The 20 Best Hotels in Kyoto with Onsens

Looking for the best onsen hotels in Kyoto? You’re in good hands.

Kyoto is a city made for slow travel, but between temple hopping, market wandering, and neighborhood exploring, your feet will still feel it by the end of the day. That’s where staying at a hotel with an onsen really shines. While Kyoto isn’t a classic hot spring destination, it offers a surprisingly good mix of onsen hotels, from traditional-style stays to modern hotels with well-designed public baths.

In this guide, we’re breaking down the best hotels with an onsen in Kyoto, organized by area, so you can find the right balance of location, comfort, and relaxation without sacrificing convenience or comfort. Let’s get into it!

Where to Find the Best Hotels with an Onsen in Kyoto

Kyoto is Japan’s cultural heart, known for its temples, historic neighborhoods, and quietly beautiful streets that reward slow exploration. While it isn’t as famous for hot springs as places like Hakone or Beppu, the city still offers a great mix of onsen hotels, both within Kyoto itself and just nearby, that pair sightseeing with easy relaxation.

An onsen is a Japanese communal bath, traditionally filled with hot spring water, though some hotels feature sento-style baths that use heated water instead. Either way, they’re perfect for unwinding after long days walking through areas like Gion, Higashiyama, and the city center. This list includes a mix of natural hot spring onsens and sento-style baths, giving you plenty of options for a calming stay in and around Kyoto.

Here’s a quick glimpse at some of the best Kyoto hotels with onsens:

• Downtown Kyoto – Best for first-time visitors – A lively blend of old and new, Downtown Kyoto pairs traditional markets with modern shopping streets and riverside strolls. Candeo Hotels Kyoto Karasuma Rokkaku is our top pick here, offering an on-site onsen with a hot tub and sauna in a central, walkable location.

• Kyoto Station – Best for convenience – As the city’s main transport hub, Kyoto Station is ideal for travelers planning day trips or early departures by train or bus. Onyado Nono Kyoto Shichijo is our top pick here, offering tatami-style rooms and a full on-site onsen with indoor and open-air baths just a short walk from the station.

• Higashiyama – Best for old-town Kyoto vibes – Kyoto’s most atmospheric neighborhood, where cobblestone lanes, teahouses, and temples bring the city’s history to life. Minn Gion is our top pick here, offering spacious apartment-style rooms, spa facilities, and even private in-room saunas just steps from Gion’s historic streets.

• Kyoto Imperial Palace – Best for a traditional stay – A calm, tradition-rich area, this neighborhood is ideal for travelers who want a more relaxed stay away from the crowds. La’gent Hotel Kyoto Nijo is our top pick here, offering a modern, budget-friendly stay with an on-site public bath near Nijo Castle and excellent transport connections.

The Best Hotels in Kyoto with an Onsen

Downtown Kyoto

BEST FOR FIRST-TIME VISITORS

Pros

• Central, walkable location near major attractions
• Great food, nightlife, and shopping options
• Easy access to public transportation

Cons

• Can be crowded during weekends and festivals
• Fewer traditional, quiet stays than in other districts
• Some hotels may be pricier due to location

Downtown Kyoto is where old meets new in the most seamless way possible. This lively district stretches between Nijo Castle and the bustling Nishiki Market, offering an unbeatable mix of cultural landmarks, local dining, and endless shopping arcades. 

It’s ideal for travelers who want to be in the heart of the action—close enough to walk to many of Kyoto’s top sights while still enjoying easy transport links to the rest of the city.

Here, you can spend the morning sampling street food like yuba (tofu skin) and matcha sweets at Nishiki Market, then explore the former shogun residence of Nijo Castle in the afternoon. The area also boasts plenty of stylish hotels and boutique inns that blend Japanese aesthetics with modern comfort (including relaxing onsens!).

After dark, Downtown Kyoto comes alive with cozy izakayas, hidden bars, and local restaurants that keep the energy high long after sunset. Don’t miss Pontocho Alley nearby! Its narrow lantern-lit lanes are perfect for a nightcap or a late bite by the river.

