Where to Stay in Kyoto with Family: 4 Best areas

In this post, I will help you to find Where to Stay in Kyoto with family, best areas and neighborhood to stay in Kyoto with kids and the best family-friendly hotels in Kyoto.

Kyoto offers a range of neighborhoods that provide the perfect balance of convenience, attractions, and family-friendly amenities. Whether you seek serene temples, vibrant shopping districts, or picturesque parks, Kyoto has it all.

Where to Stay in Kyoto with family?

The best areas to stay in Kyoto with family are Downtown Kyoto, Kyoto Station, Higashiyama District, and Arashiyama. Each area has its own unique charm and advantages, so consider your family’s preferences and priorities when choosing the best area to stay in Kyoto.

Here is an overview of recommended neighborhood in Kyoto for families:

Best areas in Kyoto with family	Why should you stay in this area?
Central Kyoto (Downtown)	a vibrant and convenient area, with easy access to transportation, shops, and restaurants. Staying here will put you close to popular attractions like Gion district, Nijo Castle, and Imperial Palace.
Kyoto Station	a major transportation hub, making it convenient for exploring the city. You’ll find a wide range of family-friendly accommodations here. The nearby Kyoto Aquarium and To-ji Temple are great attractions for children.
Higashiyama District	a historic district known for its traditional atmosphere and beautiful temples. You can visit iconic sites like Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Yasaka Shrine, and Gion District. Higashiyama offers traditional ryokans and guesthouses, providing an authentic Japanese experience for your family.
Arashiyama	a picturesque area surrounded by natural beauty. It is famous for its bamboo forest, Togetsukyo Bridge, and the Monkey Park. Your family can enjoy scenic walks, boat rides on the Hozu River, and visits to Tenryu-ji Temple. It offers a mix of traditional ryokans and modern hotels.

Map of best areas where to Stay in Kyoto with Family:

4 Best areas to Stay in Kyoto with family:

1. Downtown Kyoto

Downtown Kyoto is one of the best areas to stay in Kyoto for families due to its combination of convenience, accessibility to major attractions, and a variety of family-friendly amenities.

Central Kyoto is home to many of the city’s major attractions such as the Kyoto Imperial Palace, Nijo Castle, and the Nishiki Market. This saves you travel time and makes it convenient to explore the city with your family.

Central Kyoto has a good transportation network, including buses and subway lines, which makes it easy for families to explore the city and visit major landmarks, such as the Golden Pavilion, Fushimi Inari Shrine, and the Gion district without much hassle.

Some of the popular attractions in Central Kyoto for families to explore include:

the Kyoto Imperial Palace, the former residence of the Imperial family of Japan. Families can take guided tours, admire the beautiful architecture and gardens.
The Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its beautiful gardens, unique architecture.
the Shijo Kawaramachi shopping district, with department stores and boutiques.
Shijo-dori and Kawaramachi-dori, popular shopping streets with a wide range of shops, department stores, and souvenir stores.
The Nishiki Market (Kyoto’s Kitchen), Kyoto’s famous food market where families can eat traditional snacks and explore the array of shops.
The Kyoto International Manga Museum, has extensive collection of manga

The Kamogawa River flows parallel to Shijo Street, providing a serene and picturesque spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. During the cherry blossom season, it’s a popular spot for hanami (flower viewing) parties.

Central Kyoto is known for its vibrant dining scene. You’ll find numerous restaurants, cafes, and food stalls offering a variety of cuisines, including kid-friendly options.

The Pontocho Alley is a historic narrow alley lined with traditional machiya buildings. It’s a fantastic place to experience Kyoto’s traditional dining scene, with numerous restaurants, tea houses, and bars offering delicious local cuisine.

Central Kyoto is generally considered a safe area with low crime rates. Families can feel secure and comfortable exploring the city, even during the evenings. The well-lit streets and active community contribute to the overall sense of safety.

It’s worth noting that Central Kyoto can be busy and crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. However, its central location and convenient amenities make it a great base for families to explore the city and enjoy a comfortable stay.

Central Kyoto has a wide range of accommodation options suitable for families, including hotels, ryokans (traditional Japanese inns), and vacation rentals. Many establishments provide family rooms, interconnected rooms, as well as child-friendly facilities and services.

Best places to stay in Downtown Kyoto with family:

Luxury ($$$): Kyoto Shijo Takakura Hotel Grandereverie, 5-star family-friendly hotel, centrally located in downtown Kyoto, offering easy access to train station Karasuma (Hankyu Kyoto line), as well as many shops and eateries in its surroundings.

