Where to stay in Kyoto: best areas and neighborhoods
Open IndexKyoto, the country's ancient capital, is a timeless city in which to experience the charm of ancient Japan. It is known as the city of a thousand temples and here you can stroll through traditional geisha neighbourhoods, visit ancient palaces and admire the beauty of its parks, especially during the cherry blossom season. There are so many things to see and do and the city is really big, so one of the first things to do is to decide where to stay.
So let's find out where to sleep in Kyoto: the best neighbourhoods to stay and which to avoid.
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In a hurry? Here's our recommended accommodation
| Category | Accommodation |
|---|---|
| 👑 5 star / luxury | The Hotel Seiryu Kyoto Kiyomizu |
| 🛎️ B&b & mid-range | Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Station |
| 🎒 Hostel and low-cost | Grand Japaning Hotel Kyoto Central |
| 🏡 Vacation rental / apartments | STAY SAKURA Kyoto Nishi-Honganji |
Useful tips: the best neighbourhoods to stay in Kyoto
| Target | Area | Rates from |
|---|---|---|
| Stay on a budget | Minami-ku District (Kyoto Station) | $50,00 |
| Shimogyō-ku District | $60,00 | |
| Higashiyama-ku District | $50,00 | |
| Yamashina-ku District | $50,00 | |
| Fushimi-ku District | $50,00 | |
| Young | Minami-ku District (Kyoto Station) | $50,00 |
| Nakagyō-ku District | $80,00 | |
| Families | Shimogyō-ku District | $60,00 |
| Higashiyama-ku District | $50,00 | |
| Kamigyō-ku District | $80,00 | |
| Sakyo-ku District | $80,00 | |
| Nishikyō-ku District (Arashiyama) | $75,00 |
Firstly: look for accommodation near a train or metro stop, this will make your stay a lot easier!
The area around Kyoto central station (Minami-ku district) is connected to the whole city, therefore highly recommended, especially for short stays. Here it is easy to find affordable accommodation.
The Higashiyama district is also excellent, a very convenient area, well served by public transport.
If you are looking for nightlife, the best solution is Nakagyo, which represents the centre of Kyoto. It is a fairly touristy area, but well served by public transport and with a lively nightlife.
If you are looking for tranquillity then we recommend Kamigyo and Sakyo, also ideal for families and those who want to try the experience of getting around by bicycle. However, these are districts further away from the centre, therefore recommended for longer stays, of at least a week (if you only stop for a few days, it is better to stay near the station).
Excellent neighbourhoods to stay but far from the centre are Arashiyama, Yamashina and Fushimi, they should only be considered if you are staying for at least two weeks.
Best accommodation: we have selected the best hotels B&Bs and hostels in Kyoto. Check out our recommendations and make your reservation on Booking
Minami-ku District (Kyoto Station), best for transport links
- Pros: Excellent transport links, wide range of budget-friendly hotels and hostels, many dining options.
- Cons: Can feel very modern and less traditional than other areas, busy with commuters and tourists.
- Main attractions: Kyoto Station Building (shopping, dining, observation deck), Kyoto Tower, To-ji Temple.
- Average prices: From $50,00 - compare the best accommodation on booking
Recommended Accommodation
The area around Kyoto Central Station is one of the best places to stay, especially if it's your first time visiting the city or if you only have a few days to spare. The station is located very centrally in the northern part of the Minami-ku district and is well connected to major attractions. Also nearby are the Tō-ji temple, the Kyoto Tower and the Kyoto Aquarium.
It is a recommended area especially for those staying less than a week in the city. Furthermore, you can find excellent solutions for all budgets, in fact there is no shortage of hostels and low-cost hotels, without sacrificing quality. However, it is not recommended for families, as it can be a bit chaotic.
Average prices in the neighbourhood start from about $50,00 - compare the best accommodation on booking
Shimogyō-ku District, best for first-timers
- Pros: Good transport connections, variety of accommodation, close to shopping and some historical sites.
- Cons: Can be quite busy, some areas lack the quiet charm of northern Kyoto.
- Main attractions: Higashi Hongan-ji Temple, Kyoto Aquarium, Kyoto Railway Museum, Nishiki Market (northern edge).