For first-time visitors or anyone wanting a vibrant yet balanced base, Downtown Kyoto is hard to beat. It’s walkable, exciting, and full of local flavor!

Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Sanjo PREMIER – $$$

Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Sanjo PREMIER is the kind of place that makes coming back to your hotel feel like part of the experience, not just a place to sleep. After wandering temples and neighborhoods all day, slipping into the hotel’s on-site onsen is a seriously nice way to reset, especially when you’re not in the mood to hunt down a public bath elsewhere in the city. 

Getting around Kyoto from here feels refreshingly simple. The hotel is a short walk from the Kyoto International Manga Museum and close to subway stations that connect you to spots like Nijo Castle and downtown Kyoto in minutes. 

There’s also a restaurant, bar, and fitness center on-site, plus a solid breakfast spread that makes slow mornings tempting. Nightly rates generally fall between ¥18,750 and ¥112,500 ($125–$750 USD), depending on room type and season.

Candeo Hotels Kyoto Karasuma Rokkaku – $$

Candeo Hotels Kyoto Karasuma Rokkaku is a great option if having an onsen on-site is high on your list, but you still want a modern, unfussy place to stay. The standout feature here is the large public bath area, complete with a hot tub and sauna, which makes it easy to unwind after a full day of sightseeing. It’s especially relaxing in the evening, when soaking feels like a quiet break from the city.

The rooms feel practical yet comfortable, with enough space to unwind. Surrounded by shops, restaurants, and top sights such as the Kyoto International Manga Museum, the hotel sits in a central area that makes exploring the city easy.

There’s also a bar and lounge on-site, along with a dependable breakfast if you prefer starting your day close to home. Rates typically range from ¥10,500 to ¥67,500 ($70–$450 USD).

Hotel Grand Bach Kyoto Select – $$

If you want to be right in the middle of Kyoto without paying luxury prices, Hotel Grand Bach Kyoto Select strikes a nice balance between comfort and location. After a full day bouncing between temples, shopping streets, and cafés, the hotel’s spacious public baths are perfect for unwinding without needing to seek out a separate onsen experience.

The central location is a big part of the appeal. Kawaramachi Station is just a five-minute walk away, with Shijo Station close behind, making it simple to reach spots like Kiyomizu-dera, Nijo Castle, and Kyoto Station without much planning. It’s the kind of base that lets you move around the city efficiently while still feeling tucked into the action.

Rooms are modern and straightforward, with everything you need for a comfortable stay. There’s also an on-site restaurant and a well-reviewed breakfast if you want to start your mornings slow. Nightly rates generally fall between ¥10,500 and ¥67,500 ($70–$450 USD), with lower prices available during quieter travel periods.

Hotel Intergate Kyoto Shijo Shinmachi – $$

Hotel Intergate Kyoto Shijo Shinmachi is a great pick if you like thoughtful extras that actually make your stay easier. One of the standout perks here is the guest lounge, where complimentary drinks and light bites are available throughout the day—perfect for a quick reset between sightseeing stops or a low-key evening break. There’s also a free public bath on-site, which feels especially welcome after long days exploring the city.

Located near Karasuma Station, you can reach central areas like Kawaramachi and historic spots like Nijo Castle without much effort. It’s a calm, convenient base that still puts Kyoto’s highlights within easy reach.

Rooms are clean, modern, and practical, and the breakfast buffet is heavy on fresh vegetables and a strong start to the day. Rooms and suites usually range from around ¥10,500 to ¥105,000 ($70–$700 USD), offering plenty of flexibility depending on your travel style.

Comfort Inn Kyoto Shijokarasuma – $

Comfort Inn Kyoto Shijokarasuma is a solid budget-friendly choice if you want to stay downtown without stretching your wallet. It’s the kind of place that focuses on getting the basics right—clean, quiet rooms, a reliable location, and a few welcome extras that make short stays feel easy. After a busy day out, the on-site public bath is a nice surprise, especially at this price point.

Set right in central Kyoto, you’re within walking distance of spots like the Kyoto International Manga Museum, with easy access to buses and trains that connect you to Gion, Nijo Castle, and Kyoto Station. It’s an especially convenient base if you’re packing a lot into a short visit.

