The Best Boutique Hotels in Kyoto

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.

• Value chic - With stylish modern design and entry-level rooms starting below $50, this is a very reasonably priced stay
• Boutique - With just 51 rooms, sleek contemporary design, and Danish inspired cuisine this is a unique boutique stay
• Families - Luxury Deluxe Twin rooms (sleeping up to four) are good for families while kids will love the Loft Rooms
• Designer - Japan meets Scandinavia in this stylish minimalist hotel — a fresh option in Kyoto

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.

• Artworks - As well as rooms designed by artists, the property hosts a vertical gallery showcasing the best contemporary Japanese art
• Local exploring - Situated in the centre of Kyoto, close to both cultural sites and bars and restaurants for night-life
• City Style - It's hard to beat this design-let boutique hotel/art gallery for a stylish cutting-edge stay
• Boutique - No two rooms are the same here. Expect the unexpected in the 31 artist designed guest rooms

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.

• Local exploring - Right in the heart of Higashiyama Ward, ideal for exploring the old town on foot and observing the shrines and ancient landmarks
• City Style - A perfect marraige between slick modern design and traditional Japanease ryokan features to create a wonderfully stylish hybrid
• Cycling - Rent a pair of bikes from the hotel and head off to explore this ancient and magnificent city
• Other Activities - The cool bar restaurant is a great spot to hang out, have a few drinks and enjoy yourself

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.

• Hideaway - A chic traditional property set in beautifully landscaped gardens and offering a quiet hideaway in the heart of the city
• Sights nearby - The historic Nanzen-ji Temple is just alongside the hotel; the Eikando and Heian Jingu Shrine are a short walk away
• Local markets - Discover the tastes of the region at Nishiki Market, best-visited first thing in the morning
• Local exploring - Just moments from some of the city's most impressive shrines; ideal for cultural explorers

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.

• Local exploring - With the city's main attractions close by, book this hotel as a base for your local sightseeing in Kyoto
• Romantic Break - The thoughtful extras at this hotel make it a special place to stay, perfect for a couples' getaway
• City Style - Set in the heart of Kyoto in a charming townhouse, book this hotel for chic city style
• Sights nearby - Visit the nearby Sanjusangen-do Temple, a Buddhist temple of the Tendai sect in the Higashiyama district of Kyoto

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.

• Groups - Groups will appreciate the larger suites - with space for 4 - as well as the communal ethos in shared spaces
• Other Activities - Hotel-organised trips to a local Kyotoan craft workshop reflect the hotel's ethos andare not to be missed
• Yoga - Speak to the team about the latest yoga timetable for restorative and energising classes
• City Style - A cool modern property with a focus on local craftmanship and group gatherings

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.

• Artworks - The rooms and common areas function as a living gallery space, with works by top local and international artists on display
• Designer - Moody hues, plush fabrics, and contemporary artworks all set in an industrial style building. A very chic stay
• City Style - This is an achingly hip space which is as popular with those from the local art scene as it is travellers
• Bar - The capacious bar is the setting for a regular schedule of exhibitions plus chic events and openings

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.

• City Style - Choose between individuallly themed Western or Japanese style rooms, all equally spacious and well-appointed
• Local exploring - Nestled in the centre of Kyoto's busiest streets, boundless adventures await in the surrounding city
• Boutique - This is an eight room design hotel where you'll find an eclectic mixture of themes and styles
• Sights nearby - The Kunjyukan museum is just one of the nearby necessities for your trip to Kyoto

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.

• Local exploring - Located in the centre of Kyoto, many of the city's sites and attractions are within walking distance
• Boutique - Rooms designed with sleek furnishings, chic decor and luxurious bathrooms
• Contemporary - Rooms feature modern furniture from up and coming Japanese brands
• Local markets - Head to Nishiki Market (25 minute walk) for the city's local food and goods, with 100 shops and restaurants to choose from

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.

• Boutique - The thirteen room have all been created by a different Japanese or International designer
• Weddings - The Screen has its own chapel with a view on the top floor!
• Restaurant - Bron Ronnery serves French style cuisine created from the finest Kyoto vegetables
• Sights nearby - Close to the Imperial Palace and downtown Kyoto

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.

• Families - With innovative suite layouts that can accommodate up to five people, this hotel is great for parents travelling with children
• Local exploring - With a central location and bike rental available to help you get around, book this hotel to maximise your local exploring
• City Style - With a stylish and modern hospitality concept, plus a great city location, book this hotel for contemporary Kyoto style
• Sights nearby - Walk to nearby Kyoto Tower and head to the top-floor observation deck for great city views

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.