- Average prices: From $60,00 - compare the best accommodation on booking
Recommended Accommodation
Shimogyō-ku stands as an exceptionally convenient choice for accommodation in Kyoto, primarily due to its central location and status as a major transportation hub. Home to Kyoto Station, this district offers unparalleled access to JR lines for exploring beyond Kyoto, the efficient Karasuma Subway Line for north-south connections, and a comprehensive network of city buses reaching every corner of the city.
Within Shimogyō-ku itself, notable attractions include the modern Kyoto Tower offering panoramic city views, the vast shopping complexes around the station, and significant cultural sites like the impressive Higashi Honganji and Nishi Honganji Temples. The serene Shosei-en Garden provides a tranquil oasis amidst the urban bustle. Shimogyō-ku is perfectly suited for first-time visitors, those prioritizing ease of transportation, shoppers, and anyone wanting to be at the heart of Kyoto's activity. It offers a diverse range of accommodations, from budget-friendly options to upscale hotels.
Average prices in the neighbourhood start from about $60,00 - compare the best accommodation on booking
Higashiyama-ku District, best for budget travellers and families
- Pros: Immersive traditional atmosphere, stunning temples and gardens, walkable, great for photography.
- Cons: Can be very crowded, especially around popular sites, fewer modern amenities.
- Main attractions: Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Gion district, Kodai-ji Temple, Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka slopes.
- Average prices: From $50,00 - compare the best accommodation on booking
Recommended Accommodation
One of the best districts to stay if you want to immerse yourself in more traditional Japan, is the Higashiyama neighbourhood, east of the centre. The famous Gion district, known as the Geisha district, is here, as well as one of the most famous temples in the city, the Kiyomizu-dera. In the southernmost part, you can easily reach the wonderful Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine.
It is an ideal neighbourhood for families and anyone who wants to experience a real Japanese atmosphere. The costs of some accommodations are slightly higher than average, but it is not difficult to find great accommodations at affordable prices too! And above all, this is the right area to stay in a Ryokan, which is a traditional Japanese inn.
Finally, the area is served by the Keihan Main Line, with numerous stations located along the Kamo River. From here you can easily get to the centre, even on foot (15 min).
Average prices in the neighbourhood start from about $50,00 - compare the best accommodation on booking
Nakagyō-ku District, best for fun and nightlife
- Pros: Central location, excellent shopping and dining, good nightlife, many hotels.
- Cons: Can be more expensive, less traditional feel in some parts.
- Main attractions: Nishiki Market, Nijo Castle, Kyoto Imperial Palace, Pontocho Alley.
- Average prices: From $80,00 - compare the best accommodation on booking
Recommended Accommodation
North of the central station is the Nakagyo district, which is the heart of the ancient capital. Today it is the financial and commercial district, the real centre of the city. Here you will find attractions such as the wonderful Ni-jo Castle, the famous Nishiki Market and The Museum of Kyoto.
It is an ideal district for young people and those looking for fun. It has a lively nightlife, with numerous clubs, and of course there is no shortage of restaurants, including international ones, and shopping centres. Furthermore, it is possible to find really great offers and even sleep in the unique Capsule Hotels!
Finally, it is in a great location for getting around the city. Here you will find Karasuma Oike metro station and Nijo Station train station, which takes you to Kyoto Central Railway Station in just 7 minutes.
Average prices in the neighbourhood start from about $80,00 - compare the best accommodation on booking
Kamigyō-ku District, best for families
- Pros: Peaceful atmosphere, traditional feel, beautiful historical sites, good for a relaxed stay.
- Cons: Less nightlife and modern amenities, requires more reliance on public transport to reach central areas.
- Main attractions: Kyoto Imperial Palace, Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, Funaoka Onsen.
- Average prices: From $80,00 - compare the best places to stay on booking
Recommended Accommodation
The neighbourhood that you meet immediately after Nakagyo, moving north, is Kamigyo, a very quiet residential district, also ideal for getting around by bicycle. Here the main attraction is the Kyoto Imperial Palace with its large gardens.
This area is mainly recommended for families and those looking for a bit of tranquillity, far from the nightlife of Nakagyo, for example. You can stroll through the streets or move around by bicycle and discover one of the most authentic sides of the city and immerse yourself in the most traditional Japan.
Another big point in favour of the neighbourhood is its excellent location: located just north of the centre, it allows you to reach attractions such as the famous Kinkaku-ji Golden Temple or Ni-jo Castle in a very short time. For example, from the Imadegawa Station metro station (in front of the Imperial Palace) you will arrive at the Central Station in just 10 minutes.
