What is the best area to stay in Kyoto?

Kyoto, the ancient capital of Japan, with its numerous temples, shrines, and historic districts. From the geisha-filled streets of Gion to the tranquil bamboo groves of Arashiyama, each neighborhood of this city has its own distinct character and charm. In this article, we'll explore the best areas to stay in Kyoto, helping you find the perfect base for your adventure.

What is the best area to stay in Kyoto?

You’ll find there are plenty of great neighborhoods in this city - but which is the best area to stay in Kyoto? Here’s an at-a-glance overview, and read on for more information and tips. 

• Gion: A historic district ideal for first-time visitors, offering a blend of traditional charm and modern amenities in central Kyoto.
• Higashiyama Ward: An upscale area in East Kyoto, perfect for luxury travelers seeking high-end accommodations and proximity to iconic temples.
• Kyoto Station Area: A family-friendly hub with convenient transport links and modern attractions, ideal for those prioritizing ease of travel.
• Pontocho: A vibrant nightlife district in central Kyoto, known for its narrow alleyways filled with bars, restaurants, and entertainment options.
• Arashiyama: A picturesque western district offering a local experience with natural beauty, traditional atmosphere, and iconic sights like the Bamboo Grove.
• Nishijin: A cultural and historical area in northwest Kyoto, known for its textile heritage and quieter, more authentic atmosphere.
• Downtown Kyoto (Kawaramachi): A bustling central area ideal for budget travelers, offering a mix of shopping, dining, and easy access to other parts of the city.

Best area to stay in Kyoto for first-time visitors: Gion

• My recommendation: Gion Ryokan Q-beh
• Location: Central Kyoto, close to major attractions and entertainment, with excellent public transport connections.
• Pros: Historic charm, vibrant atmosphere, numerous dining and shopping options.
• Cons: Can be crowded and expensive.

In the heart of Gion, you’ll find the iconic Yasaka Shrine, a centuries-old Shinto sanctuary that truly comes alive during festivals. 

While it's a popular tourist destination, Gion still maintains an air of authenticity, specially in its hidden alleys and private tea houses. Be sure to experience a traditional tea ceremony at Camellia.

The area is filled with beautifully preserved machiya (traditional wooden townhouses) and a variety of restaurants. For a casual yet authentic dining experience, check out Gion Kappa, a local izakaya known for its delicious small plates and lively atmosphere.

For something more unique, try Gion Karyo, a Michelin-starred restaurant serving exquisite Kyoto cuisine in a traditional setting. 

Gion is one of Japan’s most famous geisha districts, where you can still see geiko (Kyoto dialect for geisha) and maiko (apprentice geisha) walking to and from their engagements. 

While here you won’t want to miss the chance to visit the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo Theater to watch geisha performances, showcasing traditional Japanese arts like singing, dancing, and playing instruments.

Why I love it: Gion captures the essence of traditional Kyoto while still offering modern comforts. 

Best hotels in Gion

• Best for a boutique stay: Gion Ryokan Q-beh. This charming boutique ryokan offers an intimate glimpse into traditional Kyoto. With beautifully appointed tatami rooms, a shared bath, and attentive service, it provides an authentic and cozy experience.
• Best for modern comfort: Kyoto Gion Hotel. Blending contemporary design with touches of traditional Japanese aesthetics, this hotel offers stylish accommodations in Gion. Featuring well-equipped rooms, a convenient location, and helpful staff..
• Best for local atmosphere: Rinn Gion Yasaka. Housed in a renovated machiya townhouse, this hotel immerses guests in Gion's rich ambiance. With traditional architecture, minimalist design, and proximity to Yasaka Shrine, it's perfect for those wanting to experience the authentic charm of old Kyoto.

Browse hundreds of accommodations in Gion to fit any budget.

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Best area to stay in Kyoto for luxury travelers: Higashiyama Ward

• My recommendation: Rinn Kiyomizu Gion
• Location: East Kyoto, close to upscale dining and historic sites, with excellent public transport connections.
• Pros: Luxurious atmosphere, high-end ryokans, beautiful temples.
• Cons: Can be expensive.

Higashiyama, or "Eastern Mountain," is a historic district that beautifully blends luxury with traditional Japanese culture. 

Many will start a visit to Hagashiyama Ward at the renowned Kiyomizu-dera Temple, perched on a hillside with panoramic views of the city. From here, take a serene walk along the Philosopher’s Path, lined with cherry trees and connecting several temples. Nearby, you can explore the Nanzen-ji Temple, with its imposing Sanmon gate and beautiful Zen gardens — for many, the pinnacle of Japanese Buddhist architecture.

