Where to Stay in Kyoto: Best Ryokan & Onsen Hotels

For an authentic glimpse into traditional Japanese life, Kyoto is the perfect destination because this city has preserved its rich culture and history for centuries. When you visit, you can immerse yourself in unique experiences like classic tea ceremonies, explore the historic geisha districts, and discover various traditional handicrafts. Kyoto is the place where you don’t just see but feel the history of Japan.

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.

Here are some of the best places to stay in Kyoto, Japan, for you to check out!

Kyoto Ryokan The Kinoe gives you a truly memorable experience, blending traditional Japanese hospitality with a touch of modern convenience. They offer a great selection of rooms to fit your needs, whether you're traveling with your partner or the whole family. You can even choose between sleeping on classic futons for a more traditional feel or opting for regular single beds for a familiar comfort.

Located in Gion, Kyoto's famous geisha district, Kyoto Ryokan The Kinoe places you right in the heart of the city's rich culture. You’ll be just a few minutes' walk from the iconic Yasaka Shrine and the bustling Shijo Street, making it easy to explore. You can even find kimono rentals nearby to fully immerse yourself in Kyoto’s timeless traditions.

If you want to experience natural hot springs, or “onsen,” the Onyado Nono Kyotoshichijo Natural Hot Springs could be your choice for where to stay in Kyoto. They’re wheelchair accessible, making it perfect if you’re traveling with any persons with disabilities, and you’re also very much welcome to bring your children or younger siblings. The hot springs are open 24/7, so you can enjoy a rejuvenating soak anytime during your stay—whether it's before exploring the wonders of Kyoto or after.

This hotel is located in the Shimogyo ward, one of Kyoto’s 11 wards, and is just a 7-minute walk from Kyoto’s tallest structure, the Kyoto Tower. Its close proximity to Kyoto Station makes it an ideal base for exploring the city's countless wonders.

Staying in Ryokan Kohro would mean staying in a serene place in the middle of Kyoto’s bustling streets. They have a tranquil ambiance that would make your stay peaceful and comfortable, with a selection of different kinds of traditional rooms to choose from, whether you’re visiting in big or small groups. They also have a communal bath where you can unwind after a long day and a gift shop where you can buy trinkets or souvenirs.

Conveniently located, the Ryokan Kohro is just a 3-minute walk from the famous Nishiki Market and 7 minutes from the bustling Kawaramachi Street, offering the perfect blend of cultural tradition and urban convenience. This makes it easy to enjoy both shopping and entertainment just a few steps away.

Hokkaikan Ohanabo is a small and quaint ryokan with 100 years of history. They have preserved their wooden architectural structure since their establishment, and they do their best to make sure you’re comfortable, relaxed, and at home. If your group is mostly adults, this is where to stay in Kyoto for an authentic ryokan experience.

Perfectly situated in the heart of Kyoto's entertainment district, the ryokan is just a short walk from notable landmarks like Higashi Hongan-ji Temple, Shoseien Garden, and Kyoto Tower, making it a great base for sightseeing.

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. As a fairly small place with only 10 rooms and an 11 pm curfew, it provides a much quieter and peaceful atmosphere, allowing for a more personal and tranquil retreat.

Located conveniently 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, providing the perfect blend of tradition and modernity at your fingertips.

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.