15 Top-Rated Hotels In Kyoto For Every Kind Of Traveler
Kyoto feels like stepping into a timeless postcard—where geishas still glide through cobbled lanes and centuries-old shrines whisper stories of the past. But choosing the right place to stay? That’s what transforms a great trip into an unforgettable one. Do you dream of waking up in a ryokan with tatami floors and garden views?
Prefer a chic boutique hotel in the heart of Gion? Or maybe you’re traveling with kids and need comfort without the sky-high price tag? I’ve sifted through Kyoto’s hotel scene to find stays that match every mood, budget, and itinerary.
Along the way, I’ve uncovered quiet gems near bamboo forests, family-run inns with the kindest hosts, and even hotels where your breakfast comes with a view of Mount Hiei. Wherever you land, Kyoto’s blend of old-world grace and modern hospitality will leave its mark. Ready to discover where to hang your yukata at the end of the day?
1. Ritz-Carlton Kyoto: Riverside Luxury With Japanese Flair
Nestled along the Kamogawa River, this stunning property blends modern luxury with traditional Japanese aesthetics. The hotel’s rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows that frame picturesque views of the Higashiyama mountains or the peaceful river.
I love how they’ve incorporated local artisanship throughout the property, from handcrafted ceramics to washi paper art installations. Their spa offers treatments using local ingredients like green tea and sake.
If you’re celebrating something special, book their tempura restaurant where chefs prepare delicacies right before your eyes. Though pricey, the impeccable service and prime location near Gion make it worth every yen.
2. Hoshinoya Kyoto: Secluded Ryokan Reached By Wooden Boat
Hidden in the verdant hills of Arashiyama, this exclusive retreat requires a charming 10-minute boat ride along the Oi River to reach its entrance.
The journey itself sets the stage for the tranquility that awaits. Each pavilion-style room showcases traditional tatami floors and handcrafted furnishings while offering modern comforts. The property was once an imperial retreat, and that legacy of refined hospitality continues today. When evening falls, lanterns illuminate the pathways through their Japanese gardens.
Don’t miss their kaiseki dining experience – seasonal ingredients are transformed into edible art that reflects Kyoto’s culinary heritage. This place truly captures Kyoto’s soul.
3. Hotel Kanra Kyoto: Machiya-Inspired Boutique Hotel
Machiya townhouses once housed Kyoto’s merchants, and Hotel Kanra brilliantly reimagines this architectural style for modern travelers. Walking into my room felt like stepping into a perfectly curated Japanese home rather than a hotel.
The hinoki cypress bathtubs are a revelation after a day of temple-hopping – just add their custom bath salts for an authentic Japanese bathing experience. Their attention to detail extends to everything from hand-selected ceramics to the specially commissioned art pieces.
Located in central Kyoto, you’re within walking distance of both the station and many attractions. Their restaurant serves innovative Kyoto cuisine that respects tradition while embracing contemporary techniques.
4. Cross Hotel Kyoto: Stylish Urban Retreat For Design Lovers
Situated in downtown Kyoto, this design-forward hotel speaks to travelers who appreciate contemporary aesthetics with Japanese influences. The lobby immediately captivates with its dramatic lighting installation and sleek furnishings that nod to Kyoto’s artistic heritage.
Rooms feature an unexpected color palette of deep blues and purples against neutral backgrounds. I particularly enjoyed their oversized bathrooms with rainfall showers and luxurious amenities from a local brand.
Their rooftop bar offers spectacular night views of the city alongside creative cocktails infused with Japanese ingredients. For shoppers, this location is ideal – you’re surrounded by department stores and boutiques, with the famous Nishiki Market just a short walk away.
5. The Thousand Kyoto: Eco-Conscious Luxury Near The Station
Arriving in Kyoto can be overwhelming, which is why The Thousand’s location just steps from Kyoto Station is such a blessing. Despite being a larger hotel, they’ve created an atmosphere of calm sophistication that feels distinctly Kyoto.