• Total relaxation - Indulge in Kyoto's seasonal beauty at this modern Japanese hotel offering a taste of authentic cuisine and a serene stay
• Local exploring - It's just a short walk to JR Kyoto Station Central so a perfect location for discovering the region
• Sights nearby - Explore the serene beauty of Shoseien garden next to Higashi Honganji Temple with breathtaking views of Kyoto Tower & the temple
• Local markets - Wander through the bustling streets of Gion, where you might catch a glimpse of a geisha gracefully making her way

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.

• Foodies - The hotel is home to a celebrated tempura restaurant which attracts visitors from near and far - great news for foodies
• City Style - With elegant, Japanese-style guestrooms and a central city location, book this hotel for classic Kyoto charm
• Local exploring - With the city's main attractions located close by, book this hotel as a base for local sightseeing in Kyoto
• Sights nearby - Spend an afternoon exploring Nara, the ancient capital of Japan, with its freely roaming herds of deer and spectacular temples

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.

• Romantic Break - Lovely accommodation, a quiet atmosphere and excellent cuisine-perfect for a romantic getaway
• Great walks - Meander through the city's streets on an expert-led guided tour focusing on food or history
• Museums - Visit the fascinating Kyoto National Museum or Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum
• Foodies - A foodie favourite, this intimate inn has a Michelin-starred 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.

• Wildlife Area - Take a day trip to the bamboo forest in Arashiyama, a nationally designated Historic Site and Place of Scenic Beauty
• Romantic Break - With well-appointed guestrooms and a charming bar, this hotel is a great hideaway for a romantic break
• Great walks - Discover Kyoto on foot with a long city walk, stopping at the beautiful Seimei Shrine on the way
• City Style - Set in the heart of Kyoto in a heritage property, this hotel has lots of local city charm

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.

• Great walks - Strolls through the colourful forest and along the Oi River in spring or autumn are particularly lovely
• Total relaxation - A tranquil riverside property situated in stunning leafy countryside
• Spa breaks - Experience spa treatments based on the practices of Zen Buddhism
• Sailing - Enjoy a romantic river cruise in a traditional boat at dawn

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.

• Families - A small self-catering property with just two rooms, this is an ideal choice for families seeking a private stay
• Hideaway - Also a romantic spot for design-minded couples looking for a private space of their own in the city
• Sights nearby - A visit to the iconic Fushimi Inari-Taisha shrine is a must on any visit to Kyoto
• Other Activities - Participate in a tea ceromony, the roots of which lie in Zen Buddhism

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.

• Families - Offering just two rooms this is the perfect place to rent out as a family when looking for a little privacy
• Local markets - Head to the bustling Nishiki market and sample local dishes before shopping for local crafts and textiles
• Great walks - Walk along Philosopher's Path, a tranquil route designed for meditation
• Sights nearby - Kyoto is home to some of Japan's most spectacular temples

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.

• Romantic Break - With chic suites, attentive service and excellent breakfast, this hotel makes a great option for a romantic city break
• City Style - With boutique interiors inspired by traditional Japanese design, book this hotel for contemporary Kyoto style
• Local exploring - Set steps away from many of Kyoto's top attractions, book this hotel as a smart base for local sightseeing
• Great walks - Discover downtown Kyoto on foot with a long city walk; stop at the Kyoto Tower on the way for great views from the top

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.

• Honeymoons - A romantic honeymoon choice, complete with big cosy beds and impressive bathtubs for long soaks
• Families - The rooms can easily accommodate four adults and two children, so ideal for family groups
• Cycling - Hop aboard one of the hotel's bicycles to explore historic Kyoto at your own pace
• Other Activities - Experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony in a beautiful setting

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.

• Families - With family suites available that can accommodate up to six people, this hotel is great for parents travelling with children
• Local exploring - Set within walking distance of Kyoto Station, this hotel is perfectly placed for local sightseeing in and around the city
• City Style - With contemporary interiors and a central location, book this hotel for chic Kyoto style
• Great walks - Explore the area on foot with a city walk; stop at the Kyoto Tower for great views from the top-floor observation deck

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.

• Romantic Break - With romantic suites, an excellent restaurant and attentive staff, book this hotel for a couples' city break
• Foodies - The hotel restaurant serves contemporary, international cuisine and is a great spot for foodies
• City Style - With lavish interiors and a central city location, book this hotel for luxury Kyoto style
• Sights nearby - Visit the neighbouring Toji Temple, a historic Buddhist temple with a 5-story wooden pagoda and sculptures of deities

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.

• Local exploring - Well placed in the heart of the city with many of the attractions within walking distance
• Families - With just two rooms this is an ideal property to rent out in its entirety
• Sights nearby - Take a walk around the nearby gardens of Kenninji, the oldest Zen temple in Japan
• Great walks - Explore the streets of Gion the famed geisha area of Kyoto

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.

