Where to Stay in Kyoto 2026: Our Top Areas & Best Hotels

Kyoto was our third stop on our Japan itinerary, and after the buzz of Tokyo and the calm around Mt Fuji, it instantly felt like the perfect middle ground. We spent four days exploring this incredible city and genuinely fell in love with all the best things to do in Kyoto.

One thing became clear right away: where to stay in Kyoto matters more than most first-timers expect. The city is spread out, and staying close to a metro line can save you a lot of time if you want to see as much as possible.

But just as important is booking early. We visited during peak autumn foliage, and the city was absolutely packed.

Our trip was spontaneous, and booking only a month in advance meant many of the best hotels in Kyoto were already taken — we still found good options, but choosing earlier gives you a much better selection. Cancel too late, and you may end up with something far less ideal.

In this guide, we’ll break down the best areas to stay in Kyoto, share what we learned during our trip, and help you choose a place that fits the Kyoto experience you’re after.

Where to stay in Kyoto: Our experience

As we already mentioned, we booked our hotel only a month before the trip, and by then, most great places were already taken for our dates. That’s how we ended up choosing Hotel Monday Kyoto Karasumanijo in Kyoto Downtown, right under Kyoto Gyoen National Garden and just a short walk from Karasuma Oike Station.

It turned out to be a really convenient base — quiet at night, close to the park, close to the metro, and surrounded by good restaurants and cafés. We liked how easy it was to get anywhere without feeling stuck in a tourist zone.

Kawaramachi gave us that lively evening atmosphere with endless food choices. We kept coming back here after sightseeing — especially around Nishiki Market, which became our go-to spot for snacks and a quick dinner.

During our four days, we explored several other districts to compare them. Gion and Higashiyama were the most atmospheric — those narrow streets, wooden houses, and hidden temples really feel like the Kyoto everyone imagines.

But during autumn foliage they were also the busiest parts of the city. By midday, especially around Kiyomizu-dera, it was almost impossible to move without crowds, so we found ourselves visiting early in the morning to actually enjoy the area.

If you want a stay where you can step outside and have everything within minutes, this area delivers.

Around Kyoto Station, the atmosphere isn’t as charming, but we immediately understood why so many travelers choose it. The transport connections are unbeatable — direct links to Nara, Osaka, Arashiyama, and the airport make it one of the most practical bases. If you’re planning a lot of day trips or don’t mind a more modern setting, Kyoto Station is incredibly efficient and easy.

Another small tip: if you’re visiting during peak seasons (spring or autumn), plan your days carefully — the early mornings were the only quiet parts of the day in places like Gion.

Overall, staying in Central Kyoto worked really well for us, but each area offers a very different experience. Here’s what we learned about the best areas to stay in Kyoto and what makes each one worth considering.

Best areas to stay in Kyoto

On the map below, you’ll see all the main areas laid out clearly, which makes it easier to imagine where everything is and how each neighborhood connects to the rest of the city and major sights.

Kyoto Downtown

Kyoto Downtown sits right in the center of the city, stretching from the quieter streets around Karasuma–Oike down to Kawaramachi and Pontocho. It’s close to Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, Nishiki Market, and two metro lines, so getting around is extremely easy.

The vibe shifts by street — calm near Karasuma–Oike, lively and full of restaurants around Kawaramachi, and atmospheric in the lantern-lit alleys of Pontocho. We stayed here and loved how convenient it felt. Two of our favorite spots, Tarekatsu and Gyukatsu, were right in this area, and we loved the food.

Nishiki Market is great for snacks or a fast lunch between sights. With cafés, food, shops, and transport all in one place, this is one of the most practical bases in Kyoto.

✅ Pros: Central, great restaurant scene, easy metro access
❌ Cons: Busy around Kawaramachi and Nishiki Market
⭐️ Best for: Travelers who want convenience, food options, and a balanced base

Gion

Gion sits just east of central Kyoto, wrapped around Yasaka Shrine and connected to Shijo Street, making it one of the easiest historic areas to access. The atmosphere is exactly what most travelers picture when they think of Kyoto — wooden machiya houses, stone lanes, teahouses, and the chance to spot maiko in the early evening.