In Higashiyama Ward, ancient stone-paved streets wind between perfectly preserved machiya townhouses, many now converted into high-end boutiques and restaurants. 

Beyond its main attractions, Higashiyama offers numerous luxurious experiences. While here, indulge in a private onsen bath at your ryokan. Art enthusiasts should visit the Kyoto National Museum, which houses an impressive collection of Japanese art. For a peaceful retreat, explore the lesser-known temples like Kodai-ji or Entoku-in, which offer serene gardens and occasional night illuminations.

For an exceptional dining experience, visit Kikunoi, a three-Michelin-starred restaurant serving exquisite kaiseki cuisine. For a unique bar experience, try L'Escamoteur, a hidden gem crafting artisanal cocktails in a whimsical, magician's workshop-themed setting.

Why I love it: Higashiyama has stunning temples, exclusive dining options, and a serene atmosphere.

Best hotels in Higashiyama Ward

• Best for a boutique stay: Rinn Kiyomizu Gion. This charming boutique hotel offers a taste of traditional Kyoto in a renovated machiya townhouse. With tatami rooms, garden views, and a prime location near Kiyomizu Temple, it provides an authentic and intimate Japanese experience.
• Best for couples: Gion Elite Terrace. Romantic and stylish, this hotel features modern rooms with private terraces overlooking the picturesque Kyoto.
• Best for cultural immersion: Rinn Kitagomon. Set in a beautifully restored machiya, this hotel offers an immersive stay in Higashiyama's historic ambiance. With traditional furnishings, tea ceremony rooms, and proximity to temples, it's perfect for those seeking to explore Kyoto's rich heritage.

Browse hundreds of accommodations in Higashiyama Ward to fit any budget.

Best area to stay in Kyoto for families: Kyoto Station Area

• My recommendation: The Thousand Kyoto
• Location: Central Kyoto, close to family-friendly attractions and transport hubs, with excellent public transport connections.
• Pros: Family-friendly, close to shopping and dining, convenient for transport.
• Cons: Less traditional feel.

The Kyoto Station Area is a vibrant, family-friendly district centered around the impressive Kyoto Station complex. The striking architecture of Kyoto Station itself, with its futuristic design and sky garden, sets the tone for the area.

 While it may lack the historic charm of other parts of Kyoto, it compensates with its family-friendly amenities and ease of access.

The iconic Kyoto Tower, standing at 131 meters, offers panoramic views of the city and is a hit with children and adults alike. 

The Kyoto Aquarium, home to various marine life including penguins and seals, provides an educational and entertaining experience. 

For train enthusiasts of all ages, the Kyoto Railway Museum offers an interactive journey through Japan's railway history.

Take a stroll in Umekoji Park, which features a large grassy area perfect for picnics and playtime. For a cultural experience, visit To-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site that's within walking distance.

It's here you will find Ramen Koji, a "ramen street" featuring eight different ramen shops from across Japan.

Why I love it: The Kyoto Station area is great because families can enjoy a stress-free and fun-filled stay in Kyoto.

Best hotels in the  Kyoto Station Area

• Best for a boutique stay: Onyado Nono Kyoto Shichijo Natural Hot Spring. This charming boutique hotel offers a blend of traditional ryokan atmosphere and modern amenities. Featuring natural hot spring baths, stylish Japanese-inspired rooms, and excellent hospitality.
• Best for a convenient stay: Richmond Hotel Premier Kyoto Ekimae. Conveniently located steps from Kyoto Station, this hotel has efficient service, well-equipped rooms, and a business center. 
• Best for luxury and convenience: The Thousand Kyoto. This upscale hotel combines sophisticated design with top-notch amenities. Offering spacious rooms, multiple dining options, a fitness center, and direct access to Kyoto Station.

 Browse hundreds of accommodations in the Kyoto Station Area to fit any budget.

Best area to stay in Kyoto for nightlife: Pontocho

• My recommendation: Good Nature Hotel Kyoto.
• Location: Central Kyoto, close to bars and nightlife, with excellent public transport connections.
• Pros: Vibrant nightlife, numerous bars and restaurants, scenic views along the Kamo River.
• Cons: Can be noisy and crowded.

Centered around Pontocho Alley, a narrow pedestrian street, this well known district is a must-visit.  Nearby, the Kamo River offers a scenic backdrop, especially during cherry blossom season.

