For unique extraordinary ramen experience, Menbakaichidai Fire Ramen is one of the must eat and must try in Kyoto. Their most popular menu is the Negi ramen which is fully topped with plenty of green onions. And guess what? This is the FIRE ramen which burning up just in front of you.
Kyoto Fire Ramen Menbakaichidai is a small ramen restaurant in Kyoto. However, this best ramen in Kyoto is extremely popular among the visitors. It stand out from the traditional ramen restaurants by it flaming ramen. For an unforgettable dining experience in Kyoto, then you’ve come to the right place.
When we planned on our Kyoto itinerary in April, one of my Japan friend recommended me to try on this fire ramen. We saw some video for Kyoto flaming ramen on a food blog and decided to try on this unique experience when we get to Kyoto. And we did it during our visit to Kyoto. So glad that we do not miss this best ramen in Kyoto. We had a great time and excited to eat at Menbakaichidai.
Read on our must eat food in Kyoto, Menbakaichidai Fire Ramen.
How To Get To Kyoto Fire Ramen Menbakaichidai
Menbakaichidai is located in the residential area on the Northern side of Nijo Castle. It required about 10 to 15 minutes of walking journey to get to the restaurant. So, it a great idea to couple up by having lunch at Menbakaichibai before heading to the Nijo castle visit.
The easier way is to get to Menbaka Fire Ramen is by bus. From Kyoto station, take the Kyoto city bus (#9), (#50), or (#101) and get off at “Horikawa Marutamachi”. It is about 5 minutes’ walk to the restaurant.
Besides, make sure to allocate some time for this bowl of flaming ramen. It is popular with a line of customers start from early morning until night. So expected to queue especially during peak dining hour.
We reached Menbakaichidai at evening. There were lined of people were waiting patiently outside of the restaurant. Make sure to take your running number from the ticket machine at the front door. Luckily the queue move plenty fast and it took us about 30 minutes to get inside.
Menbakaichidai is a typical Japanese ramen restaurant which only can fit for about 12 guests. The staff was pretty efficient by serving customers. Once we get in, we were greeted and seated at the counter bar with the menu at the table.
No need to worry about how to order your fire ramen in Menbakaichidai. There are English, Korean, Mandarin and different languages of menu available. So this is not a language barrier for non-Japanese speaking tourists to order your best ramen.
Added, the food menu is pretty simple with four different options. While the most simple and cheapest is the fire ramen alone. Alternatively, you can order set with fried rice, dumpling, and fried chicken option. However, please take note that minimum a bowl of ramen per person with no sharing.
The Preparation of Ramen On Fire
After order, the staff was explained the Fire Ramen Rules for safety reasons. We were given a white disposable apron to protect our clothes and body from the splashing oil.
Make sure no screaming, no jumped out from the seat and always keep hands behind our back.
The master chef was extremely entertaining and communicated well with us. While waiting, the staff takes our phones to capture our ramen on fire experience perfectly. All of our reactions to the flames are on video at our phone free of charge. It was great that they did not intend to sell the video at a separate price.
Once the bowl of ramen places yet unfired in front of us, we started feel nervous. It was a traditional ramen but there was a mountain of green onion being piled on top. Again, the helpful staff explained the ramen rules and performed a safety check.
Next, our excited moment approaching. The staff heated the oil in the pan and then poured the burning oil to the ramen. Instantly, the ramen erupts into a fearsome tower of fire. WOW! It was so amazing. But, the flame won’t last too long. At the end of the fire show, your bowl of hot flavorful ramen was ready.
The Taste of Fire Ramen
Next, the helpful staff cleaned up the table and the bowl slid before we ate. Generally, the ramen is pretty basic with simple soy sauce-based soup of chicken, pork, and fish.
However, I just admitted it has the firey taste and full of flavor. It is more oily compare with the normal ramen but nothing was burnt after the flaming fire. The fire did add on unique smoky taste to the ramen. It brings out the flavor and aroma of green onion.
In short, the fire ramen itself tastes not too bad. It might not as thick and flavorful as another famous ramen in Japan. But one of the must-try dining experience in Kyoto.
Must-Try in Kyoto: Fire Ramen Menbakaichidai
All in all, we enjoy our ramen in Menbakaichidai. No doubt, it is a true culinary experience to see your food set on fire before eating. We took a lot of pictures and videos for ramen on fire.
There are lots of entertainment, great atmosphere when eating in Menbakaichidai. We highly recommended if you are looking for where and what to eat in Kyoto. If you are visiting Kyoto, make sure to include Kyoto fire ramen into your itinerary. One of the must-eat in Kyoto.
Kyoto fire ramen Menbakaichidai is part of our Kyoto itinerary when visiting Kansai in April. Read also our other travel blog post for 7 days Osaka, Kyoto, Nara and Uji trip below.
Related Kansai Japan itinerary for 7 days including:
Looking for how to get from Narita Airport to Tokyo? Read on our transportation guide if you are looking for the cheapest, fastest and easiest transport option to Tokyo downtown including Ueno, Shibuya, Ginza and more.
