As Japan’s ancient capital, Kyoto is the country’s cultural heart. While steeped in tradition, it also boasts the most dynamic hotel scene in Japan. While Tokyo has hosted renowned international chains for decades, Kyoto’s luxury hotel landscape has exploded in recent years. It’s not just major brands setting down roots; a host of independent properties bring a distinctive flair, reinterpreting the city’s heritage in fresh and captivating ways. So, while you may come for temple-hopping and geisha-spotting, be prepared to spend considerable time at an extraordinary hotel. From boutique stays to cozy ryokans, the best places are so exceptional you might never want to leave.
Below, our guide to the best hotels in Kyoto.
Vogue’s Guide to the Best Hotels in Kyoto:
* For Low-Key Luxury: The Shinmonzen
* For a Modern Ryokan: Sowaka
* For Ultimate Privacy: Shinsho-an
* For Traditional Craft: Hiiragiya
* For the Design-Minded, Independent Traveler: Maana Homes
* For Onsen Offerings: Hotel the Mitsui Kyoto, a Luxury Collection Hotel & Spa
* For Panoramic Views: Park Hyatt Kyoto
* For a Relaxing Retreat in Nature: Hoshinoya Kyoto
### The Shinmonzen
A masterclass in boutique luxury, The Shinmonzen ticks every box. Set on one of Gion’s most underrated streets, lined with unassuming galleries, you’re minutes from the action yet enjoy an exclusive, “in-the-know” location. Beyond the prime address, design lovers will be captivated by the Tadao Ando building. One of the acclaimed architect’s subtler works, its dark timber façade blends into the surroundings. His signature style becomes apparent only after you pass through the black noren curtains, revealing a concrete wall contrasted with blonde wood—a nod to Kyoto’s heritage. As the sister property to France’s Villa La Coste, the hotel’s affinity for contemporary art shines in the guest-only lounge and nine individually designed suites. These are among the city’s most spacious accommodations, beautifully showcasing traditional Japanese design through a modern lens. Impeccable service, with genuinely attentive staff dedicated to crafting a memorable experience, ties it all together.
Amenities: Breakfast included, complimentary minibar, private lounge, Jean-Georges restaurant, complimentary transfers from Kyoto Station, small cardio gym.
Editor’s tip: While you can enjoy breakfast in your chic room, it’s worth starting your day on the peaceful riverside terrace.
Address: 235 Nishinocho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto 605-0088, Japan
### Sowaka
Another well-located boutique property, discreetly tucked away behind noren curtains, Sowaka is just steps from Yasaka Shrine and the popular, pedestrian-only shopping street Ninenzaka. Its 23 accommodations are split between two buildings: Western-style rooms in the annex and individually designed Japanese-style rooms in the original building, which once housed a high-end restaurant. The latter are the most special, evoking a modern ryokan with traditional elements like tokonoma alcoves, shoji screens, tatami mats, and Hinoki cypress tubs. Many rooms overlook the property’s serene interior gardens, creating a calming ambiance that reminds you you’re in Japan’s ancient capital. For a pre-dinner drink, visit the lounge for sake hour between 5 and 6 p.m.
Amenities: Breakfast included, complimentary minibar, restaurant, bar.
Editor’s tip: Room 103 has the best view of the largest inner garden, while Room 101 features its own private garden and a veranda perfect for meditation.Hiiragiya
Address: 480 Kiyoicho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto 605-0821, Japan
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Steeped in tradition, life moves at a slower pace at Hiiragiya—in the best way. For over two centuries, this ryokan has upheld the highest standards of Japanese hospitality, welcoming guests into a warm and serene space that showcases exquisite craftsmanship. Water is sprinkled on the stone walkway to signal the staff is ready for your arrival, shoes are exchanged for slippers to protect the hand-woven tatami floors, and every piece of furniture and decor—down to the lacquered remote control boxes—has been carefully chosen from master artisans. Each room has its own character, even in the new wing where futons are replaced with mattresses, yet all are connected by the beloved hallmarks of a traditional inn: tatami, shoji screens, sliding doors, and tokonoma alcoves. The food is also a highlight. Dinner is a multi-course kaiseki meal served in your room, celebrating the season’s finest ingredients, while breakfast features Kyoto’s famous tofu.
