If you’re planning a trip to Kyoto and want a truly authentic Japanese experience, staying in a ryokan is a must.
These traditional inns offer tatami-matted rooms, futon beds, and often feature kaiseki meals and relaxing onsen baths. It’s the perfect way to connect with Japanese culture—right in the heart of Kyoto.
But with so many options, how do you choose the right ryokan for your trip?
In this guide, we’ve handpicked 24 of the best ryokan in Kyoto, covering everything from affordable stays to luxury experiences, and organized them by area. Whether you want to stay in Gion, Arashiyama, near Kyoto Station, or off the beaten path, you’ll find a perfect match here.
Let’s find your ideal ryokan and make your Kyoto trip unforgettable.
Rakuto Area – Gion, Higashiyama & Classic Kyoto
This is where you’ll find the Kyoto you’ve imagined—traditional wooden houses, geisha culture, and famous temples like Kiyomizu-dera and Ginkaku-ji.
If you’re visiting Kyoto for the first time, the Rakuto area is one of the best places to stay. Here are some of the top ryokan in this area.
1. Gion Hatanaka
📍 Location: Right next to Yasaka Shrine, Gion
💴 Price: From ¥45,000 per person (with kaiseki dinner & breakfast)
⭐ Best for: Traditional luxury stay with maiko entertainment
If you’re looking for an unforgettable ryokan experience in Kyoto, Gion Hatanaka is a top-tier choice. Located in the heart of Gion, this elegant ryokan offers exquisite kaiseki cuisine and even private maiko performances. Perfect for anniversaries or once-in-a-lifetime trips.
👉 Check prices on Booking.com
👉 See on Agoda
2. Ryokan Gion Sano
📍 Location: Near Yasaka Shrine and Kiyomizu-dera
💴 Price: From ¥15,000 per person
⭐ Best for: Comfortable and quiet stay in central Gion
A hidden gem in Gion, this small ryokan is loved for its friendly staff and clean, serene atmosphere. Great location for exploring Gion’s nightlife and visiting major landmarks on foot.
👉 See guest reviews on Booking.com
👉 Check availability on Agoda
3. Ryokan Yachiyo
📍 Location: Near Nanzen-ji Temple
💴 Price: From ¥18,000 per person
⭐ Best for: Japanese garden views and private baths
Surrounded by a traditional Japanese garden, Ryokan Yachiyo offers a peaceful retreat close to the Philosopher’s Path and Nanzen-ji. Some rooms come with private open-air baths, making it a great spot for couples or solo travelers seeking relaxation.
👉 View on Booking.com
👉 Check on Agoda
Kyoto Station Area – Best for First-Time Visitors & Easy Access
If you’re arriving in Kyoto by train or planning day trips to Nara or Osaka, staying near Kyoto Station is super convenient. You’ll have quick access to buses, trains, and even late-night restaurants.
Here are some comfortable and well-located ryokan near Kyoto Station.
1. Ryokan Shimizu
💴 Price: From ¥9,000 per person
⭐ Best for: Budget + Hospitality
A cozy and affordable ryokan just a 10-minute walk from Kyoto Station. Run by a friendly family, it’s known for its cleanliness, helpful staff, and free Japanese cultural experiences like calligraphy.
2. Hotel Kanra Kyoto
💴 Price: From ¥20,000 per person
⭐ Best for: Modern Ryokan Feel
This is a stylish boutique hotel with a ryokan twist—think tatami floors and hinoki bathtubs. It’s a great pick if you want modern comfort with Japanese touches.
Arashiyama Area – Perfect for Nature Lovers & Slow Travel
Arashiyama is a peaceful, scenic district known for its bamboo forest, monkey park, and beautiful riverside views. If you want to escape the crowds and enjoy Kyoto’s nature, this is the place to be.
Here are top ryokan in Arashiyama, ideal for relaxing stays.
1. Suiran, a Luxury Collection Hotel Kyoto
From ¥50,000 | ⭐ Ultimate Luxury + Riverside View
Located right by the Katsura River, Suiran blends luxury hotel service with traditional Japanese aesthetics. Some rooms offer private open-air baths with river views. Great for couples or honeymooners.
2. Hoshinoya Kyoto
From ¥80,000 | ⭐ Hidden Retreat
Accessible only by private boat, this luxurious ryokan is nestled in the mountains along the river. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience of peaceful seclusion, gourmet cuisine, and modern ryokan style.
Northern Kyoto – Hidden Gems & Quiet Escapes
For travelers looking to avoid the crowds, Northern Kyoto offers stunning temples, forest trails, and quiet ryokan stays. Ohara, Kurama, and Kibune are especially magical during autumn and early summer.
These ryokan are ideal for a retreat into nature and tradition.
1. Kurama Onsen
From ¥13,000 | ⭐ Mountain Onsen
Famous for its hot spring baths, Kurama Onsen is perfect for a one-night getaway just outside the city. Simple rooms, peaceful views, and open-air onsen make it great for solo travelers or couples.
2. Ohara Sansou
From ¥16,000 | ⭐ Farm Stay Vibes
Located in rural Ohara, this ryokan offers warm hospitality, home-cooked meals with local vegetables, and an onsen bath surrounded by trees. A hidden gem for a rustic Kyoto experience.
Final Tips for Booking a Ryokan in Kyoto
- Book early, especially during peak seasons (spring cherry blossom, autumn leaves).
- Check meal options—some ryokan offer dinner and breakfast, while others are room-only.
- Be mindful of etiquette, such as removing shoes indoors and being quiet in communal spaces.
- Not all ryokan have private bathrooms—check the room details before booking.
To make your trip to Kyoto even more special, use this article as a guide to find the perfect ryokan for your stay!
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