Their commitment to sustainability impressed me – from the living wall in the lobby to their plastic-free initiatives and locally-sourced restaurant ingredients. Rooms blend contemporary design with subtle Japanese elements like washi paper accents and carefully framed views.
After exploring Kyoto’s treasures, I loved returning to their serene spa which features treatments inspired by Japanese wellness traditions. For business travelers or those planning day trips to nearby cities, this hotel offers both convenience and tranquility.
6. Sowaka: Former Teahouse Transformed Into Luxury Hotel
Hidden down a quiet lane in the atmospheric Gion district, Sowaka occupies a century-old teahouse that has been masterfully renovated. The property retains its historic soul while offering thoroughly modern comforts.
My suite featured original wooden beams alongside heated floors and a bathroom that would make a spa jealous. The hotel’s garden is a miniature masterpiece of Japanese landscaping – I spent hours watching it change with the light from my private terrace.
Their restaurant, La Bombance Gion, holds a Michelin star for its innovative kaiseki cuisine. With just 23 rooms, the personalized service makes you feel like an honored guest in a private residence rather than a hotel visitor. This place captures Kyoto’s refined elegance perfectly.
7. Hotel The Celestine Kyoto Gion: Perfect Location For Temple Hopping
Wedged between the historic Gion district and the temple-filled Higashiyama area, The Celestine offers unbeatable access to Kyoto’s most famous sights. After just a five-minute walk, I found myself at Yasaka Shrine and the entrance to Maruyama Park.
Though relatively new, the hotel embraces traditional elements like their serene tatami-floored relaxation lounge where complimentary tea and sweets are served each afternoon. Rooms are compact but intelligently designed with thoughtful touches like Japanese pajamas and premium toiletries.
Don’t miss their public bath on the top floor – soaking while gazing at the surrounding hills is the perfect way to end a day of exploration. For first-time visitors to Kyoto seeking both comfort and authentic experiences, this hotel hits all the right notes.
8. Ace Hotel Kyoto: Hip Creative Hub In A Kengo Kuma Building
When renowned architect Kengo Kuma designed the first Ace Hotel in Asia, he created something truly special. The building beautifully incorporates parts of the historic Kyoto Central Telephone Office with contemporary additions that honor local craftsmanship.
Rooms feature turntables with vinyl records, custom-made robes, and artwork from Japanese artists. The hotel’s public spaces buzz with creative energy – I spent hours people-watching in the lobby while sipping excellent coffee from their in-house roastery.
Their restaurants draw both travelers and locals, especially the rooftop bar with its panoramic city views. Located in the downtown shopping district, you’re surrounded by boutiques, cafes, and easy transport connections. This is where Kyoto’s past and future harmoniously collide.
9. Kyoto Brighton Hotel: Family-Friendly Luxury With Spacious Rooms
Finding hotels in Japan that comfortably accommodate families can be challenging, which makes the Kyoto Brighton such a welcome discovery. Their rooms are significantly larger than typical Japanese accommodations, with options for connecting rooms or family suites.
Kids receive special welcome amenities, and the staff goes out of their way to make young travelers feel important. The location in northern Kyoto puts you near the Imperial Palace grounds – perfect for letting energetic children run around after sitting still during temple visits.
Their breakfast buffet offers both Western and Japanese options to satisfy picky eaters. Though slightly removed from the main tourist areas, the peaceful surroundings and attentive service make this an excellent base for families exploring Kyoto.
10. Noku Kyoto: Boutique Gem Near The Imperial Palace
Tucked away on a quiet street across from Kyoto Imperial Palace, Noku combines the intimacy of a boutique hotel with thoughtfully designed spaces. The moment you step inside, the scent of hinoki wood and the warm lighting signal that this is no ordinary hotel.
Each room features artwork from local artisans and custom furniture that makes clever use of the space. Their beds deserve special mention – I had some of my best sleep in Japan on their plush mattresses with high-thread-count linens.