Amenities: Private baths and a library
Editor’s tip: One of the two reservable baths is like a mini gallery, featuring stained glass and porcelain tiles by renowned artists Sanchi Ogawa and Kiyomizu Rokubei VI.
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Shinsho-an
Address: 277 Nakahakusancho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto 604-8094, Japan
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Tucked away on a quiet residential street in Okazaki, Shinsho-an feels more like a private home than a hotel. With just four suites, you can easily treat it as your own. This intimate and discreet property is a tribute to sukiya-zukuri, an architectural style inspired by traditional tea houses. Wood was carefully sourced from natural forests in Japan, textured mud walls add warmth, TVs are discreetly hidden behind shoji screens, and a selection of European furnishings adds a modern touch. Each suite has its own distinct look, showcasing the skilled craftsmen involved in the project—from the woven red cedar ceiling in Sho to the unchamfered log pillars in Gyo. Guests are guaranteed reservations at the on-site, 12-seat Higashiyama Ogata, a sister branch of the two-star restaurant across town. Alternatively, enjoy a spectacular seasonal breakfast in your room each morning, prepared by the same team. Be sure to spend time in Hanare, the property’s prized lounge crafted by Sotoji Nakamura, who built the tea room at Ise Jingu, Japan’s most important shrine. Sip a drink, admire the masterful carpentry, and relax with views of the beautiful garden.
Amenities: Breakfast included, complimentary minibar, private lounge, restaurant
Editor’s tip: If you’re also visiting Tokyo, Shinsho-an guests have access to the private members’ bar Hygge Ginza.
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Maana Homes
Address: 91-5 Okazaki Enshojicho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto 606-8344, Japan
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As you approach Maana Kiyomizu, you’ll walk down a narrow alley most taxis won’t enter. You might double back a few times, wondering if you’re on the right path as you pass only private residences. A hotel here? That’s just it—it’s in the name: Maana Homes. This isn’t a hotel but a collection of five properties across Kyoto, masterfully envisioned by the company’s cofounder and creative director, Hana Tsukamoto. You won’t find all the bells and whistles of a traditional hotel, but you will discover chic havens with unique stories, shaped by Tsukamoto’s sharp eye for design and love of antiques. Some lean more traditional, like the flagship Maana Kyoto, while others feel more contemporary, such as the Maana Kiyomizu suites. Neutral tones and natural materials come alive through interesting shapes and textures—you’ll constantly find yourself photographing the beautiful spaces.
Beyond a stylish place to rest, Maana also offers…The program offers a range of thoughtful experiences and multi-day retreats. For the shorter workshops, participants visit Maana Atelier in the north of the city. Once a kimono weaver’s home, this studio carries on a craft tradition and hosts unique, intentional workshops focused on ancient practices still relevant today—such as fermentation, natural indigo dyeing, and earthen wall (tsuchikabe) building. The longer retreats provide opportunities to connect with locals through immersive activities like tea harvesting and pottery, offering an intimate look at these cherished traditions. It’s a wonderful way to engage with the community and experience Kyoto beyond the typical tourist path.
Amenities: Owner-approved city guide
Editor’s tip: If you only have time for one activity, join the earthen wall class to learn about machiya architecture and create your own tsuchikabe art panel to take home.
Address: Various locations
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### Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto
Photo: Courtesy of Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto
After a long day of exploring Kyoto—and easily walking 20,000 steps—returning to a peaceful hotel where you’ll be well cared for makes all the difference. That’s exactly what the Four Seasons delivers. Though part of a global brand, the Kyoto property feels intimate, tucked away from the main road for added privacy. It’s a serene retreat in Higashiyama, anchored by a beautiful 12th-century pond garden filled with cherry blossoms, a pagoda, and a Jizo statue that neighboring Myoho-in Temple dates back to the Edo period. Most dining venues overlook the water; Fuju, where you can enjoy a tea ceremony or champagne, is suspended right above it. Even without the view, Sushi Ginza Onodera is a must for Edomae-style sushi lovers.
Rooms are spacious with large windows and Japanese touches like washi lamps and urushi lacquerware. All include a sofa bed—handy for families—and some suites offer full kitchens. Don’t miss the spa, which features ofuro (Japanese baths) and a rare 65-foot lap pool.
Amenities: Maiko performances, indoor pool, spa, pond garden, tea room, fitness center, restaurants, bar
Editor’s tip: Plan your stay for a Tuesday or Saturday to catch a maiko performance in the lobby.
