Japan is widely known for innovative minds, often coming up with new inventions that take the world by surprise. But even amongst the country’s steadfast development, one can trace the contemporary footsteps back to the cultured traditions that started it all, including geishas decked out in silken kimonos, taking small steps past ancient shrines of worship.
Explore Kyoto Old Town at ease as you book into any of the top unique and affordable Airbnbs in Kyoto. Enjoy the touch of modern comfort.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 09, 2024.
1. Guesthouse Bokuyado near Kyoto Station, Shimogyō-ku (from USD 44)
Being one among the top Kyoto vacation rentals, this 70-year-old guest house is home to a well-maintained Japanese garden. Come home to freshly made beds and thick sheets to keep you warm during the freezing winter nights. Spend some time diving through the trove of books in the hosts’ mini library. The kotatsu (low table with a heating source underneath) in the main living area will keep your feet toasty warm as you read.
Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan
781 meters (0.5 ft) from Kyoto TowerSuperhostAccommodates: 2
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the room itself was spacious and comfortable and had an air console for the hot summersthe room is as described and comfortablewith a beautiful zen garden and tatami floors in the dining room and bedroomsthe room was great for two travellers with two comfortable futon beds a small table and an armchairi do have to say the room looked much better in the photosCleanliness:
very clean and friendlyvery clean and comfortableeverything was very clean and neatroom is clean and well equippedthe place was convenient and cleanHost:
the staff is nicehost and staff were welcoming and friendlythe host is nice and kindvery helpful hoststaff is super friendly and helpfulRead more reviewsLocation:
this airbnb is close to kyoto main station but slightly further away from main attractionsgreat place to stay very close to kyoto station and almost central to many attractionsthe location of the house is perfect close to the station but also to the city centerperfect location to everywhere in center kyotogreat place great location and wonderful people
2. Traditional house near Philosopher's Path, Sakyo-ku (from USD 220)
Built atop a sloping hill, this 75-year-old inn is located near tons of old heritage sites and is one of the best Airbnbs in Kyoto. The Ginkakuji, Philosopher’s Path, and Kiyomizu Temple are all within a 30-minute driving distance away. Find solace in the stone garden, where you can practise simple meditation to free your mind from troubled thoughts. Spend the cold winter evenings in the washitu-style room, where tatami mats are laid out for your convenience. Tune in to a local channel on the LCD TV while keeping your toes toasty warm! With three bedrooms of varying sleeping capacities to choose from, the comfortable bedding will have you dreaming of your adventures tomorrow!
Kyōto-shi, Kyōto-fu, Japan
6.2 km (3.9 mi) from Kyoto TowerSuperhostAccommodates: 4
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
we loved the bath overlooking the zen garden and the traditional tatami roomsthe property is very comfortable stylish easily accessible and has great atmospherethe house is very well set up & incredibly comfortablethe beds on the floor are super comfortablethe in-room facilities were really modernized and comprehensiveCleanliness:
the hostel was really clean and niceit’s very quiet and clean such a lovely househis place was spacious immaculately clean and very comfortablethe house is extremely clean and tidy and has a very relaxing vibethis very big house was old and totally in tradition japanese style but well-protected and cleanHost:
thank you so much for being the perfect host jinnjinn is a gracious hostthe host jinn was incrediblyhelpful and thoughtful throughout our entire staythe host jinn is very nicejinn is a great hostRead more reviewsLocation:
the location is very goodthe bus stations are pretty close to the house and connect to major tourist locationsit is located in a quiet and beautiful beifhbourhoodit was not in the downtown but you can easily take bus to almost every attractionsthe walk to nearby places was also nice
3. Spacious nook near Kinkakuji Temple (from USD 147)
This modern private home offers a relaxing stay for nine guests. You have access to free pocket wi-fi, making it easy for you to stay connected even when you travel within the city limits. This property is in a quiet setting and very close to Kinkakuji Temple. Various other attractions are nearby like Arashiyama, which is only a 10 minutes’ walk away. To travel the Japanese way, you may hire up to five bicycles for free and paddle down to the attractions nearby.
京都市, 京都府, Japan
5.97 km (3.8 mi) from Kyoto TowerAccommodates: 9
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the house is very clean and fully equipped with all the amenities from kitchen to washing areasCleanliness:
clean and all needed available to findvery clean traditional japanese style house ample spacevary clean and the space is very bigit's a very traditional house clean with convenient facilitiesit was clean beautiful and provided us with an authentic experienceHost:
the host was really responsive and provided excellent customer servicethe hosts were very kind and hospitablehost is a very nice lady with kindness and supportingthe host was very quick to respond and was very willing to helpthank you very much for hosting usRead more reviewsLocation:
very nice guest house~ location is goodlocation was a bit of a challenge getting to but worth itthe house is really comfortable easy to find coz it is near the bus stopthe great thing about the location was how close it was to the templesthe neighborhood is quiet and was a relaxing place to stay
4. Traditional art house near Fushimi Inari Shrine, Fushimi-ku (from USD 116)
Located in a quiet residential neighbourhood, this traditional art house is almost reminiscent of a scene out of a film, with its picturesque outdoor gardens and rustic wall structures. Choose from a total of two rooms, where you get a comfortably heated room complete with your own futon that is snug enough for some cuddles. Head over to the lounge room for some well-deserved alone time. The soft bean bag makes for the perfect spot to chill. Apart from the property, you might also want to indulge in the other traditional experiences in Kyoto.
