Kyoto, once the imperial capital of Japan, remains the country’s cultural heart and a top destination for travelers seeking tradition and beauty. With its countless temples, serene gardens, and preserved wooden streets, the city blends history with modern comfort.
But with so many neighborhoods, deciding where to stay in Kyoto can shape your entire experience. Some areas offer quick access to transportation, while others immerse you in centuries-old traditions. This guide highlights where to stay in Kyoto, helping you decide based on your budget, travel style, and what you want to see.
Where to Stay in Kyoto: 5 Best Areas to Stay
Looking for where to stay in Kyoto for your trip? These 5 best areas to stay in Kyoto offer something for every traveler, from historic charm to modern convenience, helping you enjoy the city to the fullest.
1. Gion – Traditional Geisha District
Gion is Kyoto’s most famous district, where cobbled lanes, wooden machiya houses, and lantern-lit tea houses create a timeless atmosphere. It’s known for geisha and maiko sightings, evening strolls along Shirakawa Canal, and its proximity to Yasaka Shrine and Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Staying in Gion often means checking into a ryokan, where you can experience tatami floors, futon bedding, and traditional meals. Boutique hotels are also available for travelers seeking modern comforts in a historic setting. Gion is perfect for culture lovers and first-time visitors who want to experience the Kyoto of postcards and movies.
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2. Kyoto Station Area – Convenient Transportation Hub
For travelers who value convenience, the Kyoto Station area is hard to beat. This bustling hub connects you to trains, buses, and shinkansen lines, making it easy to take day trips to cities like Osaka, Nara, or Hiroshima. The area is filled with modern hotels, from luxury high-rises with sweeping city views to affordable business hotels ideal for budget-conscious travelers. Shopping centers, food courts, and Kyoto Tower are right at your doorstep. Staying near the station is a smart choice if you’re planning a busy itinerary and want efficient access to the rest of Japan without sacrificing comfort.
3. Downtown Kyoto (Kawaramachi & Pontocho)
Downtown Kyoto, covering the lively Kawaramachi and Pontocho districts, is the city’s center of energy and entertainment. By day, the area buzzes with department stores, street shopping arcades, and riverside cafés. By night, it transforms into a hub of dining and nightlife, with izakayas, sake bars, and the narrow Pontocho Alley offering endless choices. Accommodation ranges from stylish mid-range hotels to upscale options with modern amenities. This district is ideal for travelers who want everything within walking distance—food, shopping, nightlife, and easy access to buses and subway lines. If you enjoy vibrant city life, Downtown Kyoto is the place to stay.
4. Arashiyama – Scenic & Relaxing Area
Located on the city’s western edge, Arashiyama is a favorite for those seeking Kyoto’s natural beauty and a slower pace. Famous for its iconic bamboo grove, monkey park, and riverside views, this district feels like a retreat into nature while still being close to central Kyoto. Many accommodations here include traditional ryokans with garden views, luxury resorts with hot spring baths, and cozy inns perfect for a peaceful escape. Arashiyama suits families, couples, and travelers who prefer scenic walks, boat rides, and temple visits over urban nightlife. It’s a destination that balances tranquility with unforgettable experiences.
5. Northern Kyoto (Near Kinkaku-ji & Philosopher’s Path)
Northern Kyoto is known for its calm atmosphere, far removed from the busy station and shopping districts. It’s home to iconic landmarks like the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), the Silver Pavilion (Ginkaku-ji), and the scenic Philosopher’s Path, lined with cherry blossoms in spring. Accommodations here tend to be smaller-scale—guesthouses, boutique hotels, and traditional Japanese stays—making it a quiet base for travelers who appreciate serenity. This area is best for longer visits, artists, writers, or those who prefer reflection and nature over nightlife. Staying in Northern Kyoto allows you to enjoy cultural treasures without the crowds.
Read More: Best Things to Do in Kyoto, Japan
Types of Accommodation in Kyoto
Ryokan (Traditional Japanese Inns)
A stay in a ryokan offers the quintessential Japanese experience. These traditional inns feature tatami mat flooring, sliding shoji doors, futon bedding, and often include access to onsen-style baths. Meals are usually a highlight, with seasonal multi-course kaiseki dinners and traditional Japanese breakfasts served in-room or in a dining hall. Staying in a ryokan immerses you in Japan’s culture and hospitality, making it ideal for couples, culture enthusiasts, and first-time visitors seeking authenticity. While ryokans can be more expensive, the unique experience is often the highlight of a Kyoto trip.
