welcome to kyoto

how to get to kyoto

Kyoto is the hub for all things culture, history and nature. There are quite a few shrines, temples and gardens to check out! Your 2 options is to take Shinkansen or fly into Kansai (Osaka) International Airport and take the local train (45 minute train ride) to Kyoto Station. As I have prefaced in previous Japan cities, flying is the most economical however I think everyone should take the Shinkansen at least once in their life even if it’s one way and flying the rest of the trip.

Transportation

TRAIN BUT LESS ROUTES

You’ll take the public trains throughout Kyoto but do keep in mind that there are’t a lot of lines going throughout the city. Buses are probably be your mode of transport in between using the trains. For the most part, I don’t think you need to stay in Kyoto long but be sure to take up a matcha grinding course at the KYOTO TEA MUSEUM.

PEACE AND QUIET

WHERE TO STAY

If you’re planning to stay a day or so in Kyoto, GOOD NATURE HOTEL KYOTO and HOTEL M’S SHIJO KYOTO might be your best bet! Good Nature is slightly more expensive than M’s but they’re both quite affordable being in the city center. While checking off peak days, Good Nature’s price is at $110 USD/night while M’s price is $70 USD/night.

Budget not an issue? Perhaps you can spend a night or even a week at the nicest looking hotel in NINENZAKA that I want to stay in but could never afford: PARK HYATT KYOTO. I searched for off peak pricing, it is $1300 USD/NIGHT. Obviously this is out of a lot of people’s budget but if it is in yours, take me with you. Below is a photo (linked to official website) of the Park Hyatt Kyoto.