Kyoto is the cultural and historical capital of Japan. There are more than 2,000 temples and shrines in a city of under 1.5 million people – some of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites. The Gold Pavilion at the Kinkakuji temple is one of the most beautiful temples in Japan, if not the most.
By day, wandering through the Gion District will have you coming face to face with geishas (if you’re lucky), while by night it is home to some of the best street food and nightlife in Japan!
To sample Kyoto’s finest food, don’t miss out on the vibrant Nishishi Market.
Of course, there is a downside – it can be quite expensive. But one way to keep those costs down is to check out a vacation rental in Kyoto such as those found on Airbnb.
Not only does an Airbnb save you money, but it will enable you to stay somewhere with plenty of character and charm, as many of the best Airbnbs are traditional machiya houses. Staying in an Airbnb is a great way to see a more traditional side of Japan.
But how can you find the perfect Kyoto Airbnb for you? Well, that’s where I come in.
I’ve put together a list of the 15 best Airbnbs in Kyoto so that you don’t have to spend hours trawling through the website. I’ve thought about different travel styles, personalities, but most importantly – budgets!
So, when you’re ready, let’s check them out…
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Quick Answer: These are the Top 5 Airbnbs in Kyoto
Private Japanese-Style Room
- > $
- > 1 Guest
- > Shimogyo District
- > Modern and traditional Japanese style
Room in traditional house
- > $
- > 1 Guests
- > Peaceful garden
- > Budget-friendly
Moonlight TabiTabi Stay
- > $$$$
- > 5 Guests
- > Bathtub with courtyard view
- > Japanese Garden
Kyoto Machiya
- > $$$
- > 4 Guests
- > Traditional Townhouse
- > Garden
Private Tatami Room, Nijo Castle
- > $$
- > 2 Guests
- > Laptop-friendly workspace
- > Free washing and drying
The Top 15 Airbnbs in Kyoto
I’ve had you waiting long enough! Get ready, here are our absolute favorite Airbnbs in Kyoto. From low budget to high-end luxury and family-friendly, there’ll be the right one for you!
Make sure you know which area you want to stay in before you look for accommodation. Our tip: come up with a rough Kyoto itinerary and choose your accommodation close to the hotspots!
Private Japanese-Style Room | Overall Best Value Airbnb in Kyoto
Let’s begin our list of the best Airbnbs in Kyoto with this traditional Machiya house, where you will get to stay in an authentic tatami style room. Not only does it give you a window into real Japanese life, but it’s one of the best options in terms of budget, location, and style! You’ll be staying in a private room in a shared house with other guests, so it’s a great option for solo travelers looking to meet people and make some friends, whilst also conserving their budget. It’s also within walking distance of many popular attractions including Nishiki Market and the Gion area.
Room in traditional house | Best Budget Airbnb in Kyoto
Listen up budget backpackers, if you’re looking for a place to stay that doesn’t break the bank, this traditional Japanese guest house is perfect for you. This guesthouse is made of natural materials such as paper, mud and wood allowing you to experience authentic Japanese culture.
You’ll be staying in a simple room with a bed and a small desk. You will also have access to the shared kitchen and dining area, the perfect place to meet some fellow travellers. If you’re searching for a peaceful place to relax whilst keeping the budget happy, check out this Budget Airbnb.
Moonlight TabiTabi Stay | Over the Top Luxury Airbnb in Kyoto
Have you ever wanted to soak in a bath with a view of a Japanese zen garden? Of course you have! And all your wishes will come true at this incredible Kyoto Airbnb!
It may be a traditional Machiya house, but the attention to detail and care put into this particular one make it one of the best luxury experiences in town. There are modern touches too like those in the fully equipped kitchen and bathroom – which boast the most up-to-date appliances!
Kyoto Machiya | Perfect Kyoto Airbnb for Solo Travellers
This is a traditional Machiya (traditional wooden townhouse) capable of housing up to four guests in the cultural area of Gion. Here, you just need to step outside to find fascinating sights and traditional Japanese culture. The home has two Japanese-style rooms for sleeping, meaning floor mattresses, and room for any travel buddies you might make.
The modern rooms in this Machiya are lighter and airier than your traditional Machiya with added skylights and fewer walls than the original build. Visit Kyoto and have an authentic stay with all the modern amenities without the modern hotel experience, host your own traditional Japanese tea ceremony err’yday.
Private Tatami Room, Nijo Castle | Perfect Short Term Airbnb in Kyoto for Digital Nomads
Travelling with your laptop? If that’s the case then you’ll have a little bit more flexibility in your budget. So, why not check out this cool Kyoto Airbnb, which is near one of the coolest attractions in town – Nijo Castle.
Of course, there’s a laptop-friendly workspace and Wi-Fi included. Even better, if you’ve been travelling long term and you need to get your clothes fresh, there’s a washer and dryer on-site, which you’re welcome to use at no extra cost!
There’s also a common area – so if you want to meet fellow travellers and have a chat – go for it!
More Epic Airbnbs in Kyoto
Here are a few more of my favorite Airbnbs in Kyoto!
River Studio in Peaceful Location | Best Airbnb in Kyoto for Nightlife
Heading to Kyoto for the nightlife? Best make Gion your base if that’s the case. During the day, you’ll be able to spot geishas, while in the evening this place becomes one of the hippest spots in the whole of Japan!
This Airbnb is the perfect spot to cure your hangover. You can chill on your private balcony and watch the ducks float on the river. You’re close to all nightlife options but far enough to enjoy a peaceful night. Gion shijo station is within walking distance so you have easy access to other parts of the city.
Townhouse in Kiyomizu | Best Short Term Rental for Couples
A slightly more expensive option, but it’s worth spending a little more on your Kyoto Airbnb if you’re having a romantic break with your other half, right?!
