Disclaimer: This page may contain affiliate links and I may get a small commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no additional cost to you. Please read my Private Policy for more information. Thank you!
Planning your first-ever trip to Kyoto but don’t know the best hotels in Kyoto to stay at?
Don’t worry; I have got you covered.
Hello there! Sam here, and I am all about making travel easy, fun, and less chaotic, especially for first-time travellers to Japan!
If you are feeling overwhelmed by all the hotel options in Kyoto, I totally get it because I was in your shoes once too!
As someone who is obsessed with making travel stress-free, I have narrowed it down to 11 amazing hotels that are perfect for first-time travelers.
Whether you are here for temple-hopping, matcha tasting, or just soaking up that old Kyoto charm, these stays tick all the right boxes: great locations, good vibes, and easy access to all the must-see spots.
But first, here is a table for easy reference for top 3 hotels to stay in Kyoto so you can just dive right in:
TLDR: Editor’s Top 3 Pick
✅Great location (Near to Kyoto Station!)
✅Cosy rooms with private cypress bathtub
✅Great breakfast selection
✅Free WIFI
✅Just next to Kyoto Station!
✅Spacious & quiet rooms
✅Gym & spa facilities
✅Exceptional breakfast food
Hotel The Celestine Kyoto Gion
✅Great location (Walking distance to Gion, Yasaka Pagoda, Kiyomizudera!)
✅Free walking tour for guests
✅Public onsen bath
✅Outstanding breakfast
TLDR: Where to Stay in Kyoto (Best Hotels + Areas!)
Best Hotels near Kyoto Station
Best Hotels in Downtown Kyoto
Best Hotels in Gion / Higashiyama
Best Hotels in Central Kyoto
Best Hotel in Arashiyama
Best Hotels near Kyoto Station
1. Hotel Kanra Kyoto
⭐️Score: 9.3/10 | 💰Tier: Mid-Range | 🏩 Book Now at Booking.com
✅Great location (Near to Kyoto Station!)
✅Cosy rooms with private cypress bathtub
✅Spa and wellness centre
✅Great breakfast selection
✅Free WIFI
❌No bar lounge
❌No public onsen
📍Ideal for: Short stays (1 to 2 days) with quick, easy access to trains, buses, and minimal travel time around Kyoto
Hotel Kanra Kyoto is one of the best places to stay if you are short on time or want to make the most of a 2-day itinerary!
The hotel is conveniently located near Kyoto Station, making it easy to get around the city by public transport, especially if you are heading to Arashiyama (Western Kyoto) without wasting time on complicated transfers.
Aside from being in great location, the beautifully designed exteriors of Hotel Kanra adds to the charm, making guests feel instantly welcomed and comfortable.
Wonderful hotel which blends Western and traditional Japanese style. Great location and amazingly friendly staff. The rooms are very large, clean and comfortable and the bathroom could be a spa – so relaxing.
– Luciana (SEE MORE REVIEWS)
The addition of private cypress bathtubs in the rooms is a small yet significant luxury that makes all the difference after 20K steps through temples, markets, and gardens!
Here are some of the hotel’s amenities and services:
- On-site restaurant serving Kyoto and Italian cuisine
- Spa and wellness centre
- In-room Nespresso machines
- Bicycle rental service (Extra charge)
- Free luggage storage
Each room comes with a Nespresso machine too, so caffeine lovers can start their mornings with a fresh cup of coffee without the need to hunt down a cafe first thing after waking up.
The hotel offers bicycle rentals for an extra fee, making it easy to discover Kyoto hidden gems or visiting nearby popular neigbourhood like Gion at your own pace.
No worries if you arrive early or having a late check-out.
Hotel Kanra Kyoto provides free luggage storage service to all guests, so you can still roam around Kyoto hands-free before your flight!
If you want a stay that feels peaceful but keeps you close to everything, Hotel Kanra Kyoto is your perfect match.
Book Your Hotel Kanra Kyoto Stay NOW 👇
2. The Thousand Kyoto
⭐️Score: 9.3/10 | 💰Tier: Luxury | 🏩 Book Now at Booking.com
✅Just next to Kyoto Station!
