Curated list of Best hotels Kyoto has: boutique hotels & aesthetic design hotels in kyoto
In this extensively researched guide, is my curated list of the top 10 best hotels Kyoto has that offer an aesthetic design and modern conveniences as well as cool hotels in Kyoto you should book for your trip.
To make navigating over 6,000 Kyoto hotel options easier, I break down standout design hotels by neighborhood along with key highlights.
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Check out luxury boutique hotels, stylish budget picks and more as you discover amazing hotels in Kyoto that provide gorgeous settings to recharge between temple visits.
No Time to Read it All? Here Are the Highlights.
These are the best hotels in kyoto for design and aesthetics
Book these hotels in Kyoto— a curated list of aesthetic
Curated List of the Best Boutique Hotels in kyoto & best hotels Kyoto has
With over 1,600 Buddhist temples and 400 Shinto shrines, along with serene gardens, historic geisha districts, and unique traditional culture, Kyoto presents endless opportunities to immerse yourself in ancient Japan.
Fortunately, you can also immerse yourself in modern comfort at Kyoto’s ever-growing collection of design-forward boutique hotels.
From traditional ryokan inns with tatami flooring, communal baths, and kimono-clad staff to sleek urban sanctuaries with cutting-edge architecture, locally inspired artisanal details, and exceptional dining, Kyoto boutique hotels capture the essence of old and new.
Best Boutique Design Hotels in Downtown Kyoto: Best place to stay in kyoto for first time
Best areas to stay in Kyoto for couples and best hotels Kyoto for first time visit. These are the downtown Kyoto hotels you should stay at. Curated from a design and aesthetic forward boutique hotels.
Hotel | Kyoto, Japan
9/10 rating
Set across a restored traditional neighborhood by the river, the minimalist luxury Hyatt Regency Kyoto mixes modern amenities with Japanese craft details and art.
Price luxury
Hotel | Kyoto, Japan
9/10 rating
Hotel Kanra evokes old Kyoto through traditional Honoring omotenashi hospitality through quintessential Kyoto architectural details handcrafted by local artisans,Provides cultural experiences like tea sommelier tastings along with Nishiki Market’s vibrant dining on the doorstep.
Price Mid Range
Hotel | Kyoto, Japan
9.5/10 rating
The Ritz-Carlton blends legendary service and subtle Japanese details like intricate woodwork and ritz Carlton Kyotominimalist rooms overlooking the river in a traditional ryokan setting with zen gardens. Highlights: Butlers, spa, kaiseki dining, scenic location.
Price luxury
Aesthetic Hotels in Gion & Higashiyama kyoto Where to stay
The Gion and Higashiyama areas are Kyoto’s top spots for sightseeing thanks to major landmarks like Kiyomizudera Temple, Yasaka Shrine, and the old-world atmosphere of traditional wooden machiya townhouses and exclusive teahouses where geisha entertain.
Staying at a temple lodging or boutique hotel in Gion and Higashiyama puts you in the heart of Kyoto’s history and culture with easy access to top attractions.
Since accommodations fill up fast during peak seasons, book early if you want a room in these central yet intimate neighborhoods.
Hotel | Kyoto, Japan
9.5/10 rating
Blending ancient and modern design, five-star Sowaka houses guests in a restored 100-year-old teahouse and a contemporary annex.
Price luxury
Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto
Hotel | Kyoto, Japan
9.5/10 rating
The Four Seasons impresses with glamorous architecture by Yabu Pushelberg like a massive lobby chandelier and inner zen garden, plus exceptional amenities and dining, yet maintains a peaceful tranquility. Highlights: stunning design, infinity pool, exquisite dining, serene garden.
Price luxury
Hotel | Kyoto, Japan
9/10 rating
The first Ace Hotel in Asia transforms a former telephone company HQ into eclectic retro-inspired interiors mixing raw concrete and crafted details. Expect the signature hip social lobby, in-demand dining and a Stumptown coffee shop.
Price mid-range
best Boutique hotels kyoto Stays Around Kyoto Station: best area to stay for day trips
Best hotels in Kyoto if you are here for a day or two or you are planning more than one day trip from Kyoto. These are the Kyoto hotels you should stay at. Curated from a design and aesthetic forward boutique hotels.
Hotel | Kyoto, Japan
9/10 rating
22 Pieces offers spacious, stylish serviced apartments with fully-equipped kitchens, making it ideal for families and long stays in Kyoto.
Price Mid-Range
Hotel | Kyoto, Japan
9/10 rating
Experience Kyoto in true Japanese style at this authentic ryokan, offering traditional Japanese breakfast, and a welcome tea ceremony. The rooms feature private gardens and an inviting open-air bathtub.
Price mid-range
Hotel | Kyoto, Japan
9/10 rating
Set across a restored traditional neighborhood by the river, the minimalist luxury Hyatt Regency Kyoto mixes modern amenities with Japanese craft details and art.
Price mid-range
Serene Luxury Kyoto Hotels by Arashayima: Where to stay in kyoto with family
Best hotels in Kyoto if you are here with family or young children. This is a more quiet and serene part of Kyoto neighborhoods. These are the Kyoto hotels you should stay at. Curated from a design and aesthetic forward boutique hotels.
