Ancient capital, and Japan’s most famous cultural hotspot, Kyoto, is an enchanting contemporary destination. Home to thousands of temples, shrines and ancient landmarks dotted along cobblestone streets, this age-old city brims with wonders for heritage and art aficionados alike. Modern Kyoto, too, is fascinating, with its top-notch restaurants, designer shopping and trendy nightlife scene. Fuse both old and new with a stay at one of the best places to stay in Kyoto; you’ll find something for a whole host of tastes and budgets on our Gurus' list.
Base yourself in downtown Kyoto for easy access to hip restaurants, cafés, galleries and museums, as well as the train and subway links which will enable you to criss-cross the city. There’s no shortage of temples and shrines in Kyoto, but Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Kinkakaku-ji and Ryoan-ji Temple are particular highlights. The neighbourhoods of Higashiyama and Gion — once the geisha district — are well worth exploring on foot or by bicycle with an expert guide. Pop into traditional teahouses, admire ryokan and Edo architecture, or peruse quirky antique shops before savouring kaiseki cuisine. Don’t miss the International Manga Museum, historic Nijo Castle, the Imperial Palace or the bustling, five-block Nishiki Market, either.
Venture to Kyoto’s western edge to experience laid-back Arashiyama, a quaint neighbourhood surrounded by mountains and trees. Some of the best places to stay in Kyoto are in this area — perfect for admiring the spring blossoms and the changing colours of the autumn leaves.
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Kyoto (Minami ku Higashikujo Yanaginoshitacho 67-1 )
A stylish contemporary boutique pitched at great value and offering something a little different to the traditional Kyoto hotels. Sleek rooms are minimalist with a Scandinavia-meets-Kyoto aesthetic. The popular Danish restaurant is worth booking for alone. A hip city base.
Kyoto (Nishinotoin-dori, Shimogyo-ku)
A contemporary property located in the heart of Kyoto. Sophisticated rooms are minimalist in style with large windows, crisp white linen and soft hues. Indulgent Japanese meals are served in the restaurant and a public bath provides the ideal spot to unwind after a day exploring the city.
Kyoto (Karasuma- Higashiiru Shimogyo-ku )
Smart serviced apartments in the centre of the city. A selection of apartments sleep between two and five people. Decor is simple and clean; creams throughout with a functional layout, kitchens and city views. Breakfasts are served and and there's a communal lounge. Well located and priced.
Kyoto
A superbly orchestrated industrial conversion in the heart of Kyoto. Every room sings with the careful consideration that went into its decor, with hand-selected art and traditional handicrafts doing a lot of the heavy lifting. The rooftop terrace and lobby lounge are popular hang outs. Very hip!
Kyoto
A smart contemporary hotel boasting a very central location. Uniformly designed rooms are functional and light with modern en-suite bathrooms. Feast on Chinese or Japanese fare at the hotel's restaurants. Perfectly positioned for both business or sightseeing.
Kyoto
A modern hotel in the centre of Kyoto. Simple rooms blend modernity with authentic Japanese style, neutral colours, spacious beds and sleek bathrooms. All rooms are self catering, and some benefit from a whirlpool tub. Perfectly suited for couples looking for a chic base to explore the city.
Kyoto (Nakagyo-ku)
A smart property in the heart of Kyoto, with light, airy rooms. Expansive suites have antique furniture, large beds and an elegant, monochrome feel. International dishes are served in the restaurant and massages can be arranged on request. Well-located for a chic business or leisure stay.
Kyoto
Classic machiyas style blends with modern Japanese hospitality at this chic hotel in downtown Kyoto. Guests can choose from traditional or Western-style rooms, all equipped with a free smartphone service and organic toiletries. Set close to Nishiki market, this hotel is a great base for sightseeing.
Kyoto
A boutique hotel/art gallery hybrid in the centre of Kyoto. Each of its concept rooms is designed by one of fifteen emerging Japanese artists. Striking colours blend with comfortable furnishings to create a unique atmosphere, plus there's a 10 storey gallery showcasing Japanese contemporary art.
Kyoto
A chic retreat by the ancient Toji Temple. Its spacious rooms blend traditional Japanese motifs with contemporary design and modern comforts, such as kitchenettes and laundry facilities. It's the perfect place to discover the essence of Kyoto and immerse yourself in the city's rich history.