Fushimi-ku Kyoto-shi, Kyōto-fu, Japan
5.7 km (3.6 mi) from Kyoto TowerSuperhostAccommodates: 4
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
although we brought one the ac & usb adapter was very usefulgood traditional house to stay in sleeping isn't the most comfortable but the backyard is nicewe loved the house and the space is very comfortable for me and my mom to stayCleanliness:
the house was clean and so comfortablea gorgeous clean home nestled in a district of kyoto well worth exploringthe house is very clean and stylish i believe it can bring you a different living experiencevery beautiful traditional japanese small house with nice wall paintings the house is very well equipped and cleanmoreover clean easy to reach welcoming and comfortable to sleepHost:
the host were very kind & accommodatingthe host was very kind and caringthe hosts were responsive and very helpfulthey are great hosts and incredibly kinda special shoutout to the hosts which were amazingRead more reviewsLocation:
the location was greatthere are interesting places to vist near the housethe location is a bit remote but there are easy transport routes to kyoto station inari naravery nice location with a beautiful outside areaamazing location with easy access to kyotos attractions and lots of great places to eat nearby
5. Pottery workshop flat near Daijo-ji Temple, Fushimi-ku (from 28 USD)
Book a stay with Azumi at his pottery-workshop-cum-home for a unique solo traveller’s experience! Azumi’s place is perfect for travellers looking for an exchange of cultural differences and an authentic experience of the local lifestyle. Feel free to ask him about the best spots in town; he will be more than happy to show you around! The living space may be bare in terms of furnishings, but it is rich with untold stories if you just ask. With a single bed separated from the shared space by a thin veil of curtain, you need not fear for your safety as Azumi’s home has been reviewed by tons of travellers, both male and female, who returned with a deeper cultural understanding of Kyoto, so why not try out a different kind of accommodation?
Pottery Workshop Flat
Address: Fushimi-ku (see map)
Price: from 28 USD
Number of Guests: 1
6. Stylish loft near Arashiyama, Ukyō-ku (from 56 USD)
This modern loft is located a short train ride away from the tourist district of Arashiyama, all whilst still being located in a quaint little neighbourhood for some peace and quiet. With a sofa overlooking your neighbourhood and a small coffee table for meals, this homey space is perfect for a couple on an exploration trip! Sink into your cushy futon as you wrap yourself up in the sheets. Hooray for single beds with no more stealing of blankets! Complete with a variety of facilities for daily use, feel free to use the kitchen for an easy meal and the washer for your dirty laundry.
Stylish Loft
Address: Ukyō-ku (see map)
Price: from 56 USD
Number of Guests: 2
7. Cosy apartment near Nijo Castle, Nakagyō-ku (from 67 USD)
Located at a short 5-minute walk away from Karasuma Oike station, this historical studio is found amidst bustling modern restaurants as well as the ancient towers of Nijo Castle. With a selection of 3 silky-soft futons, keep warm during the colder months by turning the heater up to the maximum. Try your hand at making traditional Japanese tea. The kitchen is stocked up with all basic kitchen necessities, as well as an ornate tea set!
Cozy Apartment
Address: Nakagyō-ku (see map)
Price: from 67 USD
Number of Guests: 3
8. The Samurai House near Yasaka Shrine, Kamigyō-ku (from 146 USD)
This 100-year-old house is a living, breathing artifact. Housing various Samurai armour and oil-paper umbrellas, as well as hanging scrolls from the Edo era, you may feel as though the entire house is a museum itself! Head over to the main living room, where you can enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine (for an extra charge) without taking a single step out of your house. With more than 6 beds for you to choose from, snuggle up on a heated futon during the cold winter months.
The Samurai House
Address: Kamigyō-ku (see map)
Price: from 146 USD
Number of Guests: 8
9. Chic designer's home near Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Ukyō-ku (from 73 USD)
Furnished with minimalist ornaments that reflect a delightful blend of ancient Japan and the modern way of life, this apartment is perfect for a family weekend getaway. Swing yourself to sleep on the little hammock in the main living area. Settle down in the main bedroom, where comfortable queen-sized and single beds await you at the end of a long day. If you’d like a more authentic experience, pull out the futons from the closet and call it a night.
