akdrv Posted October 15 Posted October 15 Hello everyone! Kyoto is always evolving, with new hotels constantly opening around the city. I thought it would be great to start an ongoing thread where we can share information about the latest hotel openings in Kyoto. Whether you’ve heard about a brand-new luxury hotel or a cozy boutique inn that’s just opened its doors, please share the details here! Photos, personal experiences, and any insider tips are highly appreciated. All hotel categories are welcome, including hotels opened in the last year or two; please indicate the price range (luxury, mid-range, or budget). Let’s help each other discover the newest places to stay in this beautiful city! I’ll start with my personal favorite new hotels: THE GATE HOTEL KYOTO TAKASEGAWA by HULIC (luxury) Opened in 2020, former school converted into a beautiful hotel. Near Pontocho Lane and steps from Kawaramachi shopping. Bonus: there is a Blue Bottle Coffee in the same building, as well as several restaurants. Several great new hotels opened right next to Kyoto Station: Via Inn Prime Kyotoeki Hachijoguchi (mid-range) Opened in 2024, located 2-minute walk from the Hachijo-guchi exit on the south side of Kyoto Station. Excellent location if you plan to take day trips from Kyoto Station. Basic rooms are pretty small, superior and deluxe are larger. Hotel Vischio Kyoto by GRANVIA (mid-range) Opened in 2023, located in front of Kyoto station on the south side. Perfect location and spacious rooms. The hotel offers great value in the off-season, but can get expensive during peak travel season. Quote
Maria Fukuda Posted October 16 Posted October 16 A number of high end luxury hotels opened in Kyoto recently: Hilton Kyoto (luxury) Opened in 2024, in Sanjo-Kawaramachi area. Probably the best location for first-time visitors to Kyoto. Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto (luxury) - Opened in 2024 in the Higashiyama district, very close to Kiyomizu-dera temple. Six Senses Kyoto (luxury) Opened at the end of April 2024 in the Higashiyama district, next to Kyoto National Museum. Quote
Elizabeth Green Posted October 17 Posted October 17 Hey everyone! I’ve been exploring some of the newer spots in Kyoto that are both easy on the wallet and close to transportation, and I thought I’d share my findings! Imu Hotel Kyoto (budget) If you’re looking for a social atmosphere without sacrificing your own space, Imu Hotel Kyoto is a great pick. It has the friendly vibes of a hostel but offers private rooms, so you get the best of both worlds. Perfect for budget travelers who want to meet others but still enjoy some privacy. Smart Place Inn (budget) This is a cool new brand from the folks behind Nine Hours. Smart Place Inn focuses on smart, compact, and affordable stays. They’ve got locations near Shijo Omiya Station and Nijo Castle, which means you’re super close to public transport and all the attractions. Hotel Mystays Kyoto Shijo (budget) Don’t let the price tag fool you—around US$100 per night gets you a surprisingly nice room here. It’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on amenities. Plus, its location makes it easy to hop on buses or trains to explore the city. Elite Inn Kyoto Station (budget) Opened in 2024. Close to Kyoto Station. Fantastic budget option. It’s newly opened and just a short walk from the station, making it super convenient for getting around or catching early trains. Has anyone else checked out these places or have other new hotel recommendations? Would love to hear your thoughts or experiences! Happy travels! Quote