Best Boutique Hotels in Kyoto

Kyoto has such a wide variety of unique accommodations and boutique hotels to stay at. From traditional machiya houses to family-owned ryokan, this article will help you find a personalized boutique hotel experience to suit your needs.

Family-owned buildings, historic sites, concept hotels, and luxury resorts. These are just a few of the many types of original and creative hotels that call themselves boutique. 

Boutique hotels are a great idea for anyone looking for a one-of-a-kind place to stay that will make their trip to Japan extra special and personal.

Many boutique hotels in Kyoto can also arrange special experiences for their guests that would be hard to access outside of Japan, such as private meetings with geisha, private tea ceremonies, and tours.

Unlike larger chain hotels that offer a standardized and more conventional place to stay, boutique hotels offer guests a more intimate and personalized experience that aims to meet a broader range of needs and preferences. Let’s take a look at some of the best boutique hotels in Kyoto! 

If you’re visiting Kyoto also check out my article about the 15 Best Kyoto Food Tours and Foodie Experiences for 2024, as well as my 3 Day Kyoto Itinerary for Beginners. 

Kyoto Locations – Where to stay for a boutique hotel experience?

There are eleven wards (Ku) or districts which make up the city of Kyoto, similar to the 23 which make up Tokyo. Some areas are better than others to stay in in terms of convenience and ease of getting around the city. 

My advice is to try and avoid staying in areas where you will be heavily reliant on bus transportation to get around. Kyoto has a big problem with over-tourism, buses are often full or very crowded and traffic can be slow. This will have a big impact on how much you can realistically do in a day, and my goal is to have to spend more time enjoying the city, not waiting for buses! 

Many popular tourist attractions and sites in Kyoto can be found in the Higashiyama ward, such as the historic Gion area, Kiyomizu-Dera, and several UNESCO world heritage temples and sites. For me personally, I would always recommend first-time visitors to stay in the Higashiyama area if possible, as it’s so convenient to get around. 

The central district of Nakagyo is home to the famous Nijō castle, the popular Nishiki food market, and the city’s three most famous festivals Aoi Matsuri (held in May), Gion Matsuri (held in July), and Jidai Matsuri (held in October). This can also be a good area to stay if you can’t find somewhere suitable  in Higashiyama.

Below is a breakdown of some of the best boutique hotels in Kyoto city by ward (district), to help you find the best spot to stay in for your trip.

Contents:

• Shimogyo Ward
• Higashiyama Ward
• Nakagyo Ward
• Sakyo Ward
• Minami Ward
• Nishikyo Ward

Top 3 Picks: Best Boutique Hotels in Kyoto

Best Boutique Hotels in Kyoto

Boutique Hotels in Shimogyo Ward

Shimogyo Ward is the area around Kyoto Station so is convenient for train travel to other parts of the city and for catching the bullet train. Other sites of interest nearby include Kyoto Tower and Kyoto Railway Museum.

1. Hotel Kanra

Rating: 9.2 | Location: Shimogyo Ward | View on: Booking.com OR Agoda.com

This modern four-star hotel is inspired by Japanese Machiya, traditional wooden townhouses which were common throughout Kyoto during the Meiji and Edo periods. Simple and traditional designs, building techniques, and materials went into its construction to ensure that Kyoto’s unique culture is reflected in the hotel’s design.

Hotel Kanra Kyoto offers a range of guest services and facilities that focus on showcasing local producers, food and drinks from the region, including a lounge/cafe, a shop selling locally made souvenirs, a spa, and a kintsugi studio, where guests can observe this unique art of pottery repair. 

“It is hard to fault the hotel Kanra in Kyoto. From the moment you walk in the doors the hotel feels luxurious and calming.”

– KIYAH (READ MORE REVIEWS)

There are two restaurants on-site, one offering teppanyaki, and the other offering grilled dishes such as Wagyu beef and locally-sourced seasonal vegetables. The hotel also offers guided tours of local historical points of interests for a small fee. If guests prefer to go it alone, then Kyoto train station is less than a 15-minute walk away.

