When you think of Japan, the enchanting Kyoto often springs to mind as one of the top travel destinations that captures the true essence of Japanese allure. In this blog, I’m excited to introduce you to eight luxury accommodations nestled close to well-known tourist spots like Kiyomizu Temple, Gion, and Nijo Castle, making your travels more streamlined and fun-filled. Embrace the elegant vibe of Kyoto and treat yourself to a luxurious escape from the everyday! Below is a curated list of upscale kyoto hotels for you to check out!
1.Park Hyatt Kyoto
Nestled near the World Heritage Site of Kiyomizu Temple, Park Hyatt Kyoto is a posh, upscale resort under the Hyatt group. It’s situated on the gentle slope of Ninen-zaka leading to Kiyomizu Temple, embracing a Japanese architectural style that blends seamlessly with the quaint and historical atmosphere around. It seems to stand in perfect harmony with the neighboring houses. The location of Park Hyatt Kyoto is quite a boon, being close to many of Kyoto’s highlights. It’s a convenient base for heading out to famous local sights. You can visit the iconic Yasaka Pagoda and Kiyomizu Temple; walk through Kodai-ji Temple, amble through the Zen-style gardens, and soak in the essence of Japanese temple culture. Besides its elegant structure, the hotel boasts bamboo groves and a tea house. Strolling along Ninen-zaka, immersing in the local culture while shopping, exploring a variety of unique craft shops, tea houses, and cafes, are all part of the charm when staying at Park Hyatt Kyoto.
- 10-minute walk to Kiyomizu Temple
- 5-minute walk to Kodai-ji and Hokan-ji Temples
- Agoda booking link
2.HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO, a Luxury Collection Hotel & Spa
Right across from the World Heritage site, “Nijo Castle”, you’ll find HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO. This spot was once the mansion of the Mitsui family during the Edo period. The old entrance gate, ornamental stones, and lanterns have been preserved, while famous designers and artists teamed up to create a modern, chill-out space. It’s like a historical building got a luxury hotel makeover. And if you’re tired from traveling, they’ve got just the thing: a private onsen (hot spring), a pool with natural spring water, and a spa with a unique menu of treatments.
- You can’t miss Nijo Castle, it’s right across the hotel.
- Agoda booking link
3.THE JUNEI HOTEL Kyoto
THE JUNEI HOTEL Kyoto is a little gem with only 8 rooms, nestled in the western side of the Kyoto Imperial Palace. Their mission? Sharing the beauty of Japan with the world. They don’t just offer a place to sleep – they work with local partners and tourist boards to give you a taste of Kyoto’s “tradition” and “culture”, aiming for those unforgettable, heart-touching moments.
- Sanjusangen-do Temple: 8-minute walk
- Kamo River: 3-minute stroll
- Kyoto National Museum: just a 5-minute walk away
- Agoda booking link
4.Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto
Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto is tucked away in the Higashiyama district, close to Kiyomizu Temple and Sanjusangen-do Temple. Behind its sleek exterior, you’ll find elements that scream “Kyoto” – think rooms starting at 49 square meters, decked out in traditional Japanese materials like wooden lattices, tatami mats, and lacquer. With 123 rooms, and traditional crafts dotted throughout, this space is both stylish and elegant. And, it’s not just about a luxurious stay – it’s about experiencing the city in a whole new way.
- Kiyomizu Temple: 15-minute walk
- Sanjusangen-do Temple: 7-minute walk
- Agoda booking link
5.ROKU Kyoto LXR Hotels & Resorts
Opened in 2021 and part of the Hilton group, ROKU KYOTO, LXR Hotels & Resorts is all about luxury. And, with so many high-end brands setting up shop in Kyoto recently, it’s all about “go big or go home”. The hotel, designed by BLINK Design Group, blends traditional Japanese garden and architecture styles, nestled in the greenery of Takagamine Mountain. It offers 114 rooms and suites, with a grand water feature in the atrium and a year-round natural hot spring pool below. For fitness buffs, there’s a 24/7 gym and, if relaxation’s your thing, book a spa session surrounded by nature.
- Golden Pavilion: 15-minute walk
- Agoda booking link
6.Suiran, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Kyoto
Over in Arashiyama, Suiran is a top-tier onsen hotel with 39 rooms. 17 of these come with their own open-air hot spring! Their dining is a fusion of Japanese and French cuisine, served in a charming restaurant that’s repurposed from a century-old building. For a more laid-back vibe, there’s a café where you can sip tea, soak up the natural beauty of Arashiyama, and enjoy the changing seasons. A truly unique experience awaits.
- Tenryu-ji Temple: 2-minute walk
- Bamboo Grove in Arashiyama: 15-minute walk
- Agoda booking link
7.ホテル長楽館 Kyoto Gion
Chorakukan, built in 1909, has seen its fair share of history. Originally a guesthouse, it’s hosted some pretty big names since the Meiji period. The architecture is a mix of English, American, French, Chinese, and Japanese influences. It’s a melting pot of European designs turned historic structure. Beyond its architectural charm, the location is a hotspot for enjoying Kyoto’s seasonal beauty. Plus, it’s super close to some major sightseeing spots.
- Maruyama Park & Yasaka Shrine: 1-minute walk
- Gion & Kodai-ji Temple: 5-minute walk
- Kiyomizu Temple: 15-minute stroll
- Agoda booking link
8.The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto
The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto is the city’s first international luxury hotel, and it’s built on a spot favored by Japanese nobility since the 17th century. The rooms exude Japanese elegance, and you can savor delicious meals with views of the Kamo River. Relax with traditional Japanese spa treatments, or wander over to nearby Gion for some exceptional shopping and entertainment.
- Kamo River: 1-minute walk
- Heian Shrine: 15-minute stroll
- Kyoto Imperial Palace: 15-minute walk
- Agoda booking link
To sum it up, these are 8 luxurious accommodations in Kyoto, inviting you to enjoy the serene holiday vibes. Come and indulge!
