Kyoto Hotels

Top reasons to visit Kyoto

• Stunning Temples and Shrines: Kyoto is renowned for its beautiful temples and shrines, including the iconic Kinkaku-ji and Fushimi Inari Taisha.
• Cultural Experiences: Engage in traditional tea ceremonies and guided tours that highlight the city's rich history.
• Vibrant Neighbourhoods: Explore the bustling streets of Gion and discover local markets filled with authentic cuisine.
• Scenic Nature: Enjoy peaceful strolls in urban parks and the serene landscapes of Arashiyama.
• Diverse Accommodation: Choose from luxurious hotels to charming guesthouses to suit all preferences and budgets.

Find great hotels in Kyoto

Discover a diverse array of accommodation options in Kyoto, from luxurious hotels to charming guesthouses. Whether you seek a lavish stay near iconic attractions or accessible lodgings tailored for families and LGBTQIA travellers, Kyoto has something to offer everyone. With hot spring-themed experiences and welcoming atmospheres, your stay in this historic city promises to be both comfortable and memorable.

• RIHGA Royal Hotel Kyoto: A luxurious 4-star haven in the heart of Kyoto, RIHGA Royal Hotel Kyoto caters to families, business travellers, and the LGBTQIA community with its inclusive atmosphere. This hotel features a range of business amenities, including accessible meeting rooms and a dedicated business centre, ensuring a productive stay. Families will appreciate the thoughtful child-friendly facilities, such as bed guards for younger guests. With its elegant design and excellent service, the hotel provides a refined base from which to explore the cultural treasures of Kyoto.
• Sakura Terrace The Gallery: This charming 3-star accommodation offers a warm and welcoming environment for LGBTQIA travellers. Sakura Terrace The Gallery is known for its artistic flair and modern aesthetic, providing a unique experience for guests. The property features comfortable rooms and a communal terrace where guests can relax and socialise after a day of sightseeing. With its focus on inclusivity and comfort, this hotel is an excellent choice for those seeking a friendly atmosphere while discovering Kyoto's vibrant culture.
• Onyado Nono Kyotoshichijo Natural Hot Springs: For a truly relaxing retreat, Onyado Nono Kyotoshichijo Natural Hot Springs offers a serene 3-star experience centred around its natural hot spring facilities. Perfect for travellers looking to unwind, this ryokan features public indoor onsen areas that invite guests to indulge in rejuvenating soaks. The warm, traditional Japanese hospitality adds to the charm, making it an ideal choice for those wanting to immerse themselves in local culture while enjoying the therapeutic benefits of hot springs.

Where to stay in Kyoto

Kyoto, the ancient capital of Japan, offers a remarkable blend of culture and history, making it a premier destination for all types of travellers. From the serene temples of Arashiyama to the vibrant streets of Gion, you’ll immerse yourself in the city's rich heritage. Nearby regions, like Uji and Nara, provide a tranquil escape with their historic sites and beautiful landscapes. Experience the warmth of friendly locals as you explore this enchanting metropolis.

• Kyoto: As the former capital of Japan, Kyoto is a city steeped in history and culture, nestled in the picturesque Kansai region. The city attracts visitors year-round, with peak periods in March to April and September. Travellers flock here for various experiences, including family outings, business trips, and urban exploration. Kyoto's rich tapestry of attractions includes historic sites such as Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, and numerous bustling shopping areas and markets. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in a relaxing onsen or visit one of the many sacred temples that dot the landscape.
• Central Kyoto: Central Kyoto is a vibrant neighbourhood that serves as the heart of the city, where traditional Japanese culture meets modern urban life. Visitors can explore this area throughout the year, with heightened activity in April and from October to November. It's an ideal destination for families and business travellers alike, offering a variety of shopping districts and lively public markets. Highlights include the Kyoto Tower and the nearby theme parks, along with the opportunity to unwind in local onsens, providing a refreshing blend of relaxation and adventure.
• Gion: Gion, the famous geisha district of Kyoto, is an enchanting neighbourhood known for its traditional wooden machiya houses and vibrant atmosphere. Like the rest of Kyoto, Gion sees steady visitor numbers, with peaks in April and October to November. This area is particularly popular for its cultural experiences, shopping areas, and public markets. Gion is home to historic landmarks such as Kiyomizu-dera Temple and offers a unique opportunity to witness the art of geisha performances. Strolling through its lantern-lit streets at dusk, you may catch a glimpse of a geisha on her way to an appointment.