Check prices and availability at Hotel Kanra

2. Genji Kyoto

Rating: 9.7 | Location: Shimogyo Ward | View on: Booking.com OR Agoda.com

Genji Kyoto is a modern, elegant boutique hotel, located on the picturesque bank of the Kamo River, no more than a 20-minute walk from some of the city’s most popular attractions, including the famous Gion district, Nishiki food market, Kiyomizu-dera, and Kyoto Station with its iconic tower, and bicycle rental is available for guests looking to explore the city.

The hotel offers large, spacious, air-conditioned rooms with many modern comforts such as a mini bar, WiFi, room service, baths, and under-floor heating. Guests can enjoy modern or traditional Japanese dishes, snacks, and drinks at the on-site restaurant, within guest rooms, or at the Sky Forest Garden located on the roof.

“The staff, the food, the design, the location. There is nothing but praise for this hotel. If you are lucky enough to book a room, do it quickly as this is a gem.”

– LJ (READ MORE REVIEWS)

In addition, the hotel offers a well-maintained communal garden overlooking the river, the Sky Forest Garden, and private individual gardens for each room. Also close by is Kyoto Imperial Palace, Nijo Castle, and Heian-jingu Shrine, which can all be accessed within 20 minutes via public transport.

Check prices and availability at Genji Kyoto

3. Auberge Azabu Kyoto

Rating: 9.5 | Location: Shimogyo Ward | View on: Booking.com OR Agoda.com

Auberge Azabu is a traditional Japanese-style accommodation that has been converted into a four-star ryokan. It is located close to the center of Kyoto on Muromachi-dori, a five-minute walk from Gojō Station, and less than ten minutes from Kyoto Station.

The ryokan offers five traditional Japanese and western-style double and twin rooms which include free WiFi, air conditioning, and an optional continental breakfast buffet in the on-site bistro. The restaurant specializes in French cuisine using locally-sourced ingredients and offers a selection of imported French wines.

“If I return to Kyoto I will definitely return to Auberge Azubu.”

– BRENDON (READ MORE REVIEWS)

There are a selection of other Japanese restaurants within a 5-minute walk of the hotel, and many of the city’s popular tourist attractions are also within easy access, including Kyoto Tower (1km distance), Kyoto Aquarium (1.2km distance), and Nijo Castle (2.2km distance).

Check prices and availability at Auberge Azabu Kyoto

Boutique Hotels in Higashiyama Ward

Higashiyama Ward is one of the best-maintained historic districts in the city and can be found to the east of Shimogyo Ward across the Kamo River. It surrounds the famous 1,200-year-old Buddhist temple Kiyomizu-dera. Other nearby attractions include the Yasaka 5-storey pagoda and shrine, and Maruyama Park, which is an ideal spot for cherry blossom viewing in spring.

4. Hotel The Celestine Kyoto Gion

Rating: 8.9 | Location: Higashiyama Ward | View on: Booking.com OR Agoda.com

Located in the beautiful and historic Higashiyama district, Hotel The Celestine Kyoto is a modern and stylish hotel that reflects the history and culture of Kyoto in its hospitality and architecture. Rooms are designed with different ‘concepts’ to elicit a particular feeling or experience, such as a tea room, surprise in simplicity, and the Spirit of Kyoto. 

Rooms include many modern comforts such as a TV, refrigerator, and coffee machine. There are spacious public baths available for guests to use and free tattoo stickers are available in case you need to cover up!

“The location was very good in Gion. The staff was very professional and friendly. Rooms were spacious and well appointed. Loved the Onsen and common areas.”

– ELENA (READ MORE REVIEWS)

The hotel has an on-site restaurant serving guests a selection of fresh sushi, tempura, and kaiseki dishes, as well as two more restaurants within a 5-minute walk. Also within walking distance is Kiyomizu-dera shrine (15 minutes), Yasaka-jinja shrine (14 minutes), and Gion Corner (10 minutes.)

Check prices and availability at Hotel The Celestine Kyoto Gion

5. Higashiyama Shikikaboku

Rating: 9.8 | Location: Higashiyama Ward | View on: Booking.com OR Agoda.com

This 8-room boutique hotel offers a relaxing environment and personalized guest service in a quiet neighborhood of the Higashiyama district. Offering spacious modern rooms with minimalist and unique design, guest rooms include Western-style beds, sofas, and baths, as well as a private Japanese garden and kitchenette. 

