JapanTravel Tips

Hotel and Lodging Options around Kyoto’s Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

1. What is the most popular hotel near Kinkaku-ji?


The most popular hotel near Kinkaku-ji is The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto.

2. Is there any luxury accommodation available near Kinkaku-ji?


Yes, there are several luxury accommodation options available near Kinkaku-ji. Some of the top ones include:

1. Arashiyama Benkei: This luxury ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) offers stunning views of the Katsuragawa River and a traditional Japanese experience with its elegant rooms and onsen (hot spring) facilities.

2. Suiran, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Kyoto: Located within walking distance from Kinkaku-ji, this hotel combines traditional Japanese architecture with modern luxury amenities.

3. The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto: Set in a 19th-century traditional sukiya-style building, this upscale hotel boasts luxurious rooms, multiple dining options, and a spa.

4. Hyatt Regency Kyoto: Offering a blend of Western and Japanese design elements, this luxury hotel features spacious rooms and suites, a spa, and several dining options.

5. Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto: Situated in a historic district near Kinkaku-ji, this sophisticated hotel offers elegantly designed rooms and suites, an on-site spa and multiple dining options.

It is recommended to book well in advance as these properties tend to fill up quickly during peak travel seasons.

3. Are there any budget-friendly lodging options near Kinkaku-ji?

There are a few budget-friendly lodging options near Kinkaku-ji, including guesthouses and hostels. Some options include Shiaen Guesthouse Kyoto, Gojo Guesthouse, Backpackers Hostel K’s House Kyoto, and Kyoto Backpacker Hostel. Airbnb rentals and homestays may also offer more affordable accommodations in the area.

4. Can I find traditional Japanese-style accommodations near Kinkaku-ji?

Yes, there are several traditional Japanese-style accommodations near Kinkaku-ji. Some options include:

1. Rikyuan Ryokan: This ryokan is located just 5 minutes away from Kinkaku-ji and offers traditional Japanese-style rooms with tatami flooring, futon bedding, and access to a communal bath.
2. Oyama Guesthouse Kyoto: This guesthouse is located within walking distance of Kinkaku-ji and offers Japanese-style rooms with tatami flooring and futon bedding.
3. Ryokan Sawaya Honten: This traditional ryokan is located 10 minutes away from Kinkaku-ji and features Japanese-style rooms with tatami floors, futon bedding, and access to a communal bath.
4. Machiya Inn Kanazawa-Kocho: This machiya (traditional townhouse) accommodation is located 15 minutes away from Kinkaku-ji and offers a combination of modern amenities and traditional Japanese design.
5. The Westin Miyako Kyoto: Located about 20 minutes away from Kinkaku-ji, this luxury hotel features Japanese-style rooms with tatami flooring, shoji screens, and views of the surrounding gardens.

There are also many ryokans and guesthouses in nearby Arashiyama that offer traditional Japanese-style accommodations with easy access to Kinkaku-ji by bus or train. Staying in a traditional accommodation near Kinkaku-ji can enhance your experience of visiting this famous cultural site in Kyoto.

5. Which hotels offer the best views of Kinkaku-ji?


1. The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto – This luxury hotel is located just a short distance from Kinkaku-ji and offers stunning panoramic views of the temple and its surrounding gardens.

2. Hotel Kanra Kyoto – This boutique hotel features traditional Japanese-style rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer beautiful views of Kinkaku-ji.

3. Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Shinmachi Bettei – Situated on a hill overlooking the city, this modern hotel offers rooms with large windows offering expansive views of Kinkaku-ji and the nearby mountains.

4. Japanese Inn Yoshimizu – This charming inn boasts a prime location right next to Kinkaku-ji and features a lovely rooftop terrace where guests can enjoy uninterrupted views of the temple.

5. Hyatt Regency Kyoto – Located in the heart of Higashiyama, this luxurious hotel offers stunning views of Kinkaku-ji from its spacious guest rooms and suites.

6. Are there any Airbnb options available near Kinkaku-ji?

Yes, there are multiple Airbnb options available near Kinkaku-ji in Kyoto. Some popular listings include traditional Japanese-style guesthouses, modern apartments, and cozy private rooms. You can search for listings on the Airbnb website or app by using the “Kinkaku-ji” as your destination. It is recommended to read reviews and confirm the location before booking your stay.