Mid-range ($$): Hotel Grand Bach Kyoto Select, 4-star modern accommodation located only a 5-minute walk from Kawaramachi Train Station, 8 minute walk from Shijo Station. Short train ride to Kiyomizu Temple, Nijo Castle, and Kyoto Station.

Budget ($): Hotel Forza Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi, 3-star children-friendly hotel, one of the best places to stay in central Kyoto on a budget. It has a 24-hour front desk and luggage storage space. Short distance from Gion Shijo Station, Kyoto Shigaku Kaikan Conference Hall, Kyoto International Manga Museum and Samurai Kembu Kyoto.

🔍BEST HOTELS IN DOWNTOWN

2. Kyoto Station

Kyoto Station is a major transportation hub with excellent connectivity, making it convenient for families to explore the city and beyond.

Kyoto Station is well-connected to various transportation options, including trains, buses, and taxis. This makes it easy to access popular tourist destinations within Kyoto and other cities in the region, such as Osaka and Nara.

From Kyoto Station, families can easily access famous landmarks and attractions in Kyoto, such as Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Fushimi Inari Shrine, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, and the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji). The station is also a starting point for sightseeing buses and guided tours.

Kyoto Station boasts an extensive selection of shops, restaurants, and food courts. The station’s underground shopping mall, known as Porta and the Aeon Mall Kyoto Gojo provide additional shopping and entertainment options.

Located near Kyoto Station, the Kyoto Aquarium is a popular attraction for families. It features various marine exhibits and interactive displays, allowing children to learn about marine life and enjoy hands-on experiences.

Kyoto Station has plenty of activities and attractions for whole families, such as:

Kyoto Station Building, a modern architectural marvel with a stunning design, featuring a large atrium, shopping malls, and various shops and restaurants.
Kyoto Tower. offers a panoramic view of the city from its observation deck.
Kyoto Railway Museum, showcases the history of Japan’s railways with numerous exhibits, including vintage trains and interactive displays.
Higashi Honganji Temple, a significant Buddhist temple complex
Nishi Honganji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site that has grand structures, intricate carvings, and peaceful surroundings.
Isetan Department Store, a great place to browse and find unique items.
Ramen Street, on the station’s 10th floor, offers a variety of delicious ramen noodle shops.
Toji Temple, impressive five-story pagoda, the tallest wooden pagoda in Japan.

In the evenings, Kyoto Station is often beautifully illuminated. The station building lights up with colorful displays, creating a magical atmosphere. Don’t miss the chance to see the stunning night views.

There is a wide range of accommodation options available near Kyoto Station, including hotels, guesthouses, and serviced apartments. Families can find accommodations to suit their preferences and budget, with many establishments offering family-friendly amenities.

Best places to stay in Kyoto Station with kids:

Luxury ($$$): THE THOUSAND KYOTO, 5-star kid-friendly hotel, one of the best places to stay near Kyoto Station with children of any age. It is located in the Shimogyo Ward district, a few steps away from Kyoto Station and within walking distance from TKP Garden City Kyoto.

Mid-range ($$): Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Station, 4-star hotel, great base for family inthe Shimogyo Ward district of Kyoto. Located just a 3-minute walk from Kyoto Station.

Budget ($): Richmond Hotel Premier Kyoto Ekimae, 3-star budget-friendly and family-friendly hotel, featuring family rooms, located in Kyoto and within a short walk from Kyoto Station.

🔍BEST HOTELS IN KYOTO STATION

3. Higashiyama District

Higashiyama District is known for its rich history, traditional architecture, and beautiful temples and shrines. It offers a unique atmosphere that allows families to immerse themselves in the traditional Japanese culture.

Higashiyama District is located on the eastern side of the city, at the base of the Higashiyama Mountains.

The district is home to several famous attractions, including Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion), and Yasaka Shrine. These sites offer not only stunning views but also cultural experiences that can be enjoyed by the whole family.

Additionally, the narrow streets and preserved historic buildings of Higashiyama create a charming ambiance that both adults and children can appreciate.

The district is home to Gion District, the renowned geisha district of Kyoto, known for its historic machiya townhouses and teahouses. Keep an eye out for geisha and maiko (apprentice geisha) as they walk to their appointments.

