Global Major Cities Guide

Short-term housing options, such as hotels, inns, and serviced apartments for recent arrivals.

Sections

1. Types of Temporary Accommodation in Kyoto

a. Hotels

Types: Ranging from luxury hotels to budget business hotels.
Price Range:
- Luxury hotels: ¥30,000–¥100,000+ per night (e.g., The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto, Hoshinoya Kyoto).
- Mid-range hotels: ¥10,000–¥30,000 per night (e.g., Hotel Granvia Kyoto, Daiwa Roynet Hotel).
- Budget/business hotels: ¥5,000–¥10,000 per night (e.g., APA Hotel, Super Hotel).
Proximity: Many hotels are located near Kyoto Station, Gion, or Kawaramachi, providing easy access to transportation and major attractions.
Booking: Use platforms like Booking.com, Agoda, or Rakuten Travel. Direct booking through hotel websites may offer discounts or perks.
Cultural Considerations: Staff are generally polite and professional, and English is often spoken at the front desk in mid-range and luxury hotels.

b. Ryokan (Traditional Japanese Inns)

Experience: Offers a traditional Japanese experience with tatami mat rooms, futon bedding, and often kaiseki (multi-course) meals.
Price Range: ¥15,000–¥50,000+ per night, depending on the level of luxury and meal inclusions.
Proximity: Many ryokans are located in scenic areas like Arashiyama, Higashiyama, or near temples such as Kiyomizu-dera.
Booking: Reserve through platforms like Japanican, Jalan, or directly via the ryokan’s website.
Cultural Considerations: Guests are expected to follow certain customs, such as removing shoes at the entrance and wearing yukata (casual kimono) provided by the ryokan.

c. Guesthouses and Hostels

Types: Dormitory-style rooms, private rooms, or capsule-style accommodations.
Price Range: ¥2,000–¥6,000 per night.
Proximity: Often located in central areas like Gion, Kawaramachi, or near Kyoto Station.
Booking: Use Hostelworld, Airbnb, or Agoda.
Cultural Considerations: Shared spaces require quietness and cleanliness. Some hostels may have curfews.

d. Serviced Apartments

Ideal For: Longer stays (1 week to several months) with more privacy and amenities like kitchens.
Price Range: ¥5,000–¥15,000 per night or ¥100,000–¥300,000 per month.
Proximity: Found in central areas like Karasuma, Kawaramachi, or near Kyoto Station.
Booking: Use platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, or local agencies like Monthly Mansion Kyoto.
Cultural Considerations: Be mindful of noise levels and waste disposal rules.

e. Minpaku (Private Home Rentals)

Experience: Short-term rentals of private homes or apartments, often through platforms like Airbnb.
Price Range: ¥4,000–¥20,000 per night, depending on size and location.
Proximity: Available throughout Kyoto, including residential neighborhoods and near tourist attractions.
Booking: Airbnb or similar platforms.
Cultural Considerations: Hosts may expect guests to follow house rules, such as quiet hours and proper waste sorting.

f. Capsule Hotels

Experience: Compact, pod-like sleeping spaces, ideal for solo travelers or short stays.
Price Range: ¥2,000–¥5,000 per night.
Proximity: Often located near Kyoto Station or central areas like Kawaramachi.
Booking: Use Booking.com, Agoda, or Rakuten Travel.
Cultural Considerations: Quietness is essential, and shared facilities like bathrooms are common.

g. Temple Lodging (Shukubo)

Experience: Stay at a Buddhist temple, often with vegetarian meals and the opportunity to participate in meditation or morning prayers.
Price Range: ¥5,000–¥15,000 per night.
Proximity: Typically located near famous temples, such as in the Arashiyama or Higashiyama districts.
Booking: Use Japanican or contact the temple directly.
Cultural Considerations: Guests are expected to respect temple rules and maintain a quiet, respectful demeanor.

2. Practical Advice for Booking Temporary Accommodation

Peak Seasons: Kyoto is extremely popular during cherry blossom season (late March to early April) and autumn foliage season (November). Book well in advance during these times.
Language: While many booking platforms are available in English, some smaller ryokans or guesthouses may only communicate in Japanese. Use translation apps if needed.
Cancellation Policies: Check cancellation policies carefully, as some accommodations have strict no-refund policies.
Payment: Credit cards are widely accepted, but some smaller establishments may require cash payment (Japanese yen).

3. Proximity to Major Tourist Attractions and Transportation Hubs

Kyoto Station Area: Ideal for easy access to trains, buses, and shinkansen (bullet trains). Close to attractions like Toji Temple and Kyoto Tower.
Gion and Higashiyama: Perfect for exploring traditional Kyoto, including Kiyomizu-dera, Yasaka Shrine, and the geisha district.
Arashiyama: Scenic area with attractions like the Bamboo Grove and Togetsukyo Bridge. Great for ryokan stays.
Kawaramachi and Karasuma: Central shopping and dining districts, with easy access to public transportation and nightlife.

4. Local Cultural Considerations

Noise Levels: Japanese culture values quietness, especially in residential areas and shared accommodations.
Waste Disposal: Kyoto has strict garbage sorting rules. Follow the instructions provided by your accommodation.
Shoes Indoors: Always remove your shoes when entering traditional accommodations or private homes.
Public Baths (Onsen/Sento): If your accommodation has a public bath, be aware of etiquette, such as washing before entering the bath and avoiding loud conversations.

5. Additional Tips

Transportation: Kyoto’s public transportation system (buses, trains, and subways) is efficient. Staying near a major station or bus stop will make it easier to explore the city.
Wi-Fi: Most accommodations offer free Wi-Fi, but you may want to rent a pocket Wi-Fi device for connectivity on the go.
Luggage Storage: If you arrive early or leave late, many accommodations offer luggage storage. Alternatively, use coin lockers at Kyoto Station or major tourist sites.

By considering your budget, preferred experience, and proximity to attractions, you can find the perfect temporary accommodation in Kyoto. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious ryokan, a budget-friendly hostel, or a traditional temple stay, Kyoto has something to offer for everyone.