Address: 445-3 Myohoin Maekawacho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto 605-0932, Japan
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### Hotel the Mitsui Kyoto, a Luxury Collection Hotel & Spa
Photo: Courtesy of Hotel the Mitsui Kyoto, a Luxury Collection Hotel & Spa
Onsen represent the peak of Japanese wellness. These mineral-rich hot springs relax the body and mind, and many believe they have healing properties. While traditional onsen are communal and clothing-free, a growing number of hotels now offer private options—some of the most luxurious can be found at Hotel the Mitsui Kyoto. Beyond rooms with their own open-air, hot spring–fed tubs, the hotel features a co-ed thermal pool filled with natural hot spring water (swimsuits required). For more privacy, the spa has two private onsen facilities reserved exclusively for hotel guests.The spacious suites are among the most extensive and luxurious of their kind, featuring a living room, dining table, and sauna. Beyond the impressive variety of onsen baths, the hotel’s manicured garden is another standout feature. The minimalist, elegant accommodations—designed by André Fu—also include sumptuous marble bathrooms with deep soaking tubs.
Amenities: Guest-only onsen facilities, spa, fitness center, tea room, restaurants
Editor’s tip: For an exceptional in-house dining experience, visit Toki restaurant, where Paris-trained chef Tetsuya Asano skillfully blends local ingredients with French techniques.
Address: 284 Nijoaburanokojicho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto 604-0051, Japan
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Nazuna Kyoto Higashi Honganji
Photo: Courtesy of Nazuna
Originally a century-old machiya (traditional townhouse), the seven-suite Nazuna Kyoto Higashi Honganji honors its history—and the craftsmanship behind it—by naming each suite after carpentry terms. Every accommodation has a unique layout, but all showcase exquisite woodwork, blending rustic heritage with modern design through exposed beams and sleek, low-profile furnishings. Most rooms include a cypress tub, while Obiki and Tuska suites offer an open-air stone tub for alfresco bathing. Guests can enjoy a lounge with complimentary drinks and snacks, and breakfast is a special experience featuring dishes cooked over a charcoal hearth. For travelers using Kyoto as a base for day trips to nearby attractions like Fushimi Inari or Uji, the hotel’s walkable distance to Kyoto Station makes it an ideal choice.
Amenities: Complimentary minibar, lounge with complimentary drinks and snacks, restaurant
Editor’s tip: Rooms are spread across two floors, but note there is no elevator due to the building’s historic design.
Address: 2 Kamecho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto 600-8159, Japan
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Park Hyatt Kyoto
Few hotels are as centrally located as Park Hyatt Kyoto. Situated at the northern end of Ninenzaka, the 70-room property lies along one of Higashiyama’s busiest streets. Yet stepping inside transports you to a peaceful retreat. The accommodations are exceptionally plush—arguably among the brand’s finest—and many rooms, set on a hillside, offer views of Yasaka Pagoda and the neighborhood’s classic tile-roofed houses. The hotel also provides a generous range of complimentary amenities, a rare touch in hospitality today. Craving late-night instant noodles? They’re available. Forgot your lint roller or deodorant? They’ll be promptly delivered to your room. While the hotel has several excellent dining options, don’t miss the Japanese breakfast by Kyoyamato, a renowned kaiseki restaurant whose owners also hold the land the hotel occupies.
Amenities: Fitness center, guest-only spa, restaurants, bar
Editor’s tip: For one of the best unobstructed city views, head to the fourth floor. While there, book a table at Yasaka to enjoy teppanyaki as the sun sets over Kyoto.
Address: 360 Masuyacho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto 605-0826, Japan
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Hoshinoya Kyoto
A guest room at Hoshinoya Kyoto. Photo: Courtesy of Hoshino Resorts
Nestled along the tree-lined Ōi River in Arashiyama, guests reach Hoshinoya Kyoto via a scenic boat ride. After arriving and following a winding stone pathway, you’ll hear the gentle sound of chimes played by an instrumentalist seated near a small waterfall—a magical welcome that sets the tone for this serene sanctuary.While it may not be the most centrally located property in Kyoto, that becomes a minor detail when you’re surrounded by such stunning natural beauty. This modern take on a ryokan features just 25 spacious pavilions, each overlooking a blue-green river. Inside, you’ll find classic elements like tatami floors, shoji screens, and tokonoma alcoves, but with a fresh, luxurious twist—including heated flooring. Large picture windows perfectly frame the lush landscape, encouraging you to slow down and take it all in. Though you might be tempted to stay in your room, it’s worth venturing out for the hotel’s thoughtful activities, from outdoor stretches in the Zen garden to learning the art of a traditional incense ceremony.