7. Are there any guesthouses or hostels near Kinkaku-ji?


Yes, there are several guesthouses and hostels near Kinkaku-ji. Some popular options include:

1. Guesthouse Kyoto Compass – a traditional Japanese-style guesthouse located about 10 minutes’ walk from Kinkaku-ji.
2. Hostel HARUYA Kyoto – a cozy hostel with both private and dormitory rooms, located about 15 minutes’ walk from Kinkaku-ji.
3. Tofukuji Machiya Inn Sakura & Momiji – a renovated machiya (traditional Japanese townhouse) converted into a guesthouse, located about 15 minutes’ walk from Kinkaku-ji.
4. Guest House Oumi – a budget-friendly guesthouse with both private and dormitory rooms, located about 20 minutes’ walk from Kinkaku-ji.
5. Piece Hostel Sanjo – a modern hostel with stylish design and various room options, located about 25 minutes’ bus ride from Kinkaku-ji.

Please note that these accommodations may have varying availability and pricing depending on the time of year and season. It’s best to check their websites or book in advance for the best rates.

8. Do any hotels offer shuttle services to and from Kinkaku-ji?


Some hotels in Kyoto do offer shuttle services to and from Kinkaku-ji. Some of these include:

1. The Westin Miyako Kyoto – The hotel offers a free shuttle service to Kinkaku-ji twice a day at 9:00 am and 10:00 am.

2. Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Shijo – The hotel offers a free shuttle service to major tourist attractions including Kinkaku-ji. The shuttle operates on a fixed schedule, so guests need to reserve their seat in advance.

3. Hyatt Regency Kyoto – This hotel also offers a free shuttle service to and from Kinkaku-ji twice a day at 8:45 am and 10:45 am.

4. ANA Crowne Plaza Hotel Kyoto – The hotel provides a paid shuttle service to Kinkaku-ji as well as other popular sightseeing spots in Kyoto.

5. Ritz-Carlton Kyoto – The hotel offers private transfers to Kinkaku-ji for an additional fee.

9. How far are the nearest hotels from Kinkaku-ji?


The nearest hotel to Kinkaku-ji is about a 10-15 minute walk away. Some nearby hotels include the Kyoto Brighton Hotel, Hotel Granvia Kyoto, and The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto.

10. Are there any hotels with on-site restaurants near Kinkaku-ji?

Yes, there are several hotels with on-site restaurants near Kinkaku-ji. These include:
– Kyoto Brighton Hotel: This luxury hotel has two on-site restaurants, Brasserie Lutèce for French cuisine and Hotaru for traditional kaiseki (multi-course) meals.
– HOTEL SASARINDO: This modern hotel offers a complimentary breakfast and has its own restaurant serving Japanese cuisine.
– Daiwa Roynet Hotel Kyoto Shin-Kyogoku: This newly opened hotel has a restaurant and bar on the 2nd floor serving both Japanese and Western dishes.
– Hotel Kanra Kyoto: This boutique hotel has an on-site restaurant called Honten serving traditional Japanese dishes using local, seasonal ingredients.
– Kyoto Arashiyama Onsen Kadensho: This ryokan-style hotel has an on-site restaurant serving delicious traditional Japanese meals in a relaxed atmosphere.

11. Is it possible to book a room with a private onsen (hot spring) near Kinkaku-ji?


Yes, there are several hotels and ryokans near Kinkaku-ji that offer rooms with private onsen, such as the Kyoto Higashiyama Onsen Hostel Kohaku, Ryokan Genhouin, and Nagomi Yado Towa. It is recommended to research and make reservations in advance as these rooms can be quite popular and tend to get booked up quickly.

12. Are there any family-friendly accommodations in the vicinity of Kinkaku-ji?


Yes, there are several family-friendly accommodations near Kinkaku-ji Temple. Some recommended options are:

1. Kyoto Arashiyama Onsen Kadensho – A traditional Japanese ryokan with hot spring baths, located approximately 2 kilometers from Kinkaku-ji Temple.

2. Umemura Ryokan – A small, family-run ryokan with spacious rooms and a relaxed atmosphere, about 1 kilometer from Kinkaku-ji.

3. Kyoto Yoshimizu – A modern hotel with family rooms and a children’s play area, situated around 1 kilometer from Kinkaku-ji.

4. Guesthouse Sakura Komachi – A budget-friendly guesthouse offering private and dormitory-style rooms, located within walking distance of Kinkaku-ji.

5. Riverside Arashiyama – A stylish hotel with spacious family rooms and an on-site restaurant, situated approximately 3 kilometers from Kinkaku-ji.

It is recommended to book in advance as these accommodations may be popular among families visiting the temple.