✅Spacious & quiet rooms
✅Gym & spa facilities
✅Exceptional breakfast food
✅Free WIFI
❌Basic bathroom amenities like toothbrush are chargeable
❌Tattooed guests are not allowed to use onsen facilities
📍Ideal for: Short stays (1 to 2 days) with quick, easy access to trains, buses, and minimal travel time around Kyoto
Another great hotel to consider in the Kyoto Station area is The Thousand Kyoto.
In fact, this sleek, luxury-style hotel is located right next to the station!
Its design blends modern elegance with minimalist Japanese interiors, creating a calm atmosphere and spacious, cosy rooms tailored for comfort.
The rooms are quiet too, so you can enjoy a restful, uninterrupted sleep after a full day of sightseeing. Amazing stay! I highly recommend this hotel. Rooms are specious and very clean, location is perfect stuff was very nice and kind. The moment you enter hotel reception you’re blown away with architecture. I spend 2 weeks in Japan in 4 different hotels but this one was the best. I definitely will be back.
– Michal (SEE MORE REVIEWS)
Here are the hotel’s amenities:
- Several on-site restaurants and cafes
- Fitness centre and spa
- Private onsen bath (Extra charge)
- Concierge services
Since the luxury hotel comes with the gym facilities, you can start your morning with a session in the gym before enjoying their highly praised breakfast buffet 😉
The hotel also offers private onsen bath access, making it a perfect amenity for soaking away travel fatigue after a long day out.
So if you want a modern sanctuary right beside the station especially if you have a packed itinerary, The Thousand Kyoto is the one for you.
Best Hotels in Downtown Kyoto
3. Hotel The Celestine Kyoto Gion
⭐️Score: 9.1/10 | 💰Tier: Mid-Range | 🏩 Book Now at Booking.com
✅Great location (Walking distance to Gion, Yasaka Pagoda, Kiyomizudera!)
✅Free shuttle to and from Kyoto Station
✅Free walking tour for guests
✅Public onsen bath
✅Outstanding breakfast
✅Free WIFI
❌Small bar lounge
📍Ideal for: Cultural travellers who want to stay in a traditional, atmospheric area close to iconic Kyoto temples and historic streets
If this is your first time visiting Kyoto and you want to stay somewhere that feels both luxurious and deeply connected to the city’s traditional charm, Hotel The Celestine Kyoto Gion is an excellent choice.
Tucked in a quiet corner of Gion, this lovely hotel gives you the best of both worlds that involves peaceful surroundings and easy access to popular Kyoto Instagrammable spots such as Yasaka Shrine, Yasaka Pagoda, and Kiyomizudera Temple.
The hotel’s interiors blend elegant modern design with traditional Japanese touches, creating a calm and soothing atmosphere from the moment you step in Hotel The Celestine.The property was beautiful, calm, breakfast was lovely and the rooms were nice and spotless. The location was amazing short walking distance to all major attractions in Gion and short walk to the public transport.
– Kathy (SEE MORE REVIEWS)
Hotel The Celestine also offers a free shuttle service to and from Kyoto Station, an incredibly helpful gesture if you plan to explore other parts of the city or take day trips to places like Arashiyama, Nara, or Osaka!
The on-site public bath is perfect for unwinding after a day of temple hopping.
Guests can also join the free guided walking tour that introduces hidden corners and interesting history of Gion.
So if you want a stay that blends history, cozy, and thoughtful touches, The Celestine Kyoto Gion will make you fall in love with the city’s charm.
Book Your Hotel The Celestine Kyoto Gion Stay NOW 👇
4. Tokyu Stay Kyoto Sakaiza
⭐️Score: 9.3/10 | 💰Tier: Mid-Range | 🏩 Book Now at Booking.com
✅Great location (Near to Gion Shijo Station & popular attraction sites like Kiyomizudera Temple and Nishiki Market)
✅Cosy rooms with individual washing machine and dryers & kitchenette
✅Complimentary coffee and sake drinks
✅Free WIFI
❌No breakfast served
📍Ideal for: Families, small groups, and couples looking for a comfortable, central base with in-room amenities like kitchenettes and laundry
If you want a comfortable, no-fuss hotel that feels like a home base in the heart of Kyoto, Tokyu Stay Kyoto Sakaiza Shijo Kawaramachi is a solid choice.
