Where to Stay in Kyoto with Kids: 2025 Family Hotel Guide
James Saunders-Wyndham
Table of contents:
Finding family friendly hotels in Kyoto is easier than most of you will think. For many travelers visiting Japan, Kyoto might be the main highlight of your trip! But you may worry about child friendly accommodation. So, if you're visiting Kyoto with your family,make sure your accommodation stay between Kyoto temple visits is an enjoyable experience.
Finding a hotel that suits your family’s needs can help make your Kyoto stay more enjoyable. Unlike the sprawling metropolis of Tokyo, Kyoto’s compact layout means you can drive from one side of the city to the other in just 25 minutes. That makes it perfect for families who want to explore Japan’s cultural heart—without the stress of long train rides or complicated transfers.
➡️ Check out our 3-day Kyoto itinerary to plan your stay ⛩️
Kyoto Omotenashi: Why Family Accommodation in Kyoto Feels Different
One thing you need to know about Kyoto hotels is how they represent 'omotenashi ' (おもてなし) - traditional Japanese hospitality and service. In Kyoto, hotels offer thoughtful touches: personalized service, tatami mat rooms, and central locations that make traveling with children easier.
Whether you want a five-star escape with views of Kiyomizu-dera Temple or a peaceful apartment near Arashiyama, these hotel experiences will become part of your Kyoto story!
1. Mimaru Kyoto Nishinotoin Takatsuji: Pokémon Themed Stay
1.1. Downtown Kyoto Access with Easy Transit Options
Tucked into a quiet street in downtown Kyoto (京都市内 - kyoto-shi nai), the hotel offers excellent access without the noise. Getting here is easy, especially if you're flying into Kansai International Airport - the airport limousine bus brings you close with no transfers.
Nearby stations include:
- Gojo Subway Station – just a few minutes' walk
- Karasuma Oike Station and Karasuma Train Station – quick connections around town
- Karasuma Line access – easy trips to Nijo Castle or Kyoto Imperial Palace
1.2. Spacious Rooms for Every Family Size
This is one of the few hotels in Kyoto that truly understands family needs. Room types include:
- Family Apartment – sleeps 4, with fun bunk beds for kids
- Japanese Apartment – washitsu style with tatami floors, sleeps 5
- One-Bedroom Family Apartment – extra space with a bunk bed layout
- Connecting Japanese Apartment – fits up to 9 guests, perfect for large families or multi-generational trips
1.3. Pokémon Themed Rooms: Sleep Beside Snorlax
The Pokémon rooms (for 4–6 guests) go far beyond cute décor—they’re designed to delight.
- Pokéball wallpaper and themed design
- A life-sized Snorlax plush (カビゴン / Kabigon)
- Pokémon dishes and dining sets
- Footprint trails across the floor
- Surprise Pokémon gifts for the kids
1.4. Kid-Friendly Dining and Downtown Favorites
The central location puts you close to some of Kyoto’s best family eats:
- Kawaramachi – This street is loaded with kid-friendly restaurants.
- Menya Inoichi – Authentic ramen with light, flavorful broth.
- Gyoza ChaoChao – Handmade dumplings, always a hit with kids.
2. Hotel Granvia Kyoto: Perfect Station-Side Convenience
2.1. Direct Access Inside Kyoto Station
Granvia is literally inside Kyoto Station (京都駅 / kyoto-eki)—one of Japan’s major transport hubs. That means:
- No taxis or transfers needed—just roll your luggage straight from the train
- Direct access to JR trains, subway lines, and the main bus terminal
- Connected to Isetan, Porta, and The Cube shopping centers
- A 7-Eleven on-site for quick snacks and essentials
- Just 5–10 minutes on foot to Kyoto Tower and Kawaramachi Street
Local Insight:
Flying into Kansai Airport? The JR Haruka Limited Express (はるか) from Kansai International Airport drops you right at the doorstep. You can use Japan Rail Pass -> Check out JR Pass purchase details!
