Choosing the right type of accommodation in Kyoto – hotel, ryokan, machiya or Airbnb – can quietly make or break your trip. Here’s our simple, practical guide, based on helping thousands of our consulting clients, friends, and family choose where to stay in Kyoto.
With over 1000 Buddhist temples and 400 Shinto shrines, it goes without saying that Kyoto is chock-a-block with hidden gems and secret spots. One of the great joys of sightseeing in Kyoto is finding a quiet temple or shrine and having it all to yourself for an hour or two.
The Glanz Kei Kyoto Station is the best budget / mid-range 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!
Naoshima is Japan’s “art island.” Located in the Inland Sea in western Japan, it’s the perfect addition to the standard Tokyo-Kyoto itinerary. Here’s our full Naoshima guide and map.
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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