How to find the best hotel deal in Kyoto
Love how easy it is to book flights with us? The same smart search engine is a pro at uncovering deals on Kyoto hotels too. Use these tips to find the best rates fast.
The sooner you book, the better. You're more likely to land a cheaper rate on a Kyoto hotel and have more options to choose from when you plan ahead.
That being said, booking at the last minute can work out well. Some places cut their rates a day or two before arrival to keep rooms from sitting empty.
Another secret to scoring cheaper hotels? Stay flexible. If your itinerary isn't written in stone, try a few different travel dates and discover just how much you can save.
Skip the risk of extra fees by searching for stays that offer free cancellation. If your travel dates shift or a better deal shows up, you can cancel or modify your booking without penalty.
Where to stay in Kyoto
Central Kyoto
To make the most of central Kyoto, you'll want to be near the attractions that inspired your trip in the first place. Here are a few accommodation options close to the highlights.
Browsing around for hotels near Kifune Shrine? About 0.16 kilometres away, Kibune Hiroya will have you sleeping close to this must-see. With a 3-star rating, this hotel in Kyoto is a favourite choice for business travellers in particular.
Or check what deals are available for hotels near Mount Kurama. Kyo no Minshuku Ohara no Sato is 5 kilometres or so from this sight. Couples often choose this 3-star option as their base for exploring both this area and the wider city.
Shimogyō-ku
If you'd like more ideas on where to stay, consider Shimogyō-ku. Here are a few places where you can rest your head near some leading sights.
Auberge Azabu is one of the best hotels near Kyoto Tower, a big attraction in this area. This hotel in Kyoto has a 4-star rating and gets strong guest feedback for its cleanliness.
In search of hotels near Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station? KYOTO Genhouin has your next stay lined up and ready. Often praised in reviews for its cleanliness, this 5-star Kyoto hotel is a comfy place to rest up in between sightseeing.
There's plenty to like about the range of hotels near Nishi Hongan-ji Temple too. You'll be able to easily reach this attraction (and explore the rest of Shimogyō-ku) from HOTEL Kyotology. One of the things guests enjoy most about this 4-star stay is its service.
That's just the beginning. Browse the full lineup of hotels in Shimogyō-ku and pick the stay that suits you best.
When to go to Kyoto
Consider the weather and your preferences before you travel. With maximum highs of 29ºC (84ºF), August offers the warmest conditions.
Expect lows of -3ºC (27ºF) in January, the coolest month here.
Search for Kyoto hotels during November for the best chance of sunshine. Averaging seven days of rain, it's the driest month.
Rain is more common in July, which gets around 16 days of wet weather.
Best hotels in Kyoto
Best budget hotels
A great trip doesn't have to include a hefty hotel bill. With at least 470 budget Kyoto hotels available, you can spend more on fun experiences and less on where you rest your head. You can expect basic comforts like simple breakfasts, standard toiletries, and cosy beds at these well-priced stays.
Settle in with just the right amount of comfort at M's Hotel Kyoto Station Kasuga. Located in Minami-ku, it has a 3-star rating and amenities including a television and air conditioning.
With conveniences like luggage storage and Wi-Fi, Caesar Gion Kyoto lets you enjoy more while spending less. This Kyoto hotel is in Higashiyama-ku and carries a 3-star rating.
Luggage storage and a safe deposit box are just a taste of what's on offer at Hotel Musse Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi Meitetsu. Another win for your budget goals, it's rated 3 stars and is located in Nakagyō-ku.
Best 4-star hotels in Kyoto
Searching for hotels in Kyoto that offer more than just the basics? A 4-star stay hits the mark. With around 230 to select from, they come with attractive extras like rooftop lounges, fitness centres, and valet parking. You get high quality without the high price tag.
Auberge Azabu gets the 4-star guest experience right. A restaurant and room service help make this Shimogyō-ku accommodation option a favourite.
Kyoto Shinmachi Rokkaku Hotel Grandereverie is another popular pick. You'll find amenities such as concierge assistance and room service at this Kyoto hotel in Nakagyō-ku.
