The Best Hotels in Kyoto

Kyoto, once the capital of Japan, is a city steeped in history and traditional Japanese culture, where ancient temples, shrines, and beautifully preserved machiya houses coexist with modern architecture and amenities. Kyoto offers a journey through Japan's rich cultural heritage amidst its seasonal beauty, especially during cherry blossom and autumn leaf seasons. We recommend checking out these neighborhoods: Gion, the city's most famous geisha district, is known for its traditional wooden machiya houses, teahouses, and its role in preserving classical Japanese arts; Higashiyama, one of Kyoto's best-preserved historic districts, offers a journey through time with its narrow lanes, wooden buildings, and iconic Kiyomizudera temple; Nakagyo, the city's downtown area, combines modernity and history with its shopping arcades, traditional merchant houses, and the historic Nijo Castle; Shimogyo is a bustling area that includes Kyoto Station and offers a mix of hotels, shopping centers, and historical attractions such as Higashi Honganji temple.

Situated in Kyoto's historic district, this contemporary resort was designed by renowned architect Kengo Kuma and features 213 rooms, combining traditional tatami mat flooring with custom-designed furniture. Its curated amenities include a well-equipped fitness center, a tranquil spa, and a garden courtyard.

A diverse array of on-site dining options are available, including a fusion of international and Japanese cuisine, a lobby café, and a local izakaya-style bar offering a selection of Japanese whiskey and sake. The hotel also promotes a rich cultural program with regular art exhibitions, workshops, and live performances.

Nestled within 80 acres of gardens and bordered by the Hidari Daimonji Forest, this retreat pays homage to the traditional ryokan inn, with minimalist accommodations consisting of 24 guest rooms and two villas. Accommodations include floor-to-ceiling windows and soothing onsen bathing facilities.

Dining options are inspired by the region's culinary heritage and showcase locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients through multi-course menus in both à la carte and signature kaiseki styles, while the more casual café and bar serve beverages and light bites. Also on offer are dedicated wellness treatments, including personalized spa experiences and yoga sessions.

This boutique hotel offers stylishly designed rooms with bespoke amenities, including technology, spa-inspired bathrooms, and city views. Visitors can take advantage of the hotel's proximity to iconic sites such as Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Nijo Castle. The hotel is also well-connected to public transportation, making it a perfect base to explore the city.

Dining options are plentiful, with the in-house restaurant serving up seasonal cuisine with locally-sourced ingredients, and a lounge bar serving signature cocktails. The hotel also features a fitness center, a relaxing spa, and a dedicated concierge team.

This 5-star hotel fuses French elegance and Japanese tradition with comfortable rooms and technological amenities. Located within walking distance of popular historical sites, the hotel offers convenient access to shrines, temples, and gardens.

Guests can dine on-site in venues that balance French gastronomic expertise and Japanese flavors. Visitors are also welcome to enjoy the wellness and leisure facilities, including a spa and fitness center.

Featuring serene garden views, this five-star hotel provides easy access to nearby landmarks. With a kaiseki restaurant, a fusion teppanyaki eatery, and an all-day dining option on-site, guests have access to a variety of Japanese flavors, while other amenities include a spa, an indoor pool, and a fitness center.

One notable feature of this hotel is its 800-year-old Shakusui-en pond garden, highlighting Kyoto's landscape design history. The property's accommodations consist of 123 spacious guest rooms and 57 suites, featuring local crafts and natural elements from tatami-style living spaces to wood-enclosed baths.

Nestled within Kyoto's historic Gion district, this ryokan is just a short walk away from popular attractions and provides easy access to public transportation. Each spacious guest room features traditional tatami mats, shoji screens, and futons, complemented by en-suite bathrooms and minibar offerings. Guests can try a kaiseki-style dinner, featuring the freshest seasonal and locally-sourced ingredients at the on-site restaurant or enjoy peaceful indulgence at the in-house spa with treatments drawn from time-honored Japanese traditions.

Grace Villa Nijo Castle offers travelers a blend of impeccable service, luxurious amenities, and finely-appointed rooms. Ideally located near the historic Nijo Castle, the hotel serves as a gateway to the city's many attractions, such as the famous geisha district of Gion, the Golden Pavilion, and the lush Kyoto Imperial Palace.

