Choosing a good hotel in Kyoto’s Gion district can be challenging if you’ve never been there before. So to help you get started, I show and describe the neighborhood, and some of the best hotels within, based on location, value for money, and overall quality.
Important: Recently, Kyoto officials have announced a ban on tourists entering certain areas of Gion, which has caused some concern and confusion. But rest assured, the district and all of its public streets are still wide open to visitors, and only private alleyways are affected by the new rules.
About Gion
Gion is one of the most traditional and authentic neighborhoods in Kyoto. It’s known for its historic wooden machiya houses, exclusive ochaya (tea houses), and, most notably of all, its geisha culture. Walking through the atmospheric streets is a bit like stepping back in time.
It’s not unusual to see geiko (geisha) and maiko (apprentice geisha) wandering by in their exquisite kimonos, particularly along the historic Hanami-koji street, (aka “blossom viewing lane.”) This is the most iconic street in Gion, thanks to its traditional architecture and many beautifully preserved tea houses.
Just a five-minute walk from Hanami-koji street is the 1350-year-old Yasaka Shrine, where the district originally grew from back in the 8th century. Every July, the annual Gion Festival (Gion Matsuri) takes place at the shrine, and the surrounding streets are transformed by a vibrant display of floats and traditional costumes. If you’re planning on visiting Gion during the festival, be aware that hotels get booked up fast. So, reserve your stay well in advance, preferably at least 6 months ahead.
You can easily spend 2-3 days exploring the sights of Gion, but the area also makes a good central point for discovering the rest of Kyoto, too. For example, the traditional district of Higashiyama and the shopping hub of Sanjo are both a scenic 15 to 20-minute walk away, and you can jump on the Keihan Line and be at the Fushimi Inari Shrine in less than 15 minutes.
Tip: For more info about the different districts across the city, read our guide on where to stay in Kyoto.
The Best Luxury Hotels
If you’re looking for luxury, the 4 hotels below are among the best options in Gion. Room rates fall between ~46,000 JPY (~$300) and ~160,000 JPY (~$1,055).
Sowaka
Sowaka has 23 individually designed rooms, some modern, and others with a more traditional vibe. At the center of it all is a tranquil Japanese garden, making this newly restored ryokan feel like a hidden oasis in the middle of bustling Gion.
The ryokan’s in-house Michelin-starred restaurant isn’t cheap, but it’s well worth splashing out to experience their amazing signature tasting menu. Just be sure to book this 24 hours in advance as they need this time to prepare their tasting menu.
Hotel The Celestine Gion
The Celestine is centrally located, with all major attractions within easy walking distance. The hotel stands out from its cozy, traditional neighbors with its sleek and modern feel. However, it still incorporates classic Japanese features, such as an onsen-style public bath located in the basement.
The rooms are quiet, and each one has a Nespresso machine with free pods included, so your tastebuds will be happy first thing in the morning 😊
Shiraume
Shiraume is a historical ryokan in the heart of Gion, and it’s one of the best places to stay if you’re looking for an authentic Japanese experience. The rooms are furnished with traditional tatami mats, comfortable futon beds, and sliding screens. You can also enjoy a traditional multi-course Kaiseki meal served in your suite or room.
Keep in mind that Shiraume is one of the most popular ryokans in Kyoto, so it’s important to book early to secure your stay.
Gion Elite Terrace
The newly opened Elite Terrace is tucked away down a quiet side street, just a stone’s throw from the center of Gion. The hotel is surrounded by ochaya (tea houses) and good restaurants. Plus, the #206 bus, which takes you to Kyoto Station, is a 3-minute walk away.
Each room also has its own oxygen bubble bath or sauna, so you can soothe your tired muscles after a long day of exploring the city. And if you don’t feel like going out to eat, you can prepare a simple meal in your own kitchenette.
The Best Mid-Range Hotels
The 4 hotels below have an excellent balance between value for money and modern comforts. Starting rates for their rooms fall between 29,000 JPY (~$188) and 35,000 JPY (~$230).
Mume
This small boutique hotel in the Shirakawa area of Gion is just around the corner from popular attractions such as the geisha-frequented Hanami-koji street and the Yasaka Shrine.