Rooms are simple but comfortable, with soundproofing that helps keep things quiet at night. A buffet breakfast is available and well-reviewed for a quick, no-fuss start to the day. Prices typically fall between ¥8,500 and ¥24,000 ($55–$160 USD), making this a great-value downtown option.

Related Read: Need help planning the rest of your trip? See our Ultimate 3-Day Kyoto itinerary for our top activities, restaurants, and more!

Kyoto Station

BEST FOR CONVENIENCE

Pros

• Unbeatable access to public transportation
• Tons of shopping and dining options
• Ideal for first-time visitors and day trips

Cons

• Less traditional atmosphere than other districts
• Can be busy and commercial around the station
• Limited nightlife beyond restaurants and bars

Kyoto Station is hands down one of the most convenient places to stay in the city, especially for first-time visitors. As Kyoto’s main transport hub, it’s where bullet trains, subways, and buses all converge, making it the perfect base for exploring not just Kyoto, but nearby destinations like Osaka and Nara. 

The area around the station is a blend of sleek modernity and subtle tradition, with futuristic architecture, high-end shopping malls, and a surprisingly good selection of ryokans that bring a touch of Japanese charm to the city’s busiest district. For a little local secret, head up to the station’s Sky Garden terrace at sunset. It’s free and offers one of the best skyline views in Kyoto.

It’s also a great area for food lovers! You’ll find everything from steaming ramen spots inside the station’s labyrinth of eateries to refined kaiseki restaurants just a short walk away. Plus, the Kyoto Tower is right across the street, offering panoramic city views, and the nearby Higashi Hongan-ji Temple provides a peaceful contrast to the urban buzz. 

Staying here means zero transport stress, easy day trips, and endless dining options. It’s ideal for those who want convenience without sacrificing comfort—a great mix of modern energy and accessibility that makes travel in Kyoto wonderfully simple.

Kyoto Umekoji Kadensho – $$$

Kyoto Umekoji Kadensho is a great choice if you want Kyoto Station–level convenience but don’t want to give up the experience of staying somewhere that feels distinctly Japanese. This upscale ryokan-style hotel leans heavily into relaxation, with multiple hot spring baths, an open-air onsen, and a sauna that make it easy to unwind after travel days or long sightseeing loops.

While it’s about a mile from Kyoto Station, the location still works well for fast-paced itineraries, especially if you’re planning day trips or early train departures. You get the benefits of being near the city’s main transit hub without staying directly inside the busy station complex.

Rooms feature tatami flooring and traditional touches paired with modern comforts, and the on-site restaurant serves Japanese cuisine with a strong breakfast lineup to start your day right. Nightly rates typically range from around ¥21,000 to ¥90,000+ ($140–$600+ USD), depending on the season.

Onyado Nono Kyoto Shichijo – $$

If you want the convenience of Kyoto Station with a stronger sense of atmosphere than most nearby hotels, Onyado Nono Kyoto Shichijo is a great middle ground. Part of the Dormy Inn brand, this property leans into comfort and routine in the best way, with tatami-style rooms and a full on-site onsen setup that includes indoor and open-air baths plus a sauna. It’s an easy place to slow down after busy travel days.

The location near Kyoto Station works especially well for early departures and day trips, so hopping on trains to other cities or navigating buses around the city feels straightforward without being stuck right in the station crowds.

Rooms are compact but thoughtfully laid out, and the breakfast buffet features local specialties and is consistently well reviewed. Expect nightly rates to generally land around ¥12,000 to ¥75,000 ($80–$500 USD), offering solid value for an onsen-focused stay.

Rihga Gran Kyoto- $$

Rihga Gran Kyoto is a dependable choice if staying close to Kyoto Station is your main priority and you want a comfortable, well-rounded hotel for a smooth stay. It’s especially well-suited for travelers with early train departures, packed sightseeing plans, or day trips beyond Kyoto, where being near the city’s main transport hub makes everything easier.

The hotel sits less than a 10-minute walk from Kyoto Station, putting trains, buses, restaurants, and shopping within easy reach. It’s an efficient base that works well for both short stays and longer itineraries, without feeling cramped or overly basic.

