The Best Hotels in Kyoto, From Private Retreats to Modern Ryokan

As the former ancient capital, Kyoto is the cultural destination in Japan. And while it might be steeped in tradition, it actually has the most exciting hotel scene in the country. Where Tokyo has been home to internationally renowned chains for decades, Kyoto’s growth has been exponential these past few years, particularly on the luxury side of things. But it’s not just the big names that have laid down roots. There’s a bevy of independent brands, too. And they all bring a level of panache that interprets the city’s heritage in a fresh, enticing way. So while you may come with the intent of temple hopping and geiko spotting, be prepared to also spend a lot of time at an extraordinary property. Because some of the best are so exceptional that you may just never want to leave.

Below, our guide to the best hotels in Kyoto.

Vogue’s Guide to the Best Hotels in Kyoto:

• For Luxury: The Shinmonzen
• For a Modern Ryokan: Sowaka
• For Privacy: Shinsho-an
• For the Design-Minded, Independent Traveler: Maana Homes
• For Onsen Offerings: Hotel the Mitsui Kyoto, a Luxury Collection Hotel Spa
• For Panoramic Views: Park Hyatt Kyoto
• For a Relaxing Retreat in Nature: Hoshinoya Kyoto

The Shinmonzen

Photo: Courtesy of the Shinmonzen

A masterclass in boutique luxury, the Shinmonzen checks off all the right boxes. Set on one of Gion’s most underrated streets lined with unsuspecting galleries, you’re just mere minutes away from all the action while still reaping the benefits of an “if you know, you know” location. Prime real estate aside, design lovers will be wowed by the Tadao Ando building. One of the acclaimed architect’s few works that’s not immediately distinguishable thanks to a dark timber façade that assimilates to its surroundings, it doesn’t become apparent until you pass through the hotel’s black noren curtains and see Ando’s signature concrete wall contrasted by blonde wood, a further nod to the Kyoto’s heritage. And as the sister property to Villa La Coste in France, the brand’s affinity for contemporary art is on full display in the guest-only lounge and the hotel’s nine individually designed suites. The accommodations are some of the most spacious in the city and beautifully showcase traditional Japanese design through an updated lens. To wrap it all up with a tidy bow, the service is impeccable, with attentive staff who are earnestly dedicated to crafting a memorable experience.

• Amenities: Breakfast included in nightly rate, complimentary minibar, private lounge, Jean-Georges restaurant, complimentary Kyoto Station transfers, small cardio gym
• Editor’s tip: While you have the option to enjoy breakfast in the comforts of your chic room, it’s well worth getting out of bed and kicking off your morning on the peaceful riverside terrace.
• Address: 235 Nishinocho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto 605-0088, Japan

Sowaka

Photo: Courtesy of Sowaka

Another well-located boutique property discreetly tucked away behind noren curtains, Sowaka is just steps from Yasaka Shrine and Ninenzaka, a popular pedestrian-only road lined with shops. The 23 accommodations are split between two buildings, with Western-style rooms in the annex and individually designed Japanese-style rooms in the original space that once served as a high-end restaurant. It’s the latter that’s most special, evoking a sense of a modern ryokan, with traditional design elements like tokonoma alcoves, shoji screens, tatami mats, and Hinoki cypress tubs. Many of these rooms also offer a view of the property’s various interior gardens, creating a calming and relaxing ambiance that serves as a pleasant reminder that you’re in Japan’s ancient capital. And for an aperitif before dinner, pop into the lounge for sake hour between 5 and 6 p.m.

• Amenities: Breakfast included in nightly rate, complimentary minibar, restaurant, bar
• Editor’s tip: Room 103 has the best view of the hotel’s largest inner garden, but room 101 has its own private garden along with a veranda that’s perfect for meditation (in-room orin bell included).
• Address: 480 Kiyoicho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto 605-0821, Japan

Shinsho-an

Photo: Courtesy of Shinsho-an

Nestled within Okazaki on a quiet residential road, Shinsho-an feels more like a private home than a hotel. And with just four suites, you could very well treat it as your own. This intimate and discreet property is an ode to sukiya-zukuri, a residential style of architecture that’s based off traditional tea houses. Wood was carefully sourced from solely natural forests within Japan, mud walls add texture, TVs are discreetly hidden behind shoji, and a selection of European furnishings brings modernity to the fore. Each accommodation has its own look that illustrates the talented craftsmen brought in for the project, from the woven red cedar ceiling in Sho to the unchamfered log pillars in Gyo. Hotel guests have guaranteed reservations at the on-site, 12-seat Higashiyama Ogata, a secondary branch of the namesake two-star restaurant on the opposite side of town, otherwise enjoy a spectacular seasonal breakfast from the same team every morning in your room. And make sure to carve out some time for Hanare, the property’s prized lounge by Sotoji Nakamura, who built the tea room at Ise Jingu, Japan’s most important shrine. Order a drink, admire the master carpentry, and unwind with views of the beautiful garden.

