Hotels in Higashiyama, Kyoto

Thanks to the city’s efforts to preserve the traditional look of the streets and businesses here, Higashiyama is arguably the most beautiful neighborhood in Kyoto. The district features traditional wooden architecture, housing a myriad of cafés, restaurants, and stores. Higashiyama also boasts some of the most outstanding attractions of Kyoto, such as a magnificent temple nestled among the wooded hills, and the renowned Gion district, where you might be fortunate enough to see a geisha as she travels between engagements.

Hotels in Higashiyama

There is a great choice of accommodation in Higashiyama to choose from, ranging from 2-star discount hotels all the way up to luxury 5-star establishments. If you’re looking for a budget hotel in Higashiyama, Guesthouse Soi is an excellent choice. As well as affordable rates it has some great amenities, such as a rooftop terrace and a bar/lounge. The Westin Miyako Kyoto is a 4-star hotel in Higashiyama with elegantly designed rooms and impressive facilities. It has a staggering 7 restaurants of differing cuisines to choose from, as well as a full service spa, indoor pool, and fitness center.

Things to see in Higashiyama

Kiyomizu-dera receives the highest number of visitors of any temple in the city, and is one of the most impressive sights of Kyoto. Not only is the architecture on display here extremely mesmerizing, but so is the surrounding area. After enjoying the scenic walk to the top of the hill to witness this marvelous temple, you’re rewarded with incredible vistas across the city of Kyoto. Although attractive during the day, it is perhaps even more stunning at night, when it is lit up in dramatic fashion. The Yasaka Pagoda is another magnificent example of traditional Japanese architecture. Unlike most pagodas, this one is special in that you can actually go inside, and from the 2nd floor you can enjoy breathtaking panoramas. The Kyoto National Museum, located in Higashiyama, holds great importance for the country of Japan. It hosts an impressive range of pre-modern Japanese artwork and is divided into three main parts: fine arts, handcrafts, and archeological artifacts.

Good for couples

Higashiyama is one the most gorgeous districts in Kyoto, providing the perfect setting for a romantic getaway. There are many places to enjoy a walk and experience the amazing history and atmosphere of the neighborhood. It’s also great for shopping. Sannenzaka Ninenzaka is a traditional area where you can expect to find many independent stores selling unique, artisanal objects. Higashiyama is a superb region to visit for a romantic meal, as it has scores of restaurants to choose from. The Sodoh is one of the neighborhood’s top dining options, serving Japanese-Italian fusion food.

How to get to Higashiyama

Honolulu and San Francisco both offer non-stop flights to Kansai International Airport, which is the closest international airport to Kyoto. From here you can either take a cab ride (around 90 minutes) or the train to get to Kyoto Station. The Haruka express train runs frequently between the airport and station. After this you will need to change to the Tokaido Line to get to Yamashina Station, and then finally to the Keihan-Keishin Line until you arrive at Higashiyama Station. The whole journey including transfers takes around 1 hour 40 minutes. Travel in Higashiyama is easy using public transportation or a cab.