Just a short walk away, you'll find the bustling Nishiki Market, often called "Kyoto's Kitchen," where you can sample local delicacies and purchase unique souvenirs. 

The ambiance of Pontocho is magical, especially after dark. Lanterns cast a warm glow over the cobblestone streets.

Pontocho boasts some of Kyoto's most unique dining and drinking experiences. For a truly special evening, try one of the riverside restaurants with outdoor terraces, known as kawayuka, offering stunning views of the Kamo River. 

For cocktail enthusiasts, L’Escamoteur Bar serves creative concoctions in a whimsical, magician-themed setting. Sake Bar Yoramu specializes in unique and rare sake, and the owner is extremely knowledgeable. Stop by Pontocho Karaoke Pub K-ZONE for a fun karaoke spot with an open stage and private rooms. 

Café La Siesta is a cozy jazz bar with live performances most nights, and Atlantis is one of the few clubs in the area that plays a mix of hip-hop, R&B, and house music.

Why I love it: Pontocho is a great place to have a memorable night in Kyoto

Best hotels in Pontocho

• Best for a boutique stay: Good Nature Hotel Kyoto. This eco-conscious boutique hotel offers a stylish retreat in the heart of Kyoto. With sleek, nature-inspired design, organic dining options, and a focus on sustainability, it provides a unique and refreshing urban oasis.
• Best for modern luxury: The Gate Hotel Kyoto Takasegawa by Hulic Combining contemporary elegance with traditional touches, this hotel boasts sophisticated rooms, a rooftop bar with panoramic views, and excellent dining options. Its prime location offers easy access to Pontocho's vibrant nightlife.
• Best for authentic Japanese experience: Rinn Gion Shirakawa. Nestled in the historic Gion district, this traditional machiya townhouse hotel immerses guests in old Kyoto charm. With tatami rooms, garden views, and proximity to geisha districts, it offers an intimate glimpse into Kyoto's cultural heritage.

Browse hundreds of accommodations in Pontocho to fit any budget.

Best area to stay in Kyoto for a local experience: Arashiyama

• My recommendation: Suiran
• Location: West Kyoto, known for its natural beauty and traditional atmosphere, with good public transport connections.
• Pros: Beautiful scenery, tranquil atmosphere, cultural experiences.
• Cons: Further from central attractions.

Arashiyama is famous for its iconic Bamboo Grove, where towering green stalks create an otherworldly atmosphere. Nearby, you'll find Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site with breathtaking gardens. 

It is more relaxed here than central Kyoto. The streets are lined with old-style houses, many of which have been converted into quaint shops and cafes. The sound of the river and the rustle of bamboo leaves create a soothing backdrop. Early mornings and evenings are particularly magical, when the crowds thin out and you can truly appreciate the area's tranquil beauty.

For a meal with a view, try Arashiyama Yoshimura, a soba restaurant overlooking Togetsukyo Bridge. Their handmade noodles and seasonal tempura are excellent. Take a scenic ride on the Sagano Romantic Train, which offers beautiful views of the Hozugawa River. Visit the Iwatayama Monkey Park to see Japanese macaques and enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto.

This is a great place to book a stay at a local ryokan (traditional Japanese inn). Or to take a peaceful boat ride down the Hozugawa River, especially beautiful during autumn.

Why I love it: Arashiyama offers a perfect escape from urban life, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the serene landscapes that have inspired Japanese artists and poets for centuries.

Best hotels in Arashiyama

• Best for a boutique stay: Yado Arashiyama. This charming boutique hotel blends traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern comforts. Featuring individually designed rooms, a tranquil garden, and personalized service, Yado Arashiyama offers an intimate and authentic Kyoto experience.
• Best for luxury seekers: Suiran. Nestled along the Hozu River, Suiran epitomizes refined luxury. With opulent rooms, private hot spring baths, gourmet dining, and stunning views of Arashiyama's natural beauty.
• Best for nature enthusiasts: Riverside Arashiyama. Embracing its picturesque setting, Riverside Arashiyama offers serene accommodations with river views. Enjoy easy access to bamboo groves, hiking trails, and outdoor activities while relishing the tranquility of Arashiyama's natural surroundings.

 Browse hundreds of accommodations in Arashiyama to fit any budget.