• Amenities: Breakfast included in nightly rate, complimentary minibar, private lounge, restaurant
• Editor’s tip: If you’re also visiting Tokyo, Shinsho-an guests have access to private member’s bar Hygge Ginza in the capital city.
• Address: 91-5 Okazaki Enshojicho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto 606-8344, Japan

Maana Homes

Photo: Ben Richards

As you near Maana Kiyomizu, you’ll walk down a narrow alley that most taxis won’t even consider driving into. You may turn around a couple times, questioning whether this is the right road as you stroll past nothing but private residences. A hotel, here? Well, that’s the thing, it’s built into the name, Maana Homes. This isn’t a hotel, but instead, a collection of five properties spread across the city that have been masterminded by the company’s inimitable cofounder and creative director, Hana Tsukamoto. You might not get all the bells and whistles that come with a traditional hotel, but what you will get are chic havens with individual stories thanks to the proprietress’ keen eye for design and penchant for antiques. Some lean a little more traditional, like the flagship Maana Kyoto, others more contemporary, as seen in the Maana Kiyomizu “suites.” Neutral hues and natural materials are brought to life by interesting shapes and textures. You’ll constantly find yourself taking photos of the beautiful spaces.

Beyond a stylish place to rest your head at night, Maana also offers a variety of thoughtful experiences and multi-day retreats. For the former, interested participants will head up to Maana Atelier at the northern end of the city. Formerly a kimono weaver’s home, this studio fittingly inherits the craftsmanship mentality and offers unique, intentional workshops that spotlight ancient practices that can still be applied to current-day life, like the art of fermentation, the magic of natural indigo dyeing, and the beauty of earthen walls (tsuchikabe). With the latter, you’ll have the opportunity to connect with locals through immersive excursions and hands-on activities that run the gamut from tea harvesting to pottery, providing an intimate perspective on these valued traditions. It’s an invaluable opportunity to connect with the community and a fantastic way to dive into Kyoto beyond the usual tourist attractions.

• Amenities: Owner-approved guide to the city
• Editor’s tip: If you only have time for one activity, sign up for the earthen wall class to gain a firsthand understanding of machiya architecture and create your very own tsuchikabe art panel to bring back home.
• Address: Various locations

Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto

Photo: Courtesy of Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto

After a full day of exploring Kyoto and inevitably clocking 20,000 steps while doing it, there’s nothing quite like returning to a tranquil hotel where you know you’ll be well taken care of, and that’s exactly what Four Seasons delivers. Despite being a widely recognized international chain, there’s a sense of intimacy about the brand’s Kyoto property, largely thanks to its offset position that’s pushed back from the main road. You won’t have to worry about prying eyes or unintentional foot traffic. Instead, it’s a serene retreat in Higashiyama, and its 12th-century pond garden certainly helps. Serving as the hotel’s crown jewel, the historic oasis is home to cherry blossom trees, a pagoda, and even a Jizo statue that neighboring Myoho-in Temple says has been there since the Edo period. Most of the hotel’s dining looks out to the water, or, in Fuju’s case—where you can either partake in a traditional tea ceremony or sip on bubbly—is suspended right over it. And even though it doesn’t afford the same view, a reservation at Sushi Ginza Onodera is a must for fans of Edomae-style sushi.

When it comes to the accommodations, you can expect spacious digs with large windows and Japanese elements like washi lamps and urushi lacquerware. All rooms are furnished with a sofa bed, ideal if you’re traveling with a child, but there are also residential suite options that come with full kitchens. But while you’re here make sure to step down to the spa, complete with ofuro (Japanese bath) facilities and a 65-foot lap pool, a rarity in the city.

• Amenities: Maiko performances, indoor pool, spa, pond garden, tea room, fitness center, restaurants, bar
• Editor’s tip: For the most memorable experience, make sure your stay lands on either a Tuesday or Saturday to enjoy a maiko performance in the lobby.
• Address: 445-3 Myohoin Maekawacho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto 605-0932, Japan

Hotel the Mitsui Kyoto, a Luxury Collection Hotel Spa

Photo: Courtesy of Hotel the Mitsui Kyoto, a Luxury Collection Hotel Spa

Onsen are the pinnacle of Japanese wellness. These mineral-rich hot springs relax the muscles, ease the mind, and some believe they can cure ailments. And while tradition usually requires you to bare it all in these healing waters, there have been an increasing number of hotels that offer private onsen options, and some of the most sumptuous can be found at Hotel the Mitsui Kyoto. And no, we’re not just talking about the rooms equipped with their own alfresco, hot spring–fed tub (although they have those, too). In lieu of a standard pool, the property fills theirs with natural thermal waters and because it’s co-ed, swimsuits are required. If you want a little more privacy with your loved one or family, the spa also has a pair of private onsen facilities that can only be reserved by hotel guests. These spacious suites are some of the most extensive and luxurious of its kind, complete with a living room, dining table, and sauna. Beyond the fantastic variety of onsen offerings, the hotel’s manicured garden is another highlight. As are the minimalist, elegant accommodations designed by André Fu, complete with sumptuous marble bathrooms that are kitted out with deep soaking tubs.