Kyoto (Yamatooji-dori)
A beautiful marriage between tradition and contemporary flare, in the heart of Kyoto's old city. The rooms are a perfect embodiment of this with their tatami floors, minimalist style and plush modern comforts. The lobby/bar is a cool spot for a drink and the restaurant offers excellent food.
Kyoto
Discover a tranquil gem in Kyoto's heart. Immerse yourself in serene gardens, unwind in separate gender saunas, and savour a Japanese-Western breakfast buffet. With sleek rooms and a central dining hub, it's where luxury meets relaxation. A perfect peaceful stay yet still close to the city buzz.
Kyoto (Higashi-iru Shimogyo-ku Kyoto-shi)
The grand lobby sets the scene for this elegant property. Rooms are European in feel with large windows, pretty cornicing, crisp white linen and large luxurious bathrooms. Well positioned for exploring the city and the hotel also offers a number cultural excursions. An ideal city base.
Kyoto
A sophisticated modern hotel on the banks of the Shirakawa river. Beautifully conceived spacious rooms come in Western and Japanese styles, some with tatami mat floors, all with crisp linens and gorgeous views. No restaurant but plenty close by. A chic central stay.
Kyoto
A chic traditional property set in gorgeous Japanese gardens. Large floor-to-ceiling windows perfectly frame the views. Classically styled rooms feature tatami mat flooring, futon beds and the best have indulgent luxury bathrooms. A tranquil property, well located for exploring the historical city.
Kyoto
Modern retreat in the bustling centre of town. Sleek decor, infused with traditional Japanese elegance, has an industrial edge. There's a cafe bar for all day snacks and drinks and sociable communal area. Blending style and comfort, it's a great value base for exploring Kyoto's historic charm.
Kyoto (Karasuma Chuo-guchi, Shiokoji-sagaru, Karasuma-dor)
A slick property boasting a central location next to Kyoto Station. Contemporary rooms feature floor to ceiling windows, crisp white linen, large modern bathrooms and epic city views. A choice selection of international restaurants and elegant bars. The perfect base for city exploring.
Kyoto
An elegant hotel in the heart of the old town. Modern stylish rooms with Japanese and Western vibe boast crisp clean lines & indulgent en suites. Plus there's a gallery, lounge and varied breakfast spread. Exceptional service and proximity to Kyoto's best restaurants and sights set this place apart.
Kyoto (Kyoto)
A serene hotel in downtown Kyoto. Minimalist rooms are decorated in neutral tones with soft furnishings adding pops of colour. There's a bathhouse fed by hot springs, plus a spa. The cafe offers daytime dining and the sultry bar has 700 types of malt whisky. A good choice for a relaxing city stay.
Kyoto (Shimogyo-ku)
This cosy, family-run hotel is nestled in the centre of Kyoto. Stylish guestrooms feature crisp white linens set off against wooden floors with homely soft furnishings. Start the day in the bright and airy breakfast room with a hearty à la carte or American breakfast before sightseeing.
Kyoto (Nakagyo-ku Kawaramachi-Oike)
A grand hotel standing tall in central Kyoto. Rooms are classically designed with soft hues, large floor to ceiling windows and contemporary bathrooms. Elegant reception rooms of epic scale make for glamorous evenings and there's a choice selection of restaurants too. Ideal for travel or business.
Kyoto (Higashiyama-ku)
A grand hotel nestled into a lush hillside overlooking the city. Smart rooms are simply dressed with large windows to enjoy the views, contemporary bathrooms and crisp white linen. An elegant restaurant serves up continental dishes. Well located to visit Kyoto's many attractions.
Kyoto
A smart hotel close to Kyoto's Kamo River in Sanjo. Luxurious rooms are designed to bring out the best of East-meets-West styling with muted palettes dotted with pops of vibrant colour. Plus there's a grill restaurant, atmospheric bar and fabulous 8lements spa. A fine base for local exploring.
Kyoto (Kyoto-shi)
A chic contemporary offering in the heart of historic Kyoto. Minimalist rooms feature pale wooden furniture, floor-to-ceiling windows and crisp white linen. Downstairs, you'll find a shared kitchen and a fully-fledged café-bar. A lively space, well-suited to hip, design-conscious travellers.
