Kyoto, the cultural and spiritual heart of Japan, is a city that seamlessly blends tradition and modernity. With its stunning temples, gardens, and geisha culture, Kyoto is a must-visit destination for any traveler. However, with so many options available, choosing the right place to stay can be overwhelming. The right accommodation can make all the difference in ensuring a comfortable and memorable trip. In this article, we will explore the best places to stay in Kyoto, highlighting the top neighborhoods, hotels, and ryokans that will help you make the most of your time in this enchanting city.
Understanding Kyoto’s Neighborhoods
Kyoto is a city with a rich history, and its neighborhoods reflect its cultural and historical significance. From the bustling streets of Gion to the serene gardens of Kiyomizu-dera, each neighborhood offers a unique experience. When choosing where to stay, it’s essential to consider factors such as proximity to attractions, accessibility, and atmosphere. In this article, we will delve into the top neighborhoods to stay in Kyoto, including:
Downtown Kyoto
The heart of Kyoto’s shopping and entertainment district, Downtown Kyoto offers a range of accommodations from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels.
Gion
Famous for its geisha culture and traditional Japanese architecture, Gion is a popular neighborhood for those seeking an immersive cultural experience.
Kiyomizu-dera
Located near the famous Kiyomizu-dera Temple, this neighborhood offers stunning views of the city and a peaceful atmosphere.
Arashiyama
A scenic neighborhood located on the western outskirts of Kyoto, Arashiyama is known for its beautiful bamboo forests and traditional Japanese gardens.
Top Accommodations in Kyoto
From luxurious hotels to traditional ryokans, Kyoto offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every budget and preference. In this article, we will review the top hotels, ryokans, and guesthouses in Kyoto, highlighting their unique features, amenities, and services.
Best Places to Stay in Kyoto
Kyoto, the cultural and spiritual heart of Japan, is a city that seamlessly blends tradition and modernity. With its stunning temples, gardens, and geisha districts, Kyoto is a must-visit destination for any traveler. However, with so many options available, choosing the right place to stay can be overwhelming. In this article, we’ll explore the best places to stay in Kyoto, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious ryokans.
Downtown Kyoto
Downtown Kyoto, also known as Nakagyo-ku, is the heart of the city’s shopping and entertainment district. Staying in this area puts you within walking distance to many of Kyoto’s famous landmarks, including the Kiyomizu-dera Temple and the Gion District.
Recommended Hotels:
-
Hotel Gion Nanba: A 3-star hotel located in the heart of Gion, with traditional Japanese rooms starting from ¥15,000 per night.
-
Kyoto Hotel Okura: A 5-star hotel with modern rooms starting from ¥30,000 per night, offering stunning views of the city.
-
Nijo Guest House: A budget-friendly guesthouse with dorms and private rooms starting from ¥2,000 per night, located near the Nijo Castle.
Gion District
The Gion District is famous for its geisha culture and traditional Japanese architecture. Staying in this area allows you to experience the authentic Kyoto atmosphere, with many tea houses, restaurants, and shops nearby.
Recommended Ryokans:
-
Gion Nanba: A traditional ryokan with rooms starting from ¥20,000 per night, offering a unique Japanese experience.
-
Ryokan Sanga: A 4-star ryokan with modern rooms starting from ¥25,000 per night, featuring a beautiful garden and traditional Japanese breakfast. (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Cambridge Uk)
-
Gion Hatanaka: A 3-star ryokan with rooms starting from ¥15,000 per night, offering a cozy atmosphere and traditional Japanese cuisine.
Kawaramachi
Kawaramachi is a popular shopping and entertainment district, known for its fashionable boutiques, restaurants, and cafes. Staying in this area puts you in the heart of Kyoto’s modern scene.
Recommended Hotels:
-
Hotel Mume: A 3-star hotel with modern rooms starting from ¥12,000 per night, located near the Kawaramachi Station.
-
Kyoto Royal Hotel: A 4-star hotel with rooms starting from ¥20,000 per night, offering a fitness center and rooftop garden.
-
Guest House Kiyomizu: A budget-friendly guesthouse with dorms and private rooms starting from ¥3,000 per night, located near the Kiyomizu-dera Temple.
Arashiyama
Arashiyama is a scenic area located on the western outskirts of Kyoto, known for its stunning bamboo forests and traditional Japanese gardens. Staying in this area allows you to experience the natural beauty of Kyoto.
Recommended Ryokans:
-
Ryokan Arashiyama: A 4-star ryokan with rooms starting from ¥25,000 per night, offering a relaxing atmosphere and traditional Japanese cuisine.
-
Arashiyama Benkei: A 3-star ryokan with rooms starting from ¥15,000 per night, featuring a beautiful garden and traditional Japanese breakfast.
-
Guest House Arashiyama: A budget-friendly guesthouse with dorms and private rooms starting from ¥2,500 per night, located near the Arashiyama Station.
Kiyomizu-dera
Kiyomizu-dera is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Kyoto’s most famous landmarks. Staying in this area allows you to experience the rich cultural heritage of Kyoto.