Located in Nakanocho, this crowd-favourite hotel puts you within walking distance of buzzing shopping streets, restaurants, and cultural landmarks such as Pontocho Alley, Nishiki Market, and Kiyomizudera Temple.
Tokyu Stay Kyoto Sakaiza is located near a train station too, making exploring the city and ticking off your Kyoto bucket list ideas a breeze.
Rooms are thoughtfully equipped with everything you need for a convenient stay, especially if you are travelling with family or in a small group.
This accommodation was impeccable. The location is incredible being only minutes away from trains, buses, shopping, cafes and restaurants . A short stroll to the Gion district. The staff are helpful and very friendly and respectful. The room was excellent and quite spacious considering most rooms in Japan are small. Comfy beds and toiletries provided, including complimentary water bottles each day. We especially loved that our room had its own washer and drier. You cannot go wrong with Tokyu Stay Kyoto!
– Silvana (SEE MORE REVIEWS)
Each room includes air conditioning, a kitchenette, and private bathroom, making it easy to prepare simple meals or relax after a day out.
You will also find in-room washing machines, dryers and online streaming services, which are especially helpful for longer stays or when travelling with young kids.
A 24-hour front desk and concierge service are available to help with any questions or travel plans, making your Kyoto stay smooth and worry-free!
So if you love the idea of having your own mini apartment in Kyoto, Tokyu Stay Kyoto Sakaiza will make your dream trip comes true 😉
Book Your Tokyu Stay Kyoto Sakaiza Stay NOW 👇
5. Hotel Resol Kyoto Kawaramachi Sanjo
⭐️Score: 8.6/10 | 💰Tier: Budget | 🏩 Book Now at Booking.com
✅Great location (Walking distance to train station, Nishiki Market, Gion, Pontocho)
✅Cosy rooms with private bathrooms
✅Complimentary Japanese cultural events
✅Free WIFI
❌Third-party breakfast provider at basement (not recommended)
❌No onsen facilities
📍Ideal for: Couples or solo explorers who want a stylish, well-located base without breaking the bank
Located in the heart of downtown Kyoto, Hotel Resol Kyoto Kawaramachi Sanjo is an excellent choice for budget travellers.
This highly-rated sleek hotel balances comfort and design beautifully, with clean, modern rooms that include free Wi‑Fi, comfortable beds, and bathroom amenities.
Guests love the friendly staff and the extra touches such as free cultural events held daily, from calligraphy sessions to small tea gatherings.
This hotel exceeded our expectations. The room was small but very comfortable and clean. The staff went above and beyond to help us out by recommending places, arranging the transport of our luggage, and receiving our packages – all done with so much thoughtfulness. I also loved that they had free cultural events each day. The location is absolutely the best, right in the middle of town and within walking distance of the train station, restaurants and shops. I will definitely stay here again!
– Elsa (SEE MORE REVIEWS)
You will find yourself just steps away from Nishiki Market, the Kamogawa River, and a buzzing array of shops and restaurants in Pontocho, making it easy to dive straight into Kyoto’s vibrant downtown life.
The 24-hour front desk staff are friendly and helpful, ready to assist with restaurant bookings, transport advice, or local recommendations, especially when you are looking to discover authentic local food stalls!
So if you want to stay close to Kyoto’s dining and nightlife scene without spending too much, Hotel Resol Kyoto Kawaramachi Sanjo hits the sweet spot 😉
Book Your Hotel Resol Kyoto Stay NOW 👇
Best Hotels in Gion / Higashiyama
6. Sora Niwa Terrace Kyoto
⭐️Score: 9.2/10 | 💰Tier: Mid-Range | 🏩 Book Now at Booking.com
✅Great location (Near to train stations and iconic attraction sites like Pontocho and Gion!)
