Kyoto is loaded with cheap, well-run budget accommodations, making the city a natural choice for backpackers. Here’s a list of the best hostels and guesthouses in Kyoto, all of which I’ve personally inspected.
Budget Inn:
Run by the same caring folks as Tour Club, Budget Inn is another great choice for budget travellers. There are only private rooms here. Read More
K’s House Kyoto:
This popular guesthouse is modeled on the sort of large backpackers’ joint you might find in New Zealand or Australia. It’s very social, with a bar and restaurant. Read More
Gojo Guesthouse:
In the center of downtown, this converted old Japanese house has character galore and friendly owners. Read More
Ryokan Rakucho:
In the north of the city, this is officially a ryokan, but it feels more like a guesthouse. Read More
Utano Youth Hostel:
It’s located way in the north of the city (near Kinkaku-ji), but it’s easily Kyoto’s best youth hostel. Good for cyclists. Read More
More Kyoto Hotels info:
- Kyoto Hotels Overview
- Check availability and pricing for Kyoto hotels at Agoda.com
- The Best Places To Stay In Kyoto
- Where To Stay In Kyoto
- Best Value Hotels In Kyoto
- Kyoto Vacation Rentals
- Best Luxury Hotels in Kyoto
- Best Boutique Hotels in Kyoto
- Best Mid-Range Hotels in Kyoto
- Best Budget Hotels in Kyoto
- Best Kyoto Hostels and Guesthouses
- Best Kyoto Hotels For Families
- Best Ryokan In Kyoto
Kyoto Vacation Checklist
- For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Kyoto guide
- Check Kyoto accommodation availability on Booking.com – usually you can reserve a room with no upfront payment. Pay when you check out. Free cancellations too
- Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Kyoto
- See my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
- Buy a data-only SIM card online for collection when you arrive at Kansai International Airport (for Osaka and Kyoto) or Tokyo's Narita Airport. Or rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
- Compare Japan flight prices and timings to find the best deals
- If you're visiting more than one city, save a ton of money with a Japan Rail Pass – here's my explanation of why it's worth it
- A prepaid Suica card makes travelling around Kyoto easy – here's how
- World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world
