Kyoto offers a taste of traditional Japanese life throughout the city, from iconic geisha culture in Gion to ancient temples in Higashiyama, embodying the country’s historic heritage. For first-time travelers, it can be confusing to decide where to stay in Kyoto with so many places to cover. But don’t worry, we have got you covered. Here is a list of the best neighborhoods you can stay in that are in proximity to popular tourist sights. In downtown Kyoto, you can visit the Nishiki Market to buy local arts and food. If you are a spiritual person, we recommend staying in Northern Higashiyama so you can easily explore nearby temples. Let’s explore some more options for exploring Kyoto.
Where to Stay in Kyoto: 5 Best Neighborhoods
1. Northern Higashiyama
Northern Higashiyama should be your top choice for staying if you prefer less crowded areas with plenty of greenery. It is located near the Kamo-gawa River, where you can explore beautiful temples and shrines. It has several outdoor dining terraces and riverside cafes where you can enjoy local flavors like Yudofu (tofu hot pot) while taking in stunning views. To experience a spiritual atmosphere, you can visit the famous Eikahndo Zenrinji Temple and wander through the gardens while admiring the Buddha statue. If possible, plan a trip in autumn to enjoy a stunning evening here. You can visit the Kyoto community house to learn some free Japanese and interact with locals to learn about the city’s culture.
2. Downtown Kyoto
If you are visiting Kyoto to witness its unmatched dining and nightlife, Downtown Kyoto is just the place for you. Many tourists choose to stay here because it’s within walking distance of many tourist markets. You can start by taking a tour of the iconic Nishiki Market; try on some cute Japanese hair accessories, taste a Kyoto-style rolled omelet, and enjoy some crunchy pickles with rice. Some souvenir shops offer engraving on knives by experienced artisans, which you can gift to your friends and family. At the Kyoto International Manga Museum, you will get to observe hand-scripted manga by renowned artists, and you can even sit there and read these comic books.
3. Arashiyama
Many tourists love staying in the Arashiyama district of Kyoto for its scenic beauty and serene escape from the crowded cities. You can start your mornings by taking a calm walk in the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest; it’s a little north of the Tenryu Temple. To gain a deeper understanding of the culture, you can opt for a walking tour that takes you to the Okochi Sanso Villa and leads you downstream along the Katsura-gawa River to the main street. From the Togetsu-kyo Bridge, you get to see the beautiful views of fiery red maple in autumn and snow in winter while overlooking the Katsura River.
4. Kyoto Station
Kyoto Station is an ideal place to stay for budget travelers. This place tends to offer convenient transportation to all other cities, as it’s the city’s central hub. Many people stay here to visit the nearby spots. At the same time, some spend hours exploring the station itself. It is a futuristic building with department stores, underground shopping malls, and an observation deck on the top floor where you can take in panoramic views of temples and mountain ranges. And for dinner, you can go to the inexpensive depachika (departmental stores), which offer everything from fresh seafood to expensive sushi. Whether you are just visiting the area or simply on the lookout for a light snack, you can experience high-quality Japanese food here.
5. Southern Higashiyama
Southern Higashiyama is an ideal neighborhood to stay in if you are a first-time traveler or looking for a luxurious vibe. You can start by exploring the brilliantly preserved Edo-era streets, where you can observe narrow, pedestrian-friendly lanes lined with machiya townhouses and wooden storefronts. Your trip to Kyoto would be considered incomplete if you don’t try out the local pastries and mochi balls from the streets of Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka. To catch a glimpse of traditional Japanese arts and other entertainment performances, visit the Gion corner in the late evening. You can even book a walking tour here to learn about the interesting historical stories of Geisha.
Also, read this: Top Hidden Islands You’ve Never Heard Of
Bottom Line
Where to stay in Kyoto is a question that every traveler has in mind while planning a trip here. Each neighborhood offers a unique experience, so you can choose where to stay based on your personal preferences. If you are interested in learning about the history of Geisha, you can stay in Southern Higashiyama, where you can also explore the Edo-era streets. At Kyoto Station, which is the city’s central hub, you can admire this futuristic building and view the nearby temples from the observation deck at the top. Downtown Kyoto is an ideal destination for manga lovers. We hope you choose one of these amazing neighborhoods and enjoy a wonderful stay.