It’s beautiful at any time of day, but mornings are the only quiet moments during busy seasons. Our favorite restuarant here was Gion Danran, a great spot for Yakisoba or Okonomiyaki.

The area also puts you close to Kennin-ji Temple and the scenic streets leading toward Higashiyama. Staying here gives you that classic Kyoto feeling, but even if you choose another district, you’ll likely spend a lot of time exploring Gion.

✅ Pros: Traditional atmosphere, walkable, close to major temples and shrines
❌ Cons: Very crowded in peak seasons, higher hotel rates
⭐️ Best for: First-time visitors, culture lovers, and anyone wanting Kyoto’s most iconic setting

Higashiyama

Higashiyama stretches along the eastern hills of Kyoto, just south of Gion, and is home to some of the city’s most famous temples like Kiyomizu-dera, Kodai-ji, and Chion-in. The vibe is calm but scenic, with narrow streets, traditional shops, and viewpoints overlooking the city.

It’s one of the best areas for exploring on foot, especially in the early morning when the slopes leading to Kiyomizu-dera are still quiet. We loved how immersive this area felt — it’s the perfect place if you want temples, gardens, and classic Kyoto scenery right outside your door.

Just expect crowds during peak seasons and lots of walking, as many streets here are hilly or pedestrian-only. If you want that postcard Kyoto experience with easy access to major sights, Higashiyama delivers.

✅ Pros: Amazing temples, scenic walks, classic Kyoto atmosphere
❌ Cons: Very crowded during the day, lots of uphill walking, fewer metro connections
⭐️ Best for: Photographers, culture lovers, and travelers wanting a temple-focused stay

Kyoto Station Area

Kyoto Station sits on the south side of the city and is the main transportation hub, making it the most practical base if you’re planning day trips to Nara, Osaka, or Arashiyama. The vibe is modern and busy, with shopping malls, restaurants, and hotels built directly around the station complex.

It’s not the most atmospheric part of Kyoto, but the convenience is hard to beat — everything from JR lines to local subways and buses is right at your doorstep. We immediately understood why so many travelers choose this area: you spend less time transferring and more time exploring.

It’s also where you’ll find a wider range of budget and mid-range hotels compared to the historic districts. If you prefer efficiency over charm, this area makes travel incredibly simple.

✅ Pros: Best transport connections, great for day trips, many hotel options
❌ Cons: Not scenic, lacks traditional atmosphere
⭐️ Best for: Travelers focused on convenience, day trips, and budget-friendly stays

Best hotels in Kyoto

This list brings together our favorite places to stay around Kyoto — spots we’ve either stayed in ourselves or would happily book after exploring this place from end to end.

We’ve done the hard research so you can easily decide which of the best hotels fit your needs and preferences.

During peak seasons like autumn foliage and spring cherry blossoms, these prices can easily double or even triple.

Booking a few months ahead is crucial if you want a good hotel in a great location, and we always suggest avoiding cancellations unless absolutely necessary — changing your mind later often means ending up with a much worse option than what you originally secured.

Best Hotels in Kyoto Downtown

Downtown is the most convenient base in the city, with easy metro access, great restaurants, and a mix of quiet side streets and lively areas around Kawaramachi and Pontocho. It’s ideal if you want almost everything within walking distance.

• MONday Kyoto Karasuma Nijo $
• Cross Hotel $$ (Our Top Pick)
• The Gate Hotel Kyoto Takasegawa by Hulic $$$

Hotel MONday Kyoto Karasuma Nijo $

We stayed in the hotel MONday Kyoto Karasuma Nijo during our Kyoto trip and honestly couldn’t have picked a more practical base for the price. What we loved most was the location — just a few minutes from Karasuma Oike Station, close to the National Garden, quiet at night, and close to cafés, restaurants, and Nishiki Market.

The rooms are compact but modern, clean, and comfortable, exactly what you need if you’re out exploring all day. The staff were kind and helpful, and the hotel occasionally offers extras like a free shuttle to Kinkaku-ji or Arashiyama, which was a nice surprise.