Average prices in the neighbourhood start from about $80,00 - compare the best places to stay on booking
Sakyo-ku District, the best for culture lovers
- Pros: Abundance of temples and natural beauty, quieter areas, good for walking and cycling.
- Cons: Can be spread out, requiring more travel between sites, fewer nightlife options.
- Main attractions: Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion), Philosopher's Path, Eikan-do Temple, Nanzen-ji Temple.
- Average prices: From $80,00 - compare the best accommodation on booking
Recommended Accommodation
Having seen the main and most central districts, we now move on to some slightly more peripheral areas, to be taken into consideration only if you are staying in Kyoto for at least a week. The first is the large Sakyo district, a wonderful residential neighbourhood on a hill, located east of the Kamo River and north of the Higashiyama district!
It is an ideal district for families and those seeking tranquillity, completely immersed in woods and hills. There are numerous temples here, such as the Heian Shrine or Nanzen-ji Temple. The best solution is always to stay in the southernmost part of the neighbourhood, closer to the centre.
As for travel, the neighbourhood is served by two railway lines and several stations. Taking Demachiyanagi Station in the southern part as a reference point, you can reach Kyoto Central Station in about 20 min.
Average prices in the neighbourhood start from about $80,00 - compare the best accommodation on booking
Nishikyō-ku District, the best for nature lovers
- Pros: Beautiful natural scenery, peaceful atmosphere in the evenings and mornings, unique attractions.
- Cons: Further from central Kyoto, limited dining and nightlife compared to downtown.
- Main attractions: Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Tenryu-ji Temple, Togetsukyo Bridge, Sagano Scenic Railway.
- Average prices: From $75,00 - compare the best accommodation on booking
Recommended accommodation
We now move to the western part of Kyoto, to one of the most fascinating districts in the whole city, Nishikyō-ku. It is also one of the hottest tourist spots, as the world famous Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is located here!
It is a suitable area to stay if you stop in Kyoto for more than a week, as the district is very far from the other attractions. Rich in greenery and ancient temples, it is also a very romantic neighbourhood, with luxury hotels equipped with all comforts, often chosen for honeymoons or romantic getaways.
As for transport, while staying here you will have to use public transport: from the Torokko Arashiyama railway stop it will take you about 30 minutes to reach Central Station, and slightly longer to get to other attractions.
Average prices in the neighbourhood start from about $75,00 - compare the best accommodation on booking
Yamashina-ku District, for a serene hideway
- Pros: More affordable accommodation, peaceful residential vibe, good train access to Kyoto Station.
- Cons: Fewer major tourist attractions directly within the district, less dining and entertainment variety.
- Main attractions: Bishamon-do Temple, serene local parks.
- Average prices: From $50,00 - compare the best accommodation on booking
Recommended accommodation
If you're searching for a serene and authentic hideaway in Kyoto, the Yamashina-ku district is a surprisingly excellent choice. Stepping away from the bustle of the more touristy areas, you'll breathe in a more genuine, relaxed atmosphere here, all while remaining well-connected to key points of interest. You’ll find yourself immersed in a landscape where rolling hills gently embrace homes, and temples nestle amidst lush greenery. It’s the ideal spot for those who want to explore a truer Kyoto, visiting hidden gems like Bishamon-do Temple, famed for its autumn maples, or strolling along the Lake Biwa Canal—a true oasis of calm. Yamashina offers a more intimate glimpse into local life, complete with small traditional restaurants and artisan shops.
Yamashina-ku is easily accessible from central Kyoto via the Tozai subway line or JR trains. By car or taxi, the ride is short and offers a lovely change of scenery.
Average prices in the neighbourhood start from about $50,00 - compare the best accommodation on booking
Fushimi-ku District, best for local vibes
- Pros: Home to a major attraction, famous sake breweries, more local atmosphere, generally affordable.
- Cons: Further south from the main tourist areas, less variety in terms of dining and nightlife compared to central Kyoto.
- Main attractions: Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, Fushimi Sake District (sake breweries, museums), Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum.
