- Why Choosing the Right Area Matters for a Family Trip to Kyoto
- Why Choosing the Right Area in Kyoto Matters for Families
- Kyoto’s 6 Main Sightseeing Areas — Family Travel Overview
- Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Kyoto — Quick Comparison Table
- MIMARU Kyoto Station — Best for Large Families & Kitchen Access
- Hotel Granvia Kyoto — Easiest Station Access (Rain-Proof & Stroller-Friendly)
- RIHGA Royal Hotel Kyoto — Indoor Pool & Baby “Hiyoko Plan” Support
- GOOD NATURE HOTEL KYOTO — Organic Market & “Welcome Baby” Room
- Kyoto Tower Hotel — Two Minutes from Kyoto Station & Big Family Rooms
- Comfort Hotel Kyoto Horikawa Gojo — Best Value: Free Breakfast & Kids Stay Free
- OMO5 Kyoto Gion by Hoshino Resorts — Gion Culture with OMO Ranger Activities
- Westin Miyako Kyoto — Pools, Gardens & Quiet Hilltop Setting
- The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto — Luxury Stay with Ritz Kids Experiences
- The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Umekoji — Next to Railway Museum & Aquarium
- ✅ Family-Friendly Kyoto Hotel Guide — How to Choose the Best Area for Your Stay
- ✅ Final Recommendation — Easiest Areas for Families
- ✅ Best Budget-Friendly Family Hotels in Kyoto
- ❓ Frequently Asked Questions — Kyoto Hotels for Families
Why Choosing the Right Area Matters for a Family Trip to Kyoto
Traveling to Kyoto with kids can be magical—but also tiring if you choose the wrong hotel location. Kyoto’s attractions are spread out, and long walks or complicated transfers can quickly exhaust young children (and parents!). That’s why picking the right area to stay in Kyoto is the key to a smooth family trip.
This guide is written specifically for international families traveling with children. We compare family-friendly hotels in Kyoto based on:
- 🚆 Access from the nearest station (easy with stroller or luggage)
- 🛏 Bed-sharing rules (child stay policy)
- 🌎 Languages spoken (important for non-Japanese speakers)
- 👶 Family-friendly features (kitchen, kids activities, babysitting, cultural experiences)
We also included direct booking buttons for Booking.com and Expedia, so you can check availability easily. Prices are reference only and change depending on season.
Why Choosing the Right Area in Kyoto Matters for Families
Kyoto is a city rich in culture, history, and charm — but sightseeing spots are spread out across different districts. For families traveling with kids, choosing the right area to stay can make your trip either smooth and enjoyable or tiring and stressful.
In this family-friendly Kyoto hotel guide, we help you understand the main sightseeing areas of Kyoto so you can decide where to stay in Kyoto with kids based on your travel style. Whether convenience, cultural experiences, or nature matters most to your family, this Kyoto area breakdown will help you choose the best base for your stay.
Kyoto’s 6 Main Sightseeing Areas — Family Travel Overview
🟠 Central Area — Kyoto Station, Shijo-Kawaramachi, Nijo Castle
Best for first-time visitors and families with strollers or luggage.
This area offers easy access from the airport, shinkansen, and major bus routes. Large stores, baby supplies, and food options are nearby — ideal for families who want convenience above all.
🟣 East Area — Gion, Higashiyama, Okazaki
Perfect for families who love culture and sightseeing on foot.
You can walk to famous spots like Yasaka Shrine, Kiyomizu-dera, and Maruyama Park. Hotels here often offer cultural experiences, making it great for families who want to immerse themselves in Kyoto’s atmosphere.
🟢 West Area — Arashiyama, Sagano, Matsuo
Recommended for nature lovers and families staying 2+ nights.
Bamboo Grove, Monkey Park, and scenic river views make this area fun for kids. Staying nearby reduces travel time and lets you enjoy Arashiyama early in the morning when it’s less crowded.
🔴 South Area — Fushimi Inari, Tofukuji & Sake District
Famous for the iconic Torii gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine. While it’s a must-visit spot, accommodation options are fewer. Staying here is convenient if your itinerary is focused on southern Kyoto.
🔵 North Area — Kinkaku-ji, Kitano-Tenmangu, Takagamine
This area is home to the famous Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji). However, it is less connected to central transport, so families usually just visit for day trips rather than stay here.
🟢 Uji Area — Matcha Culture & Nature
Known for Byodo-in Temple and authentic matcha experiences. Uji is peaceful and beautiful but slightly far from central Kyoto. Ideal for slow-travel families or tea lovers who want a cultural escape.
If you’re visiting Kyoto for the first time with kids, staying in the Central Area (Kyoto Station to Shijo-Kawaramachi) or the East Area (Gion and Higashiyama) makes sightseeing much easier.For day trips to places like Arashiyama, choosing a hotel closer to the West Area can help reduce travel time and keep the journey stress-free for your family.