There are tons of attractions and activities to do for families in Higashiyama District, such as:

Kiyomizu-dera Temple, an iconic temple famous for its wooden terrace that offers panoramic views of Kyoto. Beautiful during cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons.
Hōkan-ji Temple (Yasaka Pagoda), the five-story pagoda, a great spot for photos and offers a glimpse into Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage.
Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka Streets, historic preserved streets lined with traditional wooden buildings with shops selling souvenirs, sweets, and local crafts.
Yasaka Shrine, a 7th century Shinto shrine that is famous for its annual Gion Matsuri festival.
Maruyama Park, a scenic park, popular during cherry blossom season.
Chion-in Temple, buddhism temple, known for its Sanmon gate and gardens
Kodai-ji Temple, home to Zen gardens, bamboo groves, and stunning tea houses.
Hanamikoji Street, lined with traditional tea houses and restaurants.
Entoku-in Temple, home to a beautiful rock gardens
Eikan-do Zenrin-ji Temple, a popular spot for photographers during fall foliage time.
Ginkaku-ji Temple (Silver Pavilion), renowned for its elegant Zen garden
Philosopher’s Path, a scenic walking path follows a canal lined with hundreds of cherry trees. It is close to temples like Honen-in and Eikan-do.

Higashiyama offers a range of family-friendly accommodations, including traditional ryokans and modern hotels that cater to the needs of families. Many of these accommodations provide spacious rooms, family-friendly amenities, and easy access to nearby attractions.

Higashiyama can get crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons, so it’s advisable to plan your visit accordingly. Overall, the district offers a blend of cultural immersion, historical sites, and comfortable accommodations, making it a great choice for families visiting Kyoto.

Best places to stay in Kyoto in Higashiyama with family:

Luxury ($$$): Hotel The Celestine Kyoto Gion, 5-star family-friendly hotels, conveniently located within walking distance from Gion-Shijo Station, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, and Kennin-ji Temple.
Mid-range ($$): yoin hotel kyoto gion, 4-star hotel, attractively set in the Higashiyama Ward district of Kyoto, short walk from Samurai Kembu Kyoto and Gion Shijo Station.
Budget ($): Kyoto Ryokan Gion Sano, children-friendly ryokan, offering traditional Japanese-style rooms in the beautiful Gion area, within walking distance from the famous Kiyomizu-dera Temple. The top floor offer city views of Kyoto and Higashiyama district.

🔍BEST HOTELS IN GION & HIGASHIYAMA

See more: Where to Stay in Gion

4. Arashiyama

Arashiyama is a popular choice for families visiting Kyoto. It is a district located on the western outskirts of Kyoto, Japan. It is known for its natural beauty, historic sites, and cultural attractions.

One of the highlights of Arashiyama is the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a stunning

bamboo forest that provides a unique and picturesque setting for family walks and exploration.

The nearby Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is also worth a visit, featuring beautiful gardens and historic buildings.

You can explore the quiet and serene Gio-ji Temple with its moss-covered garden. There is also Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple, which has a unique collection of stone statues, offering a distinctive charm and serene atmosphere.

Families will also enjoy the Togetsukyo Bridge, which spans the Hozu River and offers a pleasant walk with scenic views. The area is home to several charming traditional streets, where you can find shops, restaurants, and tea houses.

There is also the Monkey Park Iwatayama, where families can interact with monkeys in a natural environment and enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto. There are also boat tours available along the Hozu River, providing a relaxing and scenic experience.

There is also a scenic train ride along the Hozu River on the Sagano Romantic Train. This old-fashioned train offers breathtaking views of the forested ravine and is especially beautiful during the cherry blossom or autumn foliage seasons.

Arashiyama is known for its tea houses, offering the opportunity to experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony. Savor a cup of matcha tea while immersing yourself in the serene atmosphere.

Arashiyama is easily accessible from central Kyoto and can be reached by train or bus. It is a popular destination for tourists seeking a blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and tranquility.

Arashiyama offers a range of family-friendly accommodations, including traditional ryokans and modern hotels. Many of these accommodations provide spacious rooms and amenities suitable for families.

Best places to stay in Kyoto in Arashiyama for family with children:

Luxury ($$$): MUNI KYOTO by Onko Chishin, 5-star hotel, featuring a restaurant, a 24-hour front desk and a concierge service, Children older than 12 years are welcome.
Mid-range ($$): The GrandWest Arashiyama, 4-star family-friendly hotel, great base for family with children of all ages.
Budget ($): Hotel Arashiyama, 2-star kid-friendly hotel, offering free private parking and air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, each with a private bathroom.

🔍BEST HOTELS IN ARASHIYAMA

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Summary – Where is the best place to stay in Kyoto with family?

To sum up, Downtown Kyoto, Kyoto Station, Higashiyama, and Arashiyama are some of the best places to stay in Kyoto with kids. Downtown Kyoto offers convenience and proximity to attractions. Kyoto Station provides excellent transportation options.

Higashiyama District showcases traditional charm and historical sites. Arashiyama offers a serene retreat amidst nature’s beauty. Choose the area that best suits your family’s preferences and create lasting memories in the cultural capital of Japan.