Kyoto (Nakagyo-ku)
A hip boutique hotel with the feel of an art gallery with its large private collection of contemporary works. Rooms are simply styled with cool grey hues and pale wooden floors. The largest nine are fitted with bathtubs. Western fare is served in the restaurant while the bar is the place to be seen.
Kyoto (Higashi Horikawa-dori, Shimogyo-ku)
A sleek contemporary property located in the heart of Kyoto. Smart rooms are well proportioned and feature floor-to-ceiling windows, clean lines and luxury bathrooms. A restaurant, with a view, serves up continental buffet and A la carte options. A chic base for city exploring.
Kyoto
An eight room design hotel in the centre of Kyoto. Choose between four western style studios (each with a different theme) or four Japanese style suites. All are beautifully conceived and the best offer a well equipped kitchen. There's a charming salon for tea and rooftop garden for city views.
Kyoto
A contemporary boutique hotel in the centre of Kyoto. Twelve individually designed bedrooms feature modern furniture and chic decor from Japanese brands. There's a welcoming bar/lounge with terrace offering complimentary snacks and drinks 24/7! A smart city base.
Kyoto (Higashiyama-ku Kodaiji-dori Washio 511)
A charming traditional ryokan in an ancient part of Kyoto packed full of historical and religious sights. Authentic rooms feature tatami-mat flooring and futon beds; some rooms have space for families or groups. Thirteen-part regional meals offer a true Japanese experience. Laid-back and intimate.
Kyoto
Gorgeously sleek & modern, The Screen offers contemporary design in a luxe setting with 13 rooms each with a different theme and style. Natural light streams throughout and amenities range from an exclusive day spa to a spacious communal lounge, French restaurant and champagne garden rooftop bar.
Kyoto (Higashioji-nishiiru, Yasaka-dori, Higashiyama-ku, )
A stylish hotel set in the heart of Kyoto. Spacious interiors are that perfect combination of minimalist style with a nod to Japanese design. The restaurant serves delectable Japanese cuisine and the property boasts its own public bath in an idyllic garden setting. City perfection.
Kyoto
Immerse yourself in Kyoto's historical charm at a 4* gem where tradition meets luxury. Each space is a blend of Meiji-era elegance & contemporary chic, creating a vibe that's both sophisticated and welcoming. Enjoy cultural immersion meets luxury with polished marble onsen bath & bento breakfasts.
Kyoto
A contemporary hotel in the heart of Kyoto. Luxurious accommodations feature stylish interiors, sleek colour palettes, trendy decor and modern amenities. There is a range of delicious Japanese and Italian food, and a tranquil gym and spa with a selection of relaxing treatments. A chic city stay.
Kyoto
A comfortable, contemporary hotel in the heart of Kyoto. Rooms boast elegant Japanese décor with Western-style influences, lounge area, spacious luxurious bathrooms and modern furnishings. Families can easily be accommodated. No restaurant, but in-room breakfasts can be ordered. A chic city stay.
Kyoto
This stylish hotel overlooks the Kamogawa river in Kyoto. The smart guest rooms have screen-style headboards and dark wood accents, complemented by deep purple and blue soft furnishings. Soak in the hotel's open-air bath after exploring the Japanese gardens. An idyllic spot close to the city buzz.
Kyoto (Minami-ku )
This chic hotel, located in the Minami Ward of Kyoto, offers guests the chance to select 22 Japanese products from their boutique to enrich their stay. The stylish and contemporary accommodation is perfect for families or a group stay, with multiple beds and self-catering facilities.
Kyoto
Fauchon L'Hotel is the pinnacle of pink-hued luxury in the heart of Kyoto. French gourmet meets Japanese sophistication in opulent decor, where magenta and gold sit alongside bamboo and washi paper. With rooftop bars and macaroons galore, indulgence is the word that springs to mind.
Kyoto (Higashiyama-ku)
A chic luxury property set in pretty Japanese gardens in central Kyoto. Contemporary rooms are simply styled with pop-art, crisp white linen, large windows and indulgent bathrooms. Boasting three exemplary restaurants and a spoiling spa making this a tough one to beat.
