I’m a big fan of the Holiday Inn Kyoto Gojo and I’m going to recommend it to my budget clients. It gets nearly everything right: the rooms and spacious for the price, the staff it helpful, the common areas are attractive, the breakfast is good and it’s right near the crucial Gojo-Karasuma intersection for easy access to the subway.
I really like the Garner Hotel Kyoto Shijo Karasuma: It’s an efficient, clean, well-run and convenient hotel right on a subway line and close to downtown. With rates that sometimes drop close to US$100 per room, it’s a fantastic choice for budget travelers.
In the very heart of Downtown Kyoto, the Hilton Kyoto is a full-featured midrange/luxury hotel with a super stylish lobby and comfortable rooms, along with a restaurant, rooftop bar spa and fitness center.
The Glanz Kei Kyoto Station is the best budget/midrange hotel for families. I don’t know how they manage to offer so many features so close to the station at these prices but they do, and that’s all that matters. If you’re traveling with kids and don’t want to break the bank, book this place now!
More great new hotels have opened in Kyoto in last year or so. Most are located in the convenient downtown area and we’re happy to see an effort to showcase local Japanese style. Find more of our favorite new hotels in Kyoto for 2026.
For all the essentials, see my First Time In Kyoto guide
For ideas on how to structure your trip, see my list of Kyoto Itineraries
Here’s a comprehensive list of Things To Do In Kyoto for inspiration and to book ahead where necessary
Do you want help planning your Japan trip? My team of Japan experts at Japan Travel Consulting can help
See my one page guide on Where To Stay In Kyoto for the best neighborhoods and my top hotel picks in every price range
Consider staying in a Kyoto ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn. It’s a quintessential Japanese experience. My comprehensive Kyoto ryokan guide explains what to expect from a stay
There have been some superb new hotels opening in Kyoto in recent years – see Kyoto’s Best New Hotels for an overview
You can buy a Japan eSim SIM card or an unlimited data pocket wifi router online before you arrive in Japan for collection on arrival
View my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
See if the Japan Rail Pass can save you money during your trip
Why it’s essential to have travel insurance for Japan
Travellers to Japan no longer need to supply proof of Covid vaccination or a negative test. We have all the latest news on visiting Japan
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