Narita International Airport is the busiest airport in Tokyo Japan. It handle thousand of international and domestic flights per day. It is located in Chiba prefecture which about 40 miles away from the city center. The journey from the airport to Tokyo downtown took about 30 to 160 minutes. You can opt for various transportation options depend on your preference. The best thing when traveling to Japan is Narita Airport is well connected by multiple rail and bus lines.
However, finding the best transport from Narita Airport to Tokyo can be a headache especially for first-time travelers. Depend on your next destination, there are various transport options available. While most of the travelers have three major factors: fastest, cheapest or easiest way from Narita Airport to Tokyo.
Here are the best ways to get from the Narita airport if you are heading to Tokyo downtown including Ueno, Shibuya, Ginza and more.
Getting to Tokyo from Narita Airport By Private Shuttle or Bus.
From Narita To Tokyo By Bus
From Narita Airport to Tokyo by bus is getting more popular among travelers. It is one of the convenient options connected to various places in Tokyo downtown. This popular route is running by conventional limousine bus and several cheaper bus service in cheaper fare.
Airport Limousine vs Regular Bus
By Limousine Bus: The best and most convenient option if your hotel is located at one of the drop off points along the bus route. The airport limosine bus makes direct stops at many accommodation in Shibuya, Shinjuku, Ginza, and even Tokyo Disney Resort. It greatly help for those with lots of luggage. Ticket can be purchase at the dedicated counters and booked ahead online.
Transport Cost: From ¥3,100 yen for one way. (Book via Klook)
Traveling Time: 90-100 minutes.
Frequent: 3 to 4 buses per hour.
By Keisei Bus Tokyo Shuttle: Discounted bus service run between Narita Airport and Tokyo Station. The one way is only about ¥1,300 and can be even cheaper if purchased in advance via the internet. Midnight bus will be slightly more expensive with about ¥2,600.
You can buy the bus ticket at Keisei Ticket counter during the operating hour (7:00 to 22:00) or on the bus. Once reach Tokyo Station, you can easily transfer to other Tokyo neighborhood by subway and JR train. The earliest bus is 1.30 am. Note that only one suitcase per person.
Transport Cost: ¥1,300 yen for one way.
Traveling Time: 65 to 75 minutes.
Frequent: 3 buses per hour.
By The Access Narita Bus: Similar option like Tokyo Shuttle, Narita Bus offering low cost and cheapest transport option. It runs between Narita Airport, Tokyo station (Yaesu South Entrance) and Ginza Station (Sukiyabashi intersection). You can get on the bus at the terminal including Terminal 1, 2, 3. The bus fare also about 1000 yen during normal time and double up to 2000 yen during midnight. Just board the bus and pay to the driver directly.
Transport Cost: About 1000 yen for one way.
Traveling Time: 65 to 75 minutes.
Frequent: 2 buses per hour.
From Narita To Tokyo By Private Shuttle And Taxi
Taking a taxi from Narita to the Tokyo city area is possible but it’ll cost you an arm and a leg. It is not cheap and can cost about ¥20,000 for one way of taxi ride. So we would not recommend you hail a taxi if possible.
For a large group of travelers and family, you can consider spending a little extra by arranging a private shuttle. It is a great option to get to your accommodation easily and fast. An economical choice for family trips or large traveling parties with plenty of luggage.
Two main train companies are running for the Narita Airport route. And both offered the express train with the fastest but slightly more expensive. Alternatively, you can go on a budget with cheaper fares but require a longer time.
Pro Tips: Get a Suica or Pasmo card is a top-up IC card that will greatly help you get around in the Tokyo area. The IC Card can be used in all of Japan.
Keisei Skyliner vs Limited Express
By Kensei Skyliner Train: Kensei Skyliner train direct to either Ueno or Nippori Stations. From there, you can change trains and proceed next destination by local trains such as JR Yamanote, Hibiya, Ginza Line using Suica. Seats are reserved and the train with dedicated luggage storage. Discounted price if you are purchasing the Skyliner train ticket online before your Japan trip.
Transport Cost: From ¥2,500 yen for one way.
Traveling Time: 36 minutes to Nippori and 41 minutes to Ueno.
Frequent: Runs every 20 minutes, start from 7: 28 to 22:30.
By Keisei Main Line Rapid Limited Express: Similar options like Skyliner, the Keisei Limited Express will take you to Nippori and Ueno Station. It is slightly cheaper than Skyliner but still consider reasonable time to get you to central Tokyo. But take note it is the regular train that stops several stops along the train ride. Seat reservation is not available and there is no luggage storage. It can be crowded and difficult for those with big luggage.
Transport Cost: From ¥1,050 yen for one way.
Traveling Time: About 90 minutes.
Frequent: Runs every 20 minutes.
By Keisei Access Express: Another option run by Keisei Railway. The Access Express with similar offering as Keisei Limit Express, but it will fewer stops and slightly faster. Besides, it has direct access to Shinagawa, Shinbashi, and Nihonbashi station. Seat reservation is also not available and there is no luggage storage.