Rooms are noticeably spacious for Kyoto, with comfortable bathrooms and city views, and some even feature balconies or terraces. There’s an on-site restaurant and bar, plus a buffet breakfast available if you want a convenient start to the day. Nightly rates typically range from around ¥12,000 to ¥75,000 ($80–$500 USD), making it an ideal base for navigating Kyoto with minimal transit time.

Sakura Terrace The Gallery – $$

Sakura Terrace The Gallery is a top choice if you want to stay steps from Kyoto Station, but still enjoy a hotel with personality. Just a two-minute walk from the station, it’s ideal for travelers who want maximum convenience without settling for a purely business-style stay. The atmosphere here feels relaxed and social, thanks in part to the on-site café serving house-roasted coffee and the lounge spaces that encourage lingering.

Despite the central location, the hotel offers a few nice ways to unwind. There’s a public bath and sauna on-site, plus occasional live jazz performances in the evenings that give the space a laid-back, almost boutique feel. It’s an easy place to wind down after a day of travel or sightseeing.

Rooms are modern and comfortable, with private bathrooms and everything you need for a short or medium stay. A Japanese-Western buffet breakfast is available, along with à la carte dinner options. Nightly rates usually range from around ¥13,500 to ¥60,000 ($90–$400 USD), offering flexibility across different room styles and travel dates.

The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Umekoji – $$

The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Umekoji is a good fit if you want a calm, reliable stay without being right next to Kyoto Station. Rooms are modern, well-soundproofed, and comfortably sized, with private bathrooms and practical amenities. There’s also an on-site public bath and a restaurant serving Japanese and European dishes, plus a well-reviewed breakfast buffet.

Set about a 15–20 minute walk from Kyoto Station, it works well if you don’t mind a short stroll or plan to rely on buses and taxis. From here, reaching major sights like Sanjusangen-do or moving around the city is still straightforward, just without the constant bustle of the station area.

It’s a bit more relaxed than the hotels immediately surrounding the station, making it a nice option if you prefer a quieter onsen hotel base while still staying well connected to the city. Nightly rates typically range from around ¥9,000 to ¥60,000 ($60–$400 USD), while suites are available at higher price points for travelers wanting extra space.

Dormy Inn Premium Kyoto Ekimae – $

Dormy Inn Premium Kyoto Ekimae is a great option if you want maximum convenience near Kyoto Station without giving up the chance to properly unwind. Just a three-minute walk from the station and Kyoto Tower, this hotel is especially appealing for short stays, early departures, or travelers who want everything within arm’s reach. Despite the ultra-central location, it still manages to feel restful once you’re inside.

One of the biggest draws here is the large natural hot spring on the top floor, complete with indoor and semi-outdoor baths and a sauna. It’s a standout perk at this price point, with free laundry facilities and an on-site convenience store adding extra convenience.

Rooms are compact but modern, with everything you need for a comfortable stay. A Japanese-Western breakfast buffet is available and consistently well reviewed. Nightly rates typically range from around ¥10,000 to ¥30,000 ($70–$200 USD), making this a strong budget-friendly pick right next to Kyoto Station.

Higashiyama

BEST FOR OLD-TOWN KYOTO VIBES

Pros

• Richly traditional atmosphere with historic streets and temples
• Walking distance to Kiyomizu-dera and Gion
• Excellent boutique ryokan and machiya options

Cons

• Narrow streets can get crowded during peak hours
• Limited nightlife and fewer modern conveniences
• Slightly hilly terrain, which can be tiring for some visitors

Higashiyama is the Kyoto you’ve always imagined—where narrow cobblestone streets wind between wooden teahouses, centuries-old temples, and craft shops selling handmade ceramics and sweets. In spring, cherry blossoms frame the lanes in soft pink, while in autumn, glowing maple leaves light up the temple paths.

Staying here feels like stepping into a living postcard, where every corner hums with quiet history and every lantern seems to glow just for you. It’s ideal for travelers who crave an authentic, traditional experience while being close to must-sees like Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Yasaka Shrine, and the Gion District.

