10 Best Luxury Hotels in Kyoto
The Most Exclusive Stays in 2025
Kyoto is where Japan’s soul resides—a city of sublime contrasts, where timeless temples, bamboo forests, and geisha traditions sit gracefully alongside cutting-edge design, contemporary art, and some of the most exciting culinary experiences in the country. As the former imperial capital, Kyoto remains the cultural heart of Japan, drawing travelers with its seasonal beauty, historic charm, and quiet elegance. But while it may be steeped in tradition, Kyoto has also emerged as the most dynamic hotel destination in the country. The best luxury hotels in Kyoto reflect this evolution, with both world-renowned names and standout independent brands reinterpreting the city’s heritage through architecture, service, and storytelling.
From peaceful ryokan-inspired retreats in Arashiyama to sleek, modern sanctuaries tucked into the historic streets of Gion, Kyoto’s best luxury hotels offer far more than just a place to rest. Many are destinations in their own right—spaces where you can experience Kyoto’s refined craftsmanship, wellness rituals, and exceptional cuisine without even stepping outside. Whether you’re temple-hopping by day or sipping matcha on a rooftop terrace by night, these properties blend comfort, culture, and character in equal measure. Our curated list of the best luxury hotels in Kyoto highlights the finest stays across the city’s most iconic districts, each one offering a deeply immersive and unforgettable experience.
Table of Contents
The Best Luxury Hotels In Kyoto
Where to Stay in Kyoto
Kyoto blends ancient temples, traditional wooden houses, and peaceful gardens with lively markets and cultural gems. Picking the right neighborhood makes a big difference in how you experience the city. Whether you’re here for temples, food, shopping, or nature, Kyoto has a place that fits your style.
Downtown Kyoto – Best for Shopping & Dining
This vibrant area, also known as Kawaramachi or the city center, is packed with restaurants, bars, and shopping arcades. It’s easy to get around from here and perfect if you want to be in the middle of the action.
- Nishiki Market: A must-visit for local food, snacks, and souvenirs.
- Ponto-cho & Kiyamachi: Narrow streets filled with lantern-lit bars and traditional restaurants.
- Teramachi & Shinkyogoku: Covered shopping arcades full of everything from trendy shops to traditional goods.
Want to stay in the heart of Kyoto’s shopping and dining scene? Here are some hotels in Downtown Kyoto to consider.
Kyoto Station Area – Best for Transportation Access
Staying near Kyoto Station gives you direct access to bullet trains, subways, and buses, making it ideal for day trips to Nara, Osaka, or Arashiyama. This area is modern, convenient, and surprisingly full of dining and shopping spots.
- Kyoto Tower: A local landmark with great views.
- Porta Mall & Isetan: Underground and department store shopping options right at the station.
- Easy access to Shinkansen: Perfect if you’re heading to Tokyo or Hiroshima next.
Need a convenient base for exploring Kyoto and beyond? Check out hotels near Kyoto Station.
Southern Higashiyama – Best for Classic Kyoto Vibes
This area is what most people picture when they think of Kyoto—winding cobblestone lanes, wooden teahouses, and historic temples. It’s one of the most photogenic parts of the city.
- Kiyomizu-dera Temple: An iconic spot with sweeping views over Kyoto.
- Sannenzaka & Ninenzaka: Historic streets lined with traditional shops and cafes.
- Maruyama Park: Especially beautiful during the cherry blossom season.
Looking for a stay that captures Kyoto’s old-world charm? Explore hotels in Southern Higashiyama.
Northern Higashiyama – Best for Art & Culture
Quieter than the southern half, this area offers a peaceful mix of Zen temples, art museums, and charming walking paths. It’s a favorite for travelers who want culture without the crowds.
- Philosopher’s Path: A tranquil canal-side trail lined with cherry trees.
- Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion): A beautiful Zen temple with landscaped gardens.
- Kyoto Municipal Museum of Art: Great for design and architecture lovers.
Prefer a slower pace and a cultural escape? Browse hotels in Northern Higashiyama.
Kyoto Imperial Palace Area – Best for Peace & Green Spaces
Located north of the downtown core, this neighborhood is residential, calm, and close to large green spaces and historical buildings. A great pick if you’re seeking a quieter stay while still being centrally located.