✅Cosy Japanese styled modern rooms
✅Stunning rooftop bar and onsen facilities
✅Serves Japanese and Western breakfast
✅Free WIFI
❌To cover tattoos before using the public onsen
❌Breakfast selection are limited
📍Ideal for: Budget first-time travellers who want a touch of ryokan-style luxury complete with hot spring dips right in the city centre
The next best hotel in Kyoto for first-time travellers Sora Niwa Terrace Kyoto.
A stylish hotel located in the heart of Gion, Sora Niwa Terrace Kyoto offers a blend of modern convenience and traditional Japanese aesthetics for budget visitors who want quality without overspending.
Besides, Sora Niwa Terrace Kyoto brings the ryokan onsen experience to the city, offering multiple onsen baths, including a rooftop open-air hot spring with breathtaking views of the Kamogawa River and Higashiyama mountains.
The tatami floored guest rooms are compact yet stylish, equipped with traditional yukata robes and free toiletries.
Aside from being near to popular Kyoto landmarks like Yasaka Pagoda and Pontocho Alley, this wonderful hotel is also ideal for visitors who have a limited time to explore Kyoto or prefer convenience, since it is surrounded by several train stations.
Bathroom is spacious. Room is warmly lit. Hotel was super clean and staff was friendly and professional. The onsen was fantastic, and each of the bath stalls had wall separators. The rooftop was the best, we would go at the end of the day for the hot foot soak and eat some snacks and unwind. Location is 10/10, with train stations close by. Had trips to Fushimi, arashiyama, Nara, and Osaka from here with no issues. Would come back again.
– Christopher (SEE MORE REVIEWS)
You can also enjoy its footbath while having the complimentary drinks during happy hour on its rooftop, making it a perfect way to relax after sightseeing during the day.
For an affordable city hotel with a true Kyoto onsen vibe, Sora Niwa Terrace Kyoto is definitely an unbeatable pick 😉
Book Your Sora Niwa Terrace Stay NOW 👇
7. Kyoto Granbell Hotel
⭐️Score: 8.7/10 | 💰Tier: Mid-Range | 🏩 Book Now at Booking.com
✅Great location (Near to subway stations and Gion and Kiyomizudera Temple)
✅Cosy, quiet rooms with comfy beds
✅Tattoo-friendly public onsen bath with lovely garden view
✅Intimate bar lounge
✅Delicious Japanese and Western breakfast
✅Free WIFI
❌Rooms are too small for some
❌Hot and humid rooms at basement (same row as laundry room)
📍Ideal for: Travellers wanting an affordable stay in Gion near temples, historic streets, and with indoor onsen
If you want to be immersed in the city’s magical Gion district, Kyoto Granbell Hotel is the right hotel for you.
Located just a few minutes’ walk from the subway and Yasaka Shrine, its prime location puts you steps away from historic lantern-lit streets, possible maiko sightings, and romantic riverside scenery.
Kyoto Granbell Hotel’s design combines modern architecture with traditional Japanese elements, featuring tatami-style rooms, comfy beds, and free toiletries.
We had a fantastic 4 nights stay at this hotel. The location is great, good transport links, walking distance to a lot of Kyoto’s main attractions. There are plenty of good restaurants, cafes and bars around but the hotel is very quiet. Staff was very welcoming and helpful. The onsen was the cherry on top of the cake! We used it every single night to unwind after walking around all day. I will definitely book again when I’m back in Kyoto.
– Marisa (SEE MORE REVIEWS)
The main highlight is the on-site public bath, Komorebi, a tattoo-friendly onsen overlooking a small garden.
And after a long day of exploring, this place will definitely feel like a sanctuary 😉
Other convenient amenities in Kyoto Granbell Hotel include:
- A 24-hour currency exchange machine, handy for international travellers
- A restaurant and bar serving delicious Japanese‑and‑Western-style breakfast, evening drinks, and snacks
- On-site laundry facilities
- Free luggage storage
So if you want comfort, convenience, and an onsen that actually welcomes everyone, Kyoto Granbell Hotel is your go-to!
