Find hotels in Kyoto from CA $24

Top reasons to visit Kyoto

• Historic Temples and Shrines: Explore Kyoto's famous temples and shrines, offering a glimpse into Japan's rich spiritual heritage.
• Cultural Experiences: Engage with local traditions through activities like tea ceremonies and guided tours with Senses Kyoto.
• Beautiful Urban Parks: Enjoy serene walks in Kyoto's urban parks, perfect for relaxation amid the city's hustle and bustle.
• Diverse Accommodations: From guesthouses to luxurious hotels, find a range of lodging options to suit every traveler's needs.
• Vibrant Shopping Districts: Discover bustling markets and shopping streets that showcase local crafts and delicacies.

Find great hotels in Kyoto

Discover the diverse hotel accommodations in Kyoto and its surroundings, where comfort meets tradition. From budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious five-star hotels, you'll find the perfect stay to suit your needs. Whether you're seeking a family-friendly environment, a tranquil spa retreat, or a vibrant city experience, Kyoto's hospitality options cater to every traveller. Explore the best hotels and unique lodging types that promise an unforgettable vacation in this historic city.

• RIHGA Royal Hotel Kyoto: This 4-star hotel embodies a perfect blend of family-friendly and business amenities, making it an ideal choice for diverse travellers. Located in the heart of Kyoto, RIHGA Royal Hotel Kyoto offers a range of services tailored for business guests, including multiple meeting rooms and an accessible business centre. Families will appreciate the thoughtful child-friendly features, such as bed guards for enhanced safety. With its elegant accommodations and a commitment to service excellence, this hotel ensures a comfortable and productive stay for both leisure and business visitors.
• Onyado Nono Kyotoshichijo Natural Hot Springs: Immerse yourself in relaxation at this 3-star ryokan-style hotel, renowned for its authentic hot spring experience. Onyado Nono Kyotoshichijo Natural Hot Springs is ideally situated for those seeking rejuvenation, featuring an indoor public onsen that invites guests to unwind after a day of exploring Kyoto. The tranquil atmosphere and traditional Japanese hospitality create a unique retreat, making it a perfect haven for visitors looking to experience the soothing benefits of natural hot springs.
• Cross Hotel Kyoto: Located in a vibrant area of Kyoto, Cross Hotel offers a contemporary stay with a range of dining options, including select day restaurants and a bar. This 3.5-star property features modern comforts such as flat-screen TVs and entertainment facilities. Guests can easily access nearby attractions, including shopping districts, the city centre, and scenic river views. With its stylish design and convenient location, Cross Hotel Kyoto is an excellent choice for those wishing to explore the city while enjoying a lively atmosphere.

Where to stay in Kyoto

Kyoto and its vicinity offer a rich tapestry of experiences for every traveller. From the historic heart of Kyoto, where ancient temples and shrines abound, to the picturesque views in nearby towns, there's something for everyone. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Kyoto town, relax in its serene neighbourhoods, or embark on a romantic getaway. Immerse yourself in the culture and history that make this region truly amazing, ensuring a memorable vacation for families and adventurers alike.

• Central Kyoto: Central Kyoto serves as the heart of the city, bustling with energy and activity. This vibrant neighbourhood is easily accessible and offers a mix of cultural heritage and modern convenience. Visitors can explore a variety of shopping areas, including local markets and public markets that showcase Kyoto's unique flavours and crafts. Noteworthy landmarks such as historic sites, theme parks, and relaxing onsens are within close reach, making it a perfect spot for families and city adventurers. The best times to experience Central Kyoto are during the cherry blossom season in April and the vibrant autumn colours in October.
• Gion: Famous for its traditional wooden machiya houses and geisha culture, Gion is a picturesque neighbourhood that transports you back in time. Located near the eastern part of the city, it offers an enchanting atmosphere with its narrow streets lined with tea houses and shops. Gion is ideal for leisurely strolls, especially during the evening when lanterns illuminate the pathways. The area also boasts popular shopping spots and public markets that allow for an authentic Kyoto experience. Historically significant landmarks, including temples and places of worship, enhance the cultural richness of this neighbourhood, making it a must-visit for family and business travellers alike.
• Shimogyo Ward: Shimogyo Ward is a dynamic neighbourhood that blends history with modern living. Situated conveniently in Kyoto, it features an array of shopping areas and public markets that cater to all tastes. Visitors can explore historic sites and places of worship, including stunning temples that reflect the city’s rich cultural heritage. The ward is also home to various theme parks, providing entertainment for families and thrill-seekers. Optimal travel times are from September to November when the weather is pleasant and the scenery is at its finest, making it an excellent choice for both leisure and business travellers.

