More about hotels in Kyoto City
Kyoto is the capital city of Kyoto Prefecture in the Kansai region of Japan’s largest and most populous island of Honshu. As the oldest municipality in Japan, Kyoto is considered the cultural capital and the major tourist destination of Japan. It’s a home to a plenty of Buddhist temples, Shinto shrines, palaces, and gardens, some of which have been designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
Besides, Kyoto is one of the academic and business centers in Japan where several cutting-edge universities, research institutions, and companies lie. Kyoto is a city unlike any other. Here, ancient cultural treasures seamlessly blend with breathtaking natural beauty, while a prestigious academic atmosphere adds another layer of intrigue. It’s no wonder this captivating city once held the title of capital–Kyoto offers a truly awe-inspiring experience. Thinking about a trip to Kyoto? We’ve got you covered! Check out the insider tips below to plan your perfect Kyoto adventure:
Famous Destinations in Kyoto
As you set foot in Kyoto, you must want to visit the city’s famous destinations first. Here are some of them:
1. Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
Your first stop should be Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine. This most important Shinto shrine is famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates straddling a network of trails behind its main buildings. The trails lead into the wooded forest of the sacred Mount Inari; this is the primary reason most foreign visitors come to Fushimi Inari Shrine. When you reach the half way up to the summit, you would already enjoy the nice views over Kyoto.
2. Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is the most popular natural tourist attraction in Kyoto. Many travelers visit for cherry-blossom and fall foliage viewing in the spring and autumn season. This place is one of the most photographed sights in the city surrounded by the sound of the rustling bamboo, making it other-wordly, serene, and dreamlike spot second to none in the world.
Public Transports in Kyoto
Kyoto has a world-class public transport system that can get you anywhere efficiently. This is why it’s important to know the best way to get around the city; you can take:
1. Trains
Kyoto’s train system consists of the national JR Line and some local private lines. JR trains run to nearby cities, like Osaka, Otsu, Kobe, or Nara. Use JR Rail Pass for convenient journeys to those cities. Meanwhile, private train lines include Keihan, Hankyu, Kintetsu, Keifuku, and Eizan Line.
2. Subways
Subways are a more favorable transport method to navigate Kyoto. It’s composed of two lines: the north-south Karasuma Line and the east-west Tozai Line. Despite the limited reach, it can save your journey time. It’s also a lot easier to figure out than buses and cheaper than taxis.
3. Buses
Buses are the most extensive transport of the city, which can get you anywhere. However, trains and subways can be faster than buses. Operating to the northwest and northeast of the town, Kyoto’s buses require a bus pass if you plan to use buses a lot. Remember to arm yourself with an English-language bus map for trouble-free trips.
4. Taxis
As you have three/four people, taking taxis can be a good value. It also allows you to cover a lot of ground fast and connects areas not served by public transports, such as Arashiyama to Kinkaku-ji Temple. This reasonably-priced transport can be found on just about any street in the city.
Best Areas to Stay in Kyoto
Kyoto is one of the metropolises in Japan where you can find a range of urban conveniences during your trip. Although where to stay in Kyoto is based on your itinerary or where to go, there are at least 2 recommended areas of the city for the best stay experience: Shimogyo and Higashiyama. Shimogyo would give you easy access to buses and subways and vibrant places of various shopping centers and restaurants. In the meantime, Higashiyama provides you a much quieter atmosphere, surrounded by traditional and picturesque neighborhoods with its wooden houses and charming streets. It’s exactly an ideal place to discover the authentic side of Kyoto and immerse yourself in Japanese culture.
Budget-Friendly Hotels in Kyoto
Looking for budget hotels in Kyoto? We’ve got you! Below are some cost-effective accommodations to save more of your trip expenses:
1. Kyoto Suiden - Ann Hanare Dormitory Sui
Kyoto Suiden - Ann Hanare Dormitory Sui is a budget hotel in Nishijin. It offers you basic facilities, like 24-hour receptionist and security, WiFi throughout the property, and a laundry service. Game rooms, diving spots, and gardens are the recreational amenities the hotel provides. The check-in is served from 2 pm, while check-out is before 12 pm. As you step outside, you can visit Nishijin Textile Center and Kinkaku-ji some kilometers away from the hotel.
2. Hotel Meldia Shijo Kawaramachi
Another mid-range hotel in Kyoto, specifically Shimogyo, is Hotel Meldia Shijo Kawaramachi. It features amenities, like a flat-screen TV, air-conditioned rooms, a private bathroom, and WiFi. Make sure to check in from 3 pm and check out before 11 am. During your stay, allot time to stop by nearby attractions: Kenninji Temple, Gion Corner, Samurai Kembu Theater.
Family-Oriented Hotels in Kyoto
Since Kyoto is also an ideal destination for family recreations, here are several family-oriented hotels in the city:
1. Dusit Thani Kyoto
Take your family to the finest holiday stays at Dusit Thani. The gracious combo of Thai hospitality and Japanese tradition are interwoven in this urban sanctuary at the heart of Kyoto. Luxurious guest rooms and suites, peaceful courtyard, relaxing spa treatments, and utter restaurants are at your hands. However, remember to check in between 3 pm to 12 am and check out before 12 pm; and make sure to take your kids to an indoor pool before leaving.
2. Fauchon Hotel Kyoto
Referring to its name, Fauchon Hotel Kyoto offers an exceptional mix of the French brand and the iconic cultural elements of Japan. This luxury hotel provides fine food and pastries and the renowned Gourmet Bar in each room and suite. Staying in the Fauchon Hotel makes you feel the essence of Paris in the ancient capital of Japan. For this infinite indulgence, check in from 3 pm and check out before 12 pm.
Other Recommendations for Holiday Stays in Kyoto
In this article, we’ll also give you other recommended accommodations for your varied stay experience in Kyoto. Below are several of them:
1. Mimaru Kawaramachi Gojo
Mimaru Kawaramachi Gojo is a 3-star apartment comfortable enough for you to stay in during your urban adventures in Kyoto. Some basic amenities, like front desk, laundry service, WiFi, and TV in the guest rooms are accessible in the property. For the recreational activity, you can head to its fitness center, so you won’t skip your exercise routines. It allows check-in between 3 to 10 pm. Guests must check out by 11 am.
2. YADORU KYOTO HANARE Kanade No Yado
Planning to have long-term stays? YADORU KYOTO HANARE Kanade No Yado is the perfect destination. This holiday home comes with rooms with garden views, a bathroom, kitchenette, in-room seating area, hairdryers, etc. The Costume Museum, Indian Restaurant Thilaga, and Teramachi-dori shopping street are only a few minutes driving distance from the accommodation. Please note that check-in is available between 4 to 8 pm, while checkout is required by 10 am.
3. Kyokoi Chikurintei
Kyokoi Chikurintei is a 4-star villa nestled amidst the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, featuring a tranquil retreat steeped in traditional Japanese elegance. Each room boasts a private onsen bath for the guests’ relaxing session. Surrounded by the city’s natural beauty, you can also indulge in exquisite Japanese cuisines in the property’s restaurant. You can check in anytime from 3 pm and check out before 10 am. While you’re here, take advantage of the close proximity to amazing attractions, like Kiyomizudera Temple or Yasaka Shrine; they’re just a short trip away!
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