Hotels in Kyoto

Discover great hotels in Kyoto

Kyoto offers a diverse range of accommodation, from luxurious hotels with stunning views of temples to charming ryokans that embody traditional Japanese hospitality. Enjoy modern comforts alongside historical charm, with options suitable for every budget and travel style, making it an inviting destination for all visitors. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our travelers in Kyoto:

1. Inase Otsu Machiya Bed & Breakfastopens in new window: Inase Otsu Machiya Bed & Breakfast is a charming 2.5-star hotel that caters to leisure travelers looking for comfort and convenience. With a variety of dining options, including a delightful Japanese breakfast, this hotel offers a taste of local cuisine. The accommodation features modern entertainment amenities, ensuring a relaxing stay after a day of exploring Kyoto. Review sentiments highlight the welcoming atmosphere and the perfect balance of quality and affordability, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a distinctive experience without compromising on comfort.
2. Guest House OTSUopens in new window: Guest House OTSU is a 2.5-star guesthouse that provides a unique experience for trend-aware travellers. Known for its inviting environment, this guesthouse includes entertainment options like a flatscreen television, enhancing the comfort of your stay. The positive reviews reflect a genuine appreciation for the homely ambiance and the opportunity to connect with fellow travellers, creating a warm and engaging experience that complements your Kyoto adventure perfectly.
3. Toyoko Inn Kyoto Biwako Otsuopens in new window: Toyoko Inn Kyoto Biwako Otsu is a stylish 2.5-star hotel that offers an excellent retreat for leisure travellers seeking an enjoyable journey. The property is designed with comfort in mind, featuring modern amenities that ensure a pleasant stay. With a focus on relaxation and a distinctive atmosphere, this hotel garners positive sentiments from visitors who appreciate the thoughtful design and attention to detail, making it a great base for exploring the cultural richness of Kyoto.

Top locations to stay in Kyoto

Staying in Uji, Nagaokakyo, and Muko offers unique experiences near Kyoto. Uji is renowned for its picturesque river and historic temples, making it a cultural haven. Nagaokakyo features local breweries and a vibrant atmosphere, while Muko is perfect for nature lovers with its lush parks. For first-time visitors, Uji is best suited due to its rich heritage and accessibility to Kyoto’s attractions.

1. Ujiopens in new window: Uji is a charming city known for its serene riverside views and historic temples, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a peaceful retreat. It's famous for the Byodoin Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its rich tea culture, where you can sample some of the finest matcha in Japan. The picturesque Uji River offers lovely walking paths and cycling routes, perfect for a leisurely day out. With several tea shops and traditional sweets, Uji provides a unique flavour of Japanese culture that’s both relaxing and enriching.
2. Nagaokakyoopens in new window: Nagaokakyo is a hidden gem, particularly for beer enthusiasts and those interested in local festivals. This area boasts a number of breweries and is known for its vibrant seasonal events. Explore the nearby temples and natural beauty surrounding this peaceful town, allowing for a delightful balance of culture and relaxation. Nagaokakyo offers a quieter stay while still being conveniently close to Kyoto's major attractions.
3. Mukoopens in new window: Muko is a quaint town with an emphasis on natural parks and outdoor spaces, perfect for a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life. The area's parks are great for picnics and leisurely strolls, making it a lovely place to unwind. While Muko may be smaller, it offers a genuine experience of local life and access to beautiful landscapes, ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in nature during their stay.

Things to do in Kyoto

Kyoto enchants visitors with its serene landscapes, where rolling hills meet tranquil gardens and vibrant flower displays. Wander through lush forests, enjoy peaceful lakes, and embark on scenic hikes. With opportunities for leisurely strolls and immersive tours, this city invites you to explore its natural beauty and rich heritage.

• Kiyomizu Templeopens in new window – Nestled on the hillside, Kiyomizu Temple offers a stunning view of the cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. As you walk along the wooden stage that juts out over the hillside, take a moment to appreciate the intricate architecture and the serene atmosphere. Don’t forget to visit the Otowa Waterfall below, where you can sip from one of three streams, each believed to grant different wishes.
• Fushimi Inari Shrineopens in new window – Famous for its thousands of vermillion torii gates, Fushimi Inari Shrine invites you to explore its winding paths up the sacred Mount Inari. As you make your way through the gates, the serene surroundings create a perfect backdrop for reflection and photography. The shrine is dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice, and the fox statues scattered throughout are said to be his messengers.
• Nijō Castleopens in new window – Step into Japan’s feudal past at Nijō Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll through its beautiful gardens and admire the exquisite interiors, including the famous “nightingale floors” that chirp as you walk, designed to alert against intruders. The castle’s architecture showcases the elegance of the Edo period, making it a must-see for anyone interested in Japan’s rich history.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Kyoto

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Kyoto is during January, February, and September, when hotel prices tend to be lower. For an enriching experience that covers the city’s key historical and cultural landmarks, a stay of at least 2 to 3 days is recommended. This duration allows visitors to explore magnificent temples, stunning gardens, and significant monuments, as well as enjoy tours and sightseeing opportunities that highlight Kyoto’s rich heritage and natural beauty. By visiting during these months, travellers can enjoy great value for money while immersing themselves in the city’s captivating culture.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To uncover last-minute deals to Kyoto, begin by browsing the Dealsopens in new window or Last-Minute Deals sections on Hotels.com, where you may discover discounted rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. Consider enabling email alerts or push notifications to stay informed about flash sales and special promotions that could help you save. Additionally, the Smart Shopping tool available via the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you're more likely to see the best options. By doing so, you'll be promptly notified if prices drop or if rooms become available, making it easier to secure a last-minute getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate depending on factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates could help you potentially save on your stay in a Kyoto hotel. For those seeking distinctive accommodations, boutique hotels can provide a more personalised experience and sometimes better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we’ll inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher side, we’ll suggest alternative dates that may offer you a more affordable option, helping you to secure a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels situated near the city centre usually tend to be more expensive, but with Kyoto's superb public transport options, you might discover a more affordable independent hotel located a bit further out that remains well connected. For those keen to explore alternative, less populated neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often excellent value for money to be found. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

Best time to go to Kyoto

Kyoto experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 37.8°F (3.2°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 80.2°F (26.8°C). July is usually the wettest month. March, April, and September are the peak travel months in Kyoto, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light to moderate rainfall. On the other hand, May, June, and December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light to moderate rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.