Transport Cost: From ¥1,050 yen for one way.
Traveling Time: About 80 minutes.
JR Narita Express vs JR Rapid Service
By JR Narita Express (N’EX): Slightly more expensive but the most comfortable option for getting to Tokyo Station from Narita Airport. The departure train is every 30 to 60 minutes. The train ride takes about one hour to get you to the destination. Train stops at major train stations in the downtown area including Tokyo, Shinagawa, Shibuya, Shinjuku, Yokohama, and Ofuna. Seats are reserved and the train with dedicated luggage storage. Besides, you can purchase the round trip ticket at a cheaper price of about ¥5,000.
Transport Cost: From ¥3,000 for one way.
Traveling Time: About 60 minutes to Tokyo Station.
By JR Rapid Service: This is a cheaper JR train option compared with Narita Express. The journey takes a long time roughly 90 minutes at ¥1,340. Note that seat reservation is not available and there is no luggage storage.
Getting to Tokyo from Narita Airport is pretty easy and simple. With only 1000 yen of bus fare, the bus is the cheapest and most budget option from Narita to Tokyo. For foreigners, sometimes the train is the better option compared with the bus. The express train is more comfortable with luggage storage to ease your journey.
It depends on your choice. Sometimes I am more prefer to spend a few more hundred yen for a more comfortable journey. You can easily transfer to any neighborhood once you get to the Tokyo Station. But, try to avoid peak office hours when you are taking a subway or regular train in Tokyo.
Last but not least, this Tokyo transportation blog is part of my travel post to Kanto Japan. Hopefully, my Tokyo Narita Airport transportation guide can help you to plan on your transport to downtown. So, what is your choice when getting to Tokyo from Narita Airport? Fastest, cheapest, or most comfortable way? Happy travel to Tokyo.
Looking for where to stay in Sapporo? Take a look at our accommodation guide. The best places to stay in Sapporo for the solo traveler, couple, friend, and family. From budget, mid to luxury hotels at different seasons.
Sapporo is the largest city in Hokkaido prefectures. It is a popular tourist attraction and transportation hub in Hokkaido. Each Japan prefectures have its beauty in a different season. Among them, Hokkaido is one of my favorite places in Japan. You will be delighted and amazed by its beautiful charm whenever you visit Hokkaido in spring, summer, autumn, and winter. There are so many things to do and see around and in Sapporo. So, travelers need to choose your best hotel when visiting this wonderful city.
Not sure where to stay in Sapporo? No worry. Continue reading our travel blog on the best hotel guide below. We covered most of the best places to stay in. From the top 10 best budget hostels, mid to luxury range hotels, and traditional Japanese Ryokan. Added the best stay at different seasons from Spring, summer, autumn, and winter.
One of the best parts when finding where to stay in Sapporo is there is a wide selection of accommodations for your selection. From budget, mid-range to 4 or 5-star hotels. We recommend any hotel near the Sapporo, Susukino, and Odori stations is the best area to stay. It is very convenient to stay near the station and easy to get around if you are traveling by public transport. Additionally, it is also convenient if you are planning to take the train back to and from the airport if Sapporo is your first and last place before leaving Hokkaido.
Moreover, there are a few popular areas when travelers looking for their best stay in Sapporo. Certain areas will get more popular at different seasons. For example, Odori Park during winter. Want to know why? We will share the secret accommodation guide here.
Sapporo Best Hotel Guide (Where To Stay in Sapporo):
Nearby Sapporo Station: Easy for getting around
Susukino: Most lively area for food and entertainment
Odori Park: Best during winter
Best Places to Stay in Sapporo on budget
Continue reading our accommodation guide below.
Sapporo Hotel Tips: When looking for the best price and biggest selection of hotels in Sapporo check prices for Sapporo Best Hotel from Booking.com. We found they are the best option and have a great cancelation policy.
Where to Stay: Sapporo Station
Staying nearby the station is always one of the best options whenever visiting Japan. Being Hokkaido’s main transportation hub, Sapporo is well connected with New Sapporo Airport and other cities. You can get to Sapporo by international or domestic flight, shinkansen, train, or even bus.
To ease transportation arrangements, staying nearby Sapporo station is always a great idea for getting around. Additionally, it is also convenient when planning day trips to other attractions such as Noboribetsu, and Otaru without worrying about transportation arrangements.
Dining in Nemuro Hanamaru
There are many famous eateries and restaurants nearby the station. The Hokkaido must eat Nemuro Hanamaru, soup curry, Genghis Khan or the Sapporo Ramen Republic can be found nearby Station. A good place to after traveling around.
If you are interested, check out our dining experience in Nemuro Hanamaru, best sushi restaurant in Sapporo. One of the must-eat when visiting Hokkaido. It is located at JR Stellar tower within walking distance from the station.
