Top 12 Unique And Affordable Airbnbs in Kyoto - Updated 2024

Crystal
Crystal 
Updated
| 6 min read

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.

Stayed at this property?
Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan
781 meters (0.5 ft) from Kyoto Tower
305 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
ROOM IN HOSTEL 2 Beds 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the room itself was spacious and comfortable and had an air console for the hot summers
the room is as described and comfortable
with a beautiful zen garden and tatami floors in the dining room and bedrooms
the room was great for two travellers with two comfortable futon beds a small table and an armchair
i do have to say the room looked much better in the photos
Cleanliness:
very clean and friendly
very clean and comfortable
everything was very clean and neat
room is clean and well equipped
the place was convenient and clean
Host:
the staff is nice
host and staff were welcoming and friendly
the host is nice and kind
very helpful host
staff is super friendly and helpful
Location:
this airbnb is close to kyoto main station but slightly further away from main attractions
great place to stay very close to kyoto station and almost central to many attractions
the location of the house is perfect close to the station but also to the city center
perfect location to everywhere in center kyoto
great place great location and wonderful people
Read more reviews

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!

Stayed at this property?
Kyōto-shi, Kyōto-fu, Japan
6.2 km (3.9 mi) from Kyoto Tower
345 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Entire townhouse 2 Beds 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
we loved the bath overlooking the zen garden and the traditional tatami rooms
the property is very comfortable stylish easily accessible and has great atmosphere
the house is very well set up & incredibly comfortable
the beds on the floor are super comfortable
the in-room facilities were really modernized and comprehensive
Cleanliness:
the hostel was really clean and nice
it’s very quiet and clean such a lovely house
his place was spacious immaculately clean and very comfortable
the house is extremely clean and tidy and has a very relaxing vibe
this very big house was old and totally in tradition japanese style but well-protected and clean
Host:
thank you so much for being the perfect host jinn
jinn is a gracious host
the host jinn was incrediblyhelpful and thoughtful throughout our entire stay
the host jinn is very nice
jinn is a great host
Location:
the location is very good
the bus stations are pretty close to the house and connect to major tourist locations
it is located in a quiet and beautiful beifhbourhood
it was not in the downtown but you can easily take bus to almost every attractions
the walk to nearby places was also nice
Read more reviews

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.

Stayed at this property?
京都市, 京都府, Japan
5.97 km (3.8 mi) from Kyoto Tower
215 reviews   Wifi Available
ENTIRE HOME 6 Beds 9 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 9

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the house is very clean and fully equipped with all the amenities from kitchen to washing areas
Cleanliness:
clean and all needed available to find
very clean traditional japanese style house ample space
vary clean and the space is very big
it's a very traditional house clean with convenient facilities
it was clean beautiful and provided us with an authentic experience
Host:
the host was really responsive and provided excellent customer service
the hosts were very kind and hospitable
host is a very nice lady with kindness and supporting
the host was very quick to respond and was very willing to help
thank you very much for hosting us
Location:
very nice guest house~ location is good
location was a bit of a challenge getting to but worth it
the house is really comfortable easy to find coz it is near the bus stop
the great thing about the location was how close it was to the temples
the neighborhood is quiet and was a relaxing place to stay
Read more reviews

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.

Stayed at this property?
Fushimi-ku Kyoto-shi, Kyōto-fu, Japan
5.7 km (3.6 mi) from Kyoto Tower
589 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Entire townhouse 2 Beds 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
although we brought one the ac & usb adapter was very useful
good traditional house to stay in sleeping isn't the most comfortable but the backyard is nice
we loved the house and the space is very comfortable for me and my mom to stay
Cleanliness:
the house was clean and so comfortable
a gorgeous clean home nestled in a district of kyoto well worth exploring
the house is very clean and stylish i believe it can bring you a different living experience
very beautiful traditional japanese small house with nice wall paintings the house is very well equipped and clean
moreover clean easy to reach welcoming and comfortable to sleep
Host:
the host were very kind & accommodating
the host was very kind and caring
the hosts were responsive and very helpful
they are great hosts and incredibly kind
a special shoutout to the hosts which were amazing
Location:
the location was great
there are interesting places to vist near the house
the location is a bit remote but there are easy transport routes to kyoto station inari nara
very nice location with a beautiful outside area
amazing location with easy access to kyotos attractions and lots of great places to eat nearby
Read more reviews

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

Stayed at this property?

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

Stayed at this property?

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

Stayed at this property?

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

Stayed at this property?

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

Stayed at this property?

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.

Stayed at this property?

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.

Stayed at this property?
京都市, 京都府, Japan
1.13 km (0.8 mi) from Kyoto Tower
150 reviews  
Entire townhouse 2 Beds 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
my husband and i found the amenities to be very comfortable
we had facilities to wash cook make coffee and relax
we used the cafe at nearby le9 hostel for great coffee and breakfast most mornings
very comfortable futons and warm duvets
the heater and hot water was really great since it was pretty chilly outside during our stay
Cleanliness:
everything was clean and comfortable
house was clean and calm
it was clean comfortable and very attractive
house was beautiful and clean
the apartment is beautiful clean and well situated
Host:
his instructions were very helpful
keith is a wonderful host
josé was a great host
josés is the perfect host
very friendly host who was very easy to communicate with
Location:
great location and near by subway station
walking distance to central station but in a calm private neighborhood
location is very good too
reasonable walk to kyoto station very short walk to kujo station giving easy access to the whole city
very peaceful and within easy walking distance of kyoto station and beyond
Read more reviews

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.

Stayed at this property?
京都市北区, 京都府, Japan
7.29 km (4.6 mi) from Kyoto Tower
42 reviews  
Private room in house 2 Beds 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
very nice place very nice keiko very nice breakfast very nice pickup and seeoff
the japanese traditional breakfast is very good is like some thing you can't experiment outside
her breakfasts are the best it's like eating in a restaurant
Cleanliness:
the place is clean quiet and have beautiful view which i really like
Host:
keiko is very nice and helpful
host is very nice she recommended some nice place and even pick me up at night time
keiko-san is a wonderful host the house is extraordinary and the area is beautiful
my stay with keiko was a wonderful experience in itself she it such a gracious and helpful host
the hoster is very kind
Read more reviews

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.

Stayed at this property?
Shimogyō-ku, Kyōto-shi, Kyōto-fu, Japan
795 meters (0.5 ft) from Kyoto Tower
173 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
ENTIRE RENTAL UNIT 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the wifi was quick and very useful
unlimited pocket wi-fi was a nice bonus
and last but not least pocket wifi was very useful
plenty of amenities to make your stay more comfortable
comfortable bed mini closet separate bath and toilet
Cleanliness:
also clean and quiet
clean and well maintained
clean apartment nestled in a quiet residential area
we found the place clean and lovely
amazing for everything the house was clean and tidy
Host:
fusako is a wonderful host
fusako is a really good host
the hosts were very welcoming and checkin was easy
great host very quick to respond
very helpful and quick responses
Location:
good location 10-15 minutes walking distance to kyoto station
good location 12 minute walk from the station
great value and decent location (about 15 minute walk from kyoto station)
it's really close to the station and key attractions
nice place close to the station in a quiet neighbourhood
Read more reviews
Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Crystal is a curious child, who loves exploring Singapore in her free time with a camera in hand. Her street photography subjects often include unaware strangers, uncommon architecture, and...Read more

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