If you’re considering Kyoto as your next vacation destination, you’re likely already aware of its status as a hotspot for international visitors. More traditional and slower-paced than Japan’s capital, Tokyo, or its neighbor, Osaka, the city is truly breathtaking in a unique way; rich historic districts, centuries-old temples, and zen gardens stand in for sleek skyscrapers and neon lights. This makes the former imperial capital a fabulous choice for a trip—and it especially comes alive in the spring, when the cherry blossoms are on full display. You could easily spend a full week here, roaming both the residential machiya-lined streets and ticking off all the touristy must-sees. And for a taste of local life, consider staying in an Airbnb.
Vogue’s Guide to the Best Airbnbs in Kyoto:
- For the Solo Traveler: Sleek Luxury Studio, from $716 per night
- For a Waterfront Option: A Riverside Machiya, from $457 per night
- For Indoor-Outdoor Living: Traditional Japanese House, from $519 per night
- For the Design Lover: Family-Friendly Machiya, from $284 per night
- For a Family Trip: Two-Story Machiya, from $548 per night
- For Something Just Outside the City: A Mountainside Villa, from $481 per night
Located across Kyoto—everywhere from the historic Higashiyama Ward to the monument-filled Kamigyo Ward—these vacation rentals extend the city’s tranquility to your accommodations (and put you in an ideal location, no matter your agenda). Whether it’s a sunshine-filled penthouse with its own private patio and garden, a traditional Japanese holiday house with an outdoor rotenburo-style bathtub, or a traditional machiya just steps away from the Shirakawa River, let this be your all-encompassing guide to Kyoto’s best Airbnbs for your next trip. Don’t worry—there’s something for every type of traveler.
Sleek Luxury Studio
Picture this: you’re alone in Kyoto, and after a packed day of exploring the historic Higashiyama district’s shops, cafes, restaurants, and various shrines and temples, you tuck into this luxury studio for a peaceful night in. Ideal for a solo stay (though you could fit up to two people in the queen-sized bed), this contemporary hotel-like studio has everything you need—a soaking tub, a view overlooking Kyoto’s greenery, and a small cafe tucked right underneath to make meals a breeze.
Rooms: 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom
Amenities: Bathtub, cafe on property, WiFi, air-conditioning
Location: Higashiyama Ward
A Riverside Machiya
This sleek, restored machiya is perfect for a trio trip—though you might be fighting over who gets to stay in the guest room, which has an up-close view of Kyoto’s Shirakawa River. Complete with an outdoor patio to enjoy the meditative sounds of the river, plus a bathtub, washing machine, and fully equipped kitchen, the townhouse has all the amenities you could need. And you really can’t beat the area: Its stream-side position means it’s quiet and private, while its central location ensures you’re only a short walk away from the area’s prime offerings.
Rooms: 2 bedrooms, 1.5 bathrooms
Amenities: Washing machine, bathtub, bidet, iron, TV, air-conditioning, WiFi, dishwasher, hot water kettle
Location: Near the Shirakawa River
Zen Machiya
This elegant, minimalist machiya can sleep eight across the three bedrooms, making it the ideal accommodation for a family or group trip. Renovated to keep the space’s centuries-old history front and center, this is your spot if you’re looking for tranquility; a private workspace, bathtub with a nature-filled view, and a courtyard all exist to help you unwind—even if you’re traveling with children. It’s also in an ideal location, with convenience stores, supermarkets, and train stations just a short walk away.
Rooms: 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms
Amenities: Outdoor space, bathtub, heated floors, washing machine and dryer, iron, air conditioning, WiFi, hot water kettle
Location: Near Gojō Subway station, Downtown Kyoto and Kyoto station
Traditional Japanese House
This home blends contemporaneity with tradition; the exposed wood beams, sky-high ceilings, and breezy, open-concept living and kitchen areas are especially notable. And while the entire home is architecturally perfect (and interior-design wise—is it bad to stay somewhere just for a horigotatsu-style sunken sofa?), the bathroom is the real scene-stealer here. The outdoor rotenburo bathtub is like having your very own spa.