- Kyoto Imperial Palace: Surrounded by peaceful gardens and walking paths.
- Nijo Castle: A stunning World Heritage Site with night-time light displays in spring and autumn.
- Kamogawa River: Ideal for early morning walks or cycling.
Craving a relaxing stay near Kyoto’s royal history? Have a look at hotels near the Kyoto Imperial Palace.
Arashiyama – Best for Nature & Scenery
Set on the western edge of the city, Arashiyama is surrounded by mountains, forests, and temples. It’s perfect for travelers who want to unwind and experience Kyoto’s natural beauty.
- Bamboo Grove: One of Kyoto’s most iconic photo spots.
- Tenryu-ji Temple: A Zen temple with a stunning garden.
- Iwatayama Monkey Park: A short hike with a big reward, sweeping city views, and wild monkeys.
Want to stay where nature meets tradition? Check out these hotels in Arashiyama.
Each Kyoto neighborhood offers something unique, whether it’s peaceful temples, buzzing shopping streets, or scenic river walks. From convenient city stays to tranquil hideaways, there’s a perfect area for every traveler. Where will you stay in Kyoto?
Price Comparison
Rooms for two people in EUR
Hotels
The Hotel Seiryu Kiyomizu (9.4)
Marufukuro (9.7)
Kyomachiya Suite Rikyu (9.8)
The Thousand Kyoto (9.4)
Ishibekoji Muan (9.6)
Dusit Thani Kyoto (9.3)
Kyoto Shijo Takakura (9.3)
Ace Hotel Kyoto (9.2)
BenTen Residences (9.8)
Price
686€
539€
494€
481€
412€
355€
349€
341€
335€
213€
The Best Luxury Hotels In Tokyo
The Most Exclusive Stays in 2025
Set on the serene hillside of Higashiyama, the Hotel Seiryu Kyoto Kiyomizu blends Kyoto’s rich cultural legacy with refined modern comfort. This elegant boutique hotel breathes new life into a historic building that once served as Kiyomizu Elementary School, originally founded in 1869 and relocated to its current structure in 1933. The architecture retains the essence of its past—arched windows, Spanish-tiled rooftops, and wooden corbels—while offering a contemporary aesthetic that celebrates Japanese and Western design traditions. With stunning views over Yasaka Pagoda and the city of Kyoto, this landmark promises an inspiring and immersive stay, earning it a well-deserved place among the best luxury hotels in Kyoto.
The hotel features 48 unique rooms, each designed with minimalist elegance and bespoke art, and modern comforts like spacious bathrooms and luxurious beds. Guests can indulge in locally inspired French cuisine at Benoit Kyoto, enjoy handcrafted cocktails at the rooftop or indoor bar, or relax in the lounge, private bath, and open terrace overlooking Kyoto.
Step into Kyoto’s history with a stay at Marufukuro, a boutique luxury hotel housed in Nintendo’s original headquarters. First built in 1889, the building has been lovingly restored and reimagined, blending nostalgic charm with modern sophistication. Architect Tadao Ando brings his minimalist touch to the newly added annex, complementing the vintage elegance of the original Showa-era buildings, once home to the Yamauchi family and Nintendo’s earliest operations. With its unique story, refined design, and all-inclusive service, Marufukuro stands out as one of the best luxury hotels in Kyoto.
With only 18 rooms (including 4 suites), the hotel offers an intimate, design-forward stay. Expect natural light, custom touches, and a sense of calm throughout. Marufukuro is all-inclusive, so everything—from gourmet meals at carta. to drinks, snacks, and access to the peaceful lounge and Nintendo-inspired library—is part of the experience.
Tucked away near Yasaka Pagoda in Higashiyama, RIKYU offers more than just a place to stay—it invites you into a piece of Kyoto’s living history. Born from a personal passion to preserve traditional Kyomachiya townhouses, this intimate suite-style accommodation blends old-world elegance with thoughtful, modern comfort. With its deep cultural ties, handcrafted details, and immersive atmosphere, RIKYU has earned its place among the best luxury hotels in Kyoto for travelers seeking authenticity and charm.
