heart of Kyoto, making it an ideal base for exploring the city’s main attractions.
From here, you have easy access to historic sites, shopping districts, dining options, and transportation hubs like Kyoto Station.
The area around Shijo-Kawaramachi is known for its vibrant shopping streets, including Shijo-dori and Teramachi-dori.
You can find an abundance of restaurants, bars, and izakayas around Pontocho Alley, which is known for its culinary delights and nightlife scene.
Despite being a bustling commercial district, Shijo-Kawaramachi is also home to several cultural attractions.
Nishiki Market, often referred to as “Kyoto’s Kitchen”, is a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts, offering all sorts of local delicacies.
As you can expect from such a central area, Shijo-Kawaramachi is well-connected to public transportation, including bus and subway lines, making it easy for you to navigate Kyoto and visit attractions in other parts of the city.
Kyoto Station, the city’s main transportation hub, is just a short ride away.
In addition to its rich cultural heritage, the Shijo-Kawaramachi area offers modern amenities and accommodations to cater to the needs of travelers.
You can choose from a wide range of hotels, ryokans, and guesthouses, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury accommodations, ensuring a comfortable stay during your time in Kyoto.
And that is the biggest difference between Shijo-Kawaramachi and Gion.
People tend to choose Shijo-Kawaramachi over Gion because of the modern amenities.
For a carefree stay with all the modern comforts, we highly recommend staying in Shijo-Kawaramachi.
But to be fair, many tourists prefer to stay in Gion because of its once-in-a-lifetime-experience-vibe.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Kyoto in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and is the best option for booking a hotel in Asia. They often offer significantly cheaper options compared to their competitors, including Booking.com. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
3. Arashiyama
Arashiyama is renowned for its breathtaking natural scenery, including the iconic bamboo groves, the picturesque Katsura River, and the surrounding mountains.
This is the ideal area for those who want to experience the beauty of the Japanese countryside.
Despite its rural charm, Arashiyama is home to several significant cultural and historical attractions.
The area is dotted with temples and shrines, including Tenryu-ji Temple with its stunning garden, and the historic Togetsukyo Bridge, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
The nearby Monkey Park Iwatayama provides the opportunity to observe wild Japanese macaques up close.
Arashiyama is particularly beautiful during the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons when the landscape is transformed by vibrant colors.
It attracts a lot of tourists during those periods of the year, including photographers and nature enthusiasts.
Unlike the bustling city center, Arashiyama offers a quiet atmosphere that allows you to relax and unwind amidst nature.
Accommodations in Arashiyama often feature traditional ryokan-style rooms or guesthouses with views of the surrounding scenery, providing a peaceful retreat for travelers seeking a more authentic Japanese experience.
While Arashiyama may feel like a world away from downtown Kyoto, it is easily accessible by train, bus, or taxi.
From Arashiyama Station, you can explore nearby attractions such as the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, the Arashiyama Monkey Park, and the Sagano Scenic Railway.
Also, many of Kyoto’s other famous sights, such as Kinkaku-ji Temple and Ryoan-ji Temple, are within a short commute from Arashiyama.
Arashiyama is the ideal area for travellers who love to enjoy nature and don’t want to stay in a busy area.
It is also easily possible to stay in a more bustling area where there is actually a nightlife scene and visit Arashiyama as a day trip.
Overall, families and couples will highly appreciate staying in this part of Kyoto.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Kyoto in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and is the best option for booking a hotel in Asia. They often offer significantly cheaper options compared to their competitors, including Booking.com. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
4. Higashiyama
Higashiyama is one of Kyoto’s most historic and picturesque districts, known for its well-preserved traditional architecture, narrow cobblestone streets, and historic temples and shrines.
The area is home to many of Kyoto’s most famous attractions, including Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Yasaka Shrine, and the Gion district.
These iconic landmarks are easily accessible from Higashiyama.
Higashiyama is situated in a scenic area surrounded by mountains, providing stunning views of the city and its natural surroundings.
You can enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto from popular spots such as Kiyomizu-dera Temple’s famous wooden stage or the hillsides of the Higashiyama district.
Higashiyama offers a variety of accommodation options, including traditional ryokans (Japanese inns) and guesthouses, allowing you to experience Japanese hospitality and traditional living arrangements.
Despite its historic atmosphere, Higashiyama is conveniently located near downtown Kyoto and is easily accessible by public transportation.
But what’s the difference between Higashiyama and Gion?
First of all, Higashiyama is located in eastern Kyoto while Gion is located in the city center.
Higashiyama is more centered around temples, while Gion is characterized by its historic streets including the historic Hanamikoji Street.
Higashiyama is bustling during the day and quieter during the evening, while Gion is quieter during the day and far more bustling in the evening.
If you’re looking for a quieter experience in a historical district, then Higashiyama is a better option, especially during the evening.
During the day, the area does get incredibly crowded due to its popularity.
Also, keep in mind that Higashiyama is situated at the foot of the Higashiyama mountain range, and many of its attractions are located on steep slopes.
And lastly, there is far less nightlife available in this historic part.
Families who love to stay in one of the historical districts of Kyoto should definitely stay here!
