Where To Stay in Kyoto: 5 Best Neighborhoods

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Figuring out where to stay in Kyoto can feel a little overwhelming because the city has so many personalities. One area may put you steps from temples and historic streets, while another makes your train connections, day trips, and luggage logistics so much easier.

With limited time, staying somewhere convenient is key. During our 2 days in Kyoto, we stayed near Kyoto Station, which made exploring and getting around super easy. But if I had more time, I would have loved to stay in Southern Higashiyama for that dreamy historic Kyoto feeling.

In this guide, I’ll break down the best areas to stay in Kyoto, including who each neighborhood is best for, the pros and cons, and hotel recommendations for different budgets.

Where to Stay in Kyoto

1. Kyoto Station

Kyoto Station is one of the most convenient areas to stay in Kyoto, especially if you’re short on time, arriving by train, or planning day trips.

This is the city’s major hub for trains, buses, subways, and the Shinkansen, so it takes a lot of the stress out of moving around. It is not the most atmospheric Kyoto neighborhood, but it is incredibly practical, with shopping centers, restaurants, convenience stores, and easy transit all right there.

Pros

• Easy access to transportation, including the Shinkansen
• Lots of modern amenities like shopping malls, food courts, and convenience stores
• Perfect for short stays when you want to maximize time and convenience

Cons

• Lacks the traditional, historic Kyoto vibe
• Can feel a bit too urban and commercial compared to other areas
• Not as many iconic cultural landmarks within immediate walking distance

Hotel Recommendations

• Budget option: Via Inn Prime Kyotoeki Hachijoguchi — A practical Kyoto Station pick with cozy rooms, reasonable rates, and easy access to trains and quick meals.
• Mid-range option: Hotel Vischio Kyoto by GRANVIA — Our favorite hotel from the trip! We loved the spacious rooms, the value for the price, and the location near Kyoto Station. The relaxing bath facilities were such a nice bonus after long sightseeing days.
• Luxury option: Hotel Granvia Kyoto — A polished, super convenient splurge directly connected to Kyoto Station, with spacious rooms, dining options, and upscale amenities.

2. Downtown Kyoto

Downtown Kyoto is where I would stay if you want to be close to restaurants, shopping, nightlife, and easy transit. It gives you a more energetic home base than Kyoto Station while still keeping you well connected.

This area is especially helpful if you like ending your day with dinner, drinks, or a stroll through lively streets without needing a long ride back to your hotel. You are also close to places like Nishiki Market, Pontocho Alley, and the Kamo River.

Pros

• Close to shopping districts like Shijo and Kawaramachi
• Great for foodies, with lots of restaurants, cafes, and bars
• Walking distance to key areas like Nishiki Market, Pontocho Alley, and parts of Higashiyama

Cons

• Can be crowded and noisy, especially during the evenings
• Hotels here may be pricier than other areas
• Doesn’t offer as much of the “traditional Kyoto” feel as other neighborhoods

Hotel Recommendations

• Budget option: Mystays Kyoto Shijo — A comfortable, no-fuss stay with bright rooms, easy transit access, and a location that works well for exploring downtown.
• Mid-range option: Cross Hotel Kyoto — A stylish, central option that works beautifully if you want restaurants, shops, transit, and the Kamo River nearby.
• Luxury option: The Ritz Carlton Kyoto — If you’re ready to indulge, this 5-star stay along the Kamo River has that peaceful luxury feel while still keeping you close to downtown Kyoto.

3. Northern Higashiyama

Northern Higashiyama is a lovely choice if you want Kyoto to feel a little slower, greener, and more peaceful. This is where you’ll find beautiful cultural landmarks like Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion), Nanzen-ji, and the Philosopher’s Path.

With traditional tea houses, serene gardens, and fewer late-night crowds than downtown, Northern Higashiyama feels like a quiet retreat into Kyoto’s historic side. It is best if you do not mind trading nightlife and convenience for atmosphere.