Hotels (Luxury to Budget)
Kyoto offers a wide selection of hotels, from five-star luxury properties with sweeping city views to affordable business hotels designed for convenience. International chains provide familiar comforts like Western-style beds, spacious rooms, and in-house dining, while Japanese business hotels offer compact, efficient spaces perfect for short stays. The pros include modern amenities, easy booking, and varied price ranges to fit most budgets. However, staying in a hotel may feel less culturally immersive compared to ryokans or machiya houses. Hotels are a solid choice for tourists who prioritize convenience and comfort.
Guesthouses & Hostels
For budget-conscious travelers, Kyoto has a thriving selection of guesthouses and hostels. These are popular among backpackers and solo adventurers, offering affordable dorm beds, private rooms, and a communal atmosphere. Many guesthouses are family-run, providing warm hospitality and opportunities to interact with locals. Hostels often host cultural exchange events like tea ceremonies or cooking classes, adding value beyond the low price. The social setting makes them perfect for those who want to meet fellow travelers, while also keeping expenses low.
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Vacation Rentals (Machiya Townhouses & Apartments)
Another unique option in Kyoto is staying in a machiya—traditional wooden townhouses that have been renovated into vacation rentals. These homes allow guests to experience daily life in Kyoto’s historic neighborhoods, with features like wooden beams, sliding doors, and compact gardens. Many rentals also include kitchens, making them ideal for families or groups who prefer the flexibility of cooking meals. Apartments and Airbnb-style rentals provide more privacy and space, making them excellent for long-term stays. This option combines comfort with authenticity, giving travelers a sense of living like a local.
How to Choose the Right Area to Stay?
Choosing the right base in Kyoto depends largely on what you want from your trip. If your priority is sightseeing, areas like Gion or Northern Kyoto place you close to historic temples and shrines. For those drawn to food and nightlife, Downtown Kyoto offers endless dining and entertainment options. Travelers who crave nature and tranquility will find Arashiyama ideal.
Transportation convenience is another factor. Staying near Kyoto Station gives you easy access to trains, buses, and shinkansen lines for day trips. Gion and Downtown are also well connected, while Arashiyama and Northern Kyoto may require a little more travel planning.
Budget plays a key role too—luxury travelers may prefer ryokans in Gion or riverside resorts in Arashiyama, while mid-range hotels dominate Downtown. Budget-conscious visitors often choose business hotels or hostels near the station. Finally, consider the duration of your stay: short visits benefit from central areas, while longer stays are more enjoyable in quieter neighborhoods or vacation rentals.
Suggested Itinerary-Based Recommendations
- 2–3 Days in Kyoto: Stay in Gion for cultural immersion or near Kyoto Station for maximum efficiency in transport and sightseeing.
- 4–5 Days in Kyoto: Split your stay between Downtown Kyoto and Arashiyama to enjoy both the city’s lively atmosphere and its scenic beauty.
- Long-Term Stay: Opt for Northern Kyoto or a machiya vacation rental, where you can settle into a slower rhythm and experience local life.
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Tips for Booking Accommodation in Kyoto
- Book early during peak seasons: Cherry blossom in spring and autumn foliage attract crowds, and the best accommodations fill up months in advance.
- Seek traditional experiences: If you’ve always dreamed of sleeping on tatami mats or soaking in an onsen bath, a ryokan stay should be on your list.
- Use luggage forwarding services: Kyoto’s streets can be narrow, and hauling suitcases isn’t always convenient. Many hotels offer takkyubin (luggage delivery) services.
- Check proximity to stations: Being within walking distance of a bus stop or train station will save time and make sightseeing much smoother.
Conclusion
Kyoto offers a wide range of neighborhoods, each with its own character—from the historic charm of Gion and the convenience of Kyoto Station to the lively buzz of Downtown, the peaceful beauty of Arashiyama, and the tranquil corners of Northern Kyoto. Deciding where to stay in Kyoto depends on your travel style, budget, and length of stay. By planning ahead and matching your accommodation to your itinerary, you’ll enjoy a more rewarding experience in Japan’s cultural capital. Start looking early, especially for peak travel seasons, to secure the perfect place for your Kyoto adventure.
