Kyoto, the word itself unconsciously (but not involuntarily) invokes images of waking up to sunrises in ryokans and soaking in private onsens whilst it’s subzero degrees outside. Many people believe that living this lifestyle is part and parcel with ‘truly’ experiencing Kyoto, but this is definitely not the case – in fact, it’s so far from it that some might actually look the opposite direction for their Kyoto experience.
Don’t get us wrong – ryokans are incredibly captivating, and we’d probably stay in them all the time whilst we travelled all across Japan if we could – but the price to pay can be a bit expensive on an average day, and during peak period, it absolutely skyrockets.
It may be that you’re saving your ryokan accommodation stay for another area and can’t afford to stay in two, or you’re traversing across Japan on a budget, either way, we can help you here. We’re covering the top 7 budget accommodation options in Kyoto, so read on and see where you can save!
1. Glansit Kyoto Kawaramachi
This stunning capsule hostel is even more impressive in real life (as many guests can attest). Super modern and sleek, with predominantly black interiors highlighting the timeless timber wood features, you’ll be ooh-ing and ahh-ing your way through. Location is excellent, being just a short walk to one of the busiest hubs in Kyoto, and yet you’ll find the silencing walls, lush mattresses and amenities super inviting and comfortable after a full day out.
All capsules are equipped with a flat-screen TV, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi, and you also get free toiletries! The bathrooms are shared, there are lockers to store your personal belongings, and there are plenty of areas inside and outside where you can relax before hitting the sheets. Word on the streets is that this place is an absolute gem for couples!
What People Love It: “Everything!!! It was better than I expected. Would book again if I were to visit Kyoto. I would recommend if you are traveling alone or with a friend.”, “Awesome location, clean and new facility, staff were extremely friendly and helpful. I will come back again!”, “I loved this place!!! I loved it so much that I rebooked it. It has everything you would need, it is very clean and comfortable! It says that it is 2km from the city but it is right next to Gion.”
Book It Now: Glansit Kyoto Kawaramachi
2. Grand Japaning Hotel MELDIA Nijojo
If you’re just after a basic and clean room to stay in that’s affordable, conveniently located, modern, with charging chords in rooms, private bathrooms, free laundry, with the station only minutes away – look no further. Grand Japaning Hotel is right in the heart of Kyoto, and is one of the top picks for guests staying on a budget in the area. Its charm is that you feel the old-town vibes even whilst exploring the city streets, and the food options surrounding it is just, simply put, amazing.
Whilst the rooms are quite small, they will have all the amenities you’ll need for your trip, and did we mention how luscious the beds are? They’re actually next level. A defining feature of staying at this place is that they will offer you a free smartphone to allow you to make calls, use the internet, and seek information about the area. How convenient is that?
Why Guests Love It: “Super modern, the free phone for tourist use was an excellent touch.”, “New, clean rooms with universal charging chords in room. Great if you just need a basic room with own bathroom at a low cost.”, “Nice modern rooms and were of a good size. Spotlessly clean throughout. Free onsite laundry room. Beds were comfortable and the nearest train station is Nijo.”
Book It Now: Grand Japaning Hotel MELDIA Nijo
3. Kyoto Morris
This one’s for the youth! Touted as one of the best hostels for the traveling young ones, you’ll find the crowd here fun, relaxed, and welcoming. There are cosy bunk beds to look forward to, and a massive selection at the buffet breakfast to gorge on before heading out for a big day.
You’re also allowed to do laundry for FREE here (what a bonus!), and the communal kitchen is expansive and well-equipped so you can try and save even more by staying in and cooking or eating back at home. For those who enjoy having a drink on hand whilst winding down for the day, the on-site bar is exactly what you’re looking for.
Why Guests Love It: “Great location, and super comfortable rooms! Really spacious and quiet. Loved being able to control the temperature. The bathrooms were clean and well-maintained.”, “Fantastic hostel, I will definitely stay here again. Great location, quiet and lovely neighbourhood, but very centrally located, short walking distance from great restaurants and shops. Breakfast is very good and excellent value for money, I would definitely recommend it”.
Book It Now: Kyoto Morris Hostel
4. WeBase Kyoto
Welcoming, clean, modern, well-equipped, spacious – all words used by happy customers to describe this wonderful hostel located conveniently amongst various amenities in Kyoto. The moment you enter this accommodation you’ll just want to breath a sigh of relief – it offers a respite unlike any other.
Whilst many places will claim that their beds are their number one features, at WeBase, you’d kind of want to spend all your time in the bathroom – not weird at all. Spacious, stocked with all the amenities you can dream of, and even equipped with a common area to relax and chill out after you’ve spent some time cleaning up.
If common areas are your thing, then this is your place. The lounge area is huge, with plenty of space to host various groups and staff to assist you with anything you may need.