We recommend this place if you want something simple, central, and reliable without spending much.

⭐️ Best for: Budget travelers who want a clean, comfortable stay in a super convenient location
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Cross Hotel ($$) – Our Top Pick

If you’re deciding where to stay in Kyoto, Cross Hotel is one we genuinely recommend for a comfortable and central stay. It’s set in a quiet part of downtown, just a short walk from the Kamogawa River and close to great restaurants, cafés, and shopping streets.

The rooms are modern and thoughtfully designed, with a larger bathroom than usual and enough space for two big suitcases — something we really appreciate when we travel with more gear.

The overall vibe feels calm and polished, making it easy to relax after busy days of exploring. It’s our top pick because it offers great value for the price, a peaceful location without sacrificing convenience, and a level of comfort that’s hard to find in this range.

⭐️ Best for: Couples and travelers who want comfort, design, and a peaceful but central base
👉 Check availability and current prices →

The Gate Hotel Kyoto Takasegawa by Hulic ($$$)

The Gate Hotel Kyoto Takasegawa by Hulic is a great choice if you are looking for an elegant stay in the heart of downtown. It sits right by the Takase River, with Gion, Nishiki Market, and Kyoto’s main streets all within walking distance. The rooms are modern, very clean, and designed with warm decor and super comfortable beds.

We especially like the 8th-floor dining and bar area — the city views are fantastic, and the breakfast buffet is plentiful. In the afternoons, the lounge serves drinks and snacks, making it a relaxing spot to unwind. With spotless facilities and a refined atmosphere, it’s one of the strongest premium options in this area.

⭐️ Best for: People who want upscale comfort, great views, and easy access to main attractions
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Best Hotels in Gion

Gion is where you’ll find that classic Kyoto atmosphere we kept coming back for — lantern-lit alleys, traditional teahouses, and early-morning walks before the crowds arrive. We recommend staying here if you want to be surrounded by the most iconic streets in the city.

• West Japan Kyoto Kiyomizu $
• Gion Elite Terrace $$ (Our Top Pick)
• Hotel The Celestine $$$

West Japan Kyoto Kiyomizu ($)

If you’re trying to figure out where to stay in Kyoto without spending too much, West Japan Kyoto Kiyomizu is a practical option right next to one of the city’s biggest landmarks.

Being so close to Kiyomizu-dera makes early-morning visits easy, and the hotel is just steps from a bus stop and two grocery stores, which is great if you like simple breakfasts or snacks.

The area is very touristy, so expect crowds during peak seasons, but the location is hard to beat for sightseeing on foot. Rooms are clean, modern, and straightforward — exactly what you need if you plan to spend most of the day exploring Gion and Higashiyama.

⭐️ Best for: Budget travelers who want a clean, convenient base near top attractions
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Gion Elite Terrace ($$) – Our Top Pick

If you’re looking for one of the best hotels in Kyoto that still feels boutique and personal, Gion Elite Terrace is an excellent choice in the heart of Gion. It sits on a quiet street just a short walk from Gion Shijo Station, Yasaka Shrine, and the historic lanes of Higashiyama.

The rooms feel more like small apartments — modern, spacious, and thoughtfully designed. Some even come with a private sauna and bathtub, remote-controlled shades, curtains, and lighting, plus a smart TV, which adds a really comfortable, home-like touch.

The breakfast is another highlight: fresh, plentiful, and genuinely delicious, making it easy to start your day before exploring. With its calm atmosphere and unbeatable access to Kyoto’s most iconic streets, it’s our top pick in Gion for comfort and location.

⭐️ Best for: Couples and people who want a stylish, comfortable mid-range stay in the heart of Gion
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Hotel The Celestine Kyoto Gion ($$$)

If you want a luxury stay in Gion with a calm, refined atmosphere, Hotel The Celestine is one of the best options in the area. It sits right by Kodai-ji Temple and the scenic lanes of Higashiyama, giving you easy access to Kyoto’s most beautiful walks while still feeling peaceful and tucked away.

