Best Small Hotels in Kyoto 2025
Kyoto is packed with small hotels that offer close personal service, boutique style and tons of personality. We have chosen our picks from a very strong field
Best Small Hotels in Kyoto 2025
Kyoto is packed with small hotels that offer close personal service, boutique style and tons of personality. The human scale of these hotels is a perfect match for Kyoto, which is a traditional city without skyscrapers. See our Kyoto small hotel picks from a very strong field.
Japanese Ryokan Seryo
Seryo is a beautiful ryokan located just outside the main gate of Sanzen-in Temple in the picturesque village of Ohara, 30 minutes north of Kyoto by bus or taxi. It’s a fantastic place to sample the ryokan experience without having to travel far.
Kyoto Events April 2025
April is the most popular month to visit Kyoto, thanks to the blooming of the world famous cherry blossoms. There’s a whole raft of Kyoto events to celebrate their arrival, plus special openings of both the Imperial Palace and a stunning subtemple at the Daitoku-ji temple complex.
Meshi Dokoro Pochi
We love this casual izakaya-style restaurant in downtown Kyoto for the varied menu of toothsome favorites, cool atmosphere and ease of ordering (via smartphone). Meshi Dokoro Pochi is the perfect place for a nice dinner and drinks in the heart of the city.
The Blossom Kyoto
The Blossom is a large and stylish hotel with extremely reasonable rates, an “onsen” bath on site, laundry facilities and efficient service. It’s a short walk south of downtown.
Gion Yoshiima
On a lovely street in the heart of Gion, Yoshiima is a reasonably priced and very traditional ryokan. It’s a good spot for your first ryokan experience. Sadly, children aren’t allowed.
Kyoto Vacation Checklist
For all the essentials, see my First Time In Kyoto guide
For ideas on how to structure your trip, see my list of Kyoto Itineraries
Here’s a comprehensive list of Things To Do In Kyoto for inspiration and to book ahead where necessary
Do you want help planning your Japan trip? My team of Japan experts at Japan Travel Consulting can help
See my one page guide on Where To Stay In Kyoto
You can buy a Japan eSim SIM card or an unlimited data pocket wifi router online before you arrive in Japan for collection on arrival
View my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
See if the Japan Rail Pass can save you money during your trip
Why it's essential to have travel insurance for Japan
Travellers to Japan no longer need to supply proof of Covid vaccination or a negative test. We have all the latest news on visiting Japan
Visiting Tokyo or Osaka too?
Don't forget my companion websites InsideOsaka.com and TrulyTokyo.com for in-depth guides to these fascinating cities.
Happy travels!
Chris Rowthorn