The hotel also offers an onsen that can be booked for private use and a rooftop terrace with city views. A Western-style breakfast is available to guests, and there is a cafe and several nearby restaurants within a five-minute walk.

“We loved everything, from the small details in our room to the delicious breakfast every morning! They were unbelievably hospitable – couldn’t have had a better time! Thank you so much.”

– ANNA (READ MORE REVIEWS)

Higashiyama is a popular sightseeing district full of history and areas for visitors to explore. Local sites include Heian Shrine (a 10-minute walk), the Tomb of famous local samurai Akechi Mitsuhide (a 2-minute walk), and the Kyoto Imperial Palace, which is a 15-minute train ride from the nearby Higashiyama Sando subway station.

Check prices and availability at Higashiyama Shikikaboku

6. Park Hyatt, Kyoto

Rating: 9.4 | Location: Higashiyama Ward | View on: Booking.com OR Agoda.com

The Park Hyatt, Kyoto is a five-star luxury hillside retreat on the quiet eastern edge of the bustling Higashiyama district. Designed in the style of a traditional Japanese guest house, the hotel features just 70 rooms and 9 suites with either city or garden views, a spa, a fitness center, a concierge service, a bar, and two restaurants. 

Visitors can enjoy a fusion of teppanyaki and French cuisine alongside views of the five-storey Yasaka Pagoda from the hotel’s Signature restaurant and bar, or try the more traditional Japanese kaiseki dining experience from the Michelin Star Kaiseki restaurant.

“Everything is impeccable, an authentic Kyoto boutique experience.”

– RACHEL (READ MORE REVIEWS)

The hotel is walking distance from the Kyoto National Museum, Kiyomizu-dera, Kodaiji Temple, and the beautiful Maruyama Park. A range of personalized experiences are also available to guests, including a Kyoto tea ceremony, rickshaw experience, kimono experience, yoga lessons, and a selection of local tours.

Check prices and availability at Park Hyatt, Kyoto

7. Yuzuya Ryokan

Rating: 9.4 | Location: Higashiyama Ward | View on: Booking.com OR Agoda.com

This five-star ryokan located in Kyoto’s famous Gion district offers a more traditional accommodation experience with futon beds, tatami mats, traditional furniture, and hot citrus-scented baths. Guests traveling as a family should note that the ryokan does not allow children under 7 years old to stay.

A Japanese or continental breakfast is available at the restaurant on the first floor, as well as kaiseki cuisine, a two-hour fine dining experience that includes a set menu of traditional Japanese dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. 

“We had a wonderful experience at the Yuzuya Ryokan. The establishment has an authentic charm that takes us on a journey into Japanese culture. Everything is luxury, calm and voluptuous.”

– DIMITRI (READ MORE REVIEWS)

There are more than two thousand temples and shrines in Kyoto, and many are within walking distance from the ryokan, including Kodaiji temple, Heian shrine, Fushimi Inari-taisha shrine, as well as Kyoto Imperial Palace and Ginkakuji temple (the Silver Pavilion.) 

Check prices and availability at Yuzuya Ryokan

8. Luxury Hotel SOWAKA

Rating: 9.3 | Location: Higashiyama Ward | View on: Booking.com OR Agoda.com

Sowaka is a luxury hotel converted from a restaurant built in the traditional Sukiya construction style of old Kyoto. Located in the popular Gion area it boasts a luxurious and tranquil space.

The hotel offers a broad selection of simple, spacious rooms with a choice of garden, city, or courtyard views and many modern comforts such as double beds, open-air baths, and free WiFi. It also features a spa, an award-winning restaurant offering local cuisine, a bar, and a private garden for guests. 

“Sowaka is a gem of a hotel. Absolutely top-notch service, amazing interiors, a prime location that was just away from the crowds without being too far, fantastic Japanese breakfast and absolutely beautiful room.”