Amenities: Boat service, lounge with complimentary drinks and snacks, restaurant
Editor’s tip: Unlike most ryokans, where meals are included, Hoshinoya Kyoto lets you purchase meals separately—the in-room shabu shabu breakfast is a must-try.
Address: 11-2 Arashiyama Genrokuzancho, Nishikyo Ward, Kyoto 616-0007, Japan
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### Higashiyama Shikikaboku
Photo: Kudo Kenji / Courtesy of Higashiyama Shikikaboku
This luxury hotel captures the spirit of a ryokan and was meticulously curated by its proprietress, an interior designer. Blending old Kyoto with a modern touch, the property mixes carefully chosen antiques from different eras, time-honored crafts by skilled artisans, and striking contemporary artwork. Each uniquely designed room includes thoughtful touches like Tsujiri green tea served in an original set by Tetsuya Yamamoto, drip coffee from Walden Woods Kyoto, and custom Sealy mattresses with high-quality linens. The best features, though, are on the top two floors: private open-air baths and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and Heian Shrine’s towering torii gate.
Amenities: Outdoor baths, rooftop lounge, complimentary minibar, kitchenettes with microwave and electric cooktop, bar
Editor’s tip: Stop by the bar for a complimentary drink between 5 and 7 p.m.
Address: 85-1 Imakojicho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto 605-0023, Japan
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### Dusit Thani Kyoto
Photo: Courtesy of Dusit Thani Kyoto
Choosing a historic city like Kyoto for Thai brand Dusit Thani’s first venture into Japan might seem risky, but the result is a beautiful fusion of top-notch hospitality. It seamlessly blends Japanese omotenashi with Thailand’s warm service—a match made in heaven. This cultural harmony extends throughout the hotel, from the sleek rooms to the spa’s wellness offerings. The dining options also celebrate both countries: Ayatana serves modern Thai cuisine using local ingredients, Kōyō offers refined teppanyaki inspired by Kyoto’s 24 micro-seasons, and the sultry Den Kyoto crafts creative cocktails influenced by both destinations.
Amenities: Maiko performances, tea room, spa, fitness center, indoor pool, restaurants, bar
Editor’s tip: Maiko performances are held every Saturday afternoon.
Address: 466 Nishinotoincho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto 600-8327, Japan
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### OMO3 Kyoto Toji by Hoshino Resorts
Courtesy of Hoshino Resorts
If you’re using Kyoto as a base for day trips to nearby cities and attractions like Nara, Osaka, and Fushimi Inari Shrine, staying near Kyoto Station is ideal. Just a few blocks south, you’ll find OMO3 Kyoto Toji by Hoshino Resorts (the same brand behind the luxurious Hoshinoya ryokan). OMO is their budget-friendly brand, offering comfortable—sometimes compact—accommodations with complimentary activities at a reasonable price. This hotel is located down the road from Toji Temple, one of Kyoto’s oldest Buddhist temples and a UNESCO World Heritage site.Founded in the Heian period when Kyoto became Japan’s capital, this national treasure offers guided walks with staff, morning stretches by the five-story pagoda, and the chance to witness the daily memorial ritual for Kobo Daishi, the founder of Shingon Buddhism. Guests can also enjoy evening herbal tea paired with an ema-making session—where you write wishes on wooden plaques—plus sand tables for calligraphy or designing a mini Zen garden.
Amenities: Complimentary guided tours and activities, evening tea, lounge, laundromat
Editor’s tip: If jet lag hits, the 24-hour food and drink station has you covered—no late-night trip to the convenience store needed.