Rooms: 3 bedrooms, 1.5 bathrooms
Amenities: Microwave, toaster, kettle, TV, outdoor bathtub, WiFi, washing machine, clothing steamer
Location: Near Heian Shrine
Penthouse With Private Garden
Searching for a cozy yet modern spot for a couples’ retreat? Look no further than this sun-soaked, private penthouse located in Kyoto’s less-touristy Kamigyo Ward. You’ll feel like you’re in the clouds while enjoying your morning coffee or tea with sweeping, unobstructed views of the city through vast windows. The spacious patio—which features its own garden—is a major plus, too.
Rooms: 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom
Amenities: TV, WiFi, kettle, air conditioning, rice cooker, coffee machine, Dyson hair dryer, washing machine, shared gym
Location: Nishijin neighborhood
Golden Kyoto Townhouse
This traditional villa has it all, and then some. A stone bath, heated floors, a garden (which even features a small koi pond), and a prime location in Kyoto’s city center... What more could you want? This home also has plenty of design inspiration to offer. The arched alcove in the bedroom and botanical wallpaper in the bathroom are delightful touches.
Rooms: 2 bedrooms, 1.5 bathrooms
Amenities: Stone bath, heated floors, air conditioning, hair dryer, electric kettle, WiFi, washing machine,
Location: Nakagyo Ward
Family-Friendly Machiya
You can experience Kyoto like you’re a local when you stay in this sunny, traditional Japanese townhouse featuring a full kitchen, small patio, and wooden soaking tub (great for post-flight relaxation). It’s situated in a quiet spot within Kamigyo Ward’s residential streets; but step outside the front door, and you’re a walkable distance from shrines, monuments, and the Kyoto Imperial Palace. For those traveling with small children, a crib, pack ’n’ play, books and toys, and a high chair are all available upon request, making it a solid spot for a family.
Rooms: 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom
Amenities: Bathtub, kitchen, hair dryer, WiFi, bidet, washing machine, iron, coffee maker, private backyard, one parking spot.
Location: Near Imadegawa station
Two-Story Machiya
Searching for the optimal spot to stay as a family or large group in Kyoto? Look no further than this two-story renovated machiya that masterfully blends old-school charm with modern, functional design. Able to accommodate up to 12 guests, this home’s luxuriously renovated bathrooms, fully equipped kitchen, functional living room, and meditative backyard space make it an obvious choice for a trip to the city. And, because it’s nestled in Shimogyō Ward, you’ll have great access to transportation as well as shopping, restaurants, and must-see spots like Shosei-en Garden and Higashi Hongan-ji Temple.
Rooms: 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms
Amenities: WiFi, air conditioning, hair dryer, bathtub, private backyard, washing machine
Location: Near Shoseien Garden
A Mountainside Villa
Nestled in the mountainous Kitayama region (about 50 minutes from the center of the city), this private villa is a true escape from the outside world for those looking to unplug, unwind, and immerse themselves in the nature-filled landscapes of Japan. The sweeping mountain views and tranquil patio (featuring a semi-outdoor bath) are just as stunning as the villa’s light-filled, design-focused interiors.
Rooms: 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom
Amenities: Bathtub, hair dryer, bidet, washing machine, black-out curtains, WiFi, patio, backyard
Location: 50 minutes from Kyoto station
Kamogawa River House
Centrally located in the heart of Kyoto, this spacious townhouse is a prime rental for a group looking to explore nearby restaurants and sightseeing attractions—with four bedrooms, it can comfortably fit up to seven guests. But perhaps its top selling point is the Kamogawa River it sits along: Enjoy panoramic views of the water from the floor-to-ceiling windows (or the bathtub) and use it as the perfect path for walking, running, or cycling.
Rooms: 4 bedrooms, 1 bathroom
Amenities: Bathtub, hair dryer, washing machine, iron, exterior security cameras, coffee maker, backyard
Location: Near Shichijo station