Best Hotel Nearby Sapporo Station
Best hotel nearby station: Sapporo Grand Hotel
High-end hotel nearby Station:
Sapporo Grand Hotel is one of the popular hotels in Hokkaido. It is located at one of the popular choices when looking for where to stay in Sapporo comfortable. The location is superb, which is directly connected to Sapporo Station. It is easily reached by the underground walkway from the station to the hotel. Professional staff, clean and spacious room. You can even enjoy the facilities including the gym, shopping center, and spa at this 5-star hotel. JR Stellar tower is within walking distance from the station.
Getting there: Directly connected with Sapporo Station
Where to stay in Sapporo: Hotel Mystays Sapporo Aspen
Mid-range hotel nearby Station:
Hotel Mystays is another great option when looking at the best place to stay in Sapporo. Similar to its other Mystays chain hotel. Mystays are always a high reputation among the customers for its clean and spacious rooms. There are two Mystays Hotels near Sapporo Station: Hotel MyStays Sapporo Station and Hotel Mystays Sapporo Aspen. A short walk from the station easily reaches both.
Getting there: 3 mins walk from Sapporo Station
Nest Hotel Sapporo Ekimae
Best budget hotel nearby Sapporo Station:
Nest Hotel Sapporo Ekimae is located just 500 m from JR Sapporo Train Station. This budget hotel with a strategic location makes it one of the popular picks for travelers looking for accommodation nearby the station. All rooms with free wired internet. The bed is comfortable with friendly staff. A great base to get around nearby.
Getting there: 3 mins walk from Sapporo Station
Where To Stay: Susukino
Susukino
Next, Susukino is the entertainment hub in Sapporo. It is well connected with buses and subways from the rest of the city. It takes about 5 minutes to reach Susukino from Sapporo station.
No doubt, Susukino is the most lively area with bars, restaurants, shops, and other attractions. The famous ramen street, Ramen Yokocho is located in the Susukino. Moreover, there is a wide variety of hotels in the district that caters to visitors from low or high-range budgets. It is the best place for travelers looking for food, and entertainment and enjoying their nightlife in this lively area.
Best Hotel in Susukino
Popular Pick – Quintessa Hotel Sapporo
High-range hotel nearby Susukino:
Quintessa Hotel Sapporo – This elegant four-star hotel is one of the popular picks when looking for where to stay in Sapporo. The location is excellent, and within walking distance of the train station, bus stop, and tram stop. It is only about 450 m from Nakajima-Koen Subway Station. The room is very spacious and clean. Good value for money!
Where to stay in Susukino: the b Sapporo Susukino
Mid range hotel nearby Susukino:
The b Susukino is located in the central shopping and eating district. It is about a 5-minute walk from Susukino Station. This brand new hotel is equipped with a clean and modern room for your stay in Hokkaido. A stylish design hotel in a reasonable price range.
Getting there: 7 mins walk from Susukino Station
Situated in the lively Susukino area, Tmark City Hotel offers compact guest rooms featuring free WiFi. Great location with about just a 5-minute walk from Susukino Subway Station. Additionally, Ramen Yokocho is only 500 meters from the hotel. A nice clean room with professional staff is welcome during your stay in Susukino.
Getting there: 8 mins walk from Susukino Station
Best budget hotel nearby Susukino: Nest Hotel Sapporo Odori
Budget hotel nearby Susukino:
Nest Hotel Odori is one of the best budget hotels nearby Susukino. The location is the center where the Susukino station is 500 meters away while the Odori Park is a 5 minutes walk. You can also choose to take the Nishi 4-Chome Subway Station which is 200 meters located nearby. One of the favorite pick hotels for budget travelers.
Getting there: 6 mins walk from Susukino Station
Where To Stay: Odori Park
Odori Park And Sapporo TV Tower
Sapporo Snow Festival (Sapporo Yuki Matsuri) is one of the biggest winter festivals in Hokkaido and even Japan. Every year, more than two million visitors from Japan and across the world come here to participate in this winter festival. Thousand of spectacular snow and ice sculptures are exhibited during this 1-week event in February.
There are three main festival venues; Odori Park, Susukino, and Tsu Dome. Among them, Odori Park is the main site with the largest exhibition. It is the best place to stay in Sapporo during winter. During this time, accommodation especially those nearby Odori Park gets booked extremely fast. So, if you are planning for the Hokkaido trip in winter, remember to reserve your room early.
Best Hotel to Stay in Odori Park
Where to stay in Sapporo during winter: Hotel Resol Trinity
High-end hotel nearby Odori Park:
Hotel Resol Trinity is the best place to stay for the Sapporo Snow Festival in winter. The location is superb strategic. Just facing directly with Odori Park where Snow Festival is mainly held. This great location is resulting that Hotel Resol Trinity being extremely popular, especially during winter.
Getting there: 1-minute walk from Odori Station
If Hotel Resol Trinity Sapporo gets fully booked, consider taking a look at Richmond Hotel Odori. It is also located nearby Odori Station, connected with several railway stations. Clean and comfortable room for your best stay in Sapporo. Moreover, an open-air onsen is available on the top floor of the hotel where you can spend a relaxing time while enjoying the view of Sapporo city.