Kyoto
A chic 5* Kyoto oasis marries modern luxury with traditional Japanese aesthetics. Each space whispers elegance, from suave white and black decor to garden-view rooms that celebrate nature's beauty. Cultural immersion awaits with a meditation room for soulful repose and a bar where gold meets bonsai.
Kyoto
A seven room traditional machiya townhouse in the centre of historic Kyoto. Authentically styled rooms combine Western modern comforts with tatami mat floors and deep cypress wood baths for pampering soaks. Book ahead for delicious local kaiseki cuisine. A charming ryokan experience.
Kyoto
A modern Japanese gem where Kyoto's essence comes alive in every detail. Spacious rooms reflect the tranquil beauty of Kyoto karakami décor, reminiscent of the city's four seasons. Indulge in traditional Japanese cuisine for breakfast, honoured with an award for excellence. A relaxing city stay.
Kyoto (Rokaku Sagaru Nakagyo-ku)
Located in the heart of Kyoto, Kanamean Nishitomiya offers traditional Japanese accommodation-think tatami woven-straw flooring and futon bedding. Relax in the garden with a drink and enjoy splendid half-board kaiseki cuisine! A wonderfully charming and incredibly peaceful city spot.
Kyoto (Nakagyo-ku)
This hotel is located in the heart of Kyoto, close to the Imperial Palace. Opened over seventy years ago, the hotel is something of a local institution; recently renovated, it now offers bright, Japanese-style guestrooms and extensive spa facilities, in addition to an excellent tempura restaurant.
Kyoto (Kamigyo-ku )
This heritage ryokan is located in Kyoto, Japan. Built over 160 years ago, the hotel has undergone a recent renovation and offers Japanese-style and Western guestrooms with contemporary artwork and traditional indoor clothing. Enjoy drinks in the cosy hotel lounge after sightseeing.
Kyoto (Japan)
A chic sanctuary, perched by the serene Kamo River. Minimalist beauty meets the warmth of Japanese craftsmanship. Luxurious rooms offer panoramic views to lush gardens that blur the boundaries between indoors and out. Dine under the stars in the Sky Forest Garden or unwind in the relaxing lounge.
Kyoto (Nishikyo-ku Kyoto-shi)
A stunning riverside property set in thick forest that dramatically changes colour along with the seasons. Traditional rooms include paper screens, picture windows and Japanese mats; the larger rooms have wooden baths. Dine on inventive regional dishes in a superb setting. The perfect rural escape.
Kyoto
Ten traditional machiya townhouses boasting wonderfully luxurious interiors set within the complex of Kyoto Imperial Palace West. Rooms are light, spacious and decorated with that appealing Japanese minimalist style. A calm base just minutes from the city's main sights.
Kyoto (Higashiyama Ward)
A traditional wooden 'machiya' set in the geisha quarters of Gion. having undergone a full renovation by renowned Kyoto-based architect Geoffrey Moussas the small property is a chic, yet authentic, holiday home. Featuring just two rooms it's an ideal base for families or groups.
Kyoto (Higashiyama Ward)
A 100-year old wooden machiya house set in the historic geisha area. Featuring just two bedrooms; one with traditional tatami mat floors and a futon bed and the other western-styled. With a fully equipped kitchen and living room, this is the ideal spot for families or friends to hire exclusively.
Kyoto (Minami-ku)
This boutique hotel is nestled behind an almost indiscernible doorway in the Minami Ward of Kyoto. Interiors feature modern architecture inspired by traditional Japanese design, from the lobby bamboo lightbox to the suites' sakura ceilings. Start the day with a gourmet breakfast before sightseeing.
Kyoto
Comprising of just seven suites, this boutique property offers a luxurious and intimate stay in the heart of the city. The spacious modern rooms' design is inspired by traditional Japanese style. Regional dishes are served in the customary way (in-room) and each suite has a large spa bath.
Kyoto (Nakagyo-ku)
Old meets new in this trendy Ace Hotel offering set in central Kyoto. The landmark brick building has been artfully updated mixing traditional Japanese design with retro-inspired American style. With a hipster cafe, three restaurants, bikes on offer & a rooftop bar — this is an undeniably cool stay.