13. Can I find English-speaking staff at hotels around Kinkaku-ji?


Yes, many hotels around Kinkaku-ji have English-speaking staff. It is recommended to choose a hotel with good reviews and ratings from international travelers to ensure a smooth communication process. You can also contact the hotel beforehand to confirm if they have English-speaking staff available.

14. Which hotels offer free breakfast near Kinkaku-ji?


Some hotels that offer free breakfast near Kinkaku-ji are:

1. Guest Villa Kyoto Jardin
2. Hotel Grand Fine Kyoto Minami – Adult Only
3. Nissho Besso Ryokan
4. matsuiro-an
5. Somejima-an
6. Yumoto Onsen Oharasansou
7. Kyoto Guesthouse Lantern Gion
8. Shikokuan Machiya Residence Inn
9. Kyoto Uraraka Guest House – Hostel
10. Sakanoue Ryokan

15. Is it necessary to book a hotel in advance for a visit to Kinkaku-ji or can I find last-minute accommodations?

It is highly recommended to book a hotel in advance for a visit to Kinkaku-ji. The site is one of the most popular attractions in Kyoto and hotels tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak travel seasons. It may be possible to find last-minute accommodations, but there is no guarantee and it may be more difficult and expensive. To ensure a stress-free trip, it is best to plan ahead and make reservations in advance.

16. What type of amenities do the hotels provide, such as Wi-Fi, parking, or laundry facilities?


It varies from hotel to hotel, but most hotels provide basic amenities such as Wi-Fi, parking, and laundry facilities. Some upscale hotels may also offer additional amenities such as a gym, pool, spa services, and concierge services. It is best to check with the specific hotel to see what amenities they provide.

17. Do any of the hotels have a concierge service that can help plan visits to nearby attractions?


Yes, many of the hotels in Ottawa offer concierge services that can assist with planning visits to nearby attractions. Some of these services may include providing information on popular attractions, booking tickets or reservations, arranging transportation, and offering personalized recommendations based on individual preferences. It is best to inquire with the specific hotel about their concierge services and what type of assistance they can provide.

18. Are there any unique or themed lodging options near Kinkaku-ji, such as traditional ryokans or modern capsule hotels?


Yes, there are several unique and themed lodging options near Kinkaku-ji.

1. Traditional Ryokans: There are several traditional ryokans located within walking distance from Kinkaku-ji, such as Yoshimizu Inn, Kikoku Miyabiya Ryokan, and Kamon Inn Tachiyo. These ryokans offer a traditional Japanese experience with tatami floors, futon beds, and communal hot spring baths.

2. Capsule Hotels: If you prefer a more modern and budget-friendly option, there are also capsule hotels near Kinkaku-ji such as Centurion Cabin & Spa Kyoto and First Cabin Kyoto Arashiyama. These small pods offer a comfortable stay with shared facilities such as communal baths and lounges.

3. Theme Lodging: Some accommodations near Kinkaku-ji offer unique themes to enhance your stay. For example, Rangetsu offers rooms with different themes such as Maiko Room or Samurai Room. Guesthouse Waraku-an has Japanese-style rooms with anime-inspired murals on the walls.

4. Temple Lodging: For a truly authentic experience, you can stay at a temple lodging (shukubo) near Kinkaku-ji. Shunkoin Temple offers traditional rooms with Zen meditation sessions and vegetarian meals included in the stay.

5. Glamping: If you want to be close to nature while still staying in comfort, try glamping at Riverside Goshonock Cottage or Enchanted Monochrome Village near Kinkaku-ji. These unique accommodations offer tents or cabins surrounded by beautiful landscapes.

19.Can I book accommodations with a view of both Kinkaku-ju and other landmarks in Kyoto?


Yes, it is possible to book accommodations with views of both Kinkaku-ju (The Golden Pavilion) and other landmarks in Kyoto. Some options may include hotels or ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) located in the Arashiyama or Higashiyama districts, which offer views of both Kinkaku-ju and other popular attractions such as Togetsukyo Bridge or Kiyomizu-dera Temple. You can also search for accommodations with specific views on booking websites or contact the hotel directly to inquire about their room options with a view.

20.What is the average cost per night for a hotel room around Ki


The average cost per night for a hotel room around Ki varies depending on the specific location and type of accommodation. In general, budget hotels can range from $40-$100 per night, while mid-range hotels may cost between $100-$200 per night. Luxury or high-end hotels can cost upwards of $200 or more per night. It is best to research specific accommodations and rates in the area to get a more accurate estimate.