Getting there: 6 minutes walk from Odori Station
Royton Sapporo
Mid-range hotel nearby Odori Park:
Alternatively, Royton Hotel is within a 3-minute walk from Odori Park and has metro access. Nishi 11-Chome Subway Station is only 3 minutes walking distance. The room is spacious compared to Japanese standards. It is also suitable for self-driving with private parking available. Minor fee at ¥1,000 which is the Japanese parking standard.
Getting there: 3 minutes walk from Nishi 11-Chome Subway Station.
Where To Stay in Sapporo on Budget
Where to stay in Sapporo On a budget: The Stay
Unable to get find the best hotel that suits your budget. No worry. We have listed the Top 3 Best Budget Hostels in Sapporo.
The Stay Sapporo is one of the best budget hostels near Susukino. This friendly budget stay welcomes solo backpackers with dormitory rooms for mixed and female-only rooms. Added, private room for couples, family, or groups of friends up to 8 people. So no worry about planning for your Hokkaido trip at a cheaper price without breaking your bank.
Getting there: 8 mins walk from Susukino Station
Best budget stay in Sapporo: Grids Hotel & Hostel
Another best budget hotel in Sapporo is the newly open Grids Sapporo Hotel&Hostel. It is located in the Tanukikoji shopping street where you can shop and eat once you stepped out of the hotel door. No worry about getting around. The Odori Subway Station and Susukino Subway Station are within 10-minute walking distance. The dormitory bed is spacious and clean which is great for solo and budget travelers. You can also choose from single, double, and family rooms with shared or private bathroom facilities.
Getting there: 2 mins walk from Tanujikoji Station
Best budget stay nearby Sapporo Station: Ten to Ten Sapporo Station
Last but not least, Ten to Ten Sapporo Station is your best choice if you are looking for the best budget to stay nearby the station. Generally, the accommodation nearby station will be slightly higher compared with other areas. But Ten to Ten are offering a great location yet at a cheaper price. It has dormitory rooms with shared bathrooms. While other rooms from double, quadruple, and family rooms with up to 6 people are featured in a private bathroom.
Getting there: 10 mins walk from Sapporo Station
Best Place To Stay in Sapporo
Did you find the best hotel for where to stay in Sapporo? Hopefully our travel blog able to give you an overall picture of your best stay. We have split the best hotel in the best area, different seasons, and on the budget for your Hokkaido trip.
Added, please take note that the hotel rate will be slightly higher during peak seasons such as cherry blossoms and Sapporo Snow Festival in winter. Rooms get booked fast during the peak season. So remember to reserve your room as soon as possible.
Where To Stay in Sapporo?
Any hotel located near the Sapporo, Susukino, and Odori stations is the best area to stay in Sapporo.
Where should I stay in Sapporo in winter?
The best place to stay in Sapporo in winter is around Odori Park. It is the main site for the snow festival and the most convenient place to stay.
Best accommodation guide for where to stay in Kyoto, including useful tips to find the best hotels and areas for your best stay in Kyoto.
Located in the Kansai region, Kyoto is one of the must-visit places in Japan for many travelers. Even if you only have a few days to explore Japan, there’s no reason that you miss out on this amazing city.
Kyoto is so perfect to include on your Japan trip. It is very ideal to plan for 1, 2, 3 days, or even up to 1 week of travel itinerary. However, regardless of the many days in Kyoto, be sure to carefully plan for things to do, what to eat, and where to stay in Kyoto. This historical city has by far become one of my favorite places to visit in Japan. I am sure you will have a memorable trip to Kyoto which lasts forever.
In this article, I will share my personal experience in finding the best accommodation to stay in Kyoto. I have listed down the top three districts for you to spend on your wonderful night when visiting. Added, the different price range for budget, mid-range to luxury. There are amazing ryokan if you are looking for a unique staying experience in Japan. So let’s plan your trip.
Kyoto is a very popular tourist destination. If you are planning a trip to this wonderful city, you might be wondering where to stay in Kyoto. Good hotels are always getting sold out fast. So we are here to help.
We recommend you read through our Kyoto hotel tips before finding your best stay in Kyoto. Are you ready? Let’s go!
Stay in Kyoto Or Osaka?
This is the same question whenever I visited Kyoto. Osaka is a central hub for exploring the Kansai region. While Kyoto is always one of the best places for authentic traditional Japanese experience.
Generally staying in Osaka is cheaper compared with staying in Kyoto. In my opinion, Osaka is a better option if you are limited in time. You can opt for visiting Kyoto for a 1-day trip. But I’d highly recommend visiting Kyoto for at least 2 days staying in Kyoto. There are so many things to do and see in Kyoto. I can easily plan for at least 3 days or 1 week of the Kyoto itinerary. Let’s read about my Kyoto itinerary for your holiday vacation.
