Hotels — Kyoto

Combining the legendary warmth of Thai hospitality with Kyoto's serene aesthetics, Dusit Thani Kyoto is a peaceful sanctuary steps from historic temples. Guests rave about the gorgeous design, the incredible attention of the staff, and the outstanding Thai-Japanese fusion elements, including an authentic food and dessert experience.

A legendary 300-year-old ryokan in the heart of Kyoto, offering an intimate immersion into traditional Japanese aesthetics and hospitality. While its zen gardens, cypress baths, and historic design remain deeply enchanting, recent service inconsistencies and high rates have drawn mixed reviews from modern travelers.

Set in a beautifully restored 100-year-old traditional restaurant in Kyoto's historic Gion district, Sowaka is a luxury boutique hotel blending classic Sukiya-style architecture with modern comfort. With just 23 individually designed rooms, a tranquil garden, and a Michelin-caliber restaurant, it offers a serene escape steps from Yasaka Shrine. While the personalized service and Japanese breakfasts are outstanding, some guests find the traditional bedding too firm and notice minor maintenance wear.

Nestled near the historic Nanzen-ji Temple, Fufu Kyoto offers an elegant fusion of traditional Japanese aesthetics and modern luxury. Every room features a private cedar-scented natural hot spring bath, and the on-site restaurant serves exquisite local Kyoto charcoal-grilled cuisine. While the physical property and dining are outstanding, inflexible service and poor room views on lower floors have disappointed some international travelers.

A century-old ryokan situated on a quiet hillside near the shrines and the Arashiyama bamboo groves. Seasonal set menus use ingredients grown in Kyoto. Some dishes include mackerel soup, crispy Wakasa-style fish (with scales) and simmered bamboo shoots. Prices for dishes start from 2000 yen.