Planning a trip to Kyoto is exciting, but choosing the best neighborhood to stay in Kyoto can feel like a puzzle. Do you want lantern-lit streets and geisha culture? Easy access to nightlife and shopping? Or a quiet riverside escape surrounded by bamboo forests? Each area of Kyoto offers something special, and the right neighborhood truly shapes your experience.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through three of Kyoto’s most popular areas, Gion, Downtown Kawaramachi, and Arashiyama, and recommend hotels that match different travel styles. Whether you're a first-time visitor, a foodie, a family, or someone who just wants a peaceful retreat, you’ll find the perfect fit here.
Gion: Traditional, atmospheric & perfect for culture lovers
Stroll through Gion’s historic streets toward the iconic Yasaka Pagoda
If you want to experience Kyoto’s most iconic scenery, the Gion district is easily one of the best neighborhoods to stay in Kyoto. With its preserved streets, teahouses, and shrines around every corner, Gion feels like stepping back in time. Early mornings here are dreamy and quiet, and nights glow with warm lanterns and the soft click of geta sandals.
Top Hotels in Gion
Spacious and modern rooms at MINN Gion for a stylish Kyoto stay
1. MINN Gion
MINN Gion blends modern comfort with minimal Japanese design. It’s incredibly clean, spacious, and ideal for travelers who want style without overspending. The hotel sits just steps from Yasaka Shrine and Gion’s historic streets, making sightseeing effortless.
2. Kyoto Gion Hotel
Kyoto Gion Hotel places you directly in the heart of the Gion district, giving you one of the most convenient and scenic locations in the city. The rooms are simple, clean, and comfortable—ideal for travelers who want to spend more time exploring and less time commuting. Its unbeatable location means you can walk to Yasaka Shrine, Hanamikoji Street, and dozens of restaurants within minutes.
Despite being in such a prime area, the hotel feels surprisingly calm once you're inside. It’s a great choice for travelers who want a practical, well-situated stay right inside Kyoto’s most iconic neighborhood.
3. APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent
APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent is perfect if you want affordability without sacrificing location. Just steps from Yasaka Shrine, the hotel offers compact, functional rooms with everything you need for a comfortable stay. The area is lively but safe, and you can walk to temples, shops, and restaurants in minutes. It’s a great value pick for anyone wanting to stay inside Kyoto’s most iconic district while keeping the budget in check.
Downtown Kawaramachi: Best for food, nightlife & ultimate convenience
Explore the lively shops and restaurants of Downtown Kawaramachi | Photo from DANIEL JULIE on Wikimedia
If you want to be at the center of everything—food, shopping, nightlife, and transport—Downtown Kawaramachi is the best neighborhood to stay in Kyoto. This area stays lively from morning to night and gives you easy access to multiple train lines, making it the perfect base for sightseeing.
I love staying here when I want zero travel stress: cafés everywhere, markets nearby, and attractions just across the river.
Top Hotels in Downtown Kawaramachi
Enjoy sleek, modern comfort at Cross Hotel Kyoto in the city center
1. Cross Hotel Kyoto
A stylish, modern hotel with generous room sizes and excellent walkability, Cross Hotel Kyoto is just minutes from Teramachi Shopping Street and the Kamogawa River. The design is sleek and comfortable, making it great for families and couples.
2. The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Sanjo
The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Sanjo is known for its friendly service and unbeatable location. You’re steps away from shops, bars, and bus lines, making this hotel ideal for first-timers who want convenience.
3. Hotel Resol Kyoto Kawaramachi Sanjo
Hotel Resol Kyoto Kawaramachi is a warm, Zen-inspired hotel with relaxing interiors and great amenities. It’s quiet despite being close to major streets, which makes it a lovely retreat after busy days.
Arashiyama: Scenic, peaceful & surrounded by nature
Ride the scenic Sagano Romantic Train through Arashiyama’s cherry blossoms
If you prefer quiet mornings, mountain views, and riverside walks, Arashiyama might be the best neighborhood to stay in Kyoto for your trip. This district sits on Kyoto’s western edge and offers a gentle, slower pace. It’s perfect for travelers who want to escape the crowds while staying close to some of Kyoto’s most iconic sights.
Top Hotels in Arashiyama
Relax at Riverside Arashiyama, surrounded by nature and quiet paths
1. Riverside Arashiyama
Riverside Arashiyama is a peaceful hotel with clean, modern rooms overlooking the river. Its location puts you steps from the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and Togetsukyo Bridge. If you want a scenic retreat without sacrificing comfort, this is it.
2. GrandWest Arashiyama
GrandWest Arashiyama is a fantastic choice if you're looking for spacious, modern rooms in a peaceful setting. Unlike many traditional Kyoto stays, this hotel offers large, family-friendly suites—perfect if you want extra comfort or you're traveling with kids or groups.
It’s located just a short walk from Togetsukyo Bridge, giving you easy access to Arashiyama's top attractions while still maintaining a quiet, residential feel.
3. Ryotei Rangetsu
Ryotei Rangetsu is a beautiful riverside ryokan that captures the charm and elegance of traditional Kyoto hospitality. Located along the Katsura River, it offers serene water views and easy access to Arashiyama’s scenic spots, including the Bamboo Forest and Togetsukyo Bridge.
Rooms feature tatami flooring, private open-air baths in select suites, and a calming atmosphere that makes you feel worlds away from the city. Guests especially love the kaiseki meals—seasonal, artfully prepared, and served with true attention to detail.
So, which is the best neighborhood to stay in Kyoto?
Choosing the best neighborhood to stay in Kyoto really depends on your travel style:
- Gion → Best for traditional scenery and culture
- Downtown Kawaramachi → Best for convenience, food, and nightlife
- Arashiyama → Best for nature, scenery, and relaxation
No matter which one you choose, Kyoto’s beauty shines through every corner of the city!
FAQs about staying in Kyoto
1. What is the best area to stay in Kyoto for first-time visitors?
For first-timers, Gion and Downtown Kawaramachi are the strongest choices. Gion gives you that traditional Kyoto charm, while Kawaramachi offers unmatched convenience. Both are well connected and packed with things to see and do.
2. Which neighborhood is best for families in Kyoto?
Arashiyama is perfect for families thanks to its peaceful environment, open spaces, and sights like Monkey Park Iwatayama. If convenience is more important, Downtown Kawaramachi gives families quick access to transportation and plenty of food options.
3. What area is most convenient for sightseeing in Kyoto?
Downtown Kawaramachi wins this one easily. Multiple bus and subway routes run through the area, cutting down travel time to temples, shrines, and day-trip destinations. It’s a great home base for fast-paced itineraries.
4. Is staying near Kyoto Station a good idea?
Yes, especially if you’re doing day trips to Osaka, Nara, or Kobe. The Kyoto Station area is modern, packed with food and shopping, and extremely practical. It’s less atmospheric than Gion or Arashiyama, but very traveler-friendly.
5. Where should budget travelers stay in Kyoto?
Budget travelers will find great options around Downtown Kawaramachi and Kyoto Station. These areas have many affordable hotels, hostels, and guesthouses without sacrificing convenience.
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