The Best Hostels to Book in Kyoto
![The Kiyomizu-dera Buddhist temple shouldnt be missed on any visit to Kyoto](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/20x11/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/d45k77.webp)
With its meandering river lined in cherry blossom trees, its serene tearooms and atmospheric temples, Kyoto is a must-visit on any trip to Japan. And with so much to see, you’ll want to save your cash for exploring, so book into a cheap hostel in Kyoto to maximise the fun – they’re bookable on Culture Trip. Kyoto has some brilliant picks, from traditional ryokans to slick, contemporary digs. You’ll have somewhere comfortable to crash, and plenty of yen left over for enjoying sublime sushi bars, buzzing markets and treasure-packed museums.
K’s House Kyoto
Hostel
![K’s House Kyoto with terrace overlooking the city on a sunny day](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/37_80.webp)
The location here is first-rate, a short hop from well-connected Kyoto Station and less than half an hour’s walk from the landmark Kiyomizu-dera temple. Travellers are also drawn to K’s House Kyoto by its mix of traditional Japanese features – such as tatami mat rooms – and Western-style facilities such as raised beds. Choose dorm rooms if you’re on a particularly tight budget or travelling as a group, or opt for a double or twin room if it’s just the two of you.
Gion Ryokan Q-beh
Hostel, Ryokan
![Q Beh Ryokan lounge area with mats and table](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/q-beh.webp)
The historic Gion district, with its rows of old wooden machiya houses, isn’t just picturesque – it’s the home of the Kyoto geisha, and this ryokan puts you right at the heart of it. Sleep in a traditional tatami mat-lined room, overlooking a tranquil garden, or save your yen and check in to a mixed dorm with bunk beds; each one comes with a pull-across curtain for added privacy.
The Millennials Kyoto
Budget Hotel
![The capsule rooms at The Millennials with guests getting ready to sleep](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/6_80-3.webp)
After a really contemporary stay in Kyoto? Try this modern capsule hotel, where sleeping pods built for one come with wide, reclining beds that turn into sofas; a projector for watching films; and automatic lights that double as wake-up alarms. There’s 24-hour coffee on tap, while a daily happy hour sees complimentary draft beer flowing. There are slick modern spaces with an industrial chic vibe for socialising or having meetings, while historic Gion is just across the river.
Kyoto Morris Hostel
Hostel
![kyoto morris hostel private room with sofa, minimal decor and pattern carpet](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/morris.webp)
The Imperial Palace is right on your doorstep when you book into this modern hostel, set in a funky art deco-style building. Hire bikes allow you to explore under your own steam; free DIY laundry machines mean you can pack light; and a kitchen gives you the chance to whip up your own meals and save even more cash. There’s a free all-you-can-eat breakfast, too, so you can fortify yourself for exploring all that Kyoto has to offer. Polished wooden bunk beds come with pull-across curtains, so you can enjoy some privacy.
Piece Hostel Sanjo East
Hostel
![Piece Hostel Sanjo terrace with tree, tables and fairy lights at dusk](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/screenshot-2021-10-14-at-09-23-28.webp)
The sun-drenched private garden – a rarity in Kyoto – is one of the highlights of a stay at Piece Hostel Sanjo East. Sip a morning coffee while planning your sightseeing for the day, or sink an evening beer while chatting with other travellers at this sleek, contemporary hostel, just north of Nishiki Market. There are budget bunk bed rooms, or you can also hire a double or triple with its own private bathroom – just the thing for small families or honeymooning couples.
This is an updated version of an article by Brooke Larsen.
Looking for somewhere different to stay? Book into one of the coolest holiday apartments in Kyoto.