Top 10 Luxury Hotels in Kyoto

If you thought Tokyo’s hotels were special, just wait until you see the luxury hotels in Kyoto. It’s true that Kyoto is most well-known for its stunning tourist attractions and rich history. However, the city is also a great choice for a sophisticated and stylish stay.

Since you will be busy planning what to do and where to go in Kyoto, I put together a list of the best luxury hotels in Kyoto. To create my ranking I judged the hotels based on their overall value, location, amenities, and style. All photos come courtesy of the respective hotel, and all opinions come courtesy of me.

10. The Celestine Kyoto Gion

Welcome to The Celestine, where refined style meets history and tradition. The hotel is located in Kyoto’s geisha district, Gion, which features plenty of historical architecture and attractions. Taking cues from this charming neighborhood, The Celestine amps up the aesthetics and spins the classic style into a more sophisticated space. That way you get a quintessentially Japanese experience with modern amenities.

In addition to looks, I have to mention the hotel’s price and service. The Celestine offers just as much as its competitors for half the price. Moreover, the hospitality is unbeatable. They try to match the amount of hospitality to the amount of customers so each guest can enjoy a personalized comfort.

From $352

★★★★

9. Aman Kyoto

Set in a hidden glade among the trees, Aman Kyoto promises a secluded hideaway with the highest comforts. Its tranquil suites and spacious pavilions frame the natural surroundings perfectly. Each room is filled with light and styled with Aman’s quintessential minimalism.

Given the luxury resort’s proximity to the golden Kinkaku-ji Temple, you can easily get to some of Kyoto’s best sights. However, Aman truly impresses with its wellness offerings. Whether in Tokyo or Turks and Caicos, every Aman property comes equipped with an award-winning spa experience. But this property also has a steaming private onsen to help you heal and refresh.

From $2,306

★★★★★

8. Hotel Okura Kyoto

Travelers can easily take advantage of Hotel Okura Kyoto‘s city center location. From the hotel, you can easily visit the city’s best bars, restaurants, and shops. Also, since Okura is connected to Kyoto Shiyakusho-mae Station, you can quickly zip off to Kyoto’s most famous sites.

Aside from convenience, Okura offers simple comforts and wonderful amenities like the other luxury hotels in Kyoto. For food, you can choose from five on-site restaurants, a bar, and a café. You can also relax at Okura’s indoor swimming pool, gym, or spa and wellness center. All this for a fantastic price.

From $387

★★★★★

7. Hotel The Mitsui Kyoto

Another prestigious addition to my list of fabulous luxury hotels in Kyoto is Hotel The Mitsui Kyoto. The Mitsui embraces the city’s beauty and incorporates it into a sophisticated experience that harmonizes with the surrounding nature. From its cuisine to its architecture, the hotel lets Kyoto’s culture and tradition shine through.

The Mitsui’s traditional Japanese influence isn’t just about aesthetics either. They invite you to replenish yourself with their natural spring water and private onsen thermal spa. Also, they take to heart traditional Japanese hospitality, ensuring that you feel at home and at peace.

From $839

★★★★★

6. The Thousand Kyoto

The Thousand Kyoto constantly surprises guests with its tremendous value and ideal location downtown. For an unbeatable price, you can stay at the center of Kyoto, just a two-minute walk from Kyoto Station. From there, all of the city’s best attractions are within your reach.

But don’t confuse The Thousand’s great value with compromise. The upscale hotel was finished in 2019 with bold architecture and sleek, minimalist style. Rooms are spacious, expertly laid out, and filled with lots of light. If that’s not enough, the hotel’s “OKUTRIP KYOTO” sightseeing program helps guests craft the perfect travel experience.

From $308

★★★★

5. Ace Hotel Kyoto

Taking inspiration from Kyoto’s past, Ace Hotel calls itself a love letter to the cultural capital of Japan. However, I think they deserve to give themselves more credit. Ace Hotel has forged ahead with a bright and vibrant style all their own. You can see it in their spacious suites as well as in their lobby, lounge, and restaurant.

Speaking of which, Ace Hotel’s lounge is called PIOPIKO. The hip bar and taco lounge comes from Michelin-ranked Chef Wes Avila. So you definitely need to visit. Also, keep your eye out for special events like DJ showcases, emerging art galleries, and more. They all contribute to Ace Hotel’s young, trendy vibe.

From $376

★★★★

4. Sowaka

Sowaka takes its name from the Sanskrit word for “happiness” and “well-being.” This word is generally spoken at the end of Buddhist sutras, which you’re sure to hear in Kyoto’s many temples. But in context, think of Sowaka as best wishes and blessings for the hotel’s guests. From the serene courtyard to each of their individually designed rooms, they’ll ensure you find peace and tranquility.

But what makes Sowaka one of the best luxury hotels in Kyoto is its combination of nostalgia and modernity. The hotel’s furnishings and amenities showcase the best of local craftsmanship. With these elements of Kyoto and contemporary comforts, Sowaka delivers a truly immersive, luxury experience.

From $713

★★★★★

3. Park Hyatt Kyoto

Tucked away in the heart of Higashiyama, Park Hyatt Kyoto is a hillside sanctuary. Not far from the city’s most iconic sites, the opulent hotel complements views of the Yasaka Pagoda with its own architectural beauty. The result is an enriching cultural experience defined by comfort and elegance.

No matter the occasion, be it a simple holiday or a stunning wedding, Park Hyatt Kyoto guarantees your satisfaction. For one, they have incredible amenities, such as upscale dining, a soothing spa, and even a free champagne hour. For another, Park Hyatt makes tailormade experiences with exclusive activities. In their eyes, luxury is personal.

From $1,714

★★★★★

2. Ritz-Carlton Kyoto

The Ritz-Carlton continues its legacy of superb luxury hotels in Kyoto, where it claims to be the first luxury urban resort in Japan. Committed to authentic Japanese culture, The Ritz-Carlton conducts check-in over traditional Japanese tea. It expands on the experience with hundreds of pieces of modern Japanese artwork, contemporary local cuisine, and other such offerings.

As with all of the iconic brand’s properties, you will enjoy the best in sophisticated furnishings, dining options, and spa experiences. Everything at the Ritz-Carlton is curated to create a sense of prestige and elegance. And with the picturesque backdrop of the Higashiyama Mountains and Kamo River, it’s hard not to feel in heaven.

From $1,276

★★★★★

1. Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto

Cloaked in bamboo forests and centered around an 800-year-old pond garden, Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto is a modern sanctuary. Natural beauty is a constant presence. Spring lights up with cherry blossoms, and autumn charms with vibrant, red foliage. Summer offers verdant greenery, and winter shows snow-kissed peaks.

Kyoto’s environmental elegance blends with the hotel’s modern aesthetics. Together you get a masterful mix of upscale artistry and Japanese artisanship. Traditional artwork and authentic Maiko performances are just the cherry on top.

But it’s always the little things that make a vacation perfect, and Four Seasons doesn’t skimp on those. Residential Suite guests get everything from welcome champagne to Kyoto Station transfers to gifts from the spa. In addition, return guests get benefits of their own. For everyone else, the Four Seasons promises stellar service.

From $965

★★★★★