Finding where to stay in Kyoto probably is one of the headache questions when visiting the Kansai region. While Japan is best to visit all year long. Travelers are visiting Japan in Spring for cherry blossoms, summer for flower fields and festivals, autumn for fall foliage, and winter for the snowy experience.
The best time to visit Kyoto is during cherry blossom in spring and fall foliage in autumn. Based on the previous year’s records, the sakura is in full bloom during early April. While the maple leaf will turn red at the end of November. It is the best time to visit Japan to mesmerize its unique beauty.
If you are coming to Japan during this best time, remember to reserve your room early. During this period, accommodation in Kyoto gets booked extremely fast. Check out our travel guide if you are looking for some ideas about the best accommodation in Kyoto.
Kyoto Hotel Tips: When looking for the best price and biggest selection of hotels in Kyoto check prices for Kyoto Best Hotel from Booking.com. We found they are the best option and have a great cancelation policy.
How To Get To Kyoto & Getting Around
Similar to traveling to other cities in Japan, getting to Kyoto is relatively simple once you arrived in Japan. The nearest airport is Kansai Airport where you can directly go to Kyoto by train or limousine bus. The Haruka Limited Express is the faster and most convenient if you opted for getting to Kyoto by train from Kansai Airport.
Moreover, it is also doable to get to Kyoto from Osaka, one of the nearby metropolitan cities. From Osaka to Kyoto, there are 4 different train lines running this popular route. The best route depends on where you traveling from Osaka and the next visited area in Kyoto.
While from Tokyo to Kyoto, the shinkansen is only about 160-minute for the bullet train ride. For a round journey trip, remember to get the Japan Rail Pass which greatly save on transportation fee.
Getting Around: Bus or Local Trains?
Once you are getting to Kyoto, it is possible to travel around by public bus or local train. In fact, the bus is the cheapest and most convenient transportation. But some of the attractions such as Arashiyama are best to get there by train.
Getting around Kyoto by bus is very cheap and convenient. A single journey of bus fare only costs 220 yen. However, it can be very crowded, especially during peak hours. Sometimes, I try to minimize the frequency of taking the bus in Kyoto unless necessary. Instead, I prefer to visit Kyoto on foot where you can enjoy the best scenery by just walking.
While the local subway train is another option for getting around in the city. However, not all the major attractions are directly accessible by train. So you might need to take the subway to the nearest station and then walk. Compare with a bus, getting around by train is a better option. The train is more frequent and carries more passengers at one time. You will know the best part of taking a train at the time you’re taking a bus in Kyoto.
Where To Stay in Kyoto
Where you stay decide how’s your trip to Kyoto. After so many times visiting Japan, I personally feel that it is very important for you to choose the best places to stay especially visiting Kyoto. There are too many great hotels and unique ryokan for you to explore the “only in Japan” accommodation experience.
However, due to budget concerns and most people don’t want to change hotels every day. So, choosing the best accommodation and where to stay in Kyoto is important when planning the best Kyoto itinerary. Looking at these major concerns, I’ve narrowed down the best area to base yourself on when visiting Kyoto. Most importantly, the best hotel in Kyoto at a different budget range and comfort level.
To avoid confusion, we have listed down our top three areas for where to stay in Kyoto, which is nearby Kyoto station, downtown Kawaramachi and the Gion area.
Where To Stay in Kyoto (The best areas and why):
Kyoto station is the transportation hub and best base when visiting Kyoto. Stay nearby Kyoto station for easy getting around.
Downtown Kawaramachi is the best area to stay in Kyoto. It located nearby to the major attractions in Higashiyama District yet still accessible by transportation by local trains.
Gion in Higashiyama District is best for those who love to experience the traditional Japanese atmosphere. Stay in ryokan if you want to stay in Gion.
Arashiyama is a great place to stay in Kyoto for nature lovers.
I personally like staying on the Downtown Kawaramachi if you’re visiting Kyoto for the first time, as there is a lot going on here. If you’re unsure where to stay or planning for a day trip to other attractions like Uji and Nara, then stick to Kyoto station. Don’t underestimate the popularity of Kyoto. A popular hotel can be finished booking by travelers once it opens for reserve.
Continue to read on as we have listed down the reason in more detail. Added, include with best hotel recommendation in Kyoto for you.
No doubt, staying near the Kyoto station is the best option when looking for where to stay in Kyoto. It is a transportation hub well connected with buses, trains, and even shinkansen. If you are getting to Kyoto from Tokyo or Kansai Airport, Kyoto station normally is your first stop point in Kyoto. Once you have done check-in, you can directly proceed for sightseeing in Kyoto or a day trip to Nara and Uji. No worry about finding what to eat in Kyoto station. It is a great place with plenty of good restaurants and shops inside the Kyoto station.
However, Kyoto station is not nearby with a famous tourist spot in Kyoto. In fact, staying nearby Kyoto station also mean that you need to travel by transportation to most of the attraction in Kyoto either by bus, subway or train. What I normally did is spending my whole day exploring Kyoto and only back to the hotel at night. So it is important to pick a comfortable hotel near Kyoto station within 5 to 10 minutes of walking distance after a tiring trip.