Why People Love It: “Amazingly clean, and the bathroom was heaven. Female bathroom was spacious with a common space, individual stations stocked with sink, hair dryer, cotton buds, and large mirrors everywhere. Very well lit. Beds were very private, comfy, and safes in each cubicle! I love it!”, “This is my second extended trip to Japan, and this is the best hostel I have ever stayed at, by far. Everything is awesome, especially the staff!”, “Where do I start? I liked everything about my stay! It’s a cozy, stylish, and clean hostel in a good location – close to a station and several bus stops.”
Book It Now: WeBase Kyoto
5. Imano Kyoto Kiyomizu Hostel
Located within the Higashiyama Ward, this hostel is probably as close to a traditional Japanese inn as you can get with budget lodging. Its clean exterior gives way to a classic, clean, wooden-style furnishings.
You can feel the Zen in the air throughout the place, from the comfortable bedding arrangements through to the spacious common areas with massive glass windows looking out. If you opt for the Japanese style-rooms, you can even experience sleeping on a futon – a great way to spend the night, we can vouch for it!
Located close to popular sites such as the Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Sanjusangen-do Temple, and Shoren-in Temple, you could say that this is the place is you’re interested in traditional exploration and cultural experiences.
Why People Love It: “The location was convenient, it’s close to the bus lines and a short walk from the Zenkojido (so you can visit at night). It was an excellent price, so I’d stay here if I were on a tight budget.”, “Super convenient, very nice staff, the whole hostel is well-equipped.”, “Common room space on B1 is so good, I just found out about it at our last night. The foot massage is also really great. The café below looks nice and lots of activities.”
Book It Now: Imano Kyoto Kiyomizu Hostel
6. Piece Hostel Kyoto
First thing’s first – the rustic vibes of this place is out of this world. Timber furnishing throughout with dark tones and minimalistic styling, it’ll leave you wondering how on earth you’re spending such a small price for this high standard of living.
The common areas of this place are simultaneously inviting to for groups and a solace for individuals, with plenty of seating areas and space to do your own thing. There’s even a rooftop chill area for those early mornings to sip on coffee and contemplate the rest of your day!
In terms of convenience, Piece Hostel Kyoto may be the best one yet – just 5-minutes from JR Kyoto Station! There’s a plethora of information provided by the staff members to assist with your stay and getting around, and there’s a fully equipped kitchen, library with international books and guidebooks, and a computer area which you can access for free.
All private rooms are fitted with a flat-screen TV, and dorm room bed spaces come with a luggage space and security locker. This area is great for those wanting to visit temples, sightseeing, and history buffs.
Why People Love It: “The room and the staffs are super great. The place is also very easy to find.”, “Everything! I loved the facilities, the location, and the accommodating staffs.”, “Everything else was awesome! The staff was so nice and helpful about how to get around and what to see and do. I also was able to rent a bike on one of my days which made it a cool, easy way to see the town! The station is a 5-min walk away as well. Was easily able to hop on a HR to go on multiple day trips to Nara and Hiroshima.”, “Right off the main line Kyoto stop. The kitchen area is excellent. Has a great map of areas to go to.”
Book It Now: Piece Hostel Kyoto
7. Grids Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi
As one of the most highly rated hostels in Kyoto, you have to wonder, what’s so different about the Grids Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi? Well, let’s just say its location (right next to Nishiki Market!) has got a lot to do with it.
Plus, the fact that it’s a great area for those into city walks, food, and old-town exploration, has an onsite bar for unwinding after long days, offers continental breakfast, has an on-site restaurant, and offers round-the-clock staff to service you as needed, and you’ve got yourself a real winner here.
Unlike many of the above hostels, there is nothing particularly flashy about this place, however, that’s just part and parcel with its charm. It’s an accommodation that you know will live up to its name and your standards. It’s clean, well-kept, spacious, offers pretty much everything you need for a comfortable stay in Kyoto, and is amazingly priced. It’s the package deal!
Why Guests Love It: “Very good location, right next to the Nishiki Market. Very friendly staff. Facilities are good and everywhere is so clean, I will come back to stay here again.”, “The property is very near from Kyoto heart, Kawaramachi. The staff are great and very friendly, they also play one ok rock in the common room. Breakfast was nice too. Also, if you have nothing to do but not sleepy yet, hang around in the common room and read some manga, def a great decision :D.”
Book It Now: Grids Kyoto Shiko Kawaramachi Hotel & Hostel
With all the variety provided above, however will you choose where to stay? It’s easier said than done to make a decision, because all of these budget accommodations are so well-priced, that it’s probably going to come right down to personal preference (but if we’re being honest, we prefer all of them).
With Kyoto being such a star hub for visitors from around the world, we highly recommend that you make an booking as soon as you can, because whilst they’re all very accommodating to all travellers, they’re not gigantic hotels, and space is limited.