Kyoto is a city famed for its culture-drenched landscape of ancient temples, trails of scarlet shrine gates, and serenely still tea rooms. From calming onsens and contemporary art retreats to centuries-old ryokan inns and buzzy urban landmarks, there’s so much to do and see around the city. Now is a good time to add “hotels” to the list, as well, thanks to the boom in both quantity and diversity of properties.
Perhaps you’re looking for something more at the traditional end of the spectrum, like the quiet sanctuaries found at generations-old Ryokan inns. Here, the art of omotenashi hospitality reaches hushed new heights through its sliding screens, meditative gardens, and intuitively gentle kimono-clad staff. Or, you may be more interested in one of the contemporary newcomers, from the high-end deluxe resorts and five-star onsen retreats to the modern holistic wellness sanctuaries and art-packed properties. No matter what you’re looking for or who you’re traveling with, there’s a Kyoto hotel perfect for you.
Here are 12 of the best hotels in Kyoto, a richly diverse ancient city.
Every hotel review on this list has been written by a Condé Nast Traveler journalist who knows the destination and has visited that property. When choosing hotels, our editors consider properties across price points that offer an authentic and insider experience of a destination, keeping design, location, service, and sustainability credentials top of mind.
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