– TRICIA (READ MORE REVIEWS)

Nearby attractions include Kodaiji Temple and Ishibekoji Alley, and the hotel also offers guests guidance and booking services for a selection of attractions and tailored local experiences, including kimono fitting and rental, a tea ceremony experience, visits to several local temples, and bicycle rental. 

Check prices and availability at Luxury Hotel SOWAKA

9. The Hotel Seiryu Kyoto Kiyomizu

Rating: 9.4 | Location: Higashiyama Ward | View on: Booking.com OR Agoda.com

The Hotel Seiryu Kyoto Kiyomizu is a converted former elementary school about a 3-minute walk from the famous Kiyomizu-Dera temple in Higashiyama. The 48 guestrooms are converted from former classrooms and many offer up-close views of the nearby Yasakanoto five-storey pagoda. 

There are still traces of the old school throughout the hotel in the architecture and the restaurant, but careful attention has been paid to offering guests a luxurious and tranquil experience in the heart of the city. The hotel also offers a fitness center, restaurant, a rooftop bar, and three private baths which are available for guest use.

“Fabulous location and beautiful facilities. Rooftop bar stunning with fabulous food and drinks. Breakfast is a true experience in a stunning library.”

– ANNE (READ MORE REVIEWS)

The hotel also offers guests a selection of unique gifts and experiences that can be booked for an additional cost, such as a children’s animal expedition, birthday and anniversary gifts, and a private rickshaw tour of the city.

Check prices and availability at The Hotel Seiryu Kyoto Kiyomizu

10. The Shinmonzen

Rating: 9.4 | Location: Higashiyama Ward | View on: Theshinmonzen.com

The Shinmonzen is a new luxury boutique hotel situated beside the Kamo River in the quiet street of Shinmonzen-dori, known for its antique shops and art galleries. The hotel’s facade was designed by the award-winning Japanese architect Tadao Ando in the style of a machiya, a traditional wooden style of townhouse that became popular throughout Kyoto during the Edo and Meiji periods.

The hotel’s nine rooms are simple, modern, and spacious,  decorated using traditional Japanese materials, such as bamboo, silk, and stone, which can be seen in the tatami floors, wooden bathtubs, and stone bathroom counters. An on-site restaurant serving a blend of French, American, and Asian cuisine is available for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as is the riverside terrace. The hotel also has a fitness center and a spa room available to guests. 

“One of the best hotel experiences I’ve ever had. The room was beautiful, clean, peaceful. The service was exceptional and they gave us countless amazing recommendations and were so attentive.”

– KENDALL (READ MORE REVIEWS)

The Shinmonzen also offers a guest experience service, creating personalized experiences for visitors locally and throughout the city, including temple visits, a private tea ceremony, a Geiko and Maiko tea house experience, and rickshaw rides.

Check prices and availability at The Shinmonzen

Boutique Hotels in Nakagyo Ward

Nakagyo Ward is located in the center of Kyoto north of Kyoto Station. It is home to Nijō Castle, the Kyoto residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Edo Period. The ward contains several key transport links to Kyoto Station making it a great point from which to access the rest of the city. Other popular sites include Nishiki food market and the Kyoto International Manga Museum.

11. Villa Sanjo Muromachi Kyoto

Rating: 9.4 | Location: Nakagyo Ward | View on: Booking.com OR Agoda.com

This small, luxurious five-star hotel located in Kyoto’s central capital district  includes many of the city’s top attractions and historic sites. It is also a few minutes’ walk from Karasuma Oike Station, putting the rest of the city within close reach. 

Each of the 12 private villas are individually decorated and come with their own unique features such as a private garden, a spiral staircase, a large bathtub, and a balcony. There is no restaurant within the hotel, but breakfast can be served in your room or there is a lounge/bar where guests can order a Western-style breakfast. There are also three nearby Japanese restaurants just a few minutes walk away.

“The room was clean, spacious, beautifully decorated, and comfortable. Location was good, walking distance to Nishiki Market and other attractions. Service was top notch. I would rate it 12 stars if I could.”

