Kyoto Hotels

Top reasons to visit Kyoto

• Rich Cultural Heritage: Kyoto is renowned for its historical significance, with ancient temples, shrines, and the stunning Kyoto Imperial Palace showcasing its vibrant past.
• Enchanting Cuisine: Delight in Kyoto's culinary offerings through enticing food tours that highlight local delicacies and traditional dishes.
• Scenic Urban Parks: The city beautifully blends outdoor spaces with urban life, providing peaceful retreats amidst bustling city streets.
• Charming Accommodations: From traditional inns to modern hotels, Kyoto offers diverse lodging options catering to all travellers.
• Engaging Local Atmosphere: Experience the friendly locals and the serene vibe that make Kyoto a welcoming destination for all.

Find great hotels in Kyoto

Experience the enchanting city of Kyoto with a range of accommodation options tailored to suit every traveller's needs. From welcoming hotels to charming guesthouses, you can find the perfect base for your city-themed adventure. Many establishments offer LGBTQIA-friendly services and family-oriented amenities, ensuring a comfortable stay. Explore the best hotels in Kyoto for an unforgettable vacation amidst stunning temples and vibrant culture.

• RIHGA Royal Hotel Kyoto: Experience luxury and comfort at the RIHGA Royal Hotel Kyoto, a 4-star establishment that caters to a diverse range of travellers, including families and those on business trips. This hotel proudly embraces inclusivity, being LGBTQIA welcoming and affiliated with LGBTQI travel guides. Guests can enjoy amenities designed for children, such as Bed Guards for added safety. The hotel features spacious rooms with modern decor and stunning views of the city, making it an ideal base for exploring Kyoto's rich cultural heritage.
• Sakura Terrace The Gallery: A charming 3-star hotel, Sakura Terrace The Gallery is a perfect choice for those seeking a welcoming atmosphere and a memorable stay in Kyoto. This property is also LGBTQIA welcoming and is associated with LGBTQI travel guides. Guests appreciate the elegant design and artistic flair that permeates the hotel, along with its comfortable accommodations and communal spaces. The terrace offers a serene spot to unwind after a day of sightseeing, while the hotel's friendly staff ensures a pleasant and personalised experience for every visitor.
• Onyado Nono Kyotoshichijo Natural Hot Springs: Immerse yourself in a unique hot spring experience at Onyado Nono Kyotoshichijo Natural Hot Springs. This 3-star ryokan-style accommodation offers guests the chance to relax in its public indoor onsen, featuring natural hot spring water that rejuvenates the body and soul. Ideal for those seeking a traditional Japanese experience, the hotel is designed to provide a tranquil escape from the bustling city. The welcoming atmosphere makes it suitable for both solo travellers and couples looking to unwind in Kyoto's serene surroundings.

Where to stay in Kyoto

Kyoto offers a vibrant mix of culture and history, making it an ideal destination for any traveller. Explore the charming streets of downtown Kyoto, immerse yourself in the atmosphere near Kyoto Station, and discover the serene beauty of the surrounding neighbourhoods. With its friendly locals and relaxing vibe, you'll find countless opportunities to engage with Kyoto's rich heritage while enjoying the city's unique blend of urban life and tranquil retreats.

• Central Kyoto: Nestled in the heart of Kyoto, Central Kyoto is a vibrant hub that seamlessly blends modernity with tradition. With a steady influx of travellers year-round, this neighbourhood peaks during the beautiful cherry blossom season in April and the autumn foliage in October to November. Visitors are drawn here for family outings, city adventures, and business trips alike. Central Kyoto offers an array of shopping areas and bustling public markets, perfect for indulging in local delicacies. Notable attractions include historic sites and relaxing onsens, providing a rich cultural experience alongside contemporary conveniences.
• Gion: Renowned as Kyoto’s famous geisha district, Gion is a charming neighbourhood that transports visitors back in time. Its scenic streets are lined with traditional wooden machiya houses, creating an enchanting atmosphere. Like Central Kyoto, Gion sees a surge in visitors during spring and autumn. It caters to families and business travellers, making it a versatile destination. Guests can explore vibrant shopping areas and local markets while being captivated by the historic places and places of worship scattered throughout the district. Don’t miss the chance to witness a traditional tea ceremony or catch a glimpse of a geisha as they gracefully make their way to appointments.
• Shimogyo Ward: Shimogyo Ward is a lively neighbourhood that perfectly encapsulates Kyoto's dynamic spirit. This area experiences a peak in visitor numbers from September to November, attracting those seeking a mix of family-friendly activities and business opportunities. The bustling shopping areas and public markets provide a taste of local life, while historic temples and places of worship offer quiet contemplation amidst the urban buzz. Shimogyo Ward stands as a testament to Kyoto’s rich heritage, making it an essential stop for those wanting to connect with the city’s illustrious past.