Some of the best hotels to stay in Kyoto in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and is the best option for booking a hotel in Asia. They often offer significantly cheaper options compared to their competitors, including Booking.com. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
5. Kyoto Station Area
If you’re planning to make city trips to Osaka and Nara, then you should most definitely consider staying in the Kyoto Station Area, as the trains leave from this station.
Being the transportation hub of the city, it’s also a great option for those who want to use public transport to the fullest.
The area around Kyoto Station is bustling with modern amenities, including shopping malls, department stores, restaurants, and entertainment facilities.
Those who seek a modern area with all the modern comforts that come with it should also consider staying in this part of the city.
Like most areas with a major train station, there is an abundance of accommodation options in all budget classes.
Whether you’re looking for something affordable or luxurious and everything in between, you will find something that fits your budget here easily.
While Kyoto Station itself is a modern architectural marvel, there are also several attractions within walking distance or a short train or bus ride away.
These include To-ji Temple, Kyoto Tower, and Higashi Hongan-ji Temple, allowing you to explore Kyoto’s cultural heritage without venturing too far from your hotel.
Is there anything not to like?
There are two things that you need to take into consideration.
First of all, there is the lack of a traditional atmosphere.
Many travellers visit Kyoto for this particular reason, and the Tokyo Station Area does not offer this.
The second thing that you need to be aware of is that Kyoto Station is one of the busiest transportation hubs in Japan.
During rush hour, it gets crowded here.
Especially when you travel with kids, you want to be extra careful during these peak hours.
But if you prioritize accessibility during your travels, Kyoto Station Area is the most convenient area if you’re solely use public transportation.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Kyoto in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and is the best option for booking a hotel in Asia. They often offer significantly cheaper options compared to their competitors, including Booking.com. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
6. Northern Kyoto (Kinkaku-ji and Ryoan-ji Area)
The northern part of Kyoto is home to some of the city’s most famous and iconic landmarks, including Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion) and Ryoan-ji Temple.
These historic sites offer you a glimpse into Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage and are must-visit highlights for anyone exploring the city for the first time.
Unlike the bustling city center, the northern part of Kyoto offers a more tranquil atmosphere, surrounded by greenery and natural beauty.
It’s one of the best options for those seeking a quieter area while remaining relatively central, although you will need to use public transport to reach the city center.
In addition to Kinkaku-ji and Ryoan-ji, the northern part of Kyoto is also home to several beautiful gardens, including the sprawling grounds of the Imperial Palace and the tranquil gardens of Daitoku-ji Temple.
Many of the accommodations in this area are traditional ryokans (Japanese inns) or machiya (traditional wooden townhouses).
The northern part of Kyoto is also known for its stunning natural scenery, with picturesque mountains, rivers, and forests surrounding the area.
You can easily enjoy scenic hikes and boat rides along the Katsura River.
While the northern part of Kyoto may feel more secluded, it is still easily accessible by public transportation, including buses and taxis.
Overall, Northern Kyoto, particularly the area around Kinkaku-ji and Ryoan-ji, offers first-time tourists a great combination of historic landmarks, natural beauty, and tranquility.
Especially couples and families will appreciate a stay here.
Keep in mind that you’re not located in the city center and that you won’t find much nightlife here.
Also, the food scene is limited.
So, if you are planning to explore Kyoto during the evening as well, you should stay in a more central area.
But, if you’re looking for an area with stunning views near several major attractions, consider staying in this area.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Kyoto in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and is the best option for booking a hotel in Asia. They often offer significantly cheaper options compared to their competitors, including Booking.com. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
7. Southern Higashiyama
The last area that we recommend is another historical part of Kyoto.
Similar to the other historical areas, Southern Higashiyama is known for its historic streets, traditional machiya houses, and well-preserved neighborhoods.
The area is home to several of Kyoto’s most famous and iconic attractions, including Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Yasaka Pagoda, and the picturesque streets of Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka.
These historic landmarks are within walking distance from accommodations in Southern Higashiyama.
The Southern Higashiyama area is surrounded by natural beauty, with scenic views of the surrounding mountains and the Higashiyama mountain range.
We highly recommend you take a leisurely walk along the Philosopher’s Path, which is especially beautiful during cherry blossom season, or take in panoramic views of Kyoto from the iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple.
As you can expect from a historical district, you can also enjoy tea ceremonies, kimono rentals, and traditional crafts workshops.
These activities allow tourists to gain a deeper understanding of Japanese culture and traditions while exploring the charming streets of Southern Higashiyama.
There are also local markets to discover as well as narrow alleyways, which are filled with unique shops and local eateries.
One of the great things about this area is that you are conveniently located near Downtown Kyoto.
That means you can combine staying in a historical district with decent access to all the modern amenities Downtown Kyoto has to offer.
Keep in mind that you’re located further away from other popular areas.
There is also limited nightlife.
If you want to stay in a historical district with proper nightlife, then Gion is a far better option.
But if you want to stay in a historical district with great access to nature, consider staying in Southern Higashiyama.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Kyoto in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and is the best option for booking a hotel in Asia. They often offer significantly cheaper options compared to their competitors, including Booking.com. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.