– MICHELLE (READ MORE REVIEWS)

The 350-year-old Nijo Castle, Nishiki Market, and the popular Kyoto Samurai Experience are all less than a 15-minute walk from the hotel, or if you would like to explore a little further, the Kyoto Gyoen National Garden and the Imperial Palace are less than 20.

Check prices and availability at Villa Sanjo Muromachi Kyoto

12. Nazuna Kyoto Gosho

Rating: 9.6 | Location: Nakagyo Ward | View on: Booking.com OR Agoda.com

Nazuna Kyoto Gosho is a traditional and elegant four-star ryokan just a short walk from the Kyoto Imperial Palace and Gyoen National Garden. The hotel’s exterior was designed in the style of a traditional ‘Kyomachiya’ Kyoto townhouse.

The interior incorporates a modern, simple, and spacious design, offering many traditional Japanese conveniences such as an open-air bath, a private Japanese garden that reflects the four seasons of Kyoto, and sukiyaki dinners served in the lounge. Guests can enjoy the local cuisine with a traditional Irori-style breakfast, prepared in a sunken hearth over hot coals, or a selection of handmade wagashi (Japanese sweets) for which each room is named and themed.

“We had a great experience with the traditional breakfast and recommend the private bath if you have the opportunity.”

– JUSTIN (READ MORE REVIEWS)

There are several restaurants and a cafe just a short walk from the hotel, as well as several local attractions such as the Kyoto Imperial Manga Museum, and the Kyoto Ninja Dojo, which offers hands-on ninja training sessions in English. Marutamachi Station is also close by, putting the rest of the city within easy access.

Check prices and availability at Nazuna Kyoto Gosho

13. Kyoto Shinmachi Rokkaku Hotel Grandereverie

Rating: 9.5 | Location: Nakagyo Ward | View on: Booking.com OR Agoda.com

The Kyoto Shinmachi Rokkaku Hotel is a part of the Grandereverie hotel group which operates several luxury hotels in the heart of Kyoto with a focus on compact modestly-sized luxury accommodations with high-quality, personalized service. 

The hotel’s prime location, excellent service, and luxury level of accommodation all contribute to its high ratings. It has a selection of large double and twin air-conditioned rooms, many of which include a bathtub, TV, and free WiFi. The hotel includes a coffee bar but no breakfast service. There are several restaurants within a 5-minute walk.

“The hotel is very well located, the staff are very helpful, the room was ready and we checked in at 10 o’clock, very rarely something like that at the hotel, I appreciated it a lot.”

– CERASELLA (READ MORE REVIEWS)

The Shinmachi Rokkaku Hotel is very centrally located with several popular Kyoto attractions a short walk away, including a 5-minute walk from Chōhōji (Rokkakudō) Temple, a Buddhist temple believed to have been constructed more than 1,300 years ago. The Kyoto International Manga Museum, Nishiki Food Market, and Hanano Yu, spacious public baths, are all within a 15-minute walk. 

Check prices and availability at Kyoto Shinmachi Rokkaku Hotel Grandereverie

Boutique Hotels in Sakyo Ward

Sakyo Ward is the largest and northeasternmost ward in Kyoto. It contains the summit of Mount Hiei, which overlooks the city from 848 meters, and a variety of centuries-old temples, shrines, and gardens including the popular attractions Heian Shrine and Nanzen-ji Temple.

14. Nanzenji Sando Kikusui

Rating: 9.5 | Location: Sakyo Ward | View on: Booking.com OR Agoda.com

This boutique ryokan, less than a 5-minute walk from Kyoto City Zoo, offers guests a taste of quiet luxury in the center of Kyoto. The five spacious guest rooms all have garden views and come with their own unique modern Japanese decorative style. The ryokan also has a spa suite, where guests can enjoy a large onsen-style bath, a pot bath, and a sauna in the privacy of their own room. 

Nanzenji Sando Kikusui describes itself as a ‘culinary ryokan’, offering a traditional Japanese kaiseki multi-course dinner designed to reflect the tastes of the season. In addition, the on-site restaurant offers a selection of Japanese and Western-style dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. 

“The room was spacious and beautiful. The bathtub was very relaxing. The property was amazing and tranquil.”