The rooms aren’t large, but that’s normal in Japan — and they’re thoughtfully designed with deep soaking tubs, warm materials, and a relaxing feel that makes them cozy after long days out.

We really like the hotel’s highlights — a serene public onsen, a stylish lounge with complimentary drinks, a quiet inner courtyard, and even a free shuttle to Kyoto Station, which makes arrival and departure much easier. With excellent service and a high-quality breakfast, this is one of the most refined luxury stays in Gion.

⭐️ Best for: Travelers who want a refined, peaceful luxury stay in the most scenic part of Kyoto
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Best Hotels in Higashiyama

Downtown is the most convenient base in the city, with easy metro access, great restaurants, and a mix of quiet side streets and lively areas around Kawaramachi and Pontocho. It’s ideal if you want almost everything within walking distance.

• Guesthouse Soi $
• Nohga Hotel Kiyomizu Kyoto $$ (Our Top Pick)
• The Hotel Seiryu Kyoto Kiyomizu $$$

Guesthouse Soi ($)

If you want an affordable stay in Higashiyama, Guesthouse Soi is a great option. It’s only a short walk from Kiyomizu-dera and the scenic streets leading toward Gion, which makes it perfect for early-morning exploring before the crowds arrive.

Rooms are simple but clean and comfortable, and you can choose between private or shared bathrooms depending on your budget. What we like about this guesthouse is the warm, friendly atmosphere — the owners are known for being incredibly helpful with local tips and restaurant recommendations.

There’s also a shared kitchen and lounge, which is useful if you prefer making simple meals or traveling longer term. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly place in one of the best areas to stay in Kyoto for sightseeing on foot, this is a solid pick.

⭐️ Best for: Budget travelers and sightseers who want a clean, friendly stay near Kiyomizu-dera
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Nohga Hotel Kiyomizu Kyoto ($$) Our Top Pick

We love hotels that feel calm the moment you walk in, and Nohga Hotel Kiyomizu Kyoto does exactly that. Set just a short walk from Kiyomizu-dera and the scenic Sannenzaka streets, it puts you right in the heart of Higashiyama without feeling hectic.

The rooms are spacious for Japan, beautifully designed, and genuinely comfortable to come back to after a full day out. What really stands out here is the delicious breakfast, the rooftop bar with great evening views, and the bakery and café on-site — perfect for slow mornings or a quick treat before exploring.

The staff are warm and welcoming, which adds to the relaxed atmosphere. It’s our top pick because it gives you modern comfort, great food, and an unbeatable location in one of Kyoto’s most charming neighborhoods.

⭐️ Best for: People who want a mid-range, comfortable stay with great food and easy access to historic streets
👉 Check availability and current prices →

The Hotel Seiryu Kyoto Kiyomizu ($$$)

The Hotel Seiryu Kyoto Kiyomizu is one of the most impressive luxury stays in Higashiyama, set inside a beautifully restored former school building just steps from Kiyomizu-dera.

The grounds feel calm and refined, almost like entering a private oasis despite being so close to one of Kyoto’s busiest sightseeing areas. Rooms are spacious and elegantly designed, with high-quality amenities that create a peaceful space to unwind.

The guest lounge is a comfortable spot to relax with drinks and snacks after exploring, while the rooftop bar offers great views, excellent cocktails, and a relaxed evening atmosphere.

It’s also a great fit for families, thanks to the spacious rooms, calm surroundings, and helpful staff. We recommend this hotel to travelers who want refined luxury, excellent service, and a serene base near Kiyomizu-dera.

⭐️ Best for: Luxury travelers, honeymooners, and families with kids
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Best Hotels in Kyoto Station area

Downtown is the most convenient base in the city, with easy metro access, great restaurants, and a mix of quiet side streets and lively areas around Kawaramachi and Pontocho. It’s ideal if you want almost everything within walking distance.