Best area to stay in Kyoto for culture and history: Nishijin

• My recommendation: Hotel Shun
• Location: Northwest Kyoto, close to historical and cultural landmarks, with good public transport connections.
• Pros: Rich in history and culture, quieter atmosphere, traditional architecture.
• Cons: Further from central attractions.

Nishijin is an area where Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage comes alive, and offers a glimpse into the city’s storied past. This area is steeped in history, with its roots in the Nishijin textile industry, renowned for crafting exquisite silk fabrics for over a millennium.

The Nishijin Textile Center provides an excellent introduction to this craft, with weaving demonstrations and exhibits of traditional kimono. Nearby, the imposing Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, dedicated to the deity of learning, showcases classical Shinto architecture and hosts the famous monthly Tenjin flea market.

A bit further along, you'll find the Kyoto Imperial Palace, a symbol of Japan's historical imperial past.

Don’t miss a stroll through the picturesque Kamishichiken district, Kyoto’s oldest geisha quarter. Here, you can catch a glimpse of traditional entertainment and, if you're lucky, see geiko and maiko performances during the biannual Kitano Odori.

Art enthusiasts should make a stop at the Hokuryu Gallery, where contemporary Japanese art is beautifully displayed in a traditional setting. For a more hands-on experience, join a workshop at one of the many small ateliers scattered throughout Nishijin. 

Why I love it: Its well-preserved traditional architecture, living craft traditions, and quieter atmosphere.

Best hotels in Nishijin

• Best for a traditional experience: Hotel Shun. Immerse yourself in Kyoto's cultural heritage at Hotel Shun. This ryokan-style accommodation offers tatami rooms, private onsen baths, and impeccable service, providing an authentic glimpse into traditional Japanese hospitality.
• Best for long-term stays: Kyoto Yuki provides a home away from home in Nishijin. With spacious apartments, fully-equipped kitchens, and a residential atmosphere, it's perfect for extended stays or travelers seeking a more independent experience.
• Best for budget-friendly socializing: Hostel Sui Kyoto offers affordable dormitory and private rooms in a vibrant setting. With communal spaces, organized events, and a friendly atmosphere, it's ideal for backpackers and solo travelers looking to meet others.

Browse hundreds of accommodations in Nishijin to fit any budget.

Best area to stay in Kyoto for budget travelers: Downtown Kyoto (Kawaramachi)

• My recommendation:  Hotel Forza Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi
• Location: Central Kyoto, close to shopping and dining, with excellent public transport connections.
• Pros: Affordable, vibrant atmosphere, diverse dining options.
• Cons: Can be busy and noisy.

Downtown Kyoto is home to some of Kyoto's most popular shopping and dining destinations. 

Nishiki Market, often called "Kyoto's Kitchen," is a narrow, five-block long shopping street packed with vendors selling local delicacies, fresh produce, and unique Kyoto specialties. Nearby, Teramachi Street and Shinkyogoku Shopping Arcade offer a mix of trendy boutiques, souvenir shops, and long-standing traditional stores, making them perfect for both shopping and people-watching.

The ambience of Downtown Kyoto is lively and energetic, a stark contrast to the serene temples and gardens found elsewhere in the city. The streets are always bustling with neon signs illuminating the streets.

Beyond shopping and dining, there's plenty more to explore in Downtown Kyoto. Take a stroll along the Kamo River, especially beautiful during cherry blossom season. Visit the nearby Pontocho Alley for a glimpse of old Kyoto and possibly a chance to spot geiko or maiko. For art enthusiasts, the Kyoto Museum of Modern Art is within walking distance. Don't miss the opportunity to visit a local sento (public bath) for a truly local experience - Funaoka Onsen is a historic bathhouse that's popular with locals and tourists alike.

Why I love it: Downtown Kyoto offers the perfect blend of convenience, and affordability.

Best hotels in Kawaramachi

• Best for business travelers: Hotel Forza Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi. Modern and efficient, this hotel offers a prime location in Kawaramachi. With sleek rooms, fast Wi-Fi, and a 24-hour business center, it caters perfectly to professionals.
• Best for couples: Hotel Musse Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi Meitetsu. Romantic and intimate, this boutique hotel provides a cozy retreat for couples. Featuring elegantly designed rooms, couple-friendly amenities, and easy access to Kyoto's charming streets.
• Best for budget-conscious travelers: Hotel Forza Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi. Offering excellent value, this hotel combines affordability with quality. Clean, compact rooms, helpful staff, and a central location make it perfect for travelers looking to maximize their budget without sacrificing comfort.

Browse hundreds of accommodations in Kawaramachi at any budget.