– RAQUEL (READ MORE REVIEWS)

Guests can enjoy the hotel’s ‘Garden of the Five Senses’, a large 2700 square meter garden designed by the famous Japanese garden architect Ogawa Jihei VII. The garden also features a koi pond and seating terrace, where elements of all four seasons of Japan can be viewed.

Check prices and availability at Nanzenji Sando Kikusui

Boutique Hotels in Minami Ward

Minami Ward lies just south of Shimogyo ward and Kyoto Station and contains many historic temples and shrines including the Tōji Temple complex and historic 5-storey wooden pagoda, and Sai-ji temple. It is also home to the Kyoto headquarters of Nintendo. The district is surrounded by the Kamo river to the east and the Katsura rover to the west. There are also several shopping malls located to the northeast of the district, close to Kyoto Station.

15. EPH Kyoto

Rating: 9.1 | Location: Sakyo Ward | View on: Booking.com OR Agoda.com

This four-star hotel located just a few minutes’ walk from Kyoto Station and the famous Kyoto Tower is elegant, stylish, and beautifully decorated inside and out. 

With dark wooden walls, bright dramatic lighting, and unique design, the large rooms are decorated to reflect some of the most famous cultural sites in Kyoto, including the Golden Pavilion temple, Ryokanji temple, and the beautiful cherry blossoms of Maruyama Park in Spring. Some of the rooms include their own kitchens, however the hotel offers their own ‘eph Kyoto’ breakfast, which includes a Western-style menu or mini buffet.

“I stayed with a large group and chose eph based on its location to Kyoto Station and the fact it had in-room laundry. And I’m pleased to say we had a very nice stay.”

– ROBERT (READ MORE REVIEWS)

In addition to the Kyoto Tower close to the station, other nearby attractions include Tōji Temple, founded more than 1,200 years ago when Kyoto was the capital of Japan, the Musical Fountain, and Shōsei-en Garden and Tea House.

Check prices and availability at EPH Kyoto

Boutique Hotels in Nishikyo Ward

Nishikyo ward islocated west of Minami ward and is perhaps best known as the home of Arashiyama, a mountain famous for the bamboo forest that grows on its slopes in the neighboring Ukyo ward to the north. Nishikyo ward is also connected to Ukyo ward via the Togetsukyo Bridge a popular attraction and cherry blossom viewing spot that spans the Katsura River.

16. Arashiyama House Mama

Rating: 9.4 | Location: Sakyo Ward | View on: Mama-Arashiyama.co.jp

Arashiyama House Mama is a quiet 10-room simple wood and concrete hotel marked by a low white stone wall and flag hanging from a small entrance gate. It is located in the North-Western part of Kyoto close to the popular Arashiyama bamboo forest, and the bank of the Katsura River.

The hotel was converted a few years ago from a resort for railway employees and their families, and every effort has been made to retain the style of a traditional Japanese house while offering guests peace and comfort among the mountains of West Kyoto. Pizzeria Mama, the hotel’s atmospheric pizza restaurant, offers a variety of seasonal flavored pizzas cooked in a wood-fired pizza oven, and other Italian dishes.

“The design of the guest room was excellent, and the details such as materials and furniture were carefully thought out, making it a comfortable place to spend your time.”

– TAKU (READ MORE REVIEWS)

Also nearby is Tenryu-ji, a large and beautiful 650-year-old Zen Buddhist temple close to the Katsura River and the foot of the nearby mountains. Visitors will enjoy exploring the nearby Arashiyama Monkey Park before crossing the Togetsukyo Bridge into the Ukyo ward where they can explore the nearby shops, temples, and small independent restaurants.

Check prices and availability at Arashiyama House Mama

Kyoto is a popular city for tourism and with so many famous sites to visit, the hotels and restaurants can become crowded many times throughout the year. To make the most of your trip and create your own truly unique experience, this list of small boutique luxury hotels will offer you a personalized service away from the crowds, often at little or no extra cost than a larger chain hotel or resort. 

Unforgettable boutique hotels can be found all over the city like any hotel, but their charm, and the reason for their high ratings often comes from their unique character, the effort they put into their service, and the unique features and services they offer that can give your trip that extra something special.