Where To Stay in Kyoto (Near Kyoto Station):
Mid to Luxury Hotel: Daiwa Royal Hotel Grande Kyoto, Miyako Hotel Kyoto Hachijo
Budget Hostel: Pieces Hostel Kyoto
Best Hotel Stay near Kyoto Station
Miyako Hotel Kyoto Hachijo
Mid to luxury range hotel nearby Kyoto station:
Daiwa Royal Hotel Grande Kyoto is located a 5-minute walk from Kyoto station. It is a 4-star reputation Japanese chain hotel with Japanese standards. Clean with great-sized room for solo, couple, and family. 24 hours service desk and professional staff.
Miyako Hotel Kyoto Hachijo is another great option if you are looking for where to stay nearby Kyoto station. It is amazingly located right next to Kyoto station with great value for the price. Great for tourists looking to take the train to Osaka, Nara, and other places outside Kyoto.
Best budget hotel near Kyoto station:
Pieces Hostel Kyoto is your best budget hotel in Kyoto. It is a great option with a beautiful design hostel with a clean room at a reasonable price. Strategically located with less than 5 minutes walk from Kyoto station. Free breakfast includes Japanese and western food available.
Downtown Kawaramachi Kyoto is conveniently located in the middle of Kyoto city. It is the best place to stay in Kyoto with a modern lifestyle yet accessible to major attractions in Kyoto. There are many good hotels in downtown Kyoto with plenty of shops, restaurants, and food markets.
Most importantly several subway stations are located downtown, such as Sanjo Station (Keihan Line), Gion Shijo Station (Keihan Line), and also Kawaramachi Station (Hankyu Line). Staying at downtown Kyoto is not only a nearby famous attraction but also convenient for transportation arrangements to Osaka or Arashiyama.
Alternatively, you may also plan your Kyoto itinerary by traveling around on foot. The major attraction in Higashiyama District and Gion are within 5 to 15 minutes of walking distance.
Where To Stay in Kyoto (Downtown Kawaramachi):
Mid to Luxury Hotel: The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Sanjo, Hotel Resol Kyoto Kawaramachi Sanjo
Mid Range Traditional Ryokan: Kyomachiya Ryokan Sakura Urushitei
Budget Hostel: Hotel M’s Plus Shijo Omiya, Pieces Hostel Sanjo
Best Hotel in Downtown Kawaramachi
Hotel Resol Kyoto Kawaramachi Sanjo
Mid to luxury range hotel in downtown Kyoto:
The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Sanjo is a modern and cozy place to stay in Kyoto downtown. Although the rooms are relatively small just like the normal Japanese standard. But it is very comfortable and clean. The location is a superb strategy which is located nearby Kyoto Shiyakusho-mae Subway Station and Sanjo Keihan Station. Both stations are within a 3-minute walk away. Added, Ponto-cho, Gion, and plenty of eateries and shops are easy to access on foot.
Hotel Resol Kyoto Kawaramachi Sanjo is another popular pick in Kyoto. You will fall in love with this cozy hotel once you walked in. The environment is so tranquil and serene with various styled rooms available. Most importantly, this beautiful historic hotel is offering rooms at a reasonable price.
Kyomachiya Ryokan Sakura Urushitei is slightly away with a 10-minute walk from the lively Kawaramachi area. It is a Japanese-style accommodation with modern facilities and traditional design. You will fall in love with your ryokan stay in Kyoto here.
Best budget hotel in downtown Kyoto:
Hotel M’s Plus Shijo Omiya is located within a 5-minute walk from Omiya Station and Shijo-Omiya Station. It is a 3-star hotel and provides a clean and practical room in your Kyoto itinerary. A simple yet delicious breakfast is included for your stay.
Meanwhile, Pieces Hostel Sanjo is your best hostel stay in the Kyoto downtown area. Similar to its sister hostel near Kyoto station, it is a great budget hotel that offers excellent value for your money. Extremely popular. Remember to book early to secure your stay.
Higashiyama can be separated into the southern and northern areas. While the Southern Higashiyama has the most important sightseeing attraction in Kyoto. Kiyomizudera and Gion are located right in the middle.
Gion is renowned as Geisha District in Japan where you may spot a Geisha passing by. Its great traditional Japanese atmosphere is the perfect place for you to soak in Japanese culture. There has a good variety of ryokans and traditional guest homes in the Gion area. I highly recommended you choose those unique Japanese homestays if want to stay in Gion. Else, you can opt for the best hotel downtown suggested above which is located nearby Gion.
Where To Stay in Kyoto (Gion):
Luxury High-end Ryokan: Gion Hatanaka
Mid Range Traditional Ryokan: Kyoto Granbell Hotel
Best Hotel To Stay in Gion
Gion Hatanaka | Booking.com
Best hotel and ryokan stay in Gion:
Kyoto Granbell Hotel is your best accommodation in Kyoto. It features modern architecture yet with traditional Japanese design. Located at a great location among all the attractions in Gion and close to the Gion-Shijo Subway Station with a 3-minute walk. Additionally, a public bath is available for hotel guests.