Days here are best spent slowly. Wander through the Philosopher’s Path in the morning, stop for matcha and sweets at a hidden teahouse, and browse the small galleries and kimono boutiques lining Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka streets. In the evening, the crowds fade, and the district transforms—the air feels hushed, and the sound of temple bells carries softly through the alleys.

Many hotels and ryokans in Higashiyama embrace this peaceful rhythm, offering tatami rooms, garden views, and onsen options. It’s Kyoto at its most atmospheric—graceful, nostalgic, and full of quiet beauty.

Kyoto Granbell Hotel – $$$

If soaking in an onsen is high on your list, and you want to stay right in the heart of old-town Kyoto, Kyoto Granbell Hotel is a strong place to start. The on-site public bath, Komorebi, overlooks an inner Japanese garden, making it an especially calming spot to unwind after wandering Gion’s historic streets and nearby temples.

The location is hard to beat for atmosphere. Just a two-minute walk from Gion-Shijo Station, you’re steps from Yasaka Shrine and within easy walking distance of traditional lanes, teahouses, and evening strolls through Gion. It’s an ideal base if you want to experience Kyoto at a slower, more traditional pace.

Rooms blend modern comfort with subtle Japanese design touches, including tatami-floor options. There’s also a lounge with free coffee, a stylish bar, and a Japanese-Western breakfast available. Nightly rates typically range from around ¥12,500 to ¥82,500 ($85–$550 USD).

Kyoto Ryokan SAKANOUE – $$$

If you’re looking for a more intimate onsen-style stay right in the heart of Higashiyama, Kyoto Ryokan SAKANOUE delivers a calm, traditional experience that feels worlds away from the city’s busier areas. The ryokan features spacious on-site baths available to guests, making it easy to unwind after long walks through Kyoto’s historic streets without leaving the property.

The location is a major highlight. Set just a few minutes from Yasaka Shrine and Kodaiji Temple, and within walking distance of Kiyomizu-dera, this ryokan places you right in the middle of old-town Kyoto’s most atmospheric sights. Early mornings and evenings here are exceptionally peaceful once the daytime crowds have faded.

Rooms are generously sized and blend Japanese style with modern comfort, featuring private bathrooms, tatami elements, and thoughtful amenities. A Kyoto-style breakfast is also available to start the day slowly. Nightly rates typically range from around ¥28,000 to ¥75,000 ($190–$500 USD), reflecting the location, space, and traditional ryokan experience.

Minn Gion – $$

Minn Gion is a great option if you love the idea of staying in old-town Kyoto but want a bit more space and flexibility, without giving up onsen-style relaxation. The hotel has spa facilities and a sauna, and some rooms even come with private in-room saunas, which is a pretty nice perk after long days wandering Gion’s historic streets.

It’s an easy place to base yourself if you plan to do a lot on foot. You’re just a short walk from Gion-Shijo Station, and within easy reach of Yasaka Shrine, Shoren-in Temple, and all those classic Higashiyama lanes you’ll probably end up exploring more than once. 

The rooms feel more like small apartments than standard hotel rooms, with full kitchens, dining areas, sofas, and tatami touches in select layouts. It’s especially comfortable for longer stays or anyone who likes having a bit of breathing room. Nightly rates usually fall between ¥9,000 and ¥75,000 ($60–$500 USD), with higher-end rooms available if you want the added luxury of a private sauna.

Chion-in Wajun Kaikan – $$

If you’re drawn to a quieter, more spiritual side of Higashiyama and still want an on-site bath to unwind, Chion-in Wajun Kaikan offers a truly unique onsen-style stay. Guests have access to spacious public baths, which feel especially soothing after a full day of walking temple grounds and historic streets.

Located directly beside Chion-in Temple, the atmosphere here is calm and reflective, especially in the early mornings and evenings. Guests can even take part in Buddhist experiences like sutra copying or morning services, adding a deeper sense of place to the stay.

Rooms range from traditional tatami spaces with futon bedding to more Western-style layouts, all simple, comfortable, and thoughtfully maintained. Dining is a highlight, with Kyoto-style multi-course dinners and Buddhist vegetarian options available on-site. Nightly rates typically range from around ¥12,000 to ¥60,000 ($85–$400 USD), depending on room type and meal plans.