This time, I’ll be introducing family-friendly hotels in Kyoto that are easy to enjoy even for first-time visitors.
We’ll focus on the Central, Eastern, and Western areas — and share special tips for families traveling with kids!
Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Kyoto — Quick Comparison Table
To help you choose the best family-friendly hotel in Kyoto, here’s a quick comparison of top-rated accommodations with essential features such as kids’ amenities, language support, and family room availability.
*Prices are converted at an estimated rate of 1 USD = ¥150 for reference. Actual rates may vary.
| Hotel Name | Area | Price (JPY / USD) | Family-Friendly Highlight | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MIMARU Kyoto STATION | Central Area | ¥29,909 / $199 | All rooms have kitchens & Pokémon-themed family rooms | ★★★★★ |
| Hotel Granvia Kyoto | Central Area | ¥14,056 / $94 | Directly connected to Kyoto Station & nursing rooms available | ★★★★★ |
| Rihga Royal Hotel Kyoto | Central Area | ¥11,372 / $76 | Indoor pool & “Hiyoko Plan” with baby amenities | ★★★★☆ |
| GOOD NATURE HOTEL KYOTO | Central Area | ¥25,722 / $171 | Welcome Baby Room & in-hotel organic market for easy meals | ★★★★☆ |
| Kyoto Tower Hotel | Central Area | ¥14,281 / $95 | 2-minute walk from Kyoto Station & large family rooms for up to 8 guests | ★★★★☆ |
| Comfort Hotel Kyoto Horikawa Gojo | Central Area | ¥8,836 / $59 | Free breakfast & kids stay free – best value option | ★★★★☆ |
| OMO5 Kyoto Gion by Hoshino Resorts | East Area | ¥26,549 / $177 | OMO Ranger cultural walking tour & kitchen-equipped rooms | ★★★★★ |
| The Westin Miyako Kyoto | East Area | ¥38,000 / $253 | Indoor/outdoor pool & quiet hilltop location for relaxation | ★★★★☆ |
| The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto | East Area | ¥155,000 / $1,033 | Ritz Kids programs & luxury cultural experiences | ★★★★★ |
| The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Umekoji | West Area | ¥12,609 / $84 | Next to Railway Museum & aquarium – perfect for kids | ★★★★☆ |
*Prices are reference rates based on weekday searches for February 2026 (Expedia). Rates may vary depending on season and availability.
Next, let’s take a closer look at each hotel!I’ll share what makes them great for families traveling with kids in Kyoto.
MIMARU Kyoto Station — Best for Large Families & Kitchen Access
Price: ¥29,909 / $199
- Access (Nearest Station): 2–3 minutes’ walk from JR/Metro Kyoto Station (Hachijo East Exit).
- Bed-Sharing Rules: Up to 2 children aged 6 and under stay free when sharing beds with parents (within room capacity).
- Languages: Japanese / English / Chinese (Mandarin).
- Why It’s Family-Friendly:
- All rooms come with a full kitchen & dining space—easy for bottles, baby food, and picky eaters.
- Pokémon Room and bunk beds make stays exciting for younger kids.
- Room types for large groups (multi-gen trips or two families) and some connecting options.
- Handy free rentals: baby bed, bed guard, bottle sterilizer, step stool, etc. (limited quantities).
- Coin laundry on site for stress-free long stays.
Check availability: 【Booking.com link here】 ｜ 【Expedia link here】
Hotel Granvia Kyoto — Easiest Station Access (Rain-Proof & Stroller-Friendly)
Price: ¥14,056 / $94
- Access (Nearest Station): Directly connected to JR Kyoto Station (no street crossing).
- Bed-Sharing Rules: Children aged 6 and under stay free when sharing existing bedding.
- Languages: Japanese / English.
- Why It’s Family-Friendly:
- Zero-transfer arrival from Shinkansen/airport bus—perfect with luggage & stroller.
- Free luggage storage before check-in & after check-out to maximize sightseeing time.
- Kids’ yukata and kids’ menu available for a gentle intro to Japanese culture.
- Baby cots (free) and wide-aisle restaurants that are stroller-friendly.
- Nursing room / multi-purpose restrooms available in the station complex area.
Check availability: 【Booking.com link here】 ｜ 【Expedia link here】
RIHGA Royal Hotel Kyoto — Indoor Pool & Baby “Hiyoko Plan” Support
Price: ¥11,372 / $76
- Access (Nearest Station): 7 minutes’ walk from JR Kyoto Station (Hachijo Exit) / ~5 minutes by free hotel shuttle (every ~20 min).
- Bed-Sharing Rules: Children 6 and under stay free when sharing beds.