The serene and minimalist rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows and are equipped with modern amenities such as a flat-screen TV, complimentary Wi-Fi, and an en-suite bathroom. The hotel's gastronomic offerings range from Japanese and Western cuisines to a tea lounge that serves traditional Kyoto sweets.

With a prime location just a 5-minute walk from the Kyoto Shichijo Station and a 12-minute stroll from Kyoto-eki, guests to this hotel will be surrounded by rich history and culture. The hotel offers 68 guest rooms, each designed to showcase a blend of modern aesthetics and timeless Japanese craftsmanship.

Guests can indulge in one of the city's finest spas, unwind at the bar-lounge space while enjoying a selection of cocktails, wines, and light bites, or try the in-house Japanese restaurant serving Kyo-kaiseki cuisine. For a more immersive experience, various cultural activities are available, such as tea ceremonies and traditional craft workshops.

Hotel Okura Kyoto offers easy access to the city's renowned attractions, including Kiyomizu-dera Temple and the famed Gion district. With 508 well-appointed rooms, guests can choose from accommodations ranging from cozy spaces to spacious suites that incorporate traditional design elements.

Among the property's facilities, travelers will find dining options that include a variety of authentic Japanese cuisine and French flavors. The property also features multiple meeting facilities, a fitness center, a rejuvenating spa, and an indoor swimming pool.

Situated in the Okazaki area of Kyoto, this hotel features stunning architecture, which seamlessly combines classic Japanese touches with contemporary design elements. Its spacious guest rooms and suites offer views of the Higashiyama hills while staying close to the city center and cultural hubs.

Guests can try local Japanese culinary delights in one of the hotel's restaurants, rejuvenate at the property's spa, or unwind at the bar, which serves inventive cocktails with local ingredients.

At this property located in Kyoto's Gion district, guests can select from 157 rooms and suites, each furnished with plush bedding, beautiful local artwork, and state-of-the-art amenities. The hotel also features a wellness spa, a tranquil Japanese garden, and a rooftop bar with lovely views.

The on-site dining options include a Japanese restaurant offering local cuisine, as well as an all-day dining café ideal for a casual meal or afternoon tea. Guests can unwind with a massage at the wellness spa or spend an evening in the serene Japanese garden, and the hotel staff are available to provide expert recommendations on nearby attractions.

Surrounded by vibrant cultural sites and renowned shopping areas such as Nijo Castle and Nishiki Market, this property features spacious guest rooms, each designed with a private garden or terrace. The hotel features a thermal spring spa, treatment rooms, and private onsen baths, as well as a well-equipped fitness center, customizable event spaces, and complimentary Wi-Fi.

The on-site dining options include a fine dining restaurant offering seasonal menus with locally-sourced ingredients and a teppanyaki eatery with an interactive experience. The all-day dining café serves a fusion of international and Japanese flavors, while the lounge serves crafted beverages and small bites.

Situated in Kyoto's cultural district, Higashiyama Shichijo, this hotel provides 187 guest rooms and suites conveniently located near many famous temples, museums, and scenic gardens.

Adding to the guest experience, this hotel features an award-winning restaurant serving contemporary European cuisine, a traditional teahouse, a Japanese grill, and a sophisticated Sushi bar. After a day of exploring the city, guests can relax at the on-site spa or indulge in cocktails at the bar.

With only seven spacious rooms, each designed with modern comforts and traditional aesthetics, guests can experience tatami mat flooring, Japanese-style futons, and private open-air baths at this boutique hotel. Situated in the heart of the city, the property is within walking distance of some of Kyoto's most iconic landmarks.

During their stay, guests can try the culinary experiences on offer, including full-course kaiseki dinners, as well as a daily breakfast served in-room.

Located in Kyoto's historic Gion district, this traditional ryokan offers 13 guest rooms, each featuring tatami mat flooring, futon bedding, and shoji paper screens, combining comfort with an authentic Japanese atmosphere. On-site features include a public bath with natural mineral hot spring water and a tranquil garden.

The in-house restaurant serves Kyoto-style kaiseki cuisine, placing emphasis on seasonal and locally-sourced ingredients. Guests will receive attentive Kyoto hospitality and appreciate the proximity to popular attractions throughout their stay.

Situated in an idyllic setting near Kamo River, this hotel offers easy access to iconic landmarks, renowned temples, and culinary experiences, while the guest rooms provide relaxation and comfort.

From the curated in-room tea selections to the soothing onsen-style bathing facilities to the local artworks decorating the interiors, each detail has been crafted to provide an authentic Kyoto experience.