2.2. Spacious Family Rooms with Smart Design
For a hotel inside a major station, the family accommodations here are surprisingly spacious:
- Family Suite (62m²) – sleeps up to 5 guests with 4 standard beds + 1 convertible bed
- Dual-sink bathrooms with separate shower and toilet areas
- Multiple TVs, laptop-sized safes, and thoughtful storage
- Some rooms offer scenic views of the Higashiyama Mountains
It’s a great option for families who need a quiet, organized space to unwind between sightseeing days.
2.3. Dining Options Even Picky Eaters Will Love
Granvia has nine in-house restaurants, so you’ll never run out of options:
- Gozanbo (御山坊) – elegant teppanyaki with sweeping views
- Buffet breakfast – a huge spread of Western and Japanese dishes
- Porta underground mall – ideal for quick and affordable meals
- Ramen shops, sushi counters, and even bakeries all inside the station complex
Whether you’re looking for fine dining or quick kid-friendly bites, everything is close and convenient.
2.4. Day Trips Made Easy
If you’re planning excursions outside Kyoto, this location is ideal:
- Direct access to Nara, Himeji, or even Kanazawa via JR lines
- Fushimi Inari Taisha and Arashiyama’s Bamboo Grove—just a short ride away
3. Cross Hotel Kyoto: Spacious Rooms in a Prime Downtown Location
If you’re a family that needs room to stretch out, Cross Hotel Kyoto (クロスホテル京都) offers rare spaciousness right in the heart of downtown. It’s modern, stylish, and perfectly located for sightseeing on foot.
3.1. Room Options for Families of 5–7
Cross Hotel’s family-friendly rooms are a game changer in space-conscious Japan:
- Japanese Suite Room (70m² / 753 ft²): 2 twin beds + 3 futons
- Deluxe Family Twin Room (47m² / 506 ft²): Great for families of 4
- Corner Rooms: Provide added space and better natural light
3.2. Central Location Near Kyoto’s Best Attractions
Cross Hotel sits right at the crossroads of Kawaramachi-dori (河原町通) and Kiyamachi-dori (木屋町通)—putting you steps from shopping, dining, and river walks.
- Sanjo Station (三条駅) is just minutes away, giving you direct access to both the Keihan and Tozai lines
- Nishiki Market and Kyoto International Manga Museum are walkable, even for little legs
- Gion district, Pontocho Alley, and Kamo River are all nearby for scenic evening strolls
It’s one of my favorite areas to recommend for families—centrally located without feeling too chaotic.
3.3. Family Dining & Shopping at Your Doorstep
The hotel’s location puts you right next to Shinkyogoku Shopping Street (新京極商店街)—a fun blend of arcades, local snack shops, and character merchandise (yes, even Pokémon).
You’re also minutes from:
- Kyoto Kawaramachi Garden and Porta underground mall
- Pontocho Alley for traditional Kyoto dining
- KIHARU Brasserie (inside the hotel), which serves Mediterranean fusion meals
But if I’m honest? Some of my favorite family meals in Kyoto have come from small alleyway restaurants just behind the hotel. Follow your nose—you’ll find gold.
4. Hyatt Regency Kyoto: Traditional Luxury for Modern Families
Set in the historic Higashiyama district (東山), Hyatt Regency Kyoto blends five-star comfort with a deep sense of place. Surrounded by temples, museums, and gardens, it’s an ideal base for families looking to explore Kyoto’s cultural heart—with ease and elegance.
4.1. Spacious Suites & Thoughtful Layouts
The rooms here are perfectly tailored to family needs—both in comfort and design:
- Two-bedroom L-shaped suites (90m²): Provide privacy while keeping everyone connected
- Premium rooms with city-view balconies (35m²): Located on the quiet fifth floor
- Children under 12 stay free, making it easier on the family budget
Rooms balance traditional Japanese elements with modern luxury: antique kimono fabrics framed as wall art, soft lighting from paper lanterns (提灯 - chōchin), and plush Western-style bedding.
4.2. Cultural Activities Designed for Kids
The Hyatt’s concierge team excels at curating cultural experiences that keep kids curious and engaged. Over the years, I’ve watched children delight in:
- Morning kimono dress-up sessions
- Origami and calligraphy workshops
- Garden strolls with scavenger hunt-style temple tours
They time activities early in the day—knowing tired kids and temple steps don’t mix well after lunch. This thoughtful scheduling is one reason I recommend the Hyatt to families with younger children.