• Richmond Hotel Premier Kyoto Ekimae $
• 22 Pieces $$
• The Thousand Kyoto $$$ (Our Top Pick)

Richmond Hotel Premier Kyoto Ekimae ($)

If you want a budget-friendly stay near Kyoto Station without giving up comfort, Richmond Hotel Premier Kyoto Ekimae is one of the most reliable options. It’s only a short walk from the station, which makes day trips and airport connections incredibly simple.

Rooms are modern, clean, and well-equipped, and the hotel offers a wide variety of room types, making it a great choice for families with kids or anyone needing extra space.

The overall feel is calm and comfortable, with solid amenities that work well for short or longer stays. It’s a convenient base if you want a hotel with good value and fast access to transport.

⭐️ Best for: Budget travelers and families who want comfort and easy access to Kyoto Station
👉 Check availability and current prices →

22 Pieces ($$)

22 Pieces is a great mid-range option near Kyoto Station, especially if you prefer spacious, apartment-style rooms over standard hotel layouts.

Each room is designed with a clean, modern aesthetic and comes with practical extras like a kitchenette, seating area, and plenty of space to unpack — a big plus compared to typical Japanese hotels. The minimalist design feels calm and welcoming, making it easy to settle in whether you’re staying a few nights or longer.

We also like its location: close enough to walk to Kyoto Station, but far enough to feel quiet in the evenings. If you’re choosing where to stay in Kyoto and want something stylish, comfortable, and practical for day trips, 22 Pieces is an excellent fit.

⭐️ Best for: Couples, families, and longer stays needing more space and a home-like setup
👉 Check availability and current prices →

The Thousand Kyoto ($$$) (our top pick)

If you want a stay that feels modern and relaxing from the moment you walk in, The Thousand Kyoto is one of the best luxury hotels near Kyoto Station. The design is clean and minimal, the rooms are surprisingly spacious, and the beds are exactly what you need after full days out in the city.

Breakfast is delicious, serving both Japanese and Western food, and the area around the hotel is easy to navigate with plenty of restaurants and shops within a short walk. It works especially well for families — the location means no long transfers with kids, and the hotel offers room setups that give everyone enough space.

What we also like is a beautiful spa, great on-site dining, and a quiet lounge that feels far from the station crowds. It’s our top pick here for its mix of comfort, style, and everyday convenience.

⭐️ Best for: Travelers who want refined comfort, great facilities, and direct access to Kyoto Station
👉 Check availability and current prices →

FAQ about the best places to stay in

Where should first-time visitors stay in Kyoto?

For a first trip, we recommend staying in Kyoto Downtown. It’s central, easy to navigate, and gives you quick access to the metro, restaurants, and shops. If you want a more traditional atmosphere, we suggest Gion or Higashiyama, but keep in mind they’re busier and more hilly.

What are the best adults-only hotels in Kyoto?

If you’re looking for the best-rated adults-only hotels, we recommend checking out Kyonoyado Gekkoan, Takasegawa Bettei, and Hotel Gion Ichirin.

Where to stay in Kyoto for nightlife?

For nightlife, we recommend staying in Kyoto Downtown, especially around Kawaramachi and Pontocho. This area has the best mix of bars, restaurants, and late-night spots, all within easy walking distance. It’s lively but still central enough to get around easily during the day.

What are the best 5-star hotels in Kyoto?

One of the best-rated 5-star hotels in Kyoto, worth checking out, is The Thousand Kyoto, Stitch Hotel, and Marufukuro.

Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Kyoto

After staying in Kyoto and exploring each area on foot, we realised how much your base shapes the whole trip. Distances look small on the map, but the city spreads out quickly — so being close to a metro line or the places you want to visit really matters.

For most travellers, we recommend Kyoto Downtown because everything just works: food, transport, and a calm-but-central vibe. If you’re after classic Kyoto streets, Gion and Higashiyama are beautiful, but be ready for hills and heavy crowds during peak seasons. And if you want the smoothest logistics, Kyoto Station is hard to beat for day trips and easy arrivals.

What helped us most was picking an area that matched how we like to explore — somewhere convenient, walkable, and quiet at night. If you do the same, your trip will feel a lot more relaxed, no matter when you visit.