Kyoto (Kitakarasuma-cho )
This contemporary hotel is located in the Minami Ward of Kyoto. Smart guestrooms blend Japanese custom with modern style, featuring traditional futon beds on raised wooden platforms and tatami seating areas with low armchairs. The spacious suites make this hotel perfect for a family stay.
Kyoto (Minamiku )
This opulent boutique hotel is located in the heart of Kyoto. Indulgent guestrooms have marble walls and crisp, white linens, set off by brass accents and selected design pieces. All suites come with a complimentary iPad for guest use, one of many thoughtful touches that make this hotel stand out.
Kyoto
A charming renovated machiya house set on a quiet street in Old Gion. The house has two rooms which have both been beautifully restored keeping the building's traditional style yet with all the contemporary luxuries. Featuring a fully equipped kitchen this is an ideal house to rent in its entirety.
Kyoto
A traditional Ryokan on the outskirts of Kyoto. Japanese style rooms offer simple interiors, embellished by private balconies (with outdoor tubs) overlooking the tree-lined banks of the Kiyotakigawa River. The restaurant serves fabulous local cuisine on a picturesque outdoor deck. A rare find.
Kyoto (Shimogyo-ku)
This traditional townhouse in Kyoto has been converted into a contemporary boutique hotel, offering guestrooms which blend Oriental and Western styles. Futon beds and sliding paper screens nod to local custom, while the hotel's bistro restaurant highlights European influences.
Kyoto (Shijyosagaru )
This boutique city bolt-hole is located in the vibrant Shijo Karasuma district of Kyoto. In the elegant lobby, Venetian-style mosaics recall the rich colours of Edo-period Japanese painting. Guestrooms similarly blend heritage inspirations with contemporary comforts for a stylish stay.
Kyoto (Kyoto)
Established in 1831, this historic hotel is situated in Higashiyama Ward. It's a traditional Japanese house with wood-panelled walls, screen doors and a leafy courtyard. The romantic rooms are decorated with opulent furnishings, plus there's amazing in-room dining. An authentic Japanese experience.
Kyoto (Shimogyo-ku)
Stylish hotel near Kyoto centre, formerly Nintendo HQ. Beautifully designed, minimalist rooms in the Annex, with a more traditional feel in the original building. Common areas cleverly mix vintage & contemporary furniture and plenty of original artworks. A chic city base with an interesting history.
Kyoto (Shimogyo-ku )
This stylish hotel is located in the heart of Kyoto. Interiors feature a contemporary take on the city's traditional construction technique, with areas zoned by raised wooden platforms with tatami flooring and terrace cypress tubs. Unwind at the Kanra Spa after a day out sightseeing.
Kyoto (Sakyo-ku Kyoto-shi)
A traditional ryokan nestled in beautifully manicured gardens. Comprising of just five Japanese styled rooms. Experience Kyoto-style kaiseki dinners (made up of many courses), wander to nearby temples or simply unwind in the gardens with a good book. A blissful escape from the bustling city.
Kyoto (Kyoto)
An exclusive retreat beside Kyoto's historic Nijo Castle. Interiors are a harmony of traditional Japanese architecture and unexpected contemporary touches, creating a serene yet vibrant atmosphere. With a focus on wellness and the culinary arts, the hotel boasts a unique restaurant. Culturally rich.
Kyoto (Sagatenryūji Susukinobabachō)
A beautifully designed traditional guesthouse comprising of just 10 rooms. Light and airy rooms feature tatami mats, garden views and the best have hot spring baths. Regional cuisine is served up in the restaurant. Ideally located for a tranquil stay yet with easy access to the city.
Kyoto
A chic property perfectly mixing traditional Japanese style with contemporary luxuries. Boasting a central location overlooking the river. Rooms are spacious and comfortable with windows framing the lush views, bonsai plants, modern bathrooms and traditional art. Ideal for exploring the city.
Kyoto (Kyoto)
A luxury retreat on the banks of the Oigawa River which blends modern elegance with traditional Japanese hospitality. Featuring chic, minimalist interiors, Alain Ducasse dining, and serene spa experiences, it's a tranquil haven amidst nature's beauty, perfect for an immersive Kyoto experience.