• Amenities: Guest-only onsen facilities, spa, fitness center, tea room, restaurants
• Editor’s tip: If you’re looking to stay in for a meal, the hotel’s Toki restaurant helmed by Paris-trained chef Tetsuya Asano beautifully marries local ingredients with French techniques.
• Address: 284 Nijoaburanokojicho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto 604-0051, Japan

Nazuna Kyoto Higashi Honganji

Photo: Courtesy of Nazuna

Open just last fall, Nazuna Kyoto Higashi Honganji transformed a century-old machiya into a cozy, seven-key hotel. It pays respects to its history and the skills of the Japanese craftsmen behind the traditional townhome by naming each suite after carpentry jargon. All of the accommodations have unique layouts, but the common thread is the incredible amount of woodwork. From exposed beams to sleek, low-profile furnishings, it’s a beautiful blend of rustic history and modern design. Most of the rooms boast a cypress tub, but if you want an open-air bathing experience, Obiki and Tuska are both outfitted with an alfresco stone tub. During your stay you’ll have access to a lounge stocked with complimentary beverages and snacks, but make sure to not skip out on breakfast, a unique affair that includes dishes cooked over a charcoal hearth. And for those who are using Kyoto as a homebase for day trips to popular nearby attractions like Fushimi Inari or matcha capital Uji, the property’s proximity to Kyoto Station makes this the ideal stay.

• Amenities: Complimentary minibar, lounge with complimentary drinks and snacks, restaurant
• Editor’s tip: Accommodations are split between two floors, but keep in mind that there is no elevator access due to the building’s historic nature.
• Address: 2 Kamecho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto 600-8159, Japan

Park Hyatt Kyoto

There’s perhaps no hotel that’s more front and center than Park Hyatt Kyoto. Located on the northern end of Ninenzaka, the 70-room property is in the thick of one of Higashiyama’s most trekked streets. But despite being at the doorstep of a popular tourist destination, you’ll be whisked away to a peaceful escape once you step inside. It goes without saying that the accommodations are incredibly plush (this writer believes it’s one of the brand’s best properties). Stacked on a hill, many of the quarters afford views of Yasaka Pagoda and the surrounding neighborhood’s quintessential kawara-tiled roofs. Plus, the hotel offers a laundry list of complimentary amenities, a long-forgotten art in hospitality. Have a hankering for cup noodles in the middle of the night? They’ve got you covered. Left your lint roller or deodorant at home? They’ll be swiftly delivered to your room. And while the property has several fantastic dining options, you won’t want to miss the Japanese breakfast by Kyoyamato, a prestigious kaiseki restaurant whose proprietors also happen to own the land that the hotel sits on.

• Amenities: Fitness center, guest-only spa, restaurants, bar
• Editor’s tip: For one of the best uninterrupted views of the city, head up to the fourth floor of the hotel. While you’re there, make a reservation at Yasaka to savor a delicious teppanyaki meal while watching the sun set over Kyoto.
• Address: 360 Masuyacho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto 605-0826, Japan

Hoshinoya Kyoto

A guest room at Hoshinoya Kyoto.Photo: Courtesy of Hoshino Resorts

Perched along the banks of the tree-lined Oi River in Arashiyama, guests arrive to Hoshinoya Kyoto by way of a scenic boat ride. Once you arrive and wander up the meandering stone pathway, a light flutter of chimes dance through the air, played by an instrumentalist sitting at the base of a small waterfall. It’s a magical moment that sets the tone for this serene sanctuary. Because even though it’s not the most centrally located property in relation to the rest of Kyoto, that all takes a back seat when you’re enveloped in so much natural beauty. At this modern riff on a ryokan, there are just 25 roomy pavilions, all facing the blue-green river. Interiors feature the suspected archetypes, like tatami mat floors, shoji screens, and tokonoma alcoves, but with a fresh touch, including luxuries like heated flooring. The large picture windows beautifully frame the lush landscape, inviting you to slow down and soak it all in. And while you’ll be tempted to stay in your quarters, it’s worth leaving to participate in the property’s thoughtful activities that span from outdoor stretches in the Zen garden to learning about the art of a traditional incense ceremony.

