Where To Stay In Kyoto With Family – 4 Best Options
Are you wondering where to stay in Kyoto with your family?
Kyoto is the perfect city to step back in time and immerse yourself in traditional experiences, like tea ceremonies.
The tranquil atmosphere, paired with its blend of historical charm and natural beauty, makes it an ideal destination for both young and old. Not only is the city visually stunning, but it also offers a rich educational experience for your children.
In this article, I’ll share my personal recommendations on the best neighborhoods to stay in, tailored to your preferences.
Having lived in Southeast Asia for nearly five years and visited Kyoto multiple times, I feel confident in providing you with some valuable insights.
What makes Kyoto such a fantastic family destination?
Its slower pace compared to larger cities like Tokyo or Osaka makes it a great place for families to explore at their own pace.
The city is home to an abundance of kid-friendly attractions such as the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and the playful monkeys of Iwatayama.
The food scene is amazing too. Nishiki Market and Kiyamachi Street are two examples of fantastic areas to discover some of the tastiest dishes in Japan and the whole family can go on a culinary adventure here.
With its stunning temples, scenic parks, and unique cultural offerings, Kyoto lets families connect with both nature and history in a way that few places can.
Each area comes with its own advantages and disadvantages, which will be summarized at the end of the paragraph.
At the bottom of this article, you’ll find a map highlighting all our recommended family-friendly areas to stay in Kyoto, along with the city’s main attractions.
We start with an overview, which allows you to scan quickly which area might be the best option.
Now, let’s dive into our top recommendations!
The best areas to stay in Kyoto with family are Central Kyoto, Kyoto Station, the Higashiyama District and Arashiyama.
The first two areas are located centrally and are perfect to move around easily and explore the nearby historical landmarks. They are also modern an doffer all the comforts of a carefree stay in Kyoto.
For a more traditional approach, a stay at Higashiyama District guarantees stunning architecture and temples. Arashiyama is an area on the outskirts of Kyoto that offers bamboo groves, temples, and gardens and is ideal who for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
Below, we’ll break down each of these recommended areas in more detail to help you decide which is the best fit for your family.
Tip: Tap on the name of the area to jump directly to that section of the article for more information!
Central Kyoto: Located in the heart of the city, Central Kyoto is an ideal base for families who want to explore the rich history and culture of Kyoto with ease. It’s home to several iconic landmarks and offers convenient access to shopping, dining, and entertainment. The central location makes it perfect for families who want to be close to major attractions while enjoying modern comforts and amenities.
Why Central Kyoto? Perfect accessibility
Kyoto Station: Kyoto Station is not just a transportation hub; it’s also a convenient and vibrant area to stay in. With its modern facilities and easy access to both the city’s highlights and surrounding areas, Kyoto Station provides a perfect family-friendly location. It’s also close to many cultural landmarks, making it a great choice for families looking to balance convenience with exploration.
Why Kyoto Station? Perfect Transportation
Higashiyama District: For families who want a more traditional Kyoto experience, Higashiyama District is a must-visit. This picturesque area is filled with historical temples, beautiful streets, and stunning architecture. It’s the perfect place to experience the old-world charm of Kyoto, with attractions like Kiyomizu-dera and Gion within walking distance. It’s ideal for those who appreciate history and serenity.
Why Higashiyama District? Authenticity
Arashiyama: Located on the outskirts of Kyoto, Arashiyama offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Famous for its stunning bamboo groves, tranquil temples, and scenic gardens, Arashiyama is perfect for families seeking natural beauty and relaxation. It’s a great spot for those who want to enjoy the outdoors while still being within reach of Kyoto’s cultural offerings.
Why Arashiyama? Nature & Tranquility
The best areas to stay in Kyoto with family are:
1. Central Kyoto - Perfect Accessibility
Central Kyoto is an excellent base for families visiting the city, as it offers convenience, affordability, and easy access to top attractions.
As the name already suggests, it’s located in the heart of the city, providing quick access to public transportation, including the subway.
It’s incredibly easy to explore popular sites like Kiyomizu-dera, Nijo Castle, and the Gion district.
The area is packed with family-friendly dining options, from casual ramen shops to cafés with kid-friendly menus.
Accommodation here ranges from budget hotels to mid-range options, making it a great choice for those looking to balance cost with comfort.
Central Kyoto also offers a variety of parks and open spaces where kids can enjoy some downtime, like the expansive Maruyama Park, just a short distance away.
There are also local markets and shopping streets to explore, ideal to let your kids explore the tasty Japanese cuisine and its street food.
Families will appreciate the central location, as it minimizes travel time to Kyoto’s major tourist spots, allowing more time for exploring and relaxing.