4.3. Dining Options for All Ages
Whether your child is adventurous or picky, the hotel’s restaurants offer something for everyone:
- Café 33 serves Western-style comfort food made with local ingredients
- Trattoria Sette offers casual Italian in a bright, family-friendly space
- Touzan (東山) provides a serene setting for Japanese cuisine, including semi-private rooms ideal for families
And if you’re dealing with jet lag or little ones too restless for restaurants, room service is available and surprisingly kid-friendly.
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5. Kyoto Brighton Hotel: Spacious Calm Near the Imperial Palace
Tucked into a quiet residential area near Kyoto Imperial Palace (京都御所 / Kyoto Gosho), the Kyoto Brighton Hotel is a hidden gem for families craving a bit more space—and a lot more peace. It’s one of the few places in Kyoto that blends traditional touches with wide-open layouts that actually give you room to unpack and breathe.
5.1. Family Suites That Feel Like Home
Having toured dozens of hotels across Japan, I can confidently say: these rooms are huge by Japanese standards.
- Triple & Quad Rooms (42m²): Comfortable for families of 3–4
- Flexible Configurations: Choose twin beds, queen setups, or up to 6 beds for larger families
- Quiet Features: Noise-proofing, air purifiers, and traditional matcha (抹茶) tea sets in every room
The deep soaking tubs are a favorite after long sightseeing days, and the color scheme - drawn from Kyoto’s machiya townhouses - adds a warm, restful atmosphere.
5.2. Kid Policies & Family Dining
Children of all ages are welcome, but here’s what families should know:
- Kids under 6 stay free, but breakfast costs extra (¥1,900 if not included in your plan)
- Children 6 and over are charged the adult rate
The hotel’s five in-house restaurants serve washoku (和食 / traditional Japanese cuisine) that even picky kids tend to enjoy.
5.3. Free Shuttle Service to Central Kyoto
The Brighton’s peaceful location is made even better by a free and frequent shuttle to Karasumaoike Station (烏丸御池駅):
- Runs every 20 minutes from 8:20 AM to 9:40 PM
- Departs on the 10s, 30s, and 50s—easy to plan around naptimes or slow mornings
- Gets you to the heart of Kyoto in about 10 minutes
6. Luck You Kyoto: A Ryokan Stay That Welcomes Families
This ryokan has the charm of a 100-year-old Kyoto machiya (町家) townhouse while adding just enough modern comfort to keep things easy for families. It’s quiet, cozy, and incredibly welcoming - perfect for travelers looking to introduce their kids to traditional Japanese hospitality.
6.1. Japanese-Style Rooms for Families
The rooms here are simple, clean, and thoughtfully laid out—great for families with younger kids.
- Triple Room with Garden View: Larger bath area helps with bathing toddlers
- Premium 4-Person Rooms (“Shiki” & “Tsuki”): Spacious tatami rooms with tasteful Japanese decor
- Superior 3-Person Rooms: Classic 6-mat layout, cozy and functional
Tatami floors and futons make bedtime safer for kids - no need to worry about little ones falling from high beds. Rooms also feature heated flooring, air conditioning, and private bathrooms with Western-style toilets.
6.2. Location with Hidden Perks
Located in Shimogyō Ward (下京区), this ryokan sits away from major crowds but still keeps you close to the action.
- 15-minute walk to Kyoto Aquarium—great for kids
- 10-minute drive to Yasaka Shrine
- 13-minute walk to Shijō-Ōmiya Station for charming rides on the Randen tram to Arashiyama
It’s a great base for families wanting a quieter Kyoto experience without sacrificing convenience.
6.3. Child-Friendly Amenities
The staff here truly go the extra mile for families, offering thoughtful extras that make all the difference.
- Large bathrooms in select rooms—helpful when traveling with little ones
- Kid-sized yukata (浴衣) and children’s jinbei (甚平) available
- Heated floors keep the room cozy for crawling babies
- Staff regularly praised for their kindness and attentiveness toward young guests
7. 22 Pieces: Apartment-Style Stays with Space to Breathe
Located just minutes from Kyoto Station, 22 Pieces offers stylish, apartment-style suites that give families something rare in Japanese accommodations: space, flexibility, and a kitchen you’ll actually want to use. With modern design and thoughtful touches, this boutique stay feels more like a home than a hotel.
7.1. Fully Equipped Kitchens for Family Meals
Each unit includes a complete kitchenette, stocked with:
- Pots, pans, utensils, and tableware
- Microwave (電子レンジ / denshi renji), refrigerator, stovetop
Local Insight:
Eon Mall (イオンモール) is just 4 minutes away and has everything you need—from fresh produce to quick snacks and budget-friendly restaurants.
7.2. Spacious Room Layouts for Groups
Studios here are a generous 34–39 m², far more than typical Kyoto hotels. Choose from:
- Studio with Terrace – includes a private walled garden
- Studio with Living Area – comes with a sunny balcony
- Studio with Dining Table – ideal for shared meals and family games
Each unit sleeps 2–5 guests, with configurations that support both small families. Just note: children aged 6+ are considered adults for booking purposes.
7.3. Location Perks Near Kyoto Station
You’re tucked in a peaceful local neighborhood, but just steps from the city’s major transit hub:
- 5–8 minute walk from Kyoto Station
- 6 minutes to the airport bus stop
- Easy access to the Kyoto Railway Museum and Kyoto Aquarium
- Surrounded by bakeries, local eateries, and supermarkets
8. Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Shijo: Downtown Comfort with Kimono-Inspired Charm
Families looking for a central, stylish base in Kyoto will love Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Shijo. Just steps from major transport lines and surrounded by shops, cultural sites, and great restaurants, this hotel strikes a balance between convenience and aesthetic charm.
8.1. Central Location Near Family Attractions
Located just a 6-minute walk to both Shijō Station (四条駅) on the Karasuma Line and Karasuma Station (阪急烏丸駅), this hotel makes it easy to explore:
- Nishiki Market (錦市場) – a sensory playground for curious eaters
- Kyoto International Manga Museum – one of the best rainy day activities in the city
- Nijō Castle (二条城) – great for history-loving kids
- Arashiyama (嵐山) – easily reached via Hankyu Line for nature, monkeys, and bamboo groves
You’re also walking distance to shopping streets like Teramachi and Shinkyogoku, perfect for evening strolls.
8.2. Breakfast Buffet & Kid-Friendly Dining Nearby
The hotel’s breakfast buffet includes Japanese and Western options, so even picky eaters will find something to love.
When it’s time to head out for lunch or dinner, I recommend:
- Burger Revolution Kyoto – a favorite with my own nieces and nephews
- Ramen Sen-no-Kaze (千の風) – where one picky eater I know discovered a deep love of noodles
- Several nearby konbini (コンビニ) like 7-Eleven for quick snacks and emergency treats
9. Rihga Royal Hotel Kyoto: Indoor Pool and Family-Friendly Comfort
After a long day of temple hopping in Kyoto’s summer heat, nothing beats a refreshing swim—and that’s exactly why Rihga Royal Hotel Kyoto is such a hit with families. Renovated in 2016, this hotel combines spacious rooms with one of the rarest family amenities in Kyoto: a heated indoor pool.
9.1. Spacious Room Layouts for Up to 6 Guests
The hotel offers flexible configurations that cater to a wide range of family sizes:
- Luxury Family Room (60 m²) – Features 4 single beds and sleeps up to 6 with additional futons or sofas
- Kyoto Style Family Room (50 m²) – Blends Japanese design with Western comfort, perfect for up to 4 guests
9.2. Dining Options for All Tastes
With eight dining venues on-site, meal planning becomes stress-free:
- “Top of Kyoto” – The city’s only revolving restaurant, offering panoramic views with every bite
- Buffet-style dining, French cuisine, and traditional Japanese options
I often recommend “Top of Kyoto” to first-time visitors—it’s a fun, low-pressure way to enjoy a special meal with kids while taking in Kyoto’s skyline, temples, and city lights.
9.3. Convenient Access for Day Trips
Families love this hotel’s practical location:
- 10-minute walk to Kyoto Station for rail and bus connections
- Free shuttle bus every 15 minutes (7:30 AM to 9:00 PM)
- Easy access to Kyoto Aquarium and Railway Museum on foot
This base makes it incredibly easy to hop on trains for Nara, Osaka, or Arashiyama without needing to change hotels.
A Comparison Table of Hotels
| Hotel Name | Location/Access | Room Types/Capacity | Notable Family Amenities | Unique Features | Nearby Attractions |
| Mimaru Kyoto Nishinotoin Takatsuji | Downtown Kyoto, near Gojo Subway Station | Family Apartment (4 pax), Japanese Apartment (5 pax), Connecting Rooms (9 pax) | Full kitchen, washer/dryer, dining area | Pokemon themed rooms with special decorations and amenities | Kawaramachi dining district |
| Hotel Granvia Kyoto | Inside Kyoto Station | Family Suite (62sqm, 5 pax) | Multiple dining options, dual bathroom sinks | Direct station access, extensive shopping complex | Kyoto Tower, Kawaramachi Street |
| Cross Hotel Kyoto | Downtown intersection of Kawaramachi/Kiyamachi | Japanese Suite (753sqft, 5 pax), Deluxe Family Twin (506sqft, 4 pax) | Separate bathroom/toilet areas, children stay free | Modern Zen-like design | Nishiki Market, Manga Museum |
| Hyatt Regency Kyoto | Historic Higashiyama district | L-shaped suite (90sqm, 2 bedrooms), Children under 12 stay free | Cultural activities for kids, babysitting services | Traditional Japanese esthetics with modern comfort | UNESCO World Heritage sites |
| Kyoto Brighton Hotel | Near Kyoto Imperial Palace | Triple/Quad Rooms (42sqm, 3-4 pax), Rooms for up to 6 pax | Free shuttle service, extensive breakfast buffet | Largest rooms in Kyoto | Imperial Palace, guided cultural tours |
| Luck You Kyoto | Shimogyo Ward | Triple Room with Garden, Premium 4-Person Rooms | Heated floors, kid-sized yukata available | Traditional ryokan experience | Kyoto Aquarium (15-min walk) |
| 22 Pieces | 5-8 minutes from Kyoto Station | Studio rooms (34-39sqm, 2-5 pax) | Full kitchenette, board games, playpens | Apartment-style accommodation | Kyoto Railway Museum, Eon Mall |
| Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Shijo | Central downtown location | Rooms for 1-4 beds, cribs available | Coin laundry, rental items | Traditional design elements | Nishiki Market, Manga Museum |
| Rihga Royal Hotel Kyoto | Near Kyoto Station | Luxury Family Room (60sqm, 6 pax), Family Room (50sqm, 4 pax) | Heated indoor pool, jacuzzi | Only revolving restaurant in Kyoto | Kyoto Aquarium, Railway Museum |
FAQs
Are Kyoto hotels suitable for families with young children?
Yes, many Kyoto hotels go out of their way to welcome families with small children. You’ll find thoughtful extras like baby cribs, kid-sized yukata, bed guards, and heated floors in traditional ryokans. Several properties also offer spacious layouts with bunk beds or tatami areas perfect for little ones. Always check in advance to confirm availability of child-friendly amenities.
What’s the best area to stay in Kyoto with kids?
Downtown areas like Kawaramachi and Karasuma offer easy access to restaurants, public transport, and sightseeing spots. Kyoto Station hotels are ideal for convenience and day trips, while places like Arashiyama or the Imperial Palace area offer quieter, more relaxed settings. Choose based on your family’s pace—central for short stays, quieter for longer visits.
Do family hotels in Kyoto have kitchens or laundry facilities?
Yes, many apartment-style hotels like 22 Pieces and Mimaru include full kitchens and in-room laundry, which are perfect for longer stays. Even more traditional hotels often have coin-operated laundry or same-day cleaning services. Having these amenities makes it much easier to manage meals and packing when traveling with kids.
Can I stay in a ryokan with children