Hotels in Kyoto

Still wondering what to do in Kyoto? Opodo has the top must-see plans so you won't miss a thing. Find everything you need to know before picking your stay in Kyoto and book your hotel today!

Kyoto, the spiritual and cultural heart of Japan, is famous for its preserved tradition, its magnificent temples, and its beautiful Zen gardens. As the former imperial capital, the city boasts over a thousand Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines, including the spectacular golden pavilion of Kinkaku-ji and the serene rock garden of Ryōan-ji. Kyoto is a city of refined elegance and deep history.

You can wander through the enchanting bamboo forest of Arashiyama, explore the traditional wooden houses of the Gion geisha district, or enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the Nishiki Market. With its refined cuisine and peaceful atmosphere, Kyoto offers an unparalleled experience of traditional Japan.

Choosing where to book your hotel in Kyoto is a choice between central convenience, historic atmosphere, or the main transport hub.

The area around Kyoto Station is the best location for first-time visitors. Staying here places you next to the main transport hub, with excellent connections for local buses and trains, making it easy to reach all the major temples and sites. This area offers a wide variety of modern hotels and is highly convenient.

For a bustling, central base focused on shopping and dining, the Downtown (Kawaramachi) area is ideal. This district is close to the Nishiki Market and the Pontocho alley, offering a vibrant atmosphere and a wide selection of dining and entertainment options.

For a traditional and scenic atmosphere, the area around the Gion and Higashiyama districts is highly recommended. Staying here allows you to explore the beautifully preserved traditional streets, temples, and the serene Yasaka Shrine, offering a magical, historical retreat, though accommodation is often more boutique and expensive.

Kyoto is served by Kansai International Airport (KIX) or Osaka Itami Airport (ITM), with excellent train services into Kyoto Station. The city relies heavily on its efficient bus system, with buses being the best way to reach the dispersed temples and attractions.

To secure a competitive hotel rate in Kyoto, you must strictly avoid the peak seasons of cherry blossom (late March/early April) and autumn leaves (November), when prices are at their highest and rooms book up far in advance.

For significant savings, consider travelling during the deep off-season, particularly January and February. A unique tip for saving money is to look for hotels or guesthouses that offer a single room. Due to the business hotel culture in Japan, these smaller rooms are often highly comfortable, centrally located, and significantly cheaper than double rooms, offering a great value proposition for solo travellers.