Kyoto is a city where history and tradition meet modern elegance. With over a thousand years of heritage, it offers an authentic and engaging cultural experience unlike any other. Choosing the right accommodation can make all the difference－ transforming a great trip into an unforgettable journey.
In this guide, we’ve handpicked the 7 best luxury hotels in Kyoto, each offering a unique way to immerse yourself in the city’s rich heritage. After wandering through historic streets and visiting UNESCO World Heritage sites, there’s nothing better than unwinding in a serene, beautifully designed space. A luxurious hotel stay lets you connect with Kyoto on a deeper level.
From traditional ryokan with exquisite Japanese gardens to sleek modern hotels with refined aesthetics, and intimate boutique retreats extending Kyoto’s signature hospitality, each accommodation on this list has something special to offer. Use this guide to find your perfect stay, and make your time in Kyoto truly exceptional.
Ace Hotel Kyoto
Ace Hotel Kyoto, a masterpiece of architecture, art, and design, offers a one-of-a-kind life-style hotel experience. Designed by renowned Japanese architect Kengo Kuma, the hotel seamlessly blends historical charm with modern sophistication. Set in the former Kyoto Central Telephone Office, this historic building has been transformed with contemporary, artistic flair into a vibrant space that feels like a living gallery filled with curated art pieces.
Each room strikes a harmonious balance between Japanese aesthetics and global influences, crafted under the direction of renowned international artists. With natural wood tones, vintage furnishings, and modern art accents, the interiors have a warm, creative atmosphere that makes every stay feel special.
More than just a play to stay, Ace Hotel Kyoto is a cultural hub, hosting live music, art exhibitions, and creative events that showcase local talent. Every moment here is an opportunity to engage with Kyoto’s evolving art scene, making for a truly immersive and inspiring experience.
For those who love Kyoto’s traditional charm but also seek a space infused with art, music, and contemporary design, Ace Hotel Kyoto is the perfect choice.
Hyatt Regency Kyoto
Hyatt Regency Kyoto, nestled at the foot of Higashiyama, is a refined retreat where traditional Japanese aesthetics meet world-class hospitality. From the moment guests arrive, you can instantly immerse in Kyoto’s timeless beauty. The hotel seamlessly blends Japanese design elements with the comfort and sophistication of an international luxury brand, making for a truly indulgent stay.
The guest rooms reflect Kyoto’s understated charm, with sophisticated interiors that create a calm, inviting atmosphere. Every detail is thoughtfully designed to evoke a sense of harmony, allowing guests to experience Kyoto’s cultural heritage simply by being in the space.
The hotel offers a diverse culinary experience, serving authentic Japanese and Italian cuisine prepared with locally sourced ingredients. From seasonal kaiseki dishes to casual Italian fare, guests can indulge in exceptional dining that celebrates Kyoto’s rich food culture. Beyond accommodations and dining, the hotel offers exclusive Kyoto-inspired experiences such as photography tours through the city’s historic streets, setting it apart from other hotels.
Hyatt Regency Kyoto is also committed to sustainability, actively promoting eco-friendly initiatives like recycling and energy conservation. These efforts demonstrate a deep respect for both Kyoto’s nature and cultural heritage－values the hotel hopes to inspire in its guests. For those who value genuine hospitality, meaningful cultural experiences, and sustainability, this hotel delivers a memorable stay that reflects the spirit of Kyoto.
The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto
Nestled gracefully along the tranquil banks of the Kamo River, The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto is a beacon of five-star luxury that effortlessly blends Japan’s rich heritage with contemporary elegance. Drawing inspiration from Kyoto’s iconic townhouses, with their tiered roofs and intricate layered designs, this serene sanctuary offers an ambiance of refined sophistication, where every detail is thoughtfully crafted to enhance comfort and relaxation.
From its stunning accommodations, guests are treated to panoramic vistas of the Kamo River and the majestic Higashiyama mountains, providing an ever-changing tableau of Kyoto’s seasonal beauty. The hotel’s exclusive cultural offerings further elevate the experience, with authentic breakfasts featuring Japan’s finest locally sourced ingredients, and bespoke activities that invite guests to engage deeply with the timeless traditions of this historic city—some offering exclusive access reserved for staying guests only.