• Local exploring - Set steps from Kyoto's main attractions, this hotel makes an ideal base for sightseeing in the city
• Romantic Break - With stylish suites and attentive service, this hotel is a great city hideaway for a romantic break
• City Style - With boutique interiors and an unbeatable location, book this hotel for sleek Kyoto charm
• Sights nearby - Visit the Yasaka Shrine, the grand head shrine of all Gion shrines in Japan and one of the most popular sightseeing destinations

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.

• Local exploring - Set in the heart of bustling Kyoto, 15 minutes' walk from the main station, book this hotel as a base for your local sightseeing
• Foodies - The hotel runs a charming French bistro restaurant, making it a great option for foodies who like fusion cuisine
• Romantic Break - With stylish guestrooms and a pretty Japanese garden, book this hotel as a romantic city bolt-hole
• Great walks - Explore downtown Kyoto on a long city walk, stopping in at the Kyoto Tower to enjoy great views from the observation deck

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.

• Romantic Break - The Machiya-style rooms induce a sense of tranquility, making this hotel a restful romantic holiday
• City Style - With custom-designed interiors and a central location, this hotel has lots of local Kyoto style
• Local exploring - Set on a busy street in the heart of Kyoto, this hotel is ideally placed for local exploring
• Great walks - Go walking in the beautiful bamboo grove at Arashiyama, a site of natural beauty on the outskirts of Kyoto

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.

• Hideaway - A tranquil ryokan set in beautifully manicured gardens that make it hard to believe it's actually in the middle of the city.
• Local exploring - Walking distance from a number of shrines and temples.
• Sights nearby - Walking distance from Ginkaku-ji temple and Philosopher’s Walk.
• Local markets - Feast on the regions' produce at Nishiki Market.

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.

• Local exploring - A chic traditional property, set in pretty gardens and with good connecting links to the city.
• Sights nearby - Visit the Tenryuji Temple marked as a World Heritage Site.
• Full of character
• Views

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.

• Groups - The house has 4 rooms (split between 2 apartments) and sleeps up to 8 people making this ideal to rent out in its entirety
• Sights nearby - Visit nearby Kenninji Temple, visible from the master bedrooms, and understand how monks traditionally live
• Architectural - Built in the 1900s, the house was extensively restored in 2015 by renowned architect Geoffrey Moussas
• Local exploring - Ideally located for exploring this historic area of Kyoto

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.

• Great walks - Wander through the beautoful Saganoo Bamboo forest or take a leisurely stroll around the city's streets
• Foodies - Enjoy a fusion of traditional Japanese kaiseki and French cuisine at the wonderful restaurant
• Learning - Delve into old Japanese court life at the Shigureden Museum
• Back to Nature - Suiran Hotel boasts a stunningly tranquil location

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.

• Romantic Break - With a romantic Kura bath available for guest reservation, choose this hotel for your next couples' city break
• Local exploring - Set just steps away from Kyoto's top attractions, this hotel is the perfect base for local sightseeing
• City Style - With stylish, contemporary interiors and an unbeatable location, book this hotel for sleek city charm
• Sights nearby - Visit the historic temple complex at Nishi-Honganji, now listed as a UNESCO world heritage site

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.

• Romantic Break - The tranquil atmosphere at this contemporary Japanese hotel is perfect for a couples' getaway; book a relaxing in-room massage
• Foodies - A great choice for foodies, with onsite restaurant La BOMBANCE overseen by a Michelin-starred chef
• City Style - Set in a historic neighbourhood in Kyoto, this hotel has reams of luxury local city charm
• Sights nearby - Visit the beautiful, nearby Kodaiji Temple, located a few minutes' walk from this hotel

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.

• Groups - The house sleeps up to 14 and is ideal for groups seeking a private city stay
• Hideaway - A design-led hideaway for couples or groups in Kyoto, brimming with history
• Museums - Just a few minutes' awalk from the excellent Kyoto National Museum
• Sights nearby - The nearby Kiyomizu Temple is a must-see for culture aficionados

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.

• Romantic Break - At just five guestrooms, this boutique hotel is ideal for a tranquil romantic break close to beautiful nature spots
• Local exploring - The hotel is located in a mountainous area great for hiking, with a temple and native monkeys to explore nearby
• Foodies - Foodies can enjoy exceptional Japanese and Japanese-styled French cuisine at the hotel restaurant
• Great walks - Take a long walk through Kyoto city centre and discover sights like the Kyoto Imperial Palace on the way

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.

• Romantic Break - With luxurious suites, romantic restaurants and a sleek wellness centre, book this hotel for an unforgettable couples' getaway
• Spa breaks - Book this hotel for a unique spa break and bathe in the naturally occurring hot springs in the forest, enriched in minerals
• Back to Nature - Nestled in a native forest in the north of Kyoto, this hotel feels like a peaceful retreat to nature
• Sailing - Travel along with the rapids of the Hozugawa river by boat from Tanba-Kameoka to Arashiyama