Central Kyoto Travel Guide
Kyoto
Visit Central Kyoto
Popular places to visit
Nijō Castle
You can find out about the history of Kyoto with a stop at Nijō Castle. Visit the temples and top-notch restaurants in this culturally rich area.
Kyoto Imperial Palace
Kyoto Imperial Palace is just one of the places to see in Kyoto, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Discover the fascinating museums and temples in this culturally rich area.
Kitano Tenmangū
Find out about the history of Kyoto when you take a trip to Kitano Tenmangū. Visit the temples and shops in this culturally rich area.
Doshisha University
Explore the campus of Doshisha University as part of your travels around Kyoto. Amble within picturesque gardens or visit the temples in this culturally rich area.
Kyoto Gyoen National Garden
Explore the great outdoors at Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, a lovely green space in Kyoto. Amble within the gardens or visit the temples in this culturally rich area.
Shokoku-ji Temple
After visiting Shokoku-ji Temple, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Kyoto. Visit the temples and shops in this culturally rich area.
Top hotels in Central Kyoto
Kyoto Brighton Hotel
"We had a lovely stay at the Kyoto Brighton Hotel. Located north of the main city center, it offers a wonderful, quieter escape, though you should expect to take a taxi to get to the main train station and most major sightseeing hubs. For us, the location's unique perks far outweighed the distance: ..."
Reviewed on 3 Jun 2026
KOKO HOTEL Residence Kyoto Nijo Castle
"The room was spacious with 2 individual beds and a bunk bed for the kids, small kitchenette and efficient bathroom. The hotel offers a wide variety of amenities and loaner items in case you forgot something. The hotel is located within 10 minutes from. Nijo castle and a subway station. Bus 29 stops ..."
Reviewed on 3 Jun 2026
HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO, a Luxury Collection Hotel & Spa
"Excellent place in all means. Try to use the spa and their bikes. Also take a room with good garden view"
Reviewed on 1 Jun 2026
Onyado Nono Kyotoshichijo Natural Hot Springs
"i've booked with this hotel twice already. immediately after my first trip i was adamant that if i came back to kyoto again i had to rebook at this same hotel. the hotel is very close to the subway station and has many convenience stores nearby. it was great having laundry available and the service ..."
Reviewed on 4 Jun 2026
Hotel Emion Kyoto
"Hotel and staff were great!"
Reviewed on 3 Jun 2026
THE BLOSSOM KYOTO
"Beautiful hotel. Everything was high quality. I loved all the little perks like local coffee beans with our own coffee grinder in the room, free ice cream and snacks downstairs, motorized blackout blinds, traditional Samue (long-sleeved top and pants) for the onsen. Speaking of the onsen, it was ..."
Reviewed on 3 Jun 2026
Where to stay in Central Kyoto
Gion
Unique features of Gion include the monuments and shopping. Make a stop by Yasaka Shrine or Hanamikoji Street while you're exploring the area.
Shimogyo Ward
Shimogyo Ward is highly notable for its popular shops, and you might want to visit top sights like Kawaramachi Street and Kyoto Railway Museum. See more of Kyoto by jumping on the metro at Tanbaguchi Station or Umekoji-Kyotonishi Station.
Downtown Kyoto
While you're in Downtown Kyoto, take in top sights like Kawaramachi Street or ShinPuhKan Shopping Center, and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Karasuma Oike Station or Marutamachi Station.
Higashiyama Ward
Consider a visit to Three-Year Slope and take some time to enjoy the abundant dining options during your time in Higashiyama Ward. If you want to see more of the city, jump on the metro at Higashiyama Station or Sanjo Keihan Station.
Karasuma
Karasuma is popular for its popular shops. Explore top sights like Kawaramachi Street and Nishiki Market, and you can get around town on the metro at Karasuma Oike Station.