Recommended Hotels:
-
Hotel Kiyomizu: A 3-star hotel with modern rooms starting from ¥10,000 per night, located near the Kiyomizu-dera Temple.
-
Kiyomizu Gion Ryokan: A 4-star ryokan with rooms starting from ¥20,000 per night, offering a traditional Japanese experience.
-
Guest House Kiyomizu: A budget-friendly guesthouse with dorms and private rooms starting from ¥2,500 per night, located near the Kiyomizu-dera Temple. (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Fredericksburg, Tx)
Philosopher’s Path
Philosopher’s Path is a scenic walking path that runs along a canal lined with cherry blossom trees. Staying in this area allows you to experience the natural beauty of Kyoto.
Recommended Hotels:
-
Hotel Philosopher’s Path: A 3-star hotel with modern rooms starting from ¥12,000 per night, located near the Philosopher’s Path.
-
Ryokan Philosopher’s Path: A 4-star ryokan with rooms starting from ¥20,000 per night, offering a relaxing atmosphere and traditional Japanese cuisine.
-
Guest House Philosopher’s Path: A budget-friendly guesthouse with dorms and private rooms starting from ¥2,500 per night, located near the Philosopher’s Path.
Accommodation Options
Kyoto offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious ryokans. Here are some factors to consider when choosing the right place to stay:
Budget
Kyoto has accommodation options to suit all budgets, from ¥2,000 per night for a dorm room to ¥50,000 per night for a luxurious ryokan.
Location
Consider staying in areas that are convenient to Kyoto’s main attractions, such as the Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Gion District, and Arashiyama.
Amenities
Some hotels and ryokans offer additional amenities, such as traditional Japanese breakfast, onsen (hot springs), and fitness centers.
Traditional Japanese Experience
For a truly immersive experience, consider staying at a ryokan, which offers traditional Japanese rooms, cuisine, and hospitality.
Conclusion
Kyoto is a city that offers something for everyone, from its stunning temples and gardens to its vibrant shopping and entertainment districts. When choosing the right place to stay, consider factors such as budget, location, and amenities. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly guesthouse or a luxurious ryokan, Kyoto has accommodation options to suit all needs.
In this article, we’ve explored the best places to stay in Kyoto, from downtown Kyoto to Arashiyama. We’ve also discussed the various accommodation options available, including budget, location, and amenities. By considering these factors, you can find the perfect place to stay in Kyoto and make the most of your trip.
Recap:
-
Downtown Kyoto: Stay in the heart of the city’s shopping and entertainment district.
-
Gion District: Experience the authentic Kyoto atmosphere and geisha culture. (See Also: Hocking Hills Best Places To Stay)
-
Kawaramachi: Stay in the heart of Kyoto’s modern scene.
-
Arashiyama: Experience the natural beauty of Kyoto’s bamboo forests and traditional Japanese gardens.
-
Kiyomizu-dera: Stay near one of Kyoto’s most famous landmarks and UNESCO World Heritage site.
-
Philosopher’s Path: Experience the natural beauty of Kyoto’s scenic walking path.
We hope this article has helped you find the perfect place to stay in Kyoto. Happy travels!
Frequently Asked Questions: Best Places to Stay in Kyoto
What is the best area to stay in Kyoto for tourists?
Kawaramachi and Gion are two of the most popular areas for tourists to stay in Kyoto. Kawaramachi is a bustling downtown area with plenty of shopping and dining options, while Gion is a traditional quarter famous for its geisha culture. Both areas offer easy access to Kyoto’s main attractions and have a wide range of accommodation options.
Is it better to stay in a ryokan or a hotel in Kyoto?
It depends on your personal preferences and what you’re looking for in your Kyoto experience. Ryokans offer a traditional Japanese atmosphere and often include meals and other cultural experiences. Hotels, on the other hand, provide more modern amenities and are often more affordable. Consider staying in a ryokan for a unique cultural experience, or a hotel for a more familiar and convenient stay.
What is the average cost of accommodation in Kyoto?
The average cost of accommodation in Kyoto can vary greatly depending on the type of accommodation, location, and time of year. Budget-friendly options like hostels and guesthouses can start from around ¥2,000-¥5,000 per night, while mid-range hotels and ryokans can cost between ¥10,000-¥20,000 per night. Luxury options can range from ¥50,000-¥100,000 per night or more.
Do I need to book my accommodation in Kyoto in advance?
Yes, it’s highly recommended to book your accommodation in Kyoto in advance, especially during peak travel seasons like cherry blossom season or autumn foliage. Many popular hotels and ryokans can fill up quickly, and booking early can ensure you get the best rates and options.
Are there any areas to avoid staying in Kyoto?
While Kyoto is generally a safe city, there are some areas that are less desirable for tourists. The area around Kyoto Station can be quite busy and noisy, and some of the surrounding streets can be a bit seedy. Additionally, the northern part of the city can be quite industrial and lacking in tourist amenities. It’s generally best to stick to the central and southern areas of the city for the best experience.