Today we are answering the question, “What are the best areas to stay in Kyoto for tourists?”

In today’s video, we are going to talk about getting around Kyoto, and then we’ll talk about the Kyoto station area, the central area, and the Higashiyama area.

Getting Around Kyoto

Before booking hotels in Kyoto, you need to consider how you’re going to get around the city. There are trains, subways, buses, and taxis.

Trains and subways are punctual, so it’s convenient to be near a train or subway station. This makes it very easy to get around. However, it’s best to stay no more than a 10-minute walk to a station. You’re going to be doing a lot of walking, so you don’t want to add on more steps just to get to transportation.

Buses and taxis are subject to traffic, which is inevitable in Kyoto. Buses also tend to get very crowded.

Where to Stay in Kyoto

Kyoto Station Area

Staying near the Kyoto station area is convenient if you’re planning to take day trips out of the city.

Kyoto station is a bullet train station. You can easily hop on a train and go to Osaka, Himeji, or even Hiroshima.

Express trains will take you to Nara and Uji, and local trains go to Fushimi Inari Shrine and Arashiyama.

The area also has a lot of dining and shopping, such as at the Isetan department store, The Cube shopping center, and an underground shopping mall called Porta.

Central Area

The central area is considered to be the best place to stay in Kyoto. It extends from Shijo to Sanjo Street from the Kamo River to Shijo Station.

It’s extremely beautiful with Edo-era buildings, canals, and cherry blossom trees. It’s also very walkable to shopping and restaurants. There are department stores and boutique shops around Kawaramachi Street, and covered shopping arcades with shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Nishiki Market is a narrow alley with over 100 shops and restaurants. You can find locally made products, such as knives, fans, stationery, and street foods. There are sweets, seafood, meat, pickles, and lots of other things to try.

Higashiyama Area

The Higashiyama District is a preserved area near Kiyomizu-dera Temple. The streets of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka are especially picturesque. The area is famous for Kiyomizu-yaki pottery and other shops with traditional crafts.

This is a great place to get dressed in a kimono or try a tea ceremony.

Although the area is extremely crowded during the day, it is really quiet at night. Everything closes early, so that’s something to keep in mind if you’re thinking about staying in this area.

Transportation is also a bit more difficult. The only way to get around is by bus or taxi.

We hope this video helped to decide where to stay in Kyoto. Have a great trip!