Address: 11-6 Nishikujo Zaocho, Minami Ward, Kyoto 601-8414, Japan
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Good Nature Hotel
Photo: Courtesy of Good Nature Hotel
Just steps from one of Kyoto’s busiest intersections, Good Nature Hotel sits between Gion and Nishiki Market. The property houses 10 dining options, boutiques, a spa, and a market selling organic local goods. Despite its scale, the hotel prioritizes sustainability, holding gold and silver WELL and LEED certifications. This ethos shines in its design, from natural lobby materials to a green-walled atrium, and extends to in-room touches like fair-trade chocolate (with husks upcycled into tea) and plant-based, chemical-free toiletries. Rooms are sleek with pops of color and feature a lighting system designed to improve sleep. For a special treat, book a room with a private meditation space or barrel sauna.
Amenities: Spa, fitness center, lounge with drinks and snacks for suite guests, restaurants
Editor’s tip: Love the Nemohamo in-room amenities? Visit the third-floor shop for their hydrating sheet masks.
Address: 2-Chome-318-6 Inaricho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto 600-8022, Japan
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OMO5 Kyoto Gion by Hoshino Resorts
Photo: Courtesy of Hoshino Resorts
For those who want to be in the heart of the action, OMO5 Kyoto Gion is ideal. Located on a main street in the historic Gion district, it’s surrounded by shops, restaurants, and cultural sites. This affordable 36-room hotel offers family- and group-friendly accommodations, some sleeping up to six and featuring kitchens. Enhance your stay with the lobby’s neighborhood map, morning tours, nightly matcha gatherings, and photo-ready paper lanterns.
Amenities: Complimentary guided neighborhood tours and casual tea ceremonies
Editor’s tip: While there’s no on-site restaurant, the hotel partners with local favorites like Izuju (Kyoto-style sushi) and Torihisa (chicken hot pot) for delivery.
Address: 288 Gionmachi Kitagawa, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto 605-0073, Japan
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Sora Niwa Terrace Kyoto
Courtesy of Sora Niwa Terrace
Across from Good Nature Hotel, Sora Niwa Terrace provides a similar prime location at a more affordable price. Rooms are compact, perfect for travelers who prioritize exploration over lavish accommodations.While the facilities are limited, this hotel offers some standout perks. There are two open-air onsen baths, one featuring panoramic views of Higashiyama and the neighborhood’s famous Yasaka Pagoda. The hotel also has a rooftop terrace overlooking the Kamo River. Start your morning there with breakfast and coffee, enjoy a complimentary welcome drink at sunset, or soothe your tired feet after a long day of exploring in the foot bath, all with a fireplace flickering in the background.
Amenities: Onsen, rooftop terrace, lounge with complimentary ice cream and drinks
Editor’s tip: Though the hotel doesn’t have its own restaurant, it offers catered breakfast bento boxes that can be enjoyed in your room or on the terrace—just be sure to order in advance.
Address: 324 Inaricho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto 600-8022, Japan
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Frequently Asked Questions
Of course Here is a list of FAQs about Kyotos finest accommodations designed to help travelers from firsttimers to seasoned visitors
Beginner General Questions
Q What exactly is a ryokan
A A ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn It typically features tatamimat floors futon bedding multicourse kaiseki dinners and often has communal or private onsen
Q Why should I consider staying in a ryokan instead of a regular hotel
A For a deep immersive cultural experience Its about the atmosphere the exquisite food the hospitality and the chance to live in a uniquely Japanese way even if just for a night
Q Whats a machiya stay
A A machiya is a traditional wooden townhouse Staying in one offers a private selfcontained experience often beautifully restored with modern amenities Its like having your own historic Kyoto home
Q Whats the difference between an onsen and a sento
A An onsen uses naturally heated mineral water from a hot spring source A sento is a public bathhouse that uses heated tap water Both are communal bathing experiences with strict etiquette rules
Q Are these highend places suitable for families with young children
A It varies Some luxury ryokans have age restrictions to maintain a serene atmosphere Many machiya and some modern ryokans are familyfriendly Always check the propertys policy directly
Practical Booking Stay Questions
Q How far in advance do I need to book a top ryokan or machiya
A For the most soughtafter places especially during peak seasons 3 to 6 months in advance is recommended Some book up a year ahead
Q Is it okay to only stay one night
A Absolutely Many guests opt for a onenight ryokan experience as part of a longer trip Its a perfect way to sample the luxury and cuisine without the higher cost of a multinight stay
Q What is a kaiseki meal and is it usually included
A Kaiseki is a multicourse haute cuisine dinner that is seasonal artistic and beautifully presented At