{"id":94462,"date":"2018-08-31T09:48:41","date_gmt":"2018-08-31T09:48:41","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/?p=94462"},"modified":"2026-09-17T08:44:24","modified_gmt":"2026-09-17T08:44:24","slug":"where-to-stay-in-kyoto","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/where-to-stay-in-kyoto\/","title":{"rendered":"Where to stay in Kyoto, Japan: a neighbourhood guide"},"content":{"rendered":"

The cultural heart of Japan lies in the ancient city of Kyoto.\u00a0 It’s here, through the veins of cobblestone streets where artisanal shops lead to historic\u00a0machiya <\/em>townhouses, bright vermillion\u00a0torii\u00a0<\/em>gates, castles, zen gardens, golden pavilions, and temples. It’s here that you can get closer to understanding the Japanese way of life, there’s no better place to wander, discover, and get lost.<\/p>\n

Choosing where to stay while planning your trip to Kyoto can be confusing, but we’re here to help you break down the various neighbourhoods and choose the best place to stay based on your travel style.<\/p>\n

Here is where to stay in Kyoto:<\/p>\n

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  1. Kyoto Neighbourhoods<\/a><\/li>\n
  2. Where to stay in Kyoto for budget travellers<\/a><\/li>\n
  3. Best Neighbourhood in Kyoto for staying off the beaten path<\/a><\/li>\n
  4. Best Neighbourhood in Kyoto for food<\/a><\/li>\n
  5. Best Neighbourhood in Kyoto for being close to the outdoors<\/a><\/li>\n
  6. Best Neighbourhood in Kyoto for shopping<\/a><\/li>\n
  7. Best Neighbourhood in Kyoto overall<\/a><\/li>\n
  8. How to get around Kyoto’s Neighbourhoods<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    Where is the best place to stay in Kyoto?<\/p>\n

    Well we’re glad you asked!<\/p>\n

    As you can tell, Kyoto is broken into many different regions, each with their own unique characteristics and features that make them drastically different and exciting. Even within the various neighbourhoods, some can be broken down further so it’s good to do your research to narrow down what appeals to you.<\/p>\n

    There are a wide range of accommodations, for a wide range of prices, available in the city that are geared towards visitors from abroad. Depending on your travel style, your needs, and budget, there are also different neighbourhoods to fit the bill.<\/p>\n

    Kyoto Neighbourhoods<\/h2>\n

    Located in the Kansai region of Japan, Kyoto is a city of close to 1.5 million people and can be broken down into 5 primary districts or neighbourhoods.\u00a0\u00a0These are generalised neighbourhoods that can be further broken down into wards or ku\u00a0<\/em>but for the purposes of this guide, we’re keeping it simple.<\/p>\n

    1. Central\/City Centre (Downtown Kyoto)<\/h2>\n

    Anchored around\u00a0Nij\u014d Castle and Kyoto Station, you’ll find quite the contrast here between the palace grounds, beautiful scenery, and shrines blended with the youthful vibrancy of the shops, restaurants, and nightlife.<\/p>\n

    Officially the Central district covers a large area that includes both Downtown Kyoto and Kyoto Station.\u00a0 Its core is a vibrant and young neighbourhood with remnants of its traditional roots.\u00a0 Roam around and you’ll come across new shopping and entertainment complexes intertwined with famous craft stores, a giant castle, traditional ryokans, and bars frequented by locals.<\/p>\n

    Notable Highlights:<\/h3>\n