The best areas to stay in Kyoto
| Area | Best for | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Kyoto Station | Getting around and day trips | Shinkansen to Osaka and Tokyo, the airport train, and shopping centres. |
| Downtown (Kawaramachi and Shijo) | Shopping and food | Near Nishiki Market and the Kamo River, a walk from Gion. |
| Gion and Higashiyama | A traditional feel | Wooden lanes and Japanese guesthouses near the best-known old streets. |
| Arashiyama | Quiet and nature | Riverside inns among the hills, a little way from the centre. |
Types of stay in Kyoto
Tatami rooms and futon beds, some with hot-spring baths.
Around Kyoto Station and downtown.
For families and longer stays.
Tips before you book
- Kyoto's accommodation tax rose on 1 March 2026, from ¥200 to ¥10,000 per person per night depending on the room rate, paid at the hotel.
- Cherry blossom and autumn colour are the busiest seasons, so book months ahead.
- Kyoto is 15 minutes from Osaka by Shinkansen, so some visitors stay in Osaka and come for the day.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best area to stay in Kyoto?
Kyoto Station for getting around, downtown for shopping and food, Gion for a traditional feel, and Arashiyama for quiet.
How much is Kyoto's accommodation tax?
Since March 2026, from ¥200 to ¥10,000 per person per night depending on the room rate.
How do I get to Kyoto from Saudi Arabia?
Fly direct to Tokyo and take the Shinkansen in about two and a quarter hours, or take a connecting flight to Kansai Airport.
Do hotels in Kyoto have a bidet shower (shattaf)?
Most hotels in Japan have electronic toilets with a built-in bidet, worked from a panel beside the toilet.
Are there halal restaurants in Kyoto?
Yes, and more each year, including halal-certified restaurants; elsewhere, watch for meat stocks and sauces.
Flights to Japan
More hotels in Japan
Visa
Things to do
Planning your trip to Japan? Read our guide Travel to Japan from Saudi Arabia.
Last updated: October 2026. The information is for guidance only; rates and availability depend on your dates, and the binding price is the one in your booking confirmation.