Book Your Kyoto Granbell Hotel Stay NOW 👇
Best Hotels in Central Kyoto
8. Kyomachiya Ryokan Sakura Urushitei
⭐️Score: 8.9/10 | 💰Tier: Budget | 🏩 Book Now at Booking.com
✅Great location (Walking distance to Nishiki Market etc)
✅Cosy Japanese-style rooms with both futon and Western bed options
✅Optional private onsen bath (extra fee)
✅Kimono rental service
✅Conducts traditional Japanese tea ceremony, sake tasting, whiskey tasting
✅Delicious breakfast (rave reviews!)
✅Free WIFI
❌Futon beds may not suit everyone’s comfort preferences
❌Breakfast is available but comes at an additional cost
❌Rooms may have limited soundproofing in certain areas
📍Ideal for: First-time travellers seeking an authentic yet affordable machiya stay in Kyoto
If you want a taste of traditional Kyoto living without straying far from the city center at a budget-friendly price tag, Kyomachiya Ryokan Sakura Urushitei offers one of the most charming stays for first-time visitors.
Located in a quiet street in Shimogyo Ward, this beautifully restored machiya townhouse is just a short walk from Nishiki Market, Gion, and several subway and train stations, offering easy access to Kyoto’s top spots during your trip.
Kyomachiya Ryokan Sakura Urushitei blends classic machiya architecture with modern comforts, offering Japanese-style rooms where guests can choose between futons or Western beds.
I always wanted to experience a stay in a Ryokan, this one highly recommend. We took the western style room but still you can sense the traditional Japanese vibe. The room was spacious and bed was amazing. The whole place was magical, definitely enjoy some time to explore the lobby and the share spaces as there Japanese gardens and even toriis.Love my stay. Wish i could stay longer!
– Aguilar (SEE MORE REVIEWS)
And for a little extra indulgence, you can reserve their private onsen bath for a quietsoak after a day out exploring.
Another highlight of staying here is the cultural experiences available right at this lovely ryokan.
From kimono rentals to Japanese tea ceremonies, sake tastings, and even Japanese whiskey tastings, you can learn and connect with Kyoto’s traditions without even having to leave your accommodation!
The daily Japanese breakfast is another guest favorite, often described as delicious, authentic, and beautifully presented!
So for travellers who want to experience Japanese culture and warmth at a fair price, Kyomachiya Ryokan Sakura Urushitei is a gem 😉
Book Kyomachiya Ryokan Sakura Urushitei Stay NOW 👇
9. Yado Kiramachi
⭐️Score: 9.8/10 | 💰Tier: Luxury | 🏩 Book Now at Booking.com
✅Central location near to Nijo Castle, Gion, train stations
✅Comfy Japanese styled rooms with pretty garden view
✅Open-air private bath
✅AWESOME hospitality!!
✅Free WIFI
❌Steep staircases to upper floor
❌No car park
❌Japanese breakfast is chargeable at min 2200 yen/pax (US$16)
📍Ideal for: Culture-loving travellers looking for an intimate machiya-style stay with modern elegance and outstanding hospitality
If your idea of the perfect Kyoto stay includes quiet mornings, garden views, and traditional Japanese charm with a modern twist, your best bet would be Yado Kiramachi!
Tucked away in a peaceful alley in central Kyoto, this intimate boutique hotel puts you close to iconic landmarks like Nijo Castle, Gion, and Nishiki Market, while still offering a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Their Japanese-style rooms are top notch, many of which overlook a lush courtyard garden.
Everything about this stay was exceptional. The location is incredibly convenient, situated close to both the train station and the bus stop. The host was welcoming and exceptionally helpful throughout our visit. The property itself is spacious and thoughtfully designed, showcasing elegant transitional Japanese architecture. A standout feature of the room was the outdoor bathtub, which provided a truly unique and relaxing experience.
– Zhanglian (SEE MORE REVIEWS)
The cosy room interiors feature tatami flooring, woody elements, and futon beds, creating a calm space ideal for resting after a day of exploring.