Kyoto
A charming 'machiya' style townhouse offering contemporary luxuries in a traditional setting. Two of the rooms feature traditional tatami matting, while the others are more Western in their design. Offering a fully-equipped modern kitchen, this is an ideal choice for families or groups.
Kyoto (Saga-Tenryuji)
The luxurious Suiran Hotel is situated along the banks of the Katsura River in the outskirts of Kyoto. The property offers chic designer accommodation and boasts its own lush garden: perfect for relaxing with a drink. Exquisite cuisine served at the restaurant! An indulgent stay in a stunning spot.
Kyoto (Higashiyama-ku)
This stylish hotel is located in Kyoto's charming Gion neighbourhood. Guestrooms blend classic Japanese design with a contemporary inflexion, with sliding doors opening onto the hotel's verdant inner courtyard. Dine at the award-winning restaurant to complete the experience.
Kyoto (Nakagyo ku)
This chic ryokan is nestled close to the Imperial Palace in Kyoto. The hotel is themed around 'Wagashi', traditional Japanese confectionary. The stylish guestrooms feature sliding screens and a blend of wood, wicker and tatami accents. Unwind in the secret Japanese garden after sightseeing.
Kyoto (Kita Ward)
A chic sanctuary in Kyoto's mountain foothills, where contemporary luxury meets serene natural beauty. Inside, modern Japanese design creates a calm, stylish vibe. With a spa, exquisite dining & cultural workshops, it's a haven for the senses. A blend of elegance, comfort & cultural immersion
Kyoto
An ancient ryokan set in the heart of Kyoto offering personal service and an authentic experience. Rooms are traditional with tatami mats, creaky floors, and Cypress tubs. In-room kaiseki meals are served and breakfasts are a decadent affair. A perfect hideaway yet just steps from the sights.
Kyoto (Sakyo Ward)
An exclusive boutique gem in Kyoto's serene Okazaki neighborhood. Inside, shoji screens & minimalist design marry with the tranquility of a Japanese garden. With just 4 rooms, it boasts an exclusive restaurant famed for its kaiseki cuisine. It's Kyoto's hidden sanctuary for the discerning traveler.
Kyoto
A spacious house offering modern luxuries in a historic setting. Well-proportioned rooms feature parquet flooring, goose-down duvets and Nespresso machines but the look is still traditional and clean. The central garden and library are ideal spots to unwind after a day's sightseeing. Very chic.
Kyoto (Sakyo-ku)
This heritage hotel is located in Kyoto. After a complete renovation, the property now offers warm, inviting guestrooms with slate and wood accents plus views onto the beautiful Japanese garden from a cosy terrace. Dine at the acclaimed restaurant, run by a Michelin-starred chef.
Kyoto (Higashiyama-ku )
Behind its traditional machiya-style façade, lies a contemporary ryokan made for design-lovers. Interiors are styled on a traditional ryokan with chic minimalism, tatami mat flooring, and sharp lines but there are also renowned artworks (think Damien Hirst) and plenty of modern touches. Very chic.
Kyoto (Aburano-koji St. Nijo-sagaru, )
An elegant luxury hotel with a fabulous location set by the UNESCO heritage site, Nijo Castle. While the design is undeniably contemporary there is a traditional feel from tatami mat flooring, washi lights, and kimono textiles. With a thermal spa and two good restaurants, this is an indulgent stay.
Kyoto (Kita-ku)
This luxury Kyoto hotel is nestled within a mythical forest with natural hot springs. Suites offer guests proximity to the natural environment, located in pavilions with floor-to-ceiling windows, wooden screens and tatami mats. Book a private dinner in the forest for a romantic evening.
Kyoto (Higashiyama-ku)
A chic contemporary hotel set in the heart of historic Higashiyama district. Spacious rooms and suites are a fresh take on traditional design using plenty of glass, ash wood, and local artwork. A small spa offers Kyoto-inspired therapies and there are three standout restaurants too. Luxury defined.
Kyoto (HIGASHIYAMA-KU)
A five-star luxury experience right in the heart of historic Kyoto. Set in tranquil gardens the interiors perfectly mix the old and the new. Spacious rooms benefit from floor to ceiling windows offering plenty of light. The spa is a destination in its own right and mustn't be missed!
