Staying in an Airbnb when visiting Kyoto is a great idea for anyone looking to experience the city like a local. An Airbnb rental gives travelers access to unique neighborhoods and accommodation options that can’t be found elsewhere. Furthermore, many Airbnb rentals are located close to popular tourist attractions, making them ideal for those who want easy access to the area’s must-see sights. These Kyoto Airbnbs showcase the best of the city.
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A famous Kyoto-based architect oversaw this stunning property’s renovation, which is beautifully done to reflect traditional architectural and design decor blended with modern necessities. The inside feels sleek and clean, with lots of natural wood tones. There are two beds in the main bedroom and futons provided in the tatami room for additional guests. Guests can even enjoy a hosted Japanese breakfast and dinner for an extra fee.
This traditional, two-story machiya dates back to the Taisho era — meaning it boasts more than one hundred years of history. The name “Shinsen” is derived from one of the oldest famous courtyards in Kyoto during the Heian Period, which is located near the property. Guests will enjoy a space made with original, traditional craftsmanship, and outfitted with lots of wood. Spend time admiring the Japanese courtyard (designed by an expert courtyard designer,) which is outfitted with a hand-built bathtub made of Japanese cypress, through the floor-to-ceiling windows and doors of the living room. The second floor also features a Japanese dry garden. The kitchen features a microwave, refrigerator, coffee machine kettle, and tableware.
This unique, beautifully renovated, century-old machiya boasts a charming blend of the traditional and modern Japanese spirit. Design elements, including sliding wooden doors with wa-shi partition, a private garden, and contemporary comforts, make it a great place to stay right inside the serene Chomyoji Temple. There are two bedrooms with tatami and four sets of Japanese-style futons, and a kitchen equipped with all the appliances you may need during your stay (including a Nespresso machine). In the garden, enjoy the Shigaraki outdoor bathtub, made with original ceramic craftsmanship.
This authentic, idyllic Kyoto-style wooden house is located directly on the Kamo River — just three minutes’ walking distance from Shichijo station. It’s a stunning and peaceful property, with beautiful views and everything needed for a comfortable overnight stay — including multiple bedrooms, a dining room space and kitchen, a spacious living room, a garden, and a bathroom with a cozy soaking tub.
The bright and welcoming “Kyouran Seseragi-an” property is close to public transportation and is a one-of-a-kind rental townhouse. It comprises of four connecting buildings by the tranquil Kamogawa River in Kyoto, built with high-quality Japanese Hinoki cypress wood. Guests will pass through the “Hongawara” gate and into a well-manicured front garden before entering the front door to find a welcoming, open living space. Design elements include high-end Kyoto Nishijin textiles and Japanese umbrellas, as well as thoughtful mood lighting, which ushers in a sense of warmth. Guests shouldn’t miss relaxing in the spacious soaking tub overlooking the garden.
This gorgeous two-story Kyomachiya property is a 5-minute walk to the popular attraction, the Ogane Shrine, in a lively neighborhood with many trendy restaurants. The floors are heated on the first floor, and each bedroom is air-conditioned for maximum comfort regardless of season. There’s a kitchen, a living room, and multiple courtyards — and the traditional decor of the space feels elegant but welcoming.
This two-story Machiya is located near Nijo Castle — a ten-minute walk from Nijo station. The space embraces the peace and serenity of nature within the modern and luxurious comforts of a home. Guests will encounter tatami rooms, a semi-open air soaking tub, and a beautiful traditional garden space. The garden follows the Japanese philosophy of worshiping the seasons, featuring sakura blossoms in spring, a little pond surrounded by greens in summer, red maple leaves in autumn, and snow on Japanese black pine in winter.
This charmingly traditional property offers a sense of peace. There are multiple bedrooms, a garden, a soaking tub with a garden view, and a well-equipped kitchen. Added luxuries include heated floors, air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, modern kitchen appliances, and all the cozy amenities to enjoy a relaxing bath.
Seven guests, three bedrooms Price: $276 per night
This two-story Kyomachiya-style property is conveniently located 15 minutes walking distance from Kyoto station. It’s outfitted with the finest furniture and the comfiest bed, as well as added amenities like heated floors and a big bathtub for soaking. There are two semi-double beds and two Japanese futon beds for sleeping. The kitchen is fully outfitted with an electric kettle, a microwave and a refrigerator. Spend time on the first floor lounging on the large sofa set in a traditional relaxing Japanese-style living room. Take in the fresh sights of the garden, which can be seen from the living room.
Airbnbs in Japan are often significantly more affordable than traditional hotel rooms (especially for those seeking an entire house to rent).
Can I rent an Airbnb in Japan?
Yes – Airbnb is legal in Japan.
What area of Kyoto is best to stay in?
It’s said that some of the best neighborhoods for visitors to stay in Kyoto and explore include Downtown Kawaramachi, Gion, and Central Kyoto.
Should I stay in Arashiyama or Kyoto?
Arashiyama is an easy day trip from Kyoto for those who want to stay in the city — but for those who seek a more peaceful, authentic experience, the Arashiyama area can be a great place to set as a home base while traveling into Kyoto for its tourist attractions.
Should I stay in Osaka or Kyoto?
It’s said that the less “touristy” Osaka offers more affordable accommodations and better nightlife than Kyoto. But for those who seek a more traditional Japanese experience and are willing to spend some more money, Kyoto might be a better choice.
How many days is enough for Kyoto?
Visitors should plan to spend at least two full days to get a decent sense of Kyoto as a city — but it’s a very historic and culturally rich city, and those who seek to fully immerse themselves in the attractions and culture of the city should plan to spend at least a week in Kyoto.