One particular feature that most guests raved about is the hotel’s exceptional hospitality.
Aside from being helpful, the hotel staff are warm and genuinely attentive to the guests’ questions and requests, providing a truly personal touch that makes each guest feel valued and well cared for throughout their stay.
So if you love personalised stays and quiet charm, Yado Kiramachi delivers both beautifully 😉
Book Your Yado Kiramachi Stay NOW 👇
10. Nazuna Kyoto Gosho
⭐️Score: 9.4/10 | 💰Tier: Luxury | 🏩 Book Now at Booking.com
✅Great central location near Nijo Castle & Kyoto Imperial Castle
✅Cosy Japanese-style rooms with private open-air bath
✅Public onsen bath
✅Optional traditional tea ceremony
✅AWESOME breakfast
✅Free WIFI
❌Adults-only ryokan (above 13 years old)
❌Pricey
📍Ideal for: Travellers looking for one of the best ryokan-style stays in Kyoto, with private onsen, cultural experiences, and adults-only atmosphere.
Located just a short walk from the Kyoto Imperial Palace, Nazuna Kyoto Gosho is a serene luxury ryokan that masterfully blends traditional kyomachiya architecture with modern comforts.
Each of the seven guest rooms features tatami floors, shoji screens, and warm wood elements, offering a truly authentic and calming Japanese retreat.
Some of the rooms include private open-air hot spring baths too, giving you that ryokan feel without ever leaving your room!
The staff were very friendly and could not have been more helpful. The meals were delicious and beautifully prepared. We really enjoyed the private onsen bath too. The ryokan is only five minutes’ walk from the metro station, so it’s easy to get downtown. Also within easy walking distance are the castle and the Imperial Palace.
– Ad (SEE MORE REVIEWS)
You can also relax in the public hot spring bath, enjoy a massage or spa treatment, and stroll through the tranquil garden.
The on-site irori-style dining offers a sensational way to begin the day, starting with a hearty Japanese breakfast and continuing into rich kaiseki-inspired dinners using local ingredients.
For those on the lookout for deeper cultural experiences, Nazuna Kyoto Gosho also provides a tea ceremony on site.
Booking tips: Only guests over 13 years old are allowed to stay in Nazuna.
Book Your Nazuna Kyoto Gosho Stay NOW 👇
Best Hotel in Arashiyama
11. Hoshinoya Kyoto
⭐️Score: 8.6/10 | 💰Tier: Luxury
✅Scenic riverside location near to Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama and Togetsu-kyo Bridge
✅Stunning Japanese-style villas with tatami floors and private open-air bath
✅Spa & public and private onsen facillities
✅Good breakfast
✅Great customer service
✅Free WIFI
❌Very pricey for suite rooms
❌Prior reservation needed for dinner
❌Short stay (4pm to 10 am)
📍Ideal for: Travellers seeking a once-in-a-lifetime, luxury ryokan retreat in the scenic Arashiyama region
If you want to experience a truly exceptional stay in Kyoto away from the city’s bustle, Hoshinoya Kyoto is the best hotel to stay at.
Located along the Yoshino River in Arashiyama, this backward-in-time-style ryokan is accessible only by a serene 15-minute private boat ride, instantly immersing you in nature and tranquillity
The property comprises just 25 standalone pavilions, each one a small wooden villa with tatami floors, shoji sliding doors, and panoramic windows framing the river and forested hills.
Beautiful ryokan and location; right next to Togetsukyo bridge and the Arashiyama Monkey Park. The staff were wonderful and were kind enough to make a dinner reservation for us at a nearby restaurant. We also rented the private sentou/onsen which was great for couples and people with tattoos.
– Jordan (SEE MORE REVIEWS)
Book Your Hoshinoya Kyoto Stay NOW 👇
Bonus: The 5 Best Areas to Stay in Kyoto for First-Time Travellers
Kyoto is bigger and more spread out than most people expect.
And choosing the right area can totally shape your experience.
If this is your first trip, you will want to stay somewhere well-connected, walkable, and close to the iconic temples, markets, or transport hubs.