Things to do in Kyoto

Kyoto and its surrounding areas offer a delightful mix of family-friendly activities, vibrant shopping districts, and bustling public markets. Ideal for city-themed vacations, visitors can explore famous sightseeing spots and rely on local guides for an enriching experience. Don't miss out on immersing yourself in the culture and charm that Kyoto has to offer, making it a perfect destination for leisure and business alike.

Shopping

In Kyoto, explore Nishiki Market for local delicacies and souvenirs, and stroll along Kawaramachi Street for trendy shops. For a unique experience, visit Pontocho Alley, known for its vibrant atmosphere. If you're up for a drive, check out the larger malls in nearby cities for diverse shopping options.

Recreation

Funaoka Thermal Bath offers a rejuvenating experience with its traditional Japanese baths, promoting relaxation and wellness. Nishikyogoku Athletic Stadium provides a vibrant atmosphere for sports enthusiasts, while Kameoka Sports Ground features tranquil spaces for relaxation and outdoor activities, allowing you to unwind amidst nature.

Adventure

Experience breathtaking views on the Mt. Otokoyama Cable Car, where family-friendly vibes meet adventure in the heart of Kyoto. Embark on the Fushimi-Inari-Taisha Pilgrimage Circuit, a scenic hiking trail that immerses you in nature's beauty. For winter sports enthusiasts, Biwako Valley Ski Resort offers thrilling skiing adventures 24.1km away.

Nightlife

Experience the enchanting Gion Corner for traditional performances, or gaze at the stars at the Kyoto Municipal Science Center for Youth’s planetarium. For some fun and games, head to Omiyakotsu Park, where the adventure awaits in their arcade zone. Enjoy the vibrant Kyoto nightlife!

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Kyoto

When visiting Kyoto, take advantage of free attractions like Nishiki Market, Pontocho Alley, and Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. For budget-friendly travel, January, February, and September offer the lowest accommodation rates, while Tuesdays are the cheapest days to book. Consider using Expedia for last-minute deals and package discounts that combine flights, hotels, and activities. For transportation, utilize the subway and bus systems, which are economical options. Look for eco-certified hotels to support sustainability while saving on your stay.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Kyoto are January to February and September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March to April and November, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel in Kyoto about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Kyoto is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Kyoto is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" option will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Kyoto with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in Kyoto

Kyoto and its surroundings offer a delightful blend of family-friendly, city-themed, and business-oriented experiences. Visitors can explore an array of temples, shrines, and urban parks that provide a rich cultural, outdoor, and urban experience. For a deeper dive into local culture, consider engaging with Senses Kyoto, which enhances your understanding of this historic city. You’re sure to create lasting memories during your visit to this captivating destination.

• Kiyomizu Temple: Nestled in the hills, Kiyomizu Temple offers breathtaking views of Kyoto and is renowned for its wooden stage that juts out over the hillside. This UNESCO World Heritage Site embodies the essence of traditional Japanese culture, featuring stunning architecture and serene gardens, making it a perfect spot for reflection.
• Fushimi Inari Shrine: Famous for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates, Fushimi Inari Shrine is an iconic symbol of Kyoto. A visit here allows you to walk through the enchanting paths that wind up the sacred Mount Inari, immersing you in the spiritual atmosphere and rich history of Shinto culture.
• Kyoto Tower: Standing tall in the city skyline, Kyoto Tower offers panoramic views of the entire city and surrounding mountains. This modern landmark features an observation deck and a restaurant, providing a stunning contrast to Kyoto's historic sites and a unique perspective of the city’s urban landscape.

Best time to go to Kyoto

Visitor numbers in Kyoto is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Kyoto can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Kyoto falls in August, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Kyoto falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	37.8°F (3.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
February	39.4°F (4.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	46.0°F (7.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
April	54.3°F (12.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
May	63.5°F (17.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	70.5°F (21.4°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
July	77.9°F (25.5°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
August	80.2°F (26.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
September	73.0°F (22.8°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
October	62.2°F (16.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
November	52.3°F (11.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
December	42.1°F (5.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Kyoto

Visiting Kyoto is convenient with access to several major airports. Kansai International Airport (KIX) is situated 80.5km away and offers nearby accommodations like Hotel Nikko Kansai Airport, a 4-star hotel only 161m from the terminal. Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO) is 96.6km distant, with options such as the 4-star Kamenoi Hotel Chitamihama, located 9.7km from the airport. Closer, Itami Airport (ITM) is 38.6km from Kyoto, featuring upscale hotels like the 5-star Swissotel Nankai Osaka, 14.5km away. Each airport has various transportation services available to ensure a smooth journey to your destination.