Created by a local husband-and-wife team, RIKYU is deeply personal—from the handmade “HAPPY” door handle crafted by the owner’s grandfather to the handpicked Kyoto-made furnishings that fill the space. Every detail is intentional, reflecting the philosophy of Ichigo Ichie—the idea that every encounter is once-in-a-lifetime and deserves to be cherished.
Staying at RIKYU means more than just sightseeing. Guests are encouraged to explore Kyoto’s local craftsmanship, with many of the inn’s amenities available at nearby artisan shops. It’s a truly immersive experience that connects you to the city in a meaningful, memorable way.
THE THOUSAND KYOTO is a sophisticated luxury hotel just a two-minute walk from Kyoto Station, offering 222 rooms and suites designed with minimalist elegance inspired by Kyoto’s traditional tea houses. The interiors embrace soft natural tones, wood accents, and large windows that bring in plenty of light, creating a calming, Zen-like atmosphere. Rooms come with thoughtful amenities like rainfall showers, personal tea sets, pajamas, and smart room controls. Select suites offer garden terraces or sweeping views of Kyoto Tower, perfect for a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city.
Dining is a highlight here, with Kizahashi serving beautifully presented seasonal Japanese cuisine and Scalae offering Italian dishes in a chic open-kitchen setting. The modern Tea & Bar is an homage to Kyoto’s tea culture, serving everything from green tea to sake-based cocktails. Guests can relax in the spa’s stone bath and dry sauna, stay active in the gym, or explore the city through the hotel’s curated “Deep Kyoto” experiences like temple meditations and cultural workshops. It’s a perfect blend of modern luxury and authentic local flavor.
Ishibeikoji Muan is a beautifully preserved luxury ryokan tucked away on Kyoto’s most picturesque pedestrian lane, Ishibei-koji. With only a few exclusive rooms, it offers an intimate and serene retreat just steps from the heart of the southern Higashiyama district. The traditional setting—tatami floors, sliding doors, and peaceful garden views—is complemented by modern comforts like private baths, fireplaces, and attentive service that blends hospitality with discretion. It’s an ideal choice for couples or solo travelers looking for an authentic yet elevated Japanese experience.
Despite its central location, Ishibeikoji Muan feels like a hidden sanctuary, shielded from the city’s hustle. Guests can unwind in the hot tub, sip tea in the peaceful courtyard, or start their day with a beautifully prepared Japanese or continental breakfast. With Gion, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, and other cultural landmarks just a short stroll away, this ryokan offers a luxurious way to immerse yourself in the historic charm of Kyoto.
Dusit Thani Kyoto brings together the best of Thai grace and Japanese refinement in a serene five-star retreat near Kyoto Station. The hotel has 147 spacious rooms and suites, all beautifully designed with a harmonious mix of modern luxury and traditional aesthetics. Whether you’re staying in a Deluxe Room or the lavish 173 sqm Imperial Suite, each space offers elegant touches like tatami accents, Japanese soaking tubs, and views over peaceful courtyards or cityscapes. The wellness facilities are just as thoughtfully curated, featuring a tranquil spa, meditation sessions, and signature Thai-Japanese treatments at Devarana Wellness. With its distinctive cross-cultural design and world-class hospitality, Dusit Thani Kyoto ranks among the best luxury hotels in Kyoto.
Dining at Dusit Thani Kyoto is a journey in itself. Guests can enjoy seasonal Kyoto ingredients at Kōyō, indulge in refined Thai flavors at Ayatana, or relax over afternoon tea at The Gallery. The hotel also has a stylish social bar, Den Kyoto, and a tea salon led by a Kyoto tea master. With a strong emphasis on sustainability and local traditions, the hotel offers an immersive cultural experience without compromising comfort. It’s a superb option for travelers wanting five-star service, wellness, and culinary excellence in a location that blends modern convenience with Kyoto’s timeless charm.
Just a one-minute walk from Shijo Karasuma, Kyoto Shijo Takakura Hotel Grandereverie places you in the heart of Kyoto’s most vibrant district. With Nishiki Market, Pontocho, and Gion all within easy walking distance, you’ll have tradition, shopping, and gourmet experiences right at your doorstep. The hotel’s location offers seamless access to Kyoto’s bus and train networks, making it a convenient base for exploring the city.