Alongside Kamo River in the heart of Kyoto, this hotel offers 80 rooms and suites featuring calming color palettes, floor-to-ceiling windows, and custom furnishings crafted from local materials. The hotel also features an art collection, a serene river-view terrace, and a sophisticated rooftop bar.

The on-site restaurant, led by a Michelin-starred chef, showcases seasonal menus and city views, while the hotel's commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly practices is reflected through the use of locally-sourced ingredients, curated in-room amenities, and a collection of spaces for relaxation or work. The property is also situated within walking distance of many of Kyoto's famous attractions.

This 5-star hotel is a short walk from Nijo-jo Castle, providing guests with easy access to the city's famous sights and attractions. Housed in a restored 1800s townhouse, the property features six guest rooms, each inspired by different aspects of Japan's rich cultural heritage. Amenities include private outdoor baths, sumptuous bedding, and personalized butler service during your stay.

The hotel's interiors are decorated with works of art by celebrated Japanese artisans, while the garden and tea ceremony room provide backdrops for relaxation and contemplation. In addition, the on-site restaurant serves seasonal kaiseki cuisine, marrying fresh ingredients with centuries-old culinary techniques.

Conveniently located near popular attractions such as the Nishiki Market and Kyoto Imperial Palace, Node Hotel features spacious guest rooms, each with amenities that include complimentary Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and flat-screen televisions.

The hotel's onsite gallery and art space host seasonal exhibitions, film screenings, and live performances, acting as a hub for creative minds and art enthusiasts. An in-house restaurant offers a fusion of Japanese and Western cuisine, highlighting locally-sourced ingredients and the celebrated culinary traditions of Kyoto.

Tucked away in the heart of the ancient city, this boutique hotel comprises 81 rooms and suites, with amenities including an onsite spa, a restaurant offering farm-to-table dining, and a bar housing an extensive collection of artisanal Japanese whiskies.

Located in close proximity to UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Nijo Castle, and Kyoto Imperial Palace, this hotel's location allows for easy city exploration. Guests also have access to concierge services that can arrange cultural activities such as tea ceremonies, geisha performances, and private temple tours.

Just moments away from one of the city's most iconic UNESCO World Heritage sites, Park Hyatt Kyoto houses 70 guest rooms, including 9 specialty suites.

Dining experiences await visitors, with a choice of four on-site restaurants, offering multi-course Japanese Kaiseki to authentic Italian cuisine, while innovative design features blend indoor and outdoor spaces. In addition to the culinary offerings, visitors can relax at the wellness center or take part in cultural activities such as tea ceremonies and Ikebana flower arrangement classes.

Located in a traditional Japanese neighborhood, this hotel offers 114 guest rooms and suites with each room decorated with locally-inspired décor and handcrafted furnishings. Visitors can take in the ambiance of the Japanese gardens, explore the alleyways revealing hidden shrines and temples, or venture into the city to discover Kyoto.

The on-site dining venues showcase sophisticated twists on traditional Japanese and international cuisine, while the hotel spa offers therapeutic treatments and practices inspired by local well-being philosophies.

This tranquil ryokan offers only five guest rooms, each with antique furniture, tatami floors, and shoji screens, paired with modern amenities such as Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and an en-suite bathroom. Unwind in the peaceful gardens that surround the ryokan, or indulge in the on-site hot spring baths.

The culinary offerings served at this ryokan include traditional kaiseki cuisine, guided by seasonal ingredients sourced from local markets. Complementing the dining experience, guests also have access to a carefully curated selection of sake and wines.

Surrounded by bamboo forests and adjacent to the Togetsukyo Bridge, this ryokan offers just 12 spacious guest rooms, each featuring traditional tatami mat flooring, a private garden view, and an en-suite bathroom with a wooden soaking tub. Guests can try Japanese kaiseki cuisine, prepared with seasonal ingredients and served in the privacy of their rooms, while the picturesque tea house serves authentic tea ceremonies.

Just a short walk from the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and local temples, it is the ideal base to explore Kyoto's scenic and historic attractions. Guests can treat themselves to a massage or unwind in a public or private hot spring bath on-site, a preferred way to relax in Japan.

This charming inn offers rooms that blend traditional elements with modern comfort, just steps away from iconic sights, such as temples and local gardens. The inn's central location and convenient access to public transportation make it an ideal base for exploring all that Kyoto has to offer.