Pros

• Surrounded by temples, shrines, and picturesque gardens
• Quiet and serene atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and cultural exploration
• Great for travelers who prefer a more traditional Kyoto experience

Cons

• Not as central as Kyoto Station or Downtown Kyoto, making transportation slightly less convenient
• Fewer dining and nightlife options compared to downtown
• It can be harder to find accommodation right near public transportation

Hotel Recommendations

• Budget option: Hotel Legasta Kyoto Higashiyama Sanjo — A cozy option with simple, clean rooms, modern amenities, and a location close to Higashiyama Station.
• Mid-range option: THE HOTEL HIGASHIYAMA by Kyoto Tokyu Hotel — A stylish stay with sleek rooms, a fitness center, garden, rooftop terrace, and a relaxing atmosphere after a busy day of temple hopping.
• Luxury option: suikakan heianjingumae — An intimate boutique stay with chic Japanese-style rooms, private kitchenettes, and a calm feel that fits the neighborhood beautifully.

4. Southern Higashiyama

Southern Higashiyama is one of the most iconic areas to stay in Kyoto if you want that historic, postcard-perfect feeling. This area puts you close to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Yasaka Shrine, Yasaka Pagoda, and Gion, with narrow lanes and traditional wooden buildings that feel so special.

It’s a dreamy choice if you want to wake up near Kyoto’s prettiest streets and spend your mornings or evenings wandering before the biggest crowds roll in. The tradeoff is that it can be very busy during the day and a little less convenient for cross-city transit.

Pros

• Close to major cultural sites like Kiyomizu-dera, Gion, and the traditional tea ceremony in Kyoto I loved
• Offers a more traditional Kyoto experience with historical architecture
• Amazing for photography, early-morning walks, and atmospheric streets

Cons

• Crowded with tourists, especially around popular landmarks
• Fewer modern conveniences like shopping malls and nightlife
• It can be harder to find accommodation right near public transportation

Hotel Recommendations

• Budget option: Terrace Kiyomizu Kyoto — A great budget pick with clean, simple rooms and a fantastic location near Kiyomizu-dera. It’s basic, but the location is hard to beat for the price.
• Mid-range option: The Machiya Kamiumeya — A charming machiya-style hotel with traditional Japanese design, comfortable rooms, and a location that fits the Southern Higashiyama vibe so well.
• Luxury option: Kyomachiya Hotel Mifuku — A beautifully restored traditional Kyoto townhouse that blends modern comfort with old-world charm, close to top spots like Yasaka Pagoda.

5. Kyoto Imperial Palace Area

The area around the Kyoto Imperial Palace has a more peaceful, residential feel, making it a good fit if you want a calmer base away from the busiest sightseeing streets.

This district is home to the Kyoto Imperial Palace and surrounded by spacious gardens, so it works well for travelers who like quiet mornings, pretty walks, and a slower pace. I would not pick it for a first trip if nightlife or door-to-door convenience is your top priority, but it can be lovely for a more relaxed stay.

Pros

• Quieter and less touristy than other areas
• Close to the beautiful Kyoto Gyoen National Garden
• Great for history buffs and those who enjoy peaceful walks

Cons

• Fewer dining and shopping options compared to other districts
• Not as close to Kyoto’s most famous tourist attractions
• Can feel a bit isolated for travelers who prefer busier neighborhoods

Hotel Recommendations

• Budget option: hotel MONday KYOTO MARUTAMACHI — A clean, comfy, no-fuss stay with minimalist rooms and a solid location for a quieter Kyoto base.
• Mid-range option: Hotel Kanra Kyoto — A beautiful balance of modern and traditional design, with warm wood interiors, thoughtful details, and an onsen-style bath that feels perfect after sightseeing.
• Luxury option: Mitsuki Kyoto — An intimate boutique hotel with elegant Japanese-style rooms, private garden touches, and a serene feel that works beautifully for a slower Kyoto stay.

Which Kyoto neighborhood are you picking?

Kyoto is such an incredible city, and where you stay really can shape the feel of your trip. If this is your first visit and you only have a couple of days, I would lean toward Kyoto Station for convenience or Downtown Kyoto for food, shopping, and nightlife.

If you have more time or want that more romantic, historic Kyoto atmosphere, Southern Higashiyama would be my dream pick. And if your perfect trip involves quieter streets, gardens, and slow mornings, Northern Higashiyama or the Imperial Palace area may be more your style. Wherever you end up, Kyoto has a way of making every neighborhood feel special in its own way.

Before you go, be sure to follow me on Insta @guidedbydestiny and check out some of my other Japan blog posts:

2-Day Kyoto Itinerary

One Day in Kyoto Itinerary

Japan Packing List