This boutique hotel features just 16 spacious rooms, blending antique elegance with modern design. Venetian-style mosaics inspired by Edo-period artist Itō Jakuchū welcome you into the lobby, while each room is designed with comfort and detail in mind. Operated by local magazine publisher Leaf, the staff go beyond typical hospitality, offering personalized recommendations and insider tips to help you experience Kyoto like a local.
Ace Hotel Kyoto is where Kyoto’s legacy of craftsmanship meets the creative pulse of modern design. Housed partly in the historic Kyoto Central Telephone Office and seamlessly connected to Karasuma Oike Station, this architecturally striking hotel blends East and West in a way that feels both stylish and sincere. The interiors, lush courtyard garden, and live programming reflect the city’s cultural spirit, while the on-site Stumptown Coffee Roasters—the first in Japan—adds a taste of Portland cool.
The hotel features a wide range of room types, from spacious lofts to tatami suites and stylish twins in the original heritage wing. Every detail, from handmade soaps to TEAC turntables, celebrates thoughtful design and comfort. Dining is a major highlight here, with three distinctive restaurants led by acclaimed American chefs, including a rooftop Italian spot and a vibrant taco bar. It’s a stay that invites you to slow down, soak in the atmosphere, and savor Kyoto in a fresh, imaginative way.
Located in the heart of Kyoto’s historic Higashiyama district, BenTen East is a beautifully restored 100-year-old machiya offering a perfect blend of tradition and modern convenience. This two-storey townhouse, designed for up to 6 guests, combines classic Japanese elements like tatami rooms and wooden lattice windows with contemporary comforts, including heated flooring, high-speed WiFi, and a fully equipped kitchenette. With three bedrooms, including one Japanese-style and one Western-style, guests can choose between futons or beds. The first-floor tatami room doubles as a living space, and the house features a private garden with a Japanese maple, visible from the bathroom, for a peaceful and serene retreat.
BenTen East is an ideal base for families, designers, and long-term stays, offering both space and convenience for guests. It’s located just minutes from Kyoto’s top attractions, including Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Gion, with nearby shops and restaurants adding to the appeal. The property’s blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern amenities makes it a standout choice for those seeking an authentic yet comfortable Kyoto experience.
NOHGA HOTEL KIYOMIZU KYOTO is a refined boutique hotel that offers a deeply immersive experience in the cultural heart of Kyoto. The hotel is thoughtfully designed to connect guests with the city’s local traditions, artistry, and seasonal charm. Its interiors feature upcycled products and handcrafted items by Kyoto artisans, turning everyday objects into gateways of cultural exploration. Guests can enjoy art exhibitions, music events, and meditation programs, all curated to deepen the understanding of Kyoto’s spirit. With its thoughtful design and cultural focus, NOHGA HOTEL has earned its place among the best luxury hotels in Kyoto.
The guest rooms combine simplicity and sophistication, furnished with locally crafted furniture, Imabari towels, and premium amenities such as Simmons mattresses, OSAJI organic bath products, and high-fidelity Bluetooth speakers. Room options range from Double to Premium King, each tailored for comfort and aesthetic pleasure. Dining is another highlight, with the in-house restaurant CICON offering Italian-inspired cuisine using Kyoto-sourced ingredients, cooked over a Josper Oven. Guests can also enjoy fresh bread and specialty coffee at the bakery café or unwind with cocktails and panoramic views at the rooftop bar.
In the meanwhile check out our other Accommodation articles we handpicked for you: Sri Lanka | Madeira Island | Lisbon, Portugal | Osaka, Japan | Cappadocia, Turkey | Zermatt, Switzerland | Quito, Ecuador | Galapagos Islands.
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I’m João Petersen, an explorer at heart, travel leader, and the creator of The Portuguese Traveler. Adventure tourism has always been my passion, and my goal is to turn my blog into a go-to resource for outdoor enthusiasts. Over the past few years, I’ve dedicated myself to exploring remote destinations, breathtaking landscapes, and fascinating cultures, sharing my experiences through a mix of storytelling and photography.
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