Where to Stay in Kyoto 2026: 5 Best Ryokan Hotels

Kyoto is one of the best places to experience traditional Japanese culture. The city has held onto its history for centuries, and you can see it everywhere you go. You can take part in a tea ceremony, walk through historic geisha districts, and check out traditional crafts made by locals.

Where to stay in Kyoto is a major factor if you want a truly immersive and authentic experience in this beautiful city. Japanese-style inns, or “Ryokan,” have a rich history dating back to the 8th century, and they are defined by their traditional interiors like tatami mats, sliding shoji doors, and futon beds. Many of these inns also feature communal baths and soothing natural hot springs, or “onsen,” providing the perfect way to relax and unwind.

This is why where you stay in Kyoto plays a big role in how much traditional culture you’ll experience. Staying in a ryokan lets you enjoy tatami floors, sliding doors, futon beds, and often an onsen to relax after sightseeing. It’s one of the best ways to feel Kyoto’s old-world charm.

Here are some of the best places to stay in Kyoto, Japan, for a truly authentic experience.

If you're looking for a place right in the heart of Gion, Yuzuya Ryokan is your answer. The name Yuzuya comes from “yuzu,” a Japanese citrus fruit that you’ll notice in everything from the welcome drink to the bath products. The rooms are warm, with wooden accents, tatami flooring, and seasonal flower arrangements. 

What makes Yuzuya special is the attention to detail. You can enjoy a seasonal kaiseki meal made with fresh, local ingredients, served in a dining room overlooking a small moss garden. And after a long day exploring, slip into a relaxing citrus-infused bath. You’ll totally feel the Japanese hospitality.

Want the ryokan experience without staying too far? Onyado Nono is perfect for you. Located just a short walk from Kyoto Station, this ryokan-style hotel has rooms with tatami mats, futon beds, and shoji paper screens. Giving you that traditional touch, while still offering free Wi-Fi and air conditioning! But the best part? The natural hot spring baths (onsen). After a day of sightseeing, slip into the steamy indoor or open-air bath and let your muscles relax. Plus, guests rave about the free ramen served at night and the hearty breakfast buffet filled with Japanese favorites.

If you're looking for a place to stay in Kyoto, Japan, that’s both authentic and central, Ryokan Kohro strikes a great balance. Located in Nakagyo Ward, it gives you easy access to downtown shopping streets like Nishiki Market while keeping that calming ryokan vibe. Inside, the rooms are classically Japanese with tatami floors, low wooden tables, and sliding doors.

The ryokan also offers a traditional bath area, cozy yukata robes, and optional Japanese-style breakfasts. It's ideal if you want to enjoy the best of both worlds: convenience and culture. If you’re also traveling with family or a group, this is a great pick because of its roomy layouts!

This 100 year old family-run ryokan is all about warm service and a homely vibe. Hokkaikan Ohanabo has only a few rooms, so the staff can give each guest their full attention. The rooms are traditional with soft lighting, tatami floors, and futons that get prepared while you’re out enjoying dinner.

But, why go out if you can get the homemade meals served here, especially the traditional kaiseki dinner and breakfast sets. The owners go above and beyond to explain each dish. Staying here feels like visiting a friend’s house, if your friend were an expert in Japanese cuisine and hospitality!

Ryokan Kyonoyado Kagihei is where to stay in Kyoto if you want to experience a truly traditional Japanese stay with only minimal modern touches. Each room can accommodate up to 3 people, making it perfect if you’re traveling with your partner or in a small group.

Located in downtown Kyoto, Ryokan Kyonoyado Kagihei is just a 3-minute walk from Shijo Street, where you can explore traditional Kyoto crafts, indulge in specialty foods, and even shop for modern brands. It's also incredibly close to the lively Nishiki Market and historic Pontocho Alley.

The whole of Kyoto is a beautiful place to experience and explore, but if it’s your first time, Downtown Kyoto might be the best area to stay in because of its accessibility. It’s right at the center of the city, which would give you flexibility on the landmarks and spots you would want to go to. It’s also close to places like Higashi Hongan-Ji Temple, Kyoto Tower, and more.

There are 11 wards in this historical city, and deciding where to stay in Kyoto depends on your preferences. If Kyoto is only one part of your trip to Japan, the Shimogyo Ward might be ideal for you because it's centered around the JR Kyoto Station. On the other hand, if it’s your first time in Kyoto and you want to do more touristy activities, the Higashiyama ward might be a better option.

When you see Kyoto for yourself and take the time to explore, you will realize that there’s something beautiful to see everywhere you go. It is a city laced with history, tradition, and culture that has always been preserved and nurtured from the past until generations to come. No matter where you stay in Kyoto, it will most definitely be a nice place to be in.

If your main mode of transportation for going around the city will be public transportation, then staying near the Kyoto Station would be a smart move. You’d have easier access to the places you want to visit, and going back to your accommodation would be less of a hassle when you find yourself tired at the end of the day.

Choosing where to stay in Kyoto is about more than just picking a hotel, it’s about choosing an experience. So, if you’re relaxing in a citrus-scented bath, enjoying a handmade kaiseki dinner, or sleeping on a futon in a quiet wooden room, these ryokan hotels let you experience the beauty of Japan. 

So go ahead, book your favorite and get ready to step into a world of tradition and comfort of Kyoto’s ryokan hotels!