Things to do in and around Kyoto

Kyoto offers a delightful blend of activities suitable for families and business travellers alike. Visitors can explore vibrant shopping districts and bustling public markets, providing a taste of local culture and cuisine. Additional experiences include traditional tea ceremonies, temple visits, and guided tours that showcase the city's rich history and stunning architecture, ensuring a memorable stay in this enchanting city.

Shopping

Nishiki Market offers a vibrant atmosphere for exploring local delicacies and handcrafted souvenirs, while Kawaramachi Street is perfect for family-friendly shopping, featuring a mix of boutiques and eateries. For a unique experience, Pontocho Alley combines entertainment with shopping, offering a delightful stroll through its charming narrow lanes.

Recreation

Nishikyogoku Athletic Stadium offers an energetic atmosphere for sports enthusiasts, perfect for engaging in various athletic activities. For ultimate relaxation, Funaoka Thermal Bath provides a tranquil setting with rejuvenating treatments that soothe the body and mind. Don’t miss the Kyoto Concert Hall, where vibrant performances uplift the spirit.

Adventure

Take a ride on the Mt. Otokoyama Cable Car for breathtaking views of Kyoto's landscape. Hike the Fushimi-Inari-Taisha Pilgrimage Circuit, where you'll encounter stunning scenery and serene trails. For winter sports, head to Biwako Valley Ski Resort, located 24.1km from Kyoto, for thrilling skiing adventures.

Nightlife

Experience the enchanting Gion Corner for cultural performances, then marvel at the stars at the Kyoto Municipal Science Center for Youth's planetarium. For a thrilling night, visit Omiyakotsu Park's arcade, where adventure awaits in a vibrant atmosphere filled with excitement and fun.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Kyoto

Kyoto offers numerous ways to save money during your visit. Enjoy free attractions like the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Hanamikoji Street. For budget-friendly transport, consider using the subway or buses. The best time to visit is during the off-peak months of January, February, and September, with Tuesday being the least expensive day to book accommodation. Use Expedia's tools to find affordable hotels, and consider booking a package that combines flights and activities for extra savings. Always check for last-minute deals and eco-certified hotels for sustainable options.

• 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 March to April and November, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel in Kyoto about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
• 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: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and various other preferences. You can arrange your results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservations in Kyoto with your flights and activities by opting for an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Kyoto

Kyoto is an ideal destination for families, city adventurers, and business travellers alike. With its remarkable temples, serene shrines, and urban parks, the city offers a diverse range of attractions that appeal to those seeking cultural experiences, outdoor activities, and vibrant city life. Whether you wish to explore historical sites or enjoy leisurely strolls in nature, Kyoto promises a memorable holiday for every type of visitor.

• Kiyomizu Temple: Perched on a hillside, Kiyomizu Temple offers breathtaking views of Kyoto. Renowned for its wooden stage that juts out over the hillside, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a splendid representation of Japanese architecture and spirituality, surrounded by cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn.
• Fushimi Inari Shrine: Famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, Fushimi Inari Shrine is a majestic sight. Dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice, the shrine's trails lead through lush forests up to the sacred Mount Inari, providing a serene and immersive cultural experience.
• Nijō Castle: A symbol of feudal power, Nijō Castle features stunning gardens and intricate architecture. Its nightingale floors, designed to chirp when walked upon, add a layer of intrigue, while the serene atmosphere offers a perfect backdrop for romantic strolls.

Best time to go to Kyoto

The best time to visit Kyoto is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, 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	Slightly High
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	Average
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

When visiting Kyoto, you have several airport options for your travel. Kansai International Airport (KIX), situated approximately 80.5km away, offers nearby accommodations such as the 4-star Hotel Nikko Kansai Airport, just 161m from the terminal, and the 4-star Star Gate Hotel Kansai Airport, located 6.4km away. Alternatively, Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO) is about 96.6km from Kyoto, with options like the 3.5-star Centrair Hotel, a mere 161m from the airport. Lastly, Osaka Itami Airport (ITM) is the closest, at 26.4km away, featuring luxurious stays like the 5-star InterContinental Osaka, 11.3km from the airport.