Chic Designers Home
Address: Ukyō-ku (see map)
Price: from 73 USD
Number of Guests: 6
10. Immerse yourself in the rustic charms of Kyoto
Amongst the vintage accommodations and quiet streets, the true beauty of Kyoto can be seen if you take a look past the flourishing green foliage growing in peaceful gardens. The slow way of life aside, the welcoming locals add a touch of homeliness to your foreign vacation here. Book your stay at one of the top Airbnbs in Kyoto.
11. Tin house near Kujo metro station, Minami-ku
Located 10 minutes away from Kyoto’s train station, this tin house was originally in ruins until the host, José, ran into it. After some re-designing and renovation works, the house now sports a chic new look that stands out from the other traditional houses in the area. The low ceilings (1.7 meters / 5.6 feet high) are supported by wooden beams, reminiscent of ancient Japanese architecture. Taller people may need to bend a little to get into the house! Cook up a storm in the fully-equipped kitchen; some sunny-side up eggs and perfectly toasted bread sound good for a simple breakfast! Stocked with tons of books and magazines about your new neighbourhood, feel free to spend rainy afternoons indoors with a light read. Rest up in the traditional tatami-style bedroom. The futons are kept behind the sliding doors.
京都市, 京都府, Japan
1.13 km (0.8 mi) from Kyoto TowerTop guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
my husband and i found the amenities to be very comfortablewe had facilities to wash cook make coffee and relaxwe used the cafe at nearby le9 hostel for great coffee and breakfast most morningsvery comfortable futons and warm duvetsthe heater and hot water was really great since it was pretty chilly outside during our stayCleanliness:
everything was clean and comfortablehouse was clean and calmit was clean comfortable and very attractivehouse was beautiful and cleanthe apartment is beautiful clean and well situatedHost:
his instructions were very helpfulkeith is a wonderful hostjosé was a great hostjosés is the perfect hostvery friendly host who was very easy to communicate withRead more reviewsLocation:
great location and near by subway stationwalking distance to central station but in a calm private neighborhoodlocation is very good tooreasonable walk to kyoto station very short walk to kujo station giving easy access to the whole cityvery peaceful and within easy walking distance of kyoto station and beyond
12. Guest house near Ryoan Temple, Kita-ku
Located on top of a small hill, this quaint little guest house boasts cathedral ceilings that have just been renovated. Despite being one of the top Kyoto holiday rentals, this home is only open for females upon the request of the resident host, Keiko. Furnished with ancient tactical war scrolls and tin cavalry statues, take a trip back in time with your best gal pal while lounging in the main living room. Fancy some afternoon tea? The balcony area overlooks the vast greenery of surrounding forests. The lush green foliage makes for a great companion as you enjoy a relaxing afternoon outdoors. After a short hike up to your new home, rest by plopping onto the fluffy single beds.
京都市北区, 京都府, Japan
7.29 km (4.6 mi) from Kyoto TowerTop guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
very nice place very nice keiko very nice breakfast very nice pickup and seeoffthe japanese traditional breakfast is very good is like some thing you can't experiment outsideher breakfasts are the best it's like eating in a restaurantCleanliness:
the place is clean quiet and have beautiful view which i really likeRead more reviewsHost:
keiko is very nice and helpfulhost is very nice she recommended some nice place and even pick me up at night timekeiko-san is a wonderful host the house is extraordinary and the area is beautifulmy stay with keiko was a wonderful experience in itself she it such a gracious and helpful hostthe hoster is very kind
Cozy space for solo travelers or couples
This is a second-floor unit with access via stairs only. It is not suitable for guests with mobility issues. It offers the perfect corner to rest, a nice table with chairs in case you order food, and access to almost all popular attractions. The host is kind enough to arrange for pocket wi-fi that you can carry while sightseeing. Inside the property, you have access to creature comforts such as a washing machine, a refrigerator, toiletries, hairdryer, and much more. The nearest bus stop is only a five-minute walk away. The host offers a guide map and recommendations when you feel ready to explore the Gion area, Arashiyama, Kiyomizy Temple, and many more. Alternatively, you can check out the top free walking tours in Kyoto.
Shimogyō-ku, Kyōto-shi, Kyōto-fu, Japan
795 meters (0.5 ft) from Kyoto TowerSuperhostAccommodates: 2
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the wifi was quick and very usefulunlimited pocket wi-fi was a nice bonusand last but not least pocket wifi was very usefulplenty of amenities to make your stay more comfortablecomfortable bed mini closet separate bath and toiletCleanliness:
also clean and quietclean and well maintainedclean apartment nestled in a quiet residential areawe found the place clean and lovelyamazing for everything the house was clean and tidyHost:
fusako is a wonderful hostfusako is a really good hostthe hosts were very welcoming and checkin was easygreat host very quick to respondvery helpful and quick responsesRead more reviewsLocation:
good location 10-15 minutes walking distance to kyoto stationgood location 12 minute walk from the stationgreat value and decent location (about 15 minute walk from kyoto station)it's really close to the station and key attractionsnice place close to the station in a quiet neighbourhood
History
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