Here are the best areas to stay in Kyoto for first-timers:
🛕 Gion / Higashiyama: The heart of old Kyoto, where you will find geisha districts, historic streets, and must-see temples like Kiyomizudera. Ideal area if you are after that “classic Kyoto” vibe.
🚉 Kyoto Station Area : Super convenient if you have only a day or two to explore Kyoto or plan on day trips to Osaka, Nara, or Hiroshima. Packed with modern hotels and easy access to buses and trains.
🏙️ Kawaramachi / Downtown / Pontocho: The lively shopping and dining hub near Nishiki Market and the Kamogawa River. You will be steps from bars, izakayas, and cute cafes, making this ideal place for foodie travellers!
🏘️ Central Kyoto: Slightly quieter but still walkable to everything. Great for a more local feel while staying central.
🌿 Arashiyama: A bit farther out but worth it if you love nature, bamboo groves, and riverside ryokan vibes. Best for a relaxing couple of nights.
FAQ: Best Hotels in Kyoto
How many days is best to stay in Kyoto?
A 3 to 5 day stay in Kyoto is generally recommended to experience the city’s main attractions and cultural highlights. While 3 days allows you to visit Kyoto’s main highlights, 5 days offers a more relaxed pace and the chance to explore cultural experiences, hidden gems, and nearby destinations.
What is the best area to stay in Kyoto?
Here are the best areas to stay in Kyoto for first-time travellers:
– Gion / Higashiyama
– Kyoto Station Area
– Downtown Kyoto
– Central Kyoto
– Arashiyama
Where to stay in Kyoto on a budget?
– Hotel Kanra Kyoto
– Hotel The Celestine Kyoto Gion
– Tokyu Stay Kyoto Sakaiza
– Hotel Resol Kyoto Kawaramachi Sanjo
– Sora Niwa Terrace Kyoto
– Kyoto Granbell Hotel
– Kyomachiya Ryokan Sakura Urushitei
Final Thoughts: Let’s Book The Best Hotel for Your Kyoto Trip
Here you go; the 11 best Kyoto hotels for first-time travellers!
Whether you are visiting Kyoto for temples and tea ceremonies or simply immerse in the old Japan atmosphere, there is something for everyone here no matter your travel style or budget.
So pick the one that speaks to you, drop your bags, and explore Kyoto with ease!
More Kyoto Travel Inspo You Will Love
Booking your stay is just the start!
Kyoto is packed with once-in-a-lifetime experiences, and these detailed articles make sure you do not miss a single one:
- Perfect 1 Day Kyoto Itinerary for First-Time Travelers
- Best Kyoto 3-Day Itinerary (First-Timer Edition)
- 19 Kyoto Onsen Ryokan with Private Baths You Will Love
- Kyoto Bucket List: 31 Unmissable Things You Must Do Before You Leave
- 16 Best Kyoto Food Tours (Eat Like a Local!)
- Best 8 Kyoto Sake Tours (Sake Tasting & Breweries Visit!)
💌 Need a Hand Planning Your Kyoto Stay?
If you have been scrolling hotels for hours and still have no idea where to stay, trust me, I have been there!
When I visited for the first time, I made all the rookie mistakes — stayed too far, wasted hours zigzagging around, and seriously underestimated how BIG Kyoto actually is 😲
I thought I could just “wing it.”
Spoiler alert: I could not 😅
Now I spend my days researching Japan travel for Sam Lee Travel, turning all that trial and error into helpful tips for travellers like you.
So if you want someone who has already done the homework (and survived the chaos), I have got you covered, besties 😉
👉 Click here to learn more about my custom Japan trip planning service
Sam Lee, founder of Sam Lee Travel, is a seasoned traveler with over 10 years of experience exploring various Asian countries. Having lived in Singapore for almost a decade, Sam has developed a deep understanding of the culture, customs, and attractions in the region.
With a passion for outdoor travel adventures and water sports, Sam has helped over 25K readers per month plan their trips around Asia, including off-the-beaten-path destinations, offering helpful travel tips and unfiltered personal travel experience.