- Languages: Japanese / English / Korean / Chinese (Mandarin).
- Why It’s Family-Friendly:
- Indoor pool (age rules apply; great for downtime on rainy days).
- “Hiyoko Plan” for babies—amenities like baby futon, diapers, wipes, bouncer, step stool, etc.
- Spacious Japanese-Western rooms with separate shower area—easy bath time with kids.
- Free luggage storage; toy rentals (SEGA Toys) available.
- Free shuttle makes station access easier with strollers.
Check availability: 【Booking.com link here】 ｜ 【Expedia link here】
GOOD NATURE HOTEL KYOTO — Organic Market & “Welcome Baby” Room
Price: ¥25,722 / $171
- Access (Nearest Station): 2 minutes’ walk from Hankyu Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station; ~5 minutes from Keihan Gion-Shijo Station.
- Bed-Sharing Rules: Bed-sharing allowed for pre-schoolers (room conditions apply).
- Languages: Japanese / English.
- Why It’s Family-Friendly:
- On-site food market & restaurants—easy meals without going outside.
- Welcome Baby Room with baby bed/guard, diaper bin, bottle tools, toys & picture books.
- Baby stroller rentals available; spacious rooms up to ~90 m².
- Luggage storage available; laundry service on request.
- Calming design that parents love—balance “kids first” with “parent wellness.”
Check availability: 【Booking.com link here】 ｜ 【Expedia link here】
Kyoto Tower Hotel — Two Minutes from Kyoto Station & Big Family Rooms
Price: ¥14,281 / $95
- Access (Nearest Station): ~2 minutes’ walk from JR Kyoto Station (Central Exit); bus terminal right outside.
- Bed-Sharing Rules: Typically free for pre-schoolers (varies by room type).
- Languages: Japanese / English.
- Why It’s Family-Friendly:
- Large family rooms (up to ~8 people with bunks & sofa bed) for big families or two-family trips.
- Free luggage storage before/after stay; easy day-of sightseeing.
- Direct access to Kyoto Tower observatory (fun quick activity with kids).
- Ultra-central base to reach Railway Museum, Aquarium, and many bus lines.
Check availability: 【Booking.com link here】 ｜ 【Expedia link here】
Comfort Hotel Kyoto Horikawa Gojo — Best Value: Free Breakfast & Kids Stay Free
Price: ¥8,836 / $59
- Access (Nearest Station): ~8 minutes’ walk from Subway Gojo Station; bus stop steps away.
- Bed-Sharing Rules: Kids up to elementary school age stay free with parents; free breakfast for bed-sharing kids.
- Languages: Japanese / English.
- Why It’s Family-Friendly:
- Free breakfast helps keep costs predictable for families.
- On-site coin laundry—great for longer trips.
- Library Café with Kyoto books & picture books for quiet breaks.
- Value-focused base with easy bus access to key sights.
Check availability: 【Booking.com link here】 ｜ 【Expedia link here】
OMO5 Kyoto Gion by Hoshino Resorts — Gion Culture with OMO Ranger Activities
Price: ¥26,549 / $177
- Access (Nearest Station): ~5 minutes’ walk from Keihan Gion-Shijo; ~8 minutes from Hankyu Kyoto-Kawaramachi.
- Bed-Sharing Rules: Up to age 6, allowed up to the room’s occupancy limit.
- Languages: Japanese / English / Korean / Chinese (Mandarin).
- Why It’s Family-Friendly:
- OMO Ranger guided walks (incl. English options) & free matcha activity in the hotel.
- In-room kitchenette (select types) for simple meals & baby prep.
- Walkable to Yasaka Shrine, Ninenzaka, Kiyomizu-dera; easy to return mid-day for naps.
- Coin laundry; friendly staff who help pick take-outs for kids.
Check availability: 【Booking.com link here】 ｜ 【Expedia link here】
Westin Miyako Kyoto — Pools, Gardens & Quiet Hilltop Setting
Price: ¥38,000 / $253
- Access (Nearest Station): ~2 minutes’ walk from Subway Keage Station; ~25 minutes by free shuttle from Kyoto Station.
- Bed-Sharing Rules: Elementary-age kids may share beds (room-type dependent). Breakfast: under 12 at half price; 0–3 free.
- Languages: Japanese / English.
- Why It’s Family-Friendly:
- Indoor heated pool and spa facilities are available, offering relaxation options for both parents and children.
- Kids’ amenities & activity book/color pencils add quiet fun time.
- Large garden paths and calm setting for stroller walks.
- Shuttle eases access; rooms with bath/shower setups friendly for families.
Check availability: 【Booking.com link here】 ｜ 【Expedia link here】
The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto — Luxury Stay with Ritz Kids Experiences
Price: ¥155,000 / $1,033
- Access (Nearest Station): ~3 minutes’ walk from Subway Kyoto Shiyakusho-mae; ~6 minutes from Keihan Sanjo.