Each of the rooms features tatami mat flooring, futon bedding, and shoji screens, providing a serene and minimalist atmosphere. Guests can also enjoy the on-site tea room where they can partake in an authentic tea ceremony or enjoy the garden views.

With its ideal location in the historic Arashiyama district in Kyoto, this hotel offers 39 rooms, combining classic ryokan-style interiors with contemporary amenities. Guests can unwind at the spa or explore the surrounding bamboo groves and sacred temples.

The on-site restaurants artfully combine regional flavors and international dishes; the riverside dining venue offers views of the surrounding hills, while the bar offers a selection of cocktails and whiskies.

This hotel features a convenient location near the iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple and the picturesque Gion District. The spacious guest rooms and suites are designed with the utmost care, featuring tatami mats, shoji screens, and soothing stone baths.

The omakase-style kaiseki dinner, features locally-sourced ingredients, while the traditional Japanese breakfast prepares you for a day of exploring. Guests can also relax and unwind in the hotel's natural hot spring bath.

Along the banks of the Kamogawa River, this five-star retreat offers 134 rooms and suites designed to incorporate elements of nature. The property's amenities include a spa, fitness center, indoor swimming pool, and a collection of Japanese gardens.

The hotel offers four on-site fine-dining options, including a Michelin-starred French restaurant and a traditional Japanese kaiseki restaurant. For an elevated afternoon tea experience, the hotel's teahouse-inspired lounge serves a range of beverages and desserts. Proximity to iconic attractions makes it an ideal base for exploring, while the dedicated concierge team ensures a personalized and memorable visit.

This boutique hotel, situated a five-minute walk from the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Nijo Castle, offers an ideal location for guests to immerse themselves in Japan's rich cultural offerings.

Each of the 108 guest rooms features a minimalistic design, complemented by amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and premium bath essentials. Inspired by the concept of a "canvas", the hotel incorporates various elements of the art world, showcasing local pieces and fostering a creative space. In addition, an on-site café and bakery and a contemporary rooftop bar offer culinary experiences with a focus on locally sourced and seasonal ingredients.

This boutique hotel offers its guests a prime location, with easy access to attractions such as Kiyomizu-dera and Nijō Castle. The hotel features 13 individually-designed rooms, while amenities include a limousine service, mobile phone rentals, and private guided tours.

A fine dining experience awaits featuring innovative international dishes with Japanese flair, sourcing seasonal ingredients from the region. The hotel also has a rooftop terrace with views of the surrounding cityscape and the on-site garden.

Located in a picturesque area of Kyoto, this hotel provides a modern, minimalist design, inspired by traditional Japanese elements. Additionally, each comfortable room is equipped with essential amenities such as Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and a private bathroom.

During their stay, guests can taste an array of flavors at the hotel's on-site eatery which specializes in fusion cuisine. To further enhance the experience, the hotel provides access to a tranquil courtyard and a well-equipped fitness center.

With only 25 guest rooms, this hotel promises personalized attention to all guests and provides an ideal location within walking distance of Nishiki Market and Nijo Castle.

The guest rooms showcase a blend of minimalist décor and Japanese craftsmanship, featuring original artwork, beautiful tatami mat flooring, and plush bedding. Its amenities include high-speed Wi-Fi, flat-screen televisions, and a private onsen or Japanese soaking tub in select rooms. The adjacent restaurant serves a selection of dishes that celebrate the local cuisine and seasonal ingredients.

Tucked away in the heart of Kyoto, this boutique hotel features five exclusive guest rooms, with services that include traditional tea ceremonies and a dedicated concierge. Each room is decorated with authentic Japanese décor, offering a balance between tranquility and modern amenities.

A serene breakfast experience of traditional and freshly-prepared offerings is available each morning. Arranged private island dinners are available, where a dedicated chef serves multi-course Kaiseki cuisine with seasonal ingredients.

This ryokan offers an authentic Japanese experience featuring 17 guest rooms with traditional elements such as tatami mat flooring, shoji paper screens, and wooden ofuro baths. These amenities are paired with comforts like Wi-Fi access, air-conditioning, and flat-screen TVs. The hotel's convenient location near famous landmarks also makes it an ideal base for exploring the historic city.

Guests can try an artfully-presented kaiseki dinner using seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients, or enjoy the ambiance of the ryokan's private onsen with natural hot spring water.