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Set on the eastern side of the Kamo River, Gion is a beautiful part of Kyoto. Stroll along narrow lanes lined with charming 17th-century homes, art galleries and intimate ryokans, pop in to lantern-lit teahouses and feast on traditional kaiseki cuisine in atmospheric restaurants. Once the city’s top geisha entertainment district, Gion has a rich and fascinating history. It's a brilliant neighbourhood for an expert-led walking tour or leisurely cycle, with much of the action clustered around Hanami-koji Street from Shijo Avenue to Kenninji Temple. The best hotels in Gion include elegant heritage properties, full of authentic atmosphere, as well as modern Japanese city spots — perfect for a memorable stay in the city.
For Couples
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- Indigo House is a classic 'machiya' townhouse hidden on a little cul-de-sac in bustling Gion. Although the apartment sleeps four, it's best as a cosy couples' hideaway. Expect compact yet ergonomic Japanese interiors, a cosy bedroom and easy access to the area's restaurants, teahouses and boutiques.
- The Shinmonzen promises a elegant stay for romantic couples, with minimalist interiors featuring paper screens, wood-panelled walls, impressive artwork and crisp white linens. Inspired by old-school ryokans, this is a cool, contemporary boutique choice. Explore Gion on the hotel's bicycles.
- Sowaka Hotel is a swish ryokan, offering atmospheric rooms and suites with garden views, inviting seating areas and a terrific restaurant serving seasonal cuisine. A luxurious choice for food and heritage-focused couples, and certainly one of the best hotels in Gion.
For Groups
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- Motonago Ryokan is a relaxed 11 room guesthouse, offering traditional Japanese interiors and delicious 13-part reigonal meals. Rooms feature futon beds, woven tatami matting and low seating areas. Many have space for families or groups; ideal for a taste of authentic Gion.
- The Old Modern sleeps up to 14 guests in rooms with polished parquet flooring, goose-down duvets and high ceilings. Gather in the central courtyard garden, alongside the dining room and library for a quiet moment before heading out to explore Gion.
- Amber House Gion promises an authentic Japanese experience in a restored machiya — Japanese townhouse — with two bedrooms. Ideal for two couples travelling together, or for a small family, the house has period interiors, garden and temple views and self-catering facilities.
- The Gion House is another renovated machiya, this time overseen by renowned Kyoto-based architect Geoffrey Moussas. The house is split into two apartments, each with two bedrooms. Book the whole place for a larger group, or take just the top half for up to four guests — the roof terrace is a nice touch. Interestingly, the house was used as an entertainment space by geishas until the 1960s.
For City Style
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- Granbell Kyoto is a modern, budget-friendly base in central Gion. The 100+ guest rooms have a contemporary, industrial feel, with lots of white, black and light wooden accents. The lobby-bar is brilliant for drinks, there's great food at the restaurant and the tranquil public bath overlooks a small garden. City style in the heart of old Kyoto.
- Hotel The Celestine Kyoto Gion has over 150 chic guestrooms set above light and airy shared spaces. Unwind in the lounge, take a long soak in the garden-facing baths, or tuck in to flavoursome Japanese fare at Yasaka Endo — which also boasts a tempura counter. A stylish Gion choice for business or leisure.