Japan · 20 handpicked hotels
Japan's ancient capital has mastered the art of refined hospitality through the ryokan tradition. From traditional inns in Higashiyama to contemporary hotels near Nijo Castle, Kyoto offers the world's most culturally immersive hotel experiences.
Our selection
Ukyo-ku
Hidden at the edge of a sacred forest in north Kyoto, Aman's Japanese masterwork. The private forest, baths, tea house and absolute peace create an experience that is genuinely transformative.
Kamogawa
A low-rise resort hotel on the Kamogawa river with extraordinary garden views, a beautiful riverside setting and an outstanding Italian restaurant. The finest Western luxury in Kyoto.
Arashiyama
In the historic Arashiyama district with the bamboo groves and river as a backdrop. The spa, tea ceremony rituals and traditional Japanese aesthetics are deeply beautiful.
Arashiyama
Accessible only by boat up the Oi River, this remarkable resort is completely car-free. The traditional architecture, kaiseki dining and extraordinary isolation are unforgettable.
Higashiyama
Set behind a 700-year-old garden near the Sanjusangendo temple. The pond garden, spa and Brasserie restaurant celebrating Japanese seasonal cuisine are all exceptional.
Nakagyo-ku
The finest ryokan in Japan, in continuous operation since 1708. Guest rooms opening onto private gardens, exquisite kaiseki cuisine and the deepest expressions of Japanese hospitality.
Higashiyama
A beautifully designed contemporary hotel in the Higashiyama cultural district, steps from major temples. The Touzan restaurant and spa create a consistently excellent experience.
Gion
An intimate contemporary hotel in the geisha district of Gion with traditional Japanese aesthetics, a beautiful onsen and the cultural heart of Kyoto on the doorstep.
Nakagyo-ku
A 200-year-old ryokan whose guest list includes Winston Churchill and Charlie Chaplin. The exquisite tatami rooms, private gardens and morning kaiseki breakfasts are extraordinary.
Hayakawa
Founded in 705 AD, the world's oldest hotel according to the Guinness Book of Records. Twelve rooms, natural hot spring baths and a 1,300-year history of hospitality.
Kamigyo-ku
A small, beautifully designed boutique hotel where each of the 13 rooms has been designed by a different Japanese designer. A showcase of contemporary Japanese talent.
Kamigyo-ku
Adjacent to Nijo Castle with beautiful garden views, excellent service and the traditional Japanese ceremony rooms that make this a particularly appropriate Kyoto stay.
Nakagyo-ku
The American brand's Japanese debut in a Kengo Kuma-designed building that shows what happens when Western creative energy meets the highest standards of Japanese craft.
Fushimi-ku
A beautifully restored Meiji-era townhouse with the intimate feeling of a private guest house. The owner's curation of local experiences, crafts and cuisine is exceptional.
Karasuma
Bvlgari's latest Japanese property brings Italian luxury to Kyoto's cultural heart with extraordinary craftsmanship, a Michelin-starred restaurant and the brand's signature precision.
Karasuma
A romantically Viennese-flavoured hotel in the Karasuma business district that somehow captures a slice of Habsburg elegance in a thoroughly Japanese context.
Shijo
A thoughtfully designed hotel in the heart of the shopping district with traditional Japanese touches, a beautiful rooftop bath and excellent value for Kyoto.
Higashiyama
A beautifully restored traditional machiya townhouse in the Higashiyama district with garden rooms, bamboo courtyard and the intimate scale of old Kyoto.
Gion
An exquisite small ryokan in the heart of Gion where guests can experience the tea ceremony, flower arranging and the evening parade of geisha through the paper windows.
Shimogyo-ku
A modern interpretation of the traditional Kyoto townhouse with a beautiful inner garden, tatami-floored rooms and the warmth of a well-run independent hotel.