Culinary excellence takes center stage with a selection of renowned dining options, where guests can indulge in distinctive Japanese cuisine, while the hotel’s luxurious spa promises an oasis of tranquility for ultimate rejuvenation. Ideally located just a short stroll from the historic Gion and Teramachi districts, The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto is perfectly positioned to immerse guests in the cultural heart of the city, offering easy access to its architectural treasures, storied past, and enduring charm.
Aman Kyoto
Aman Kyoto, nestled within a lush forest at the foot of the mountain, is an exclusive luxury retreat offering guests a serene escape from the bustling city. Despite its secluded setting, the resort enjoys a prime location just a short walk from Kinkaku-ji, one of Kyoto’s iconic UNESCO World Heritage sites. Surrounded by tranquil nature, Aman Kyoto feels like a private sanctuary, inviting guests to slow down and admire the beauty of Kyoto’s ever-changing seasons.
The minimalist architecture, rooted in traditional Japanese design, blends effortlessly with the surrounding nature, creating a peaceful and refined atmosphere. The resort also features a luxurious spa with natural hot spring waters, providing soothing, restorative treatments for both body and mind. Guests can also take part in forest yoga and seasonal wellness programs, designed to restore balance and deepen relaxation.
For those seeking an authentic connection to Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage and vast natural beauty, Aman Kyoto offers an unforgettable experience that promotes mindfulness, tradition, and the stillness of nature.
Hiiragiya
With over 200 years of history, Hiiragiya is one of Kyoto’s most esteemed traditional ryokan, celebrated for its warm Japanese hospitality and understated elegance. This legendary inn has hosted many distinguished guests over the years, including Nobel Prize-winning author Yasunari Kawabata, who found inspiration here for his literary masterpiece Snow Country. As described in the novel, Hiiragiya is especially beautiful in the winter, offering a quiet glimpse of Kyoto at its most serene.
Guests can choose between two distinct wings. The historic main building is a carefully preserved wooden structure in the traditional sukiya-style, reflecting the classic design of the late Edo to Showa periods. The modern wing, by contrast, thoughtfully blends contemporary comforts with traditional aesthetics, creating a sophisticated yet relaxing atmosphere.
Awarded a One Michelin Key in 2024, Hiiragiya has been recognized as a luxury ryokan of exceptional quality, offering impeccable service and a genuine connection to Kyoto’s rich culture.
Sumiya Ryokan
Sumiya Ryokan is a historic Kyoto inn that offers a meaningful balance of Japanese tradition and modern comfort. This cultural retreat invites guests to take part in authentic experiences, such as traditional matcha tea ceremony and curated dining featuring sake from Kyoto’s famed Fushimi district, all within the ryokan.
While preserving the graceful atmosphere of a classic ryokan, Sumiya also prioritizes comfort, providing hybrid Japanese-Western rooms with low Western-style beds on tatami floors. This thoughtful design honors tradition while ensuring guests enjoy modern convenience and relaxation.
Exclusive cultural activities are a highlight at Sumiya. On the 7th and 17th of each month, guests can take part in an evening matcha ceremony, where they can experience the elegant art of Japanese tea culture firsthand. Additionally, the sake pairing dining course showcases Kyoto’s seasonal flavors and local craftsmanship, allowing guests to appreciate the city’s delicate cuisine.
With its dedication to preserving Kyoto’s cultural traditions while providing comfort for guests of all ages and backgrounds, Sumiya Ryokan is an intimate retreat extending genuine Japanese hospitality.
Summary
Kyoto’s luxury hotels offer a beautiful balance of traditional Japanese aesthetics and modern sophistication, each with its own distinct charm. Beyond its luxurious accommodations, Kyoto is home to 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including ancient temples and shrines that reflect Japan’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage. Exploring these remarkable landmarks allows visitors to connect deeply with Kyoto’s deep history and timeless beauty.
A journey through Kyoto is graceful, refined, and authentic, offering visitors the chance to experience both the elegance of its past and the vibrancy of its present. Enhance your visit by staying at one of Kyoto’s finest luxury hotels, immersing yourself fully in the city’s extraordinary cultural heritage.
If you’re planning a trip to Kyoto, let ENJYU JAPAN help you find the perfect retreat, ensuring an exceptional and personalized travel experience.