• Amenities: Boat service, lounge with complimentary drinks and snacks, restaurant
• Editor’s tip: Unlike most ryokan where meals are included in the nightly rates, Hoshinoya Kyoto allows guests the option to purchase meals separately and the in-room shabu shabu breakfast is worth it.
• Address: 11-2 Arashiyama Genrokuzancho, Nishikyo Ward, Kyoto 616-0007, Japan

Higashiyama Shikikaboku

Photo: Kudo Kenji / Courtesy of Higashiyama Shikikaboku

A luxury hotel with a ryokan spirit, the proprietress of this eight-room property also happens to be an interior designer and meticulously curated every aspect. As an homage to old Kyoto, but with a modern twist, you’ll find a mix of carefully selected antiques that represent various eras, materials and time-honored craftsmanship by skilled artisans, and eye-catching contemporary artwork. The individually designed rooms are stocked full with thoughtful touches like Tsujiri green tea that’s served in an original tea set by Tetsuya Yamamoto, drip coffee from Walden Woods Kyoto, and custom Sealy mattresses draped in high-quality linens. But the best amenities are found on the top two floors, where you’ll find private open-air baths and a spectacular rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and Heian Shrine’s lofty torii gate.

• Amenities: Outdoor baths, rooftop lounge, complimentary minibar, kitchenettes with microwave oven and electric cooktop, bar
• Editor’s tip: Head down to the bar for a complimentary drink between 5 and 7 p.m.
• Address: 85-1 Imakojicho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto 605-0023, Japan

Dusit Thani Kyoto

Photo: Courtesy of Dusit Thani Kyoto

One might argue that choosing a historic city like Kyoto for Thai brand Dusit Thani’s first foray into Japan was a risky move, but one must admit it’s a beautiful fusion of top-notch hospitality. Marrying Japanese omotenashi with Thailand’s genuinely warm service, it’s a match made in heaven. And it doesn’t just end there. References to both cultures can be found throughout the hotel, from the sleek rooms to the spa’s wellness offerings. The hotel’s exemplary dining also celebrates the two countries, with modern Thai cuisine utilizing local ingredients as the star at Ayatana; refined teppanyaki that honors Kyoto’s 24 micro seasons at Kōyō; and creative cocktails influenced by both destinations at the sultry Den Kyoto.

• Amenities: Maiko performances, tea room, spa, fitness center, indoor pool, restaurants, bar
• Editor’s tip: Maiko performances occur every Saturday afternoon.
• Address: 466 Nishinotoincho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto 600-8327, Japan

Good Nature Hotel

Photo: Courtesy of Good Nature Hotel

A short jaunt from one of Kyoto’s busiest junctions, Good Nature Hotel is positioned between Gion and Nishiki Market. However, the conveniences don’t end there. Within this brand new building, you’ll find 10 dining options, a selection of boutiques, a spa, and a market that sells organic and healthful local goods. And while one might assume that a business of this magnitude has a large carbon footprint, they’re making efforts with sustainable practices, as recognized by both WELL and LEED with gold and silver certifications, respectively. This can also be seen on the design level, from the natural raw materials in the lobby to the open-air atrium lined with an expansive green wall. The ethos has also been applied to some of their in-room amenities, like using fair-trade cacao for the provided chocolate bars and upcycling the husks into tea, along with developing with their own line of plant-based, chemical-free toiletries and skincare. Accommodations are sleek with whimsical accents of color and boast a proprietary lighting system that aids a restful sleep. But for something a little more unique, splurge on one of the digs that boasts a private meditation room or barrel sauna.

• Amenities: Spa, fitness center, lounge with drinks and bites for suite guests, restaurants
• Editor’s tip: If you become a fan of the in-room Nemohamo amenities, pop down to the store on the third floor and pick up some of the ultra-hydrating sheet masks.
• Address: 2-Chome-318-6 Inaricho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto 600-8022, Japan

OMO5 Kyoto Gion by Hoshino Resorts

Photo: Courtesy of Hoshino Resorts

If you’re looking to be in the middle of all the hustle and bustle, OMO5 Kyoto Gion is calling your name. Set right on the thoroughfare that runs through its famed namesake area, you are surrounded by a wealth of shops, restaurants, and historical sites. But it’s not just the location that’ll win you over. This 36-room, budget-conscious hotel offers a variety of accommodations that can fit up to six guests—many of which have a kitchen—making it perfect for families and group travel. And they do a fantastic job at making sure you get the most out of your trip with the curated neighborhood map in the lobby, guided morning tours, nightly casual matcha ceremonies, and handheld paper lanterns for photo opportunities.

• Amenities: Guided neighborhood tour and casual tea ceremony, both complimentary
• Editor’s tip: While there are no on-site restaurants, the property has teamed up with nearby dining institutions such as Izuju (Kyoto-style sushi) and Torihisa (chicken hot pot) for special delivery options.
• Address: 288 Gionmachi Kitagawa, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto 605-0073, Japan