- Bed-Sharing Rules: Children 12 & under can share beds free (capacity & adult/child ratio rules apply).
- Languages: Japanese / English / Chinese / Spanish / French.
- Why It’s Family-Friendly:
- Ritz Kids program (treasure hunt, traditional sweets, crafts, etc.; English-friendly).
- Private dining rooms & kids’ menu; baby food requests possible in advance.
- Heated indoor pool (age policy applies) & serene riverside location.
- Top-tier service standards—reliable for special family occasions.
Check availability: 【Booking.com link here】 ｜ 【Expedia link here】
The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Umekoji — Next to Railway Museum & Aquarium
Price: ¥12,609 / $84
- Access (Nearest Station): 1 minute’s walk from JR Umekoji-Kyotonishi Station (1 stop from Kyoto).
- Bed-Sharing Rules: Elementary-age kids stay free when sharing beds (1 child per paying adult free; beyond that fees apply). With breakfast plans, pre-schoolers eat free (Shinkansen kids’ plate).
- Languages: Japanese / English / Chinese (Mandarin).
- Why It’s Family-Friendly:
- Steps from the Kyoto Railway Museum, Kyoto Aquarium & a large park—minimal transit stress.
- Fun “Railway-themed” rooms and kid-pleasing breakfast items.
- Helpful free rentals: diaper bin, bottle tools, step stool, potty seat, etc.
- Coin laundry on site; simple access to central Kyoto by JR or bus.
Check availability: 【Booking.com link here】 ｜ 【Expedia link here】
*Prices will be updated during the booking process and may vary by season (cherry blossoms in late March–April, fall foliage in November, New Year). Always check live rates before reserving.
✅ Family-Friendly Kyoto Hotel Guide — How to Choose the Best Area for Your Stay
If you’re visiting Kyoto with kids and thinking, “There are too many hotels… which area is best for families?” — don’t worry!
Here’s a simple, parent-friendly guide to help you choose the most convenient area based on travel style, stroller access, and sightseeing efficiency.
| Travel Priority | Best Area | Why Families Love It |
|---|---|---|
| Want to minimize movement (stroller + luggage) | 🟠 Central Area (Kyoto Station) | Direct access from airport bus & Shinkansen. Nearby supermarkets & baby goods stores. |
| Want to maximize sightseeing time | 🟣 East Area (Gion / Higashiyama) | Top attractions like Kiyomizu-dera & Yasaka Shrine are within walking distance. |
| Want a relaxing mix of nature & sightseeing | 🟢 West Area (Umekoji / Arashiyama) | Railway Museum, Bamboo Forest & Aquarium — perfect for kids with minimal travel. |
✅ Final Recommendation — Easiest Areas for Families
| Travel Style | If You’re Not Sure, Choose… |
|---|---|
| First-time Kyoto trip / easy transport | → Kyoto Station Area (MIMARU / Hotel Granvia) |
| Want a traditional Kyoto atmosphere | → East Area (OMO5 Gion / Ritz-Carlton Kyoto) |
| Want open space & museums for kids | → West Area (Royal Park Umekoji) |
✅ Best Budget-Friendly Family Hotels in Kyoto
| Family Budget Goal | Recommended Hotel | Why It’s a Good Deal |
|---|---|---|
| Stay as cheap as possible | Comfort Hotel Kyoto Horikawa Gojo | Free breakfast + free bed-sharing = unbeatable value |
| Save money by cooking | MIMARU Kyoto Station | Full kitchen + large room = perfect for long stays |
| Affordable + great location | Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Umekoji | Kids stay entertained with Aquarium & Railway Museum nearby |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions — Kyoto Hotels for Families
Q. What is the best area to stay in Kyoto for families with kids?
A. For first-time travelers, Kyoto Station (Central Area) is the most convenient. It’s stroller-friendly, close to transport, and ideal for families flying into Kansai Airport.
Q. Which hotels have the best child-friendly facilities?
A.
- MIMARU Kyoto Station → Full kitchen, great for preparing baby food
- OMO5 Kyoto Gion → Cultural experiences, English-speaking guides
- Westin Miyako Kyoto → Pool, toy rental, nature-friendly location
Q. Until what age is bed-sharing free for kids in Kyoto hotels?
A. Most hotels allow free bed-sharing for children up to age 6, but luxury hotels like The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto may have rules like “1 child free per paying adult.” Always check before booking.
How was that?I hope this guide helps you find the perfect family-friendly hotel and makes your Kyoto trip even more wonderful! 🌸
👉 Prefer to read this in Japanese? → 🇯🇵Click here🇯🇵
コメント