7 Neighborhoods In Kyoto: Where Travelers Should Stay

For a throwback and the ultimate Kyoto experience, Southern Higashiyama might be the best neighborhood for those who love culture and history. Not only is it spotted with Kyoto’s most iconic monuments, you’ll be in the heart of Gion District – home of geisha houses, temples, shrines, and tea houses.

Don’t miss: Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Gion District, Kenninji Temple, Yasaka-jinja Shrine, Shoren-in Temple, Chion-in Temple, Kodai-ji Temple, Kyoto National Museum and Ishibei-koji Lane.

Kyoto Station might not be a great area for sightseeing, but it’ll save you time if you’re in Kyoto for a day or two, while traveling in and to other parts of Japan. Surrounded by the station is a plethora of restaurants, cafés and shops. The architecture of the station itself is historic in its own right, as Kyoto Station is also one of the most crowded train stations in Japan.

Don’t miss: Higashi Hongan-ji Temple, day trips to Osaka or Nara.

Despite that it might not be the closest area to most landmarks, Central Kyoto is still a good option since it’s stacked with restaurants and hotels. Although indicated as “central,” this part of the city isn’t the most popular among travelers. Hence, if you want to steer away from tourists, Central Kyoto is probably not a bad idea. The entire area is quite flat, so you can get around by walking or biking.

Don’t miss: Nijo Castle, Kyoto Imperial Palace Park, and Daitoku-ji Temple.

Since there are quite a few ryokans  and traditional guesthouses in Northern Higashiyama, this neighborhood is made for travelers that want tranquility and a quieter vacation. For art lovers yearning to explore Japanese art, this area is also accessible to Kyoto’s museum quarter.

Don’t miss: Higashiyama Jisho-ji (Ginkaku-ji Temple) or the Silver Pavilion, Tetsugaku No Michi (Path of Philosophy,) Nanzen-ji Temple, Hōnenin Temple, Okazaki Park, Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art, National Museum of Modern Art, and Heian Shrine.

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest might be a bit further out from city center, but for nature lovers, this neighborhood is a dream. You’ll also find some of the most luxurious ryokans and hotels here that boast the serene beauty exuded by Arashiyama, enhanced by the backdrop of regal mountains. If you’re visiting during cherry blossom season, however, expect Arashiyama to be packed with tourists.

Don’t miss: Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Tenryu-ji, Okochi Sanso Garden, and Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama.

Approximately 40 minutes by car or an hour and 30 minutes by train, you can reach the northern region of Kyoto: Kibune, where romantic ryokans have continuously captivated travelers looking for a peaceful escape. Alongside the charming Kibune River, you can stop by to try various restaurants constructed over wooden platforms on top of the river.

Don’t miss: Kifune Shrine, hiking trail to Kurama-dera Temple.