This traditional entire townhouse is perfect if you’re planning on visiting Gion and many of the most important temples and shrines in Kyoto, such as the Golden Pavilion at Kinkakuji Temple.
There’s even a small rock garden where you can sit and contemplate before heading inside to sleep on those comfy floor mattresses. This traditional wooden house is the perfect place to get a taste of old Japan!
Dog Cafe Private Room | Best Homestay in Kyoto
When travelling to a new city, one of the best ways to keep your costs down while still making the most of your holiday is staying with a local. And where better to do that than the best homestay in Kyoto?! The friendly host family and their dogs are accustomed to welcoming international travellers and know how to show them a good time and excellent hospitality.
Vintage Japanese Annex with books | Runner Up Homestay in Kyoto
A great thing about homestays in Kyoto is that you can get to know a traditional Machiya house like this one without renting the whole house. If you rented a whole one, it’d cost you a lot of money but this is a great way to experience the real Japan without breaking the bank!
It’s in the style of an authentic tearoom with three tatami mats, while there are plenty of books too. One of the big pluses of this vintage Kyoto Airbnb is that there’s a complimentary breakfast – ideal to fuel up before a day of sightseeing!
Unique 130 year old Kyomachiya | Amazing Luxury Airbnb in Kyoto
Yes, I know Kyoto is expensive, and I’ve shown you quite a few places that will help you keep your costs down. At least until now! This luxury Kyoto Airbnb shows you exactly how good a place you can get if you’re happy to splash out a little more. An insight into authentic culture, you’ve got a Japanese style tatami tea room, plants throughout, but the piece de resistance is undoubtedly an open-air bath!
Cottage Built in 1938 | Best Airbnb in Kyoto for Families
Staying somewhere with the family? You’ll need somewhere that will have enough space for everyone to spend time together then! You have a few options – a lovely dining table, a living room, and a cute garden are just some of the lovely communal areas in this 1900s Kyoto cottage.
When you want to head into town, there are two bicycles as well – at least saving you a bit on renting for the whole family! This Kyoto Airbnb is a great shout if you’re planning a longer-term stay in town – stays of more than one week get discounts!
Luxury Hut W/ Outdoor Bath | Best Airbnb in Kyoto for a Group of Friends
Groups of friends travelling together, like families, need to have somewhere to relax and spend time together. There are few Airbnbs in Kyoto better suited to that than this place.
There are large tatami mat living spaces, but if you are really comfortable around each other, why not check out the private open-air bath?! It might be a bit of a squeeze getting all six of you in there mind! You can always take it in turns, while everyone else checks out the beautiful traditional rock garden!
Kyoto Kawaramachi | Best Airbnb in Downtown Kyoto
Downtown Kyoto is one of the best areas to stay as it’s near to lots of the city’s tourist attractions. There are so many great places to visit in Kyoto, including the Kyoto railway museum, and the museum district, and it’s very easy to get around.
This is an ideal accommodation in Kyoto for families or groups of friends, this quirky two-bedroom house can accommodate up to five people. The major bonus of staying here is its proximity to downtown Kyoto Nishiki market, which is the ideal spot for shopping, street food, and awesome nightlife. The highlight of this house is the Japanese Hinoki Bath that overlooks the beautiful garden and courtyard.
Spacious Loft near Kyoto Station | Another Great Apartment in Downtown Kyoto
Okay, this is definitely the last Downtown Kyoto Airbnb I’m going to show you! The spacious loft is another great option for a small group of friends or family, and it’s not as expensive as you might expect it to be!
The free portable Wi-Fi is another excellent value for money idea – just think how much data you’ll save when looking for places to go and things to do when you’re out and about! Easily one of the most stylish apartments in Kyoto!
Condo Near Kyoto Station | Top Value Airbnb in Southern Higashiyama
This new condo (which is actually a whole house) is one of the top value Airbnbs in Kyoto. Located close to Kyoto Station, you’ll be able to get around the city with no problem. The best thing about this home is the incredibly affordable rate. If you bring your friends and split the bill, it might even turn out as one of the cheapest and best Airbnbs in the city. It’s also fully equipped and you even get toiletries for free.
Don’t Forget Your Kyoto Travel Insurance
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Kyoto Airbnbs
So, there you go. That’s all from my list of the best Kyoto Airbnbs. I’m sure you’ll agree there are plenty of cool places to choose from, and I hope you found the perfect place to stay according to your travel style and budget.
Remember, I saw a romantic townhouse for two in Kiyomizu, a number of huts with outdoor baths, and some more simple places for the traveller on a shoestring. I just hope you’re not overwhelmed by how many choices I’ve given you!
If that’s the case, just relax for a moment. Then, head right back up to the top of my post and pick my favourite Airbnb in Kyoto. The Tatami Style Room by Kyoto station is the perfect combination of good value for money, style, and it’s right by the station. So it’s good for day trips as well as exploring the city!
Now that you’ve finished my list, there’s just one thing for me left to do. I’d like to wish you an awesome vacation in Kyoto, and safe travels in Japan!
One more tip: if you end up booking a hotel for a night or two during your trip, check HotelTonight before you book. It’s owned by Airbnb, and every booking earns you 10% of the base rate back as Airbnb credit (for US/UK users). So a hotel night can actually earn you credit toward your next Airbnb stay. We tested it against Booking.com and it came out cheaper more often than not, especially when counting the credit.
- Check out our Backpacking Japan guide for in-depth info for your trip.
- Use our Where to Stay in Kyoto guide to plan your adventure.
- Backpackers and frugal travellers can use our budget travel guide.
- Make sure you visit the most beautiful places in Japan too.
- That will of course include many of the stunning National Parks of Japan.