Things to do in and around Kyoto

Kyoto offers a delightful mix of family-friendly, city-themed, and business-oriented activities. Visitors can explore vibrant shopping areas and bustling public markets. Notable experiences include the best tours, enriching day trips, and enticing food tours that showcase the city's culinary delights. Immerse yourself in the rich culture and history while enjoying the unique atmosphere that Kyoto has to offer.

Shopping

Experience Kyoto's vibrant shopping scene at Nishiki Market, a bustling public market filled with local delicacies and souvenirs. For a family-friendly outing, visit Kuzuha Mall, 19.3km from the city, or explore the ShinPuhKan Shopping Center, both offering diverse shopping and entertainment options.

Recreation

Kaya No Sato Country offers a serene retreat with luxurious amenities, perfect for relaxation amidst nature. Funaoka Thermal Bath provides a traditional Japanese onsen experience, promoting wellness and tranquillity. For those seeking physical activity, Nishikyogoku Athletic Stadium hosts various sports events, energising your stay in Kyoto.

Adventure

At Biwako Valley Ski Resort, experience exhilarating skiing amidst stunning landscapes, only 24.1km from Kyoto. The Mt. Hachiman Castle Ruins Lift offers a thrilling gondola ride, perfect for families seeking adventure 32.2km away. Explore the scenic Kurama - Kibune Hiking Trail, nestled within Kyoto's beautiful surroundings.

Nightlife

In Kyoto, Gion Corner offers a captivating blend of romance and culture through its enchanting performances. Meanwhile, the Kyoto Municipal Science Center For Youth provides a family-friendly atmosphere with its engaging planetarium shows. For those seeking adventure, Omiyakotsu Park is a lively arcade zone perfect for all ages.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Kyoto

To save money during your visit to Kyoto, consider travelling in the off-peak months of January to February and September, when accommodation prices are lower. Take advantage of free activities, such as exploring the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Hanamikoji Street. For transport, opt for the subway and bus, which are more economical than taxis. Book your hotel a month in advance or check Expedia for last-minute deals, especially on Tuesdays, which are typically cheaper. Additionally, combining your hotel, flights, and activities through a package can lead to significant savings.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Kyoto are January to February and September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April and October to November, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Kyoto is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Kyoto is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Kyoto is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the most affordable prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel booking in Kyoto with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Kyoto

Kyoto, a perfect destination for families and business travellers alike, boasts a wealth of cultural experiences. Explore iconic sites such as the Kyoto Tower and the historic Kyoto Imperial Palace, or unwind in traditional Japanese inns. The city's blend of temples, shrines, and urban parks offers a delightful mix of outdoor and city experiences, making it an ideal place for those seeking both relaxation and exploration.

• Kiyomizu Temple: Nestled on the eastern hills of Kyoto, Kiyomizu Temple offers breathtaking views of cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. Renowned for its wooden stage that juts out over the hillside, this UNESCO World Heritage site invites visitors to experience traditional Japanese architecture and serene surroundings.
• Fushimi Inari Shrine: Famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, Fushimi Inari Shrine is dedicated to Inari, the Shinto deity of rice. The winding paths leading up the sacred Mount Inari provide a mystical atmosphere, especially when illuminated by lanterns at dusk.
• Kyoto University: As one of Japan's most prestigious institutions, Kyoto University boasts stunning traditional architecture and expansive gardens. Visitors can stroll through its historic campus, absorbing the academic atmosphere and the rich cultural heritage of the area.

Best time to go to Kyoto

The best time to visit Kyoto can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Kyoto falls in August, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Kyoto falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	37.8°F (3.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	39.4°F (4.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	46.0°F (7.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	54.3°F (12.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
May	63.5°F (17.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	70.5°F (21.4°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
July	77.9°F (25.5°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
August	80.2°F (26.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
September	73.0°F (22.8°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
October	62.2°F (16.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
November	52.3°F (11.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
December	42.1°F (5.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Kyoto

Visiting Kyoto is convenient with access to three major airports. Kansai International Airport (KIX) is approximately 80.5km away, with nearby hotel options like the 4-star Hotel Nikko Kansai Airport, just 161m away, and Star Gate Hotel Kansai Airport, located 6.4km from KIX. Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO) is around 96.6km from Kyoto, offering accommodations such as the 4-star Kamenoi Hotel Chitamihama, 9.7km away, and the 3.5-star Centrair Hotel, merely 161m from the airport. Kobe Airport (UKB), situated 64.4km from Kyoto, features the 5-star ANA Crowne Plaza Kobe, 8.0km away, and the 4.5-star Kobe Portopia Hotel, just 3.2km from UKB.