Kyonoyado Kiyomizu Gojo Kuretakeso – $

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly stay in Higashiyama that still includes an on-site bath, Kyonoyado Kiyomizu Gojo Kuretakeso is a solid, no-frills option. The hotel features a public bath and hot tub, giving you a simple way to relax after long days walking between temples and historic streets—something that’s surprisingly hard to find at this price point.

The location near Kiyomizu-dera works well for sightseeing on foot, with Sanjusangen-do about 10–15 minutes away, and the surrounding Gojo area feels quieter than Gion while still being well-connected. It’s a practical base if you want access to old town without paying ryokan-level prices.

Rooms are straightforward, clean, and soundproofed, with private bathrooms and the basics covered. A Japanese-style breakfast is available if you want an easy start to the day. Nightly rates generally range from around ¥6,500 to ¥13,000 ($45–$90 USD), making this one of the most affordable onsen-style stays in the area.

Related Read: Looking for more onsen hotels as you travel? See our complete list of the best hotels with onsens in Japan, so you can have a relaxing stay no matter where you are!

Kyoto Imperial Palace

BEST FOR A TRADITIONAL STAY

Pros

• Serene, spacious atmosphere with beautiful green parks
• Rich in imperial history and local culture
• Less touristy, with a more authentic local feel

Cons

• Fewer hotel and restaurant options
• Not ideal for nightlife or shopping
• Slightly farther from major attractions like Arashiyama or Fushimi Inari

The area surrounding the Kyoto Imperial Palace feels like a breath of fresh air—both literally and figuratively. Set within the expansive Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, this neighborhood offers a quieter, more residential vibe compared to the busier parts of the city. 

It’s ideal for travelers looking to experience Kyoto at a slower pace, especially those who appreciate green spaces, historical depth, and traditional architecture. At the heart of the area is the Imperial Palace itself, once home to Japan’s emperors before the capital moved to Tokyo. 

You can stroll through its peaceful grounds for free, taking in the elegant structures, stone bridges, and manicured gardens. The park surrounding the palace is a favorite among locals for jogging, picnicking, and viewing cherry blossoms in the spring.

This part of Kyoto is also home to several lesser-known shrines, beautiful teahouses, and cultural institutions like the Kyoto State Guest House and Nijō Castle. Plus, it’s just a short ride from downtown or Northern Higashiyama if you want to explore more. It’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and really feel Kyoto.

Kamishichiken Oku – $$$

If a private onsen-style soak in a peaceful, green part of Kyoto sounds appealing, Kamishichiken Oku is a standout place to slow down. Select rooms come with open-air baths, letting you unwind in total privacy after days spent exploring temples and garden paths—a rare perk in this part of the city.

Set just steps from Kitano Tenmangu Shrine and close to the expansive grounds around the Imperial Palace area, the atmosphere here feels calm and residential rather than touristy. It’s a great fit if you want Kyoto’s quieter side, with easy access to cultural landmarks without the constant crowds.

Rooms are impressively spacious, blending modern comfort with subtle Japanese touches. Expect large bathrooms, plush bathrobes, minibars, and plenty of breathing room, making it feel more like a refined retreat than a standard ryokan. There’s also a garden, terrace, and bar for relaxed evenings on-site. Nightly rates typically range from around ¥38,000 to ¥150,000+ ($260–$1,000+ USD), depending on your selections.

La’gent Hotel Kyoto Nijo – $$

La’gent Hotel Kyoto Nijo is a solid pick for travelers who want onsen-style relaxation without a ryokan price tag, especially in the calmer area near Nijo Castle and the Imperial Palace. The hotel features a public bath that’s perfect for unwinding after long sightseeing days, making it a welcome bonus for an otherwise modern, budget-friendly stay.

The location near Nijo Castle works well if you prefer quieter surroundings while staying well connected. With public transport nearby, it’s easy to reach central Kyoto, Gion, or the Imperial Palace area without much hassle, making it a practical base for full days of exploring.