There’s a really warm, family atmosphere here, and the staff are great when it comes to recommending things to do, places to eat, and assisting with reservations.
Mume’s breakfast is another highlight, especially the homemade jams and what could be the most delicious fresh-baked bread in Gion.
Dhawa Yura
One of Dhawa Yura’s biggest strong suits is its location on the northern side of Gion, just across the river from the vibrant nightlife of Pontocho.
Sanjo station is also right on your doorstep. From here, you can use the Keihan line to explore the rest of Kyoto, or if you’re in the mood for a day trip, Osaka is just a 50-minute direct train ride away.
The rooms are a little on the small side, but they’re well-designed and modern, with big comfortable beds and in-room Nespresso machines.
Gion Misen
Gion Misen is a boutique hotel located on historic Shimnomzen Street, a quiet lane lined with cute little restaurants and antique shops. The more bustling river walkways, bridges, and public transport stations are just a block away, and you can walk to the Yasaka Shrine in around 10 minutes from here.
The rooms are pretty big for Japan, with comfortable beds and minimalistic décor. Breakfast is included in the price, with a choice between Japanese or Western-style cuisine (and, most importantly, good coffee! 🙂 )
Gion Misen Furumonzen
The Gion Misen Furumonzen is the sister hotel of the Gion Misen (listed above). If you stay here, you’re welcome to use all the facilities at the other Misen, too, which is a 5-minute walk away.
This hotel is slightly further from the downtown area of Gion, but if you like a little more peace and quiet, the location might suit you better.
Rooms are silent and spacious, with big comfortable beds and ensuite baths attached. There’s also free tea and coffee in the common area 24 hours a day.
The Best Budget Hotels
These 4 places are easy on your wallet, while still providing good comfort and cleanliness. Starting rates for their rooms fall between ~5,170 JPY (~$33) and ~22,280 JPY (~$140).
Kyoto Inn Gion The Second
Kyoto Inn Gion The Second is located on a quiet side street, close to all the main Gion attractions and public transport links.
The rooms are surprisingly spacious (something you don’t often see in Japan!) with extra comfy Western-style beds. Each room has tea and coffee making facilities, and you can enjoy a simple complimentary breakfast downstairs between 7 am and 10 am.
Rinn Gion Kenninji
Rinn Gion Kenninji is hidden away in an atmospheric alleyway, just two blocks from the riverside and a 5-minute walk from the historic Hanami-koji street.
The rooms are pretty small, but they’re clean and comfortable, and, thanks to the backstreet location, they’re also quiet. So, you can sleep like a baby after a busy day of exploring the city 🙂
If you book ahead, request a room at the rear of the hotel with views of the Buddhist temple just across the street.
APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent
The APA Hotel is located in the very center of Gion, less than a minute’s walk from the Yasaka Shrine.
While the rooms are a little dated in terms of décor, they’re clean, comfortable, and relatively spacious. They also come with an electric kettle to make tea or instant coffee, or you can enjoy the real thing at the Starbucks on the ground floor.
Tsukimi Hotel
The centrally located Tsukimi is a classic Japanese capsule hotel. Like a lot of capsule hotels, there are two separate dorms for men and women, along with a mixed-sex floor which is handy if you’re traveling as a couple or in a group.
The capsules are all extremely clean, and the privacy screens manage to block out almost all noise, so you can get a silent night’s sleep. There’s also unlimited free coffee which you can sip on the rooftop while enjoying your view over Gion.
Conclusion & Summary
As you can see, there’s a wide range of hotels to choose from in Gion, and while accommodation is a little pricey here, there are still several pocket-friendly options that can suit a tighter budget.
That said, if money is no object, staying at Sowaka, with its lavish rooms, private garden oasis, and Michelin starred restaurant is the way to go.
Good mid-range options are Gion Misen, and its sister hotel, Gion Misen Furumonzen, where you can double up on facilities and enjoy the luxury of a big comfortable bed.
And if you’re pinching the pennies, why not stay at the centrally located Tsukimi, one of the top-rated capsule hotels in Kyoto.
I hope this guide helps you find the best hotel for your trip. Wherever you stay, enjoy gorgeous Gion! 🙂