Breakfast is a highlight, with everything made in-house including their amazing bread and pastries. The staff maintains a detailed map of staff recommendations that led me to wonderful neighborhood spots I would have otherwise missed. This place feels like your stylish pied-à-terre in Kyoto.
11. Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Shijo: Smart Mid-Range Option In The City Center
Budget-conscious travelers who don’t want to sacrifice location or comfort will appreciate this well-run property in the heart of downtown Kyoto. Despite its reasonable rates, the hotel offers surprisingly stylish rooms with thoughtful amenities like humidifiers and quality toiletries.
Their public bath on the top floor quickly became my evening ritual – nothing beats soaking tired muscles while watching the city lights come on. The breakfast buffet features local specialties alongside international options at a fair price.
Located just off Shijo Street, you’re steps away from shopping, dining, and transport connections. For the price point, it’s hard to find a better combination of location, cleanliness, and comfort in central Kyoto. This is my go-to recommendation for friends who want value without compromising on experience.
12. Kyoto Granbell Hotel: Affordable Style In The Heart Of Gion
Finding affordable accommodation in Gion – Kyoto’s famous geisha district – seems impossible until you discover the Kyoto Granbell. This stylish property offers remarkably reasonable rates given its prime location just steps from Yasaka Shrine and traditional tea houses.
Rooms are compact but cleverly designed with contemporary Japanese aesthetics. Their rooftop terrace bar provides stunning views over eastern Kyoto and the surrounding mountains – I recommend enjoying a craft cocktail there at sunset.
The hotel’s public bath uses water from natural hot springs, offering authentic onsen experience without leaving the property. For travelers who prioritize location and atmosphere over spacious rooms, this hotel delivers exceptional value while putting you in the heart of historic Kyoto.
13. Yoshikawa Inn: Historic Ryokan Famous For Tempura
Housed in a beautifully preserved traditional building, Yoshikawa Inn offers just eight rooms for guests seeking an intimate ryokan experience. Each room overlooks their picture-perfect garden with its central koi pond – a view that changes magnificently with the seasons.
What truly sets Yoshikawa apart is their renowned tempura restaurant where the chef creates impossibly light, crisp morsels right before your eyes. Many guests book here specifically for this culinary experience, which has been perfected over generations.
The inn provides traditional hospitality in all aspects – sleeping on futons laid out on tatami floors, soaking in cedar baths, and wearing yukata robes. Located in central Kyoto near the Imperial Palace, this ryokan offers authentic Japanese accommodation without requiring travel to remote locations.
14. Hotel Ethnography Gion Furumonzen: Machiya Stay With Modern Comforts
Scattered throughout Gion are these lovingly restored machiya townhouses that offer the experience of staying in a traditional Kyoto home without sacrificing modern conveniences. Each machiya accommodates just one booking at a time, providing complete privacy.
The buildings retain authentic features like wooden beams, tatami rooms, and tiny gardens, while bathrooms and kitchens have been thoughtfully modernized. I particularly appreciated the heated floors during my winter stay and the deep soaking tubs.
Staying here means becoming a temporary resident of Gion – shopping at local markets and experiencing the neighborhood after day-trippers have departed. For travelers seeking authenticity and independence, this offers a more immersive experience than conventional hotels while providing the security of professional management.
15. Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto: Ultra-Luxury Amid Ancient Gardens
Set within an 800-year-old ikeniwa (pond garden), the Four Seasons brings its signature luxury to a setting of extraordinary cultural significance. The hotel was built around the historic garden, allowing guests to experience the changing seasons from their rooms or while dining.
Suites feature floor-to-ceiling windows framing garden views, alongside traditionally inspired details like washi paper lamps and local artwork. Their spa incorporates seasonal Japanese wellness rituals – I recommend the green tea scrub followed by a bamboo massage.
Though located in the temple-rich Higashiyama district, the property feels like a secluded sanctuary. The hotel can arrange exclusive experiences like private temple visits or lessons with master craftspeople. For those seeking the ultimate in luxury while connecting with Kyoto’s cultural heritage, this property is unmatched.