Rooms are compact but comfortable, with good soundproofing, private bathrooms, and modern touches like streaming services. There’s also an on-site restaurant with a buffet breakfast option if you want something easy in the morning. Nightly rates generally range from around ¥7,000 to ¥35,000 ($50–$240 USD), making this one of the more affordable onsen-style hotels in the area.

The Royal Park Canvas – $

The Royal Park Canvas feels like a polished, modern option for travelers who want onsen-style relaxation while staying in a quieter, well-connected part of central Kyoto. One of the highlights here is the on-site public bath, which gives you an easy way to unwind after full days exploring Nijo Castle, the Imperial Palace grounds, or hopping between neighborhoods by subway.

It’s set within walking distance of Nijo Castle and close to excellent public transport, making it simple to reach downtown Kyoto, Gion, or other historic areas without staying in the middle of the busiest tourist zones. It’s especially appealing if you like returning to a calmer base at the end of the day.

Rooms are modern, well soundproofed, and more spacious than you might expect for the location, with comfortable bathrooms and thoughtful amenities. There’s also a fitness center, lounge, and bar, plus breakfast available if you prefer an easy morning routine. Nightly rates start at around ¥9,000 ($60 USD), offering excellent value for the comfort and location.

Urban Hotel Kyoto Nijo Premium – $

Urban Hotel Kyoto Nijo Premium is a solid budget-friendly choice for travelers who want the bonus of an on-site public bath without paying higher onsen hotel prices. After a long day out exploring temples and neighborhoods, being able to soak in the hotel’s large public bath is a genuinely nice perk at this price point.

Located just a five-minute walk from JR and metro Nijo stations, with Nijo Castle about a 15-minute stroll away. Trains and buses nearby make it easy to reach central Kyoto, Arashiyama, or even Fushimi Inari without much effort, and there’s a bus stop right out front for added convenience.

Rooms are simple, clean, and modern, with private bathrooms and everything you need for a comfortable stay. Breakfast is available if you want something easy in the morning. Nightly rates typically range from around ¥7,000 to ¥13,000 ($45–$90 USD), making this one of the best-value onsen-style stays in the area.

Top Activities to do in Kyoto

Now that you have a list of the best hotels with onsens in Kyoto, it’s time to fill your itinerary! This is one of Japan’s biggest tourist hubs for a reason – there is so much to see in Kyoto. So let us help you narrow down the can’t-miss activities so you can make the most of your time!

• Taste Kyoto’s best food – We were so excited to indulge in authentic Japanese food, so we joined this top-rated food tour! Our guide took us to some of the best local spots in the Gion and Pontocho neighborhoods, and we tried so much food that we wouldn’t have without their local insight.

• Kyoto sightseeing tour – If you’re limited on time or keen on learning as much as possible, you can’t go wrong with this full-day sightseeing tour. We were bused all around Kyoto and visited Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, and so many iconic shrines – all in an easy, organized tour!

• Learn to cook ramen – We couldn’t get enough ramen while in Japan, so taking this ramen cooking class was an easy addition! Our chef/guide taught us how to roll the noodles and perfectly simmer the soup. It was a ton of fun and a skill I still use today!

• Explore the Gion Geisha District – If you want to experience authentic Japanese culture, join this geisha walking tour in Gion. We learned so much from our guide as they led us through the streets of Old Kyoto and regaled us with stories of the geisha. It was a totally unique experience!

• Take a day trip to Nara – Visiting Nara to see the famous bowing deer is a must-do in Kyoto, so make it easier by joining this full-day Nara tour! We visited Deer Park, as well as the Todaiji Temple, and had a tea ceremony in Uji. It was a full, but awesome day!

Related Read: Looking for more memorable activities? See our complete list of the best things to do in Kyoto here – you simply can’t miss these!

Thanks for reading!

Choosing the right place to stay can make or break your trip! But no need to stress, because we’ve got you covered with these recommendations. Nothing will beat soaking in a relaxing onsen after a busy day of exploring. Be sure to book your favorite hotel in advance to lock in your dates!

Before you go, check out our other Japan blogs to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for a traditional ryokan stay in another city or a fully planned itinerary, we are here to help! Here are a few related blogs to inspire your next destination – cheers!

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