Where to Stay in Arashiyama Kyoto: Arashiyama Hotel Guide 2026

Arashiyama is one of the most iconic places to visit in Kyoto. From that famous bamboo forest to peaceful river views and ancient temples, this area has so much to offer that make it feel like a little world of its own.

We’ve been to Kyoto countless times and visited Arashiyama across all seasons, fall foliage, spring blossoms, and those quiet winter mornings. We’ve tried day trips, stayed overnight, and done way too much hotel research so you don’t have to.

In this guide, we’re sharing whether it’s actually worth staying overnight in Arashiyama, and if so, which hotels are best based on budget, style, and experience.

Hotel Pricing Key:

• $ – under $80 per night
• $$ – $80–200 per night
• $$$ – $200–500 per night
• $$$$ – $500–1000 per night
• $$$$$ – over $1000 per night

Arashiyama Hotels With Private Onsen

If soaking in a private bath after a long day of exploring sounds like your thing, these picks come with in-room or private onsen access for that extra relaxing experience.

📍Togetsutei Hotel ($$$): Perfect mid-range stay with open-air cypress bath in-room.

📍Suiran, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Kyoto ($$$$): Riverfront luxury with in-room onsen and a view that honestly just feels like a painting.

📍Hanaikada ($$$): Traditional ryokan vibes, tatami rooms, and plenty of onsen options to unwind after walking all over Arashiyama.

Should I Stay Near Arashiyama?

So… is staying in Arashiyama actually worth it? Well, it depends on your trip style.

Yes, if Arashiyama is your top priority. If the bamboo forest is on your must-see list and you want that quiet, crowd-free moment early in the morning, staying nearby makes it easy.

Plus, Arashiyama has way more to offer than just the bamboo grove. Staying overnight lets you explore those lesser-known spots, enjoy riverside walks, and experience the area at a much slower pace.

No, if you’re trying to see all of Kyoto in a few days. Arashiyama is a bit out of the way, and it’ll take at least 20–30 minutes to get to other major spots like Gion, Kiyomizudera, or Kinkakuji.

Most people do Arashiyama as a day trip, and that’s totally doable. If you want to keep things central and hit more Kyoto highlights, you might want to stay somewhere else.

Here’s our full where to stay in Kyoto guide for better base options.

Places to Stay Near Arashiyama By Budget

In Arashiyama, you’ll find more traditional stays, ryokans, and boutique hotels than big chains. It’s not the cheapest place in Kyoto to stay, but if you want quiet mornings, river views, and fewer crowds, it’s worth it.

Best Luxury Hotels Near Arashiyama

If you’re splurging a bit and looking for upscale stays with nice design, private onsen, and river or mountain views, these are our top luxury picks.

📍Suiran, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Kyoto ($$$$): Riverfront luxury with an in-room onsen and historic surroundings.

📍Rangetsu Ryokan ($$$$): A traditional riverside ryokan with a cozy and calm vibe. Feels very local and quiet.

📍MUNI KYOTO by Onko Chishin ($$$$): Modern luxury with nature views and minimalist elegance. Great for couples or anyone wanting beautiful designs.

Mid-Range Options

If you want something nice but not over-the-top, these hotels have a great balance between comfort, experience, and location. Perfect for travelers who want a traditional vibe or onsen perks without splurging too hard.

📍Hanaikada ($$$): A classic ryokan with tatami rooms and multiple onsen options. Right across from the bridge, and super peaceful.

📍Togetsutei Hotel ($$$): Mid-range ryokan with open-air cypress baths in some rooms. Cozy, scenic, and steps from the river.

📍Kyoto Arashiyama Onsen Kadensho ($$$): Has public onsens with beautiful garden views and rooms that mix Western and Japanese styles.

Budget Hotels in Arashiyama

Looking for a wallet-friendly stay that still puts you close to the bamboo forest and main sights? These spots are simple, reliable, and well-located without breaking your budget.

📍The GrandWest Arashiyama ($$): Clean, modern, and family-friendly with apartment-style rooms. Great if you want a little more space.

📍Ranzan Hotel ($$): Traditional ryokan with public onsen baths and a calm setting. Easy walk to major attractions.

📍Yado Arashiyama ($): Basic but very affordable. Ideal if you’re spending most of your time outside exploring.

Best Arashiyama Hotels for Families

Traveling with kids or a small group? These stays offer extra space, comfort, and easy access to sights, so you can focus more on enjoying Arashiyama and less on logistics.

📍The GrandWest Arashiyama ($$): Spacious, apartment-style hotel that’s ideal for families. Quiet location and just a short walk to the bamboo forest and shops.

📍Rangetsu Ryokan ($$$$): Traditional riverside ryokan with a cozy atmosphere. Feels homey and calm—great for slow travel families.

📍Togetsutei Hotel ($$$): Larger rooms with private onsen options and a fantastic location right by the bridge. Great mix of relaxation and convenience.

Top Things to Do in Arashiyama (If You’re Staying Overnight)

One of the biggest perks of staying in Arashiyama is that you get to experience it without the daytime crowds. Early morning and late evening are the best times to really enjoy the area.

Start your day with a peaceful walk through the bamboo forest before it gets packed. It’s magical when the light first filters in through the stalks, and nearly impossible to enjoy like this on a regular day trip.

After a full day out, wind down at Fu Fu No Yu Onsen, a local bathhouse. It’s quiet, relaxing, and open into the evening, so it’s perfect for soaking after a long day exploring.

You’ll also be able to take your time at riverside spots like Togetsukyo Bridge without the daytime crowds, and even book private dinners at some ryokans that offer in-room kaiseki meals.

Want to see the full list of things to do in the area? Check out our complete Arashiyama things to do guide here.

Conclusion

Arashiyama is one of the most scenic and peaceful parts of Kyoto, and staying overnight gives you a whole new way to experience it.

Whether you’re after a luxury riverside ryokan, a family-friendly boutique hotel, or a quiet place with an onsen, there’s a stay for every kind of traveler. And if you’re up early enough to catch the bamboo forest without the crowds, you’ll see why it’s worth the extra effort.

We hope this guide helps you figure out if staying near Arashiyama fits your trip, and leads you to a stay that feels just right.