Gion Hatanaka is a luxury high-end Ryokan located a short distance away from the historic Gion district. All the historical important top sightseeing attractions are located within walking distance. It is a truly amazing and authentic Japanese ryokan stay in Kyoto. Enjoy your hot spring onsen experience in a spacious public bath overlooking a Zen garden. The price is slightly higher but worth it. Added, your stay is included with breakfast and kaiseki multi-course dinner.
Arashiyama is located slightly far away from Kyoto’s downtown. It is one of the popular attractions when visiting Kyoto. In fact, Arashiyama is not a popular place to stay when visiting Kyoto. However, it is a good option if you would like to stay close to nature. It is good for one night to stay in the finest ryokan in Arashiyama for nature lovers.
Rangetsu, Suiran Hotel, and Arashiyama Benkei are the best finest ryokan in Arashiyama. All are perfect traditional ryokan that made you feel like your own Japanese home with onsen facilities. A great place for your perfect stay in Arashiyama who wants to be based here. Friendly reminder that limited rooms are available for ryokan. Reserve your room as earlier as possible to avoid disappointment.
Kyoto Accommodation Tips
For those who travel to Kyoto and even Japan, it is important to know some of the basic accommodations. There are a few important guides that you should know when looking for where to stay in Kyoto.
Kyoto Accommodation Tips:
Kyoto travel peak season is Japan’s golden week, cherry blossom, and fall foliage season.
Rooms can be easily fully booked during peak season.
Hotel rates will vary depending on the season.
Know your room type when booking your hotel.
Kyoto Travel Peak Season
Generally, the hotel rate will be separated into low, normal, peak, and super peak season. Normally, the weekend rate will be slightly higher than the weekday. So, don’t get surprised that the Kyoto hotel rates will be increasing during the peak season.
The peak and super peak seasons are during the Japan golden week, cherry blossom at the end of March to April, and fall foliage season at the end of November to December. Expected the hotel rate will increase double or triple compared with the normal rate. But believe me, your visit to Kyoto during this period will be worth it.
However, one of the biggest challenges in visiting Kyoto during the sakura season is finding the best hotel stay in Kyoto. More than half of the rooms were already booked during January to secure their room in April. My sincere advice for those planning to visit Kyoto during peak season. Popular Kyoto hotels with cheaper prices normally is running fast. For budget travel, please book your room as soon as your travel date is confirmed. You might still be able to get your best stay in Kyoto at a slightly cheaper price.
One of my visits to Kyoto is during cherry blossom in early April. I booked my room 6 months in advance once my flight ticket was purchased. Although it might be crowded with lots of tourists everywhere. But my Kyoto trip with sakura blossom is amazingly fantastic. You really can’t imagine how Japanese people love the sakura. The whole nation even the air is in a pink vibe. One of the unforgettable trips that last forever.
Check your available room in Kyoto during March, April, and November on Agoda.com and Booking.com.
Kyoto Room Type
Last but not least, it is important to know your room type when visiting Kyoto or even Japan. By Japanese standards, don’t be surprised that the size of the room is smaller than what you stay normally.
Generally, there are offering a single room for one person, double or twin room for two-person. So Japan is very suitable for solo travelers or couples. Some hotels will offer a triple room and family room up for 4 people to stay. You may notice that there is a semi-double room that caters to two-person. A semi-double room can stay up to two-person but it is smaller compared to a standard double room. It is like a super single bed but staying for two. So, if you prefer a bigger bed, please stay in a double or twice a room with a bigger space.
Take note that Japan is very strict about the number of people who stay in the room. Extra bed is not available due to the limited space. So make sure to double-check if you are bringing kids to stay with you.
Final Tips on Where To Stay in Kyoto
Where should I stay in Kyoto for the first time?
We recommended staying nearby Kyoto station for first-time travelers. Staying nearby Kyoto station will help you to save a lot of energy and time for easy getting around.
What is the best area to stay in Kyoto?
With all factors and things considered, Downtown Kawaramachi is the best area to stay in Kyoto for first-time visitor. Downtown Kawaramachi offers plenty of shops and restaurants and is within walking distance of historical Gion.
In my opinion, Osaka is a better option if you are limited in time. The accommodation price is also cheaper in Osaka compared with Kyoto.
Should I stay in a ryokan in Kyoto?
I always recommended people spend at least one night in ryokan whenever visiting Kyoto and even Japan. It is the best way to experience the traditional atmosphere in Japan.
Overview: Kyoto Best Hotel
Lastly, I hope this handy Kyoto hotel guide helps you choose and decide the best hotel and where to stay in Kyoto! Remember: Kyoto is a popular and famous attraction. Make sure to book your accommodations ahead of time. Get ready for the Kyoto holiday!
If you have any questions about your trip to Kyoto, get in touch, and I’ll do my best to help you out. Happy travels to Kyoto!
