Where to Stay in Kyoto: From Centuries-Old Ryokans to Sleek Modern Hotels
Kyoto has been pulling travelers in for centuries. As Japan’s old imperial capital, it offers quiet beauty, ancient temples, and a pace of life that feels different from anywhere else. Even with all the talk of overtourism, the city stays calm once you step away from the busiest spots. I’ve lived in Japan for nearly 20 years, and I can tell you that Kyoto’s hotel scene keeps getting better—and more varied.
Maybe you want to slip into a yukata and soak in a hot spring at a ryokan that’s been around for generations. Or maybe you’re after a minimalist wellness retreat with seasonal tasting menus. Either way, there’s a place here that fits.
For couples, Aman Kyoto is hard to beat—26 rooms tucked into 80 acres of woodland, with stone paths and streams running through maples. Families might prefer the Ritz-Carlton Kyoto along the Kamogawa River, where rooms overlook the water or the Higashiyama mountains. If you want something traditional, Hiiragiya is a classic ryokan with tatami mats, cypress tubs, and in-room kaiseki dinners served on handmade ceramics.
Then there’s the new guard. The Ace Hotel Kyoto, in a century-old building, mixes American energy with local craftsmanship—tacos and DJs alongside paper lanterns and temple-style joinery. The Shinmonzen, a sleek little sister to a French villa, sits quietly in Gion with individually designed suites and jasmine-scented balconies.
For a nature fix, Suiran hugs the Katsura River in Arashiyama, while Hoshinoya Kyoto is only reachable by boat and offers a true escape from modern life. And if you want something truly off the beaten path, the 31-room property in Yase village feels like a James Bond hideout, with forested slopes and hidden temples nearby.
Kyoto’s best neighborhoods depend on your style. Higashiyama is temple-heavy but crowded. Downtown Kawaramachi and Shijo are great for shopping and dining. For peace, try Takagamine or Arashiyama. As for timing, skip July and August—too hot and humid. Autumn is stunning, with brilliant leaves and blue skies, though it’s almost as busy as cherry blossom season. Winter is quiet and perfect for onsen lovers.
Every hotel on this list was visited by a journalist who knows Kyoto inside out. We picked them for design, location, service, and authenticity. Whether you’re here for the food, the culture, or just a beautiful place to rest, these are the best places to stay right now.