Yasaka Yutone Kyokoyado is one more to bookmark. It's in Higashiyama-ku and comes with room service and a restaurant, among other extras.
Best luxury 5-star hotels
When nothing but the best will do, you'll find around 50 5-star hotels in Kyoto ready to make every moment about you. These types of stays generally come with perks like chef-driven restaurants, full-service spas, and soundproof suites. Higashiyama-ku is home to the majority of the city's luxury hotels.
Step into a world of luxury at Higashiyama Shikikaboku. A lobby bar and concierge assistance help elevate the guest experience at this Higashiyama-ku hotel.
Hotel Chourakukan also delivers 5-star elegance from start to finish. Located in Higashiyama-ku, this Kyoto hotel features concierge assistance, a restaurant and much more.
Hotel Okura Kyoto Okazaki Bettei in Sakyo-ku knows how to impress too. Take advantage of its many perks such as room service and a restaurant.
Best hotels in Kyoto for families
Family trips can be hectic, but your hotel should be the easiest part. You'll find at least 50 family-friendly hotels in Kyoto that know what keeps kids happy and adults comfortable. These stays often come with handy features like multi-bedroom suites, kids' menus, and high chairs.
Add a luxe edge to your family trip at Gion Misen. Rated 4 stars, this Kyoto hotel is located in Higashiyama-ku and offers a lift and air conditioning.
THE ROOT2 Hotel is another smart pick. A playground and express check-in are some of the amenities at this option.
Best hotels with a spa
Make self-care part of your itinerary. Book one of the 240 or so Kyoto hotels with a spa and build in time to truly relax. Mostly located in Shimogyō-ku, saunas, hot tubs, and indulgent massage therapies are the types of features they come with.
Take a moment for yourself at HOTEL THE Mitsui KYOTO, a Luxury Collection Hotel & Spa. This 5-star accommodation option in Nakagyō-ku comes with all the right touches, including room service and a sauna.
Or unpack your bags at Hotel Gion Ichirin, a 3-star stay in Higashiyama-ku. With a lounge and room service, this hotel in Kyoto has what you need to unwind.
Kamo Residences by Reflections balances busy days of sightseeing with the bliss of a pamper session (or two). This 5-star option in the Kamigyō-ku area features a fitness centre and room service.
Best hotels with a pool
There are around ten pool hotels in Kyoto, each with its own style and character. City hotels tend to come with indoor or rooftop pools, while resorts generally go big with open-air setups and more room to lounge. Whether you're here for downtime or playtime, there's a stay that fits your style.
Located in Shimogyō-ku, Hotel Granvia Kyoto comes with an indoor swimming pool, a restaurant and air conditioning. Get in some exercise or simply kick back by the water at this 5-star Kyoto hotel.
Make the most of every minute at Rihga Royal Hotel Kyoto. This 5-star option in Shimogyō-ku features an indoor swimming pool, Wi-Fi and a 24-hour front desk.
Rhino Hotel Kyoto is one more stay with all the essentials covered. This 3-star hotel in Ukyo-ku comes with an indoor swimming pool, a laundry and luggage storage.
Best pet-friendly hotels
Travelling's better with your pet by your side. From comfy beds and grooming stations to fenced exercise yards, pet-friendly hotels are set up to make you and your best buddy feel right at home. There are around 20 Kyoto hotels ready to welcome your best friend.
You pack the chew toys, Ace Hotel Kyoto will take care of everything else. Located in Nakagyō-ku, a shop and air conditioning add to the experience of this 5-star hotel in Kyoto.
Your four-legged friend is also on the guest list at Hotel Anddoggy Kyoto Nijo. Rated 3 stars, it's located in Nakagyō-ku and includes a restaurant, internet access and plenty more.
TSUBOMI Luxury Inn Shimabara Bettei 2 in Shimogyō-ku will get everyone settled in no time. It has a 4-star rating and amenities including Wi-Fi and room service.