- Average prices: From $50,00 - compare the best accommodation on booking
Recommended Accommodation
The Fushimi-ku district welcomes you with a vibrant atmosphere and a rich history, steeped in ancient traditions and authentic flavors. Here, you'll dive deep into the heart of Japanese sake production, with hundreds of historic breweries lining picturesque canals. As you wander through the narrow streets, you'll catch the scent of fermenting rice and have the chance to visit some of the prestigious cellars, many of which offer unforgettable tastings. But Fushimi isn't just about sake: it’s also home to the majestic Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, with its thousands of vermilion torii gates winding up the mountain—an unmissable visual and spiritual experience. The district offers a captivating blend of culture, gastronomy, and natural beauty, making it a must-see for anyone wanting to discover a different side of Kyoto.
Fushimi-ku is well-connected to central Kyoto via the Keihan Line or the JR Nara Line, making it a very convenient day trip.
Average prices in the neighbourhood start from about $50,00 - compare the best accommodation on booking
Places to stay near Kyoto
Whether or not this is your first visit to Kyoto and regardless of the length of your stay, the best solution is to sleep in the city. Kyoto is really very extensive, made up of many heterogeneous neighbourhoods, and with a large supply of accommodation.
Sleeping outside the city is not recommended due to transport. Japan's public transport is recognized worldwide for its punctuality, especially the rail system, but here the problem is distance: to cross the city and reach attractions in opposite points, it could take more than an hour! Staying outside of Kyoto, the travel times would be further lengthened making you waste a lot of time, not to mention the cost of the ticket!
Travel Tips for Kyoto
- Public Transport: Kyoto has an excellent public transport system consisting primarily of buses and two subway lines. Buses are often the best way to reach many major attractions. Consider purchasing a Kyoto City Bus & Subway One-Day Pass if you plan to do a lot of sightseeing. Taxis are also readily available, and ride-sharing apps are becoming more common.
- Best Time to Visit: The most popular times to visit Kyoto are during spring (March-May) for cherry blossoms and autumn (October-November) for vibrant fall foliage. These seasons offer pleasant weather but also come with larger crowds and higher prices. Summer (June-August) is hot and humid, while winter (December-February) is cold but offers fewer tourists.
- Local Currency: The local currency is the Japanese Yen (¥). While credit cards are widely accepted in hotels and larger stores, many smaller restaurants, shops, and temples still prefer or only accept cash. ATMs are readily available, especially in convenience stores (konbini) like 7-Eleven.
- Local Vibe/Culture: Kyoto is the cultural heart of Japan, steeped in tradition. Be respectful of local customs: bow when greeting, remove your shoes when entering homes, temples, and some restaurants, and avoid talking loudly on public transport. Tipping is not customary in Japan. Many temples and gardens have specific opening hours, so check in advance.
Kyoto accommodation price map
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Guide to the areas of Kyoto
Capital of the prefecture of the same name and ancient capital of Japan for more than a millennium, before it became Tokyo, Kyoto extends over 827 sq km and has about one and a half million inhabitants. The city is divided into 11 different neighbourhoods or districts, each with its own identity and soul.
The best neighbourhoods to stay are the central ones, especially if you're short on time or if it's your first-time visiting Kyoto. The most suitable for a tourist stay are the following:
- Nakagyō-ku: the central district of the ancient city, today the main administrative centre, where Nijo Castle is located, and not far from the Imperial Palace of Kyoto;
- Kamigyō-ku: neighbourhood just north of Nakagyo, which includes the Kyoto Imperial Palace;
- Minami-ku: neighbourhood just south of Nakagyo, which also includes Tokyo Central Station, a great area to stay if you are visiting the city for the first time or are short on time;
- Higashiyama-ku: close to the central station, where attractions such as the Gion district, the famous Kiyomizu-dera temple and the Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine are located;
- Nishikyō-ku: district which in its northern part includes the area of Arashiyama, the famous bamboo forest of the city;
- Sakyo-ku: district in the northern part of the city, it borders the Nakagyo and Higashiyama districts;
- Yamashina-ku e Fushimi-ku: southeast of the city, ideal for stays of at least two weeks given its distance from the centre;
- Kita-ku, Shimogyō-ku and Ukyō-ku: more peripheral districts not recommended to stay, only due to distance and travel time by public transport;
Not recommended areas: Kyoto is one of the safest cities in Japan, if not the safest of all. The only neighbourhoods to avoid are the more peripheral ones such as Kita-ku, Shimogyō-ku and Ukyō-ku, but not for safety reasons, due to their distance from the centre and the main attractions.