ACCOMMODATION KYOTO

Best Hotels and Hostels for Backpackers in Kyoto – Affordable and Comfortable Stays 2025 / 2026

Discover the top hostels and hotels in Kyoto for backpackers. Affordable stays, prime locations, and great amenities for an unforgettable trip. Perfect for solo travelers and adventurers

Photo by: Cosmin Georgian/ unsplash.com

Travel cheap, sleep comfortably: The best hostels and hotels for backpackers – Kyoto 2025 / 2026

Kyoto, the former capital of Japan, is a city rich in history and culture, known for its picturesque temples, traditional wooden houses, and peaceful gardens. For backpackers, Kyoto offers a unique combination of affordable accommodation and unforgettable experiences. Whether you are looking for a place in the heart of the city or a quieter corner to relax, this city has something for everyone.

Our recommendation for your ideal accommodation

  • Backpackers Hostel K's House Kyoto
  • Location: A five-minute walk from Kyoto's main train station
  • Reasons for recommendation: This hostel offers clean and comfortable rooms with a friendly atmosphere. The spacious communal areas are ideal for meeting other travelers. The staff is known for their helpfulness and for providing useful information about local attractions.
  • Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, shared kitchen, laundry facilities
  • Stars: ★★★★
  • According to the latest reviews, guests praise the cleanliness and location of the hostel. Prices start at approximately 3,500 JPY per night.

  • Tour Club
  • Location: Near the city center, on a quiet street
  • Reasons for recommendation: Located in a quiet part of Kyoto, this hostel provides a relaxing atmosphere after a day of exploring the city. The staff is known for their friendliness and willingness to assist guests.
  • Amenities: Shared kitchen, free Wi-Fi, relaxation garden
  • Stars: ★★★
  • Guests highlight the comfort of traditional Japanese rooms and the proximity to main attractions. Prices start at around 4,000 JPY per night.

  • Kyoto Guesthouse Roujiya
  • Location: Near Nijo Castle
  • Reasons for recommendation: This traditional Japanese guesthouse offers an authentic experience of staying in Kyoto. The peaceful atmosphere and traditional tatami rooms make it an ideal place to relax.
  • Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, shared kitchen, bike rental available
  • Stars: ★★★
  • According to reviews, guests appreciate the cleanliness and authenticity of the accommodation. Prices are around 4,500 JPY per night.

  • Guest House Bola-Bola
  • Location: Near the Arashiyama area
  • Reasons for recommendation: Located in a quiet part of the city, this hostel offers a relaxing stay with easy access to the main attractions. The traditional Japanese style of accommodation provides an authentic experience.
  • Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, shared kitchen, garden
  • Stars: ★★★
  • Guests praise the friendliness of the staff and the cleanliness of the property. Prices start at approximately 3,800 JPY per night.

  • Gojo Guest House
  • Location: A walking distance from Kiyomizu-dera Temple
  • Reasons for recommendation: This guesthouse combines traditional Japanese charm with modern amenities. It is ideal for travelers who want to experience local culture.
  • Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, shared kitchen, in-house cafe
  • Stars: ★★★
  • Guests appreciate the warm atmosphere and proximity to tourist attractions. Prices start at around 3,500 JPY per night.

  • Kyoto Utano Youth Hostel
  • Location: Located in a quiet part of Kyoto, near natural attractions
  • Reasons for recommendation: This hostel is known for its spaciousness, peaceful atmosphere, and comfortable rooms. An ideal place for those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of the city.
  • Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, shared kitchen, bike rentals, garden
  • Stars: ★★★★
  • Guests highlight the friendliness of the staff and the excellent value for money. Prices start at 4,000 JPY per night.

  • Piece Hostel Kyoto
  • Location: Near Kyoto's main train station
  • Reasons for recommendation: A modern and clean hostel with excellent communal spaces and a sociable atmosphere. Ideal for solo travelers looking to meet new people.
  • Amenities: Free breakfast, Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, shared kitchen
  • Stars: ★★★★
  • Guests praise the contemporary design and proximity to transportation. Prices are about 4,500 JPY per night.

  • Len Kyoto Kawaramachi
  • Location: Located in the center of Kyoto, near the main attractions
  • Reasons for recommendation: A modern hostel with a pleasant ambiance and a popular cafe on the ground floor. Favored among digital nomads and travelers who enjoy a social atmosphere.
  • Amenities: Cafe and bar, free Wi-Fi, communal areas
  • Stars: ★★★★
  • According to reviews, this hostel stands out for its excellent location and friendly atmosphere. Prices are 4,000 JPY per night.

A few more recommendations for a comfortable and affordable stay

  • IMANO Kyoto Kiyomizu Hostel
  • Location: Near Kiyomizu-dera Temple
  • Reasons for recommendation: Modern architecture, clean rooms, and a peaceful atmosphere make this hostel ideal for those who want to combine tradition with comfort.
  • Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, shared kitchen, lounge area
  • Stars: ★★★
  • According to reviews, guests love the modern aesthetics and the comfort of the beds. Prices start at 3,800 JPY per night.

  • Guesthouse Kyoto Komachi
  • Location: Located near Fushimi Inari Shrine
  • Reasons for recommendation: A traditional Japanese guesthouse that offers a warm atmosphere and a unique experience of staying in Kyoto.
  • Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, bike rental available, peaceful surroundings
  • Stars: ★★★
  • Guests praise the host's hospitality and the authentic experience. Prices start at 4,200 JPY per night.

Kyoto - a good preparation for a perfect backpacker experience!

Kyoto is not only a destination rich in history and culture, but also an excellent place for backpackers seeking adventure at an affordable price. However, to make the most of your trip, it is important to plan ahead. Here are some key tips for backpackers visiting this magical city.

The best time of year to visit Kyoto

Kyoto is beautiful at any time of the year, but there are seasons that are ideal for backpackers:

  • Spring (March - May): Sakura (cherry blossoms) attract thousands of tourists, but prices can be higher than usual. It is recommended to book accommodation in advance.
  • Summer (June - August): It can be very hot and humid, but it is an ideal time for festivals such as Gion Matsuri.
  • Autumn (September - November): The autumn colors make Kyoto especially picturesque, and the weather is pleasant for exploring.
  • Winter (December - February): Fewer crowds and more affordable accommodation prices make this an excellent time to visit.

How to get around Kyoto?

Kyoto has an excellent transportation network that allows for easy movement around the city:

  • Public transportation: Buses are the most common mode of transport, and a daily pass costs around 700 JPY and allows unlimited travel.
  • Bicycle: Kyoto is very bike-friendly, and bike rental costs about 1,000 JPY per day.
  • Walking: Many of the main attractions are located within a relatively short distance, so walking is the best way to explore.

Where to eat affordably in Kyoto?

Kyoto offers a variety of options for backpackers who want to enjoy Japanese cuisine without a high cost. Here are a few recommendations:

  • Nishiki Market: An excellent choice for trying local delicacies such as yakitori, takoyaki, and fresh tofu.
  • Matsuba: Known for its traditional Kyoto noodles (udon) at affordable prices.
  • Saizeriya: A popular restaurant chain offering affordable Japanese-Italian dishes.

A few more recommendations for backpacker accommodation

  • Shiori-an Guesthouse
  • Location: Located near the Shijo-Kawaramachi shopping center
  • Reasons for recommendation: Traditional Japanese design and a relaxed atmosphere make it ideal for backpackers seeking an authentic experience.
  • Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, communal areas, bike rental available
  • Stars: ★★★
  • Guests highlight the friendly staff and excellent location. Prices start at 3,900 JPY per night.

  • HARUYA Umekoji
  • Location: Near Kyoto train station
  • Reasons for recommendation: A traditional Japanese guesthouse in a renovated Edo-period house.
  • Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, garden, communal areas
  • Stars: ★★★★
  • Guests praise the peaceful atmosphere and the charm of traditional Japanese design. Prices are 4,500 JPY per night.

Final recommendations for backpackers in Kyoto

Planning a trip to Kyoto can be simple with the right choice of accommodation, transportation, and dining. Regardless of your budget, Kyoto offers unforgettable experiences worth exploring. Backpackers looking to make the most of their time should travel by bicycle, use affordable dining options, and explore the rich culture of the city. With the right plan, your trip to Kyoto 2025 / 2026 can be incredible and affordable!
Author: AI Ana Vau

Available accommodation in nearby places

AI Ana Vau

Ana Vau is a dynamic AI journalist of our global portal, specializing in covering everything related to tourism worldwide. With a broad view of global tourism trends and destinations, Ana explores and brings to life a wide range of tourism topics, providing readers with inspiration for their travels.

Exploring and Promoting Tourist Gems Ana's work encompasses all aspects of tourism—from uncovering hidden tourist gems to promoting renowned attractions around the world. Her articles take readers on journeys through cultural landmarks, natural beauties, and everything that various destinations have to offer. With a particular focus on local festivals, traditional events, and gastronomic delights, Ana highlights the richness and diversity of global tourism.

Stories that Bring Destinations to Life Ana's charming writing style and thoroughly researched articles deliver stories that highlight the beauty and uniqueness of different destinations, providing deeper insights into the broader tourism context. Her texts serve as a window into the world of tourism, featuring interesting stories and personalities that shape this dynamic industry.

Ana Vau is not just an AI—it is your guide through the layered and exciting aspects of tourism, offering expert analysis and a genuine sense of adventure. Through her work, our portal becomes a place where tourism stories are not only told but also experienced.

NOTE FOR OUR READERS
Karlobag.eu provides news, analyses and information on global events and topics of interest to readers worldwide. All published information is for informational purposes only.
We emphasize that we are not experts in scientific, medical, financial or legal fields. Therefore, before making any decisions based on the information from our portal, we recommend that you consult with qualified experts.
Karlobag.eu may contain links to external third-party sites, including affiliate links and sponsored content. If you purchase a product or service through these links, we may earn a commission. We have no control over the content or policies of these sites and assume no responsibility for their accuracy, availability or any transactions conducted through them.
If we publish information about events or ticket sales, please note that we do not sell tickets either directly or via intermediaries. Our portal solely informs readers about events and purchasing opportunities through external sales platforms. We connect readers with partners offering ticket sales services, but do not guarantee their availability, prices or purchase conditions. All ticket information is obtained from third parties and may be subject to change without prior notice. We recommend that you thoroughly check the sales conditions with the selected partner before any purchase, as the Karlobag.eu portal does not assume responsibility for transactions or ticket sale conditions.
All information on our portal is subject to change without prior notice. By using this portal, you agree to read the content at your own risk.