Where to Stay in Kyoto
Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips
Our pick for backpackers
Stay in Kawaramachi
Provides access to affordable food, shopping, and a wide range of hostels and budget-friendly hotels.
Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers
Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting Kyoto
Kyoto Station Area
Mid-rangeModern, bustling hub with excellent transport links and contemporary amenities.
- +Unbeatable transportation convenience
- +Wide range of dining and shopping options
- +Modern hotel choices at various price points
- -Lacks traditional charm
- -Can feel less authentic than other areas
Kawaramachi
Mid-rangeLively downtown area with vibrant shopping arcades, diverse restaurants, and nightlife.
- +Excellent access to shopping and dining
- +Lively atmosphere, especially in the evenings
- +Good public transport connections
- -Can be noisy
- -Less traditional charm compared to Gion
Gion
LuxuryTraditional geisha district with preserved wooden machiya houses and exclusive teahouses.
- +Authentic historical atmosphere
- +Charming streets for exploration
- +High-end dining and exclusive experiences
- -Can be crowded with tourists
- -Accommodations can be expensive
Arashiyama
Mid-rangeSerene district known for its iconic bamboo grove, temples, and scenic river views.
- +Stunning natural beauty
- +Peaceful atmosphere outside peak hours
- +Unique cultural sites
- -Can be extremely crowded, especially the bamboo grove
- -Further from central Kyoto attractions
Daily Budget (Budget)
JPY 8000/day
Hidden Gems in Kyoto
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Nishiki Market
FREEKnown as 'Kyoto's Kitchen,' this narrow, five-block long shopping street is lined with over one hundred shops and restaurants selling fresh seafood, produce, pickles, sweets, and kitchenware. It's a vibrant place to sample local delicacies and experience daily Kyoto life.
Pontocho Alley
FREEThis narrow, atmospheric alley runs parallel to the Kamo River and is packed with traditional restaurants and teahouses. In the evening, lanterns cast a warm glow, creating a magical setting for a meal or a drink.
Kikusui
A highly regarded local izakaya known for its exquisite kaiseki-style small plates and extensive sake list. It offers a refined yet relaxed dining experience favored by locals seeking authentic Kyoto cuisine.
2 areas to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Kyoto