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No other Japanese city can compete with Kyoto for style and grace. For the ultimate experience of Kyoto hospitality, stay in a ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn. Though often costly, a night in a ryokan guarantees you beautiful traditional Japanese surroundings, excellent service, and two elegant meals (breakfast and dinner) in most cases. But you don't have to limit yourself to the traditional. Kyoto is a tourist city, so accommodations range from luxurious hotels to small guesthouses. Service in this city is impeccable. The information desks are well stocked, and concierges or guest-relations managers are often available in the lobby to respond to your needs.
Some of the rooms at this Western-style chain property have great views of Nijo Castle, which sits directly across the street, but though reasonably well appointed, they and the public areas are strictly standard issue and hardly atmospheric. In summer the breeze wafting through the popular rooftop beer garden is as exhilarating as are the nighttime city views.
Murals, art objects, and custom-made furniture by local artists enliven every room and even the public hallways of this boutique hotel on an antiques shop–lined street in the heart of Gion. Its sister hotel (Hotel Gion Misen) is within a block on Shinmonzen-dori.
Although this hostel is best known as a backpacker getaway, the modern architecture, smart facilities, multilingual staff, and central location make it a great find, as do the two cheap double rooms with ensuite baths. The rooms are a good value for those who have low budgets but still want perks like free Wi-Fi, plentiful computer terminals, and a lovely courtyard. K's House is located north of Shichijo-dori and west of the Takase River.
Adjacent to the Imperial Palace and its park, this reasonably priced hotel has extended-stay rates. The multilingual concierge and location midway between two subway stops on the Karasuma Line compensate for the small but adequate rooms, some of which have the bonus of a kitchenette. The waiters at the restaurant are often foreign students working their way through college. The outdoor seating at the café is a nice perk, and a rare one in any Japanese city.