For the majority of families, Central Kyoto is the best option thanks to its convenience.
In my personal opinion, I would start looking for a hotel here.
Pros
- Central location with easy access to public transportation.
- Incredibly convenient area.
- A wide variety of family-friendly restaurants and shops.
- Close to parks and open spaces for kids to enjoy.
Cons
- Can be crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Higher accommodation costs compared to more residential areas (although still relatively easy to find something affordable).
- Some areas might feel less authentic than traditional neighborhoods, something many travelers do want to experience.
2. Kyoto Station - Perfect Transportation
Kyoto Station is a practical and convenient area to stay for families, offering excellent transportation options and proximity to a variety of attractions.
The station itself is a major hub, making it easy to travel to other parts of Kyoto and beyond, including Nara and Osaka.
This is particularly beneficial for families with kids, as it minimizes the hassle of long travel times.
The area around Kyoto Station is home to several shopping malls, like Porta and The Cube, where families can enjoy shopping, dining, and entertainment, all under one roof.
You’ll find many family-friendly restaurants serving both local and international cuisine, making meal times more convenient.
There are also attractions like the Kyoto Railway Museum and To-ji Temple, perfect for engaging children with educational and fun activities.
The area is a bit more modern and commercial compared to the traditional parts of Kyoto, which may appeal to those looking for more familiar amenities.
Additionally, the availability of many hotels, including budget and mid-range options, makes it an affordable choice for families.
Pros
- Easy access to transportation, including trains and buses.
- Close to shopping malls and entertainment options for kids.
- Affordable accommodation options for families.
Cons
- Less traditional, with fewer cultural experiences nearby.
- The area can be busy and less tranquil than other parts of Kyoto.
- Some attractions may require a longer commute from the station itself.
3. Higashiyama District - The Authenthic Part of Kyoto
The Higashiyama District is a charming and peaceful area ideal for families who want to experience Kyoto’s traditional side while staying close to key attractions.
This area is home to some of the city’s most iconic temples, including Kiyomizu-dera and the Golden Pavilion, as well as scenic spots like the Philosopher’s Path.
Walking through its narrow, cobblestone streets lined with old houses, local shops, and cafés offers a unique cultural experience that both adults and kids can enjoy.
Higashiyama is also known for its serene ambiance, making it a great escape from the busier parts of Kyoto.
Families can enjoy peaceful strolls through gardens, temples, and local markets such as the famous Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka streets.
While there are fewer modern conveniences in this area, the traditional Kyoto experience more than makes up for it.
Accommodation here tends to be quaint and offers a more intimate stay, from ryokans to guesthouses, though it can be slightly pricier than other districts.
Staying in Higashiyama allows easy access to cultural experiences and tranquil spots while still being within a reasonable distance of central Kyoto’s main shopping and dining options.
Pros
- Rich in traditional culture and scenic beauty.
- Close to iconic temples and historical sites.
- Peaceful and serene environment, great for families seeking relaxation.
Cons
- Fewer modern conveniences and shopping options.
- Accommodation can be more expensive compared to other areas.
- Some attractions may require a bit of walking or uphill climbs, which can be tiring for younger children.
4. Arashiyama - Nature & Tranquility
Arashiyama is a stunning area located on the outskirts of Kyoto, offering a perfect blend of nature, tranquility, and family-friendly activities.
Famous for its bamboo groves, the area provides a peaceful atmosphere where families can explore scenic spots like the Tenryu-ji Temple, the Iwatayama Monkey Park, and the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge.
The bamboo forest is particularly captivating for children, offering a magical experience that’s both educational and fun.
Arashiyama also has plenty of outdoor spaces, such as the beautiful gardens and riverside areas, where kids can run around or take a boat ride along the Katsura River.
Although it’s a little farther from central Kyoto, the area’s peaceful setting makes it a perfect retreat after a day of sightseeing.
There are several family-friendly restaurants serving traditional Japanese food, and local shops offer unique souvenirs and treats.
While accommodation options tend to be more on the mid-range to upscale side, there are also guesthouses and inns that offer a more authentic stay.
The serene environment and outdoor attractions make it an excellent choice for families who want to enjoy a relaxing, nature-filled experience.
Pros
- Beautiful natural scenery, including bamboo groves and riverside areas.
- Peaceful, less crowded compared to central Kyoto.
- Plenty of outdoor activities perfect for kids, like boat rides and nature walks.
Cons
- Farther from central Kyoto, requiring longer travel times to major attractions.
- Fewer dining and shopping options compared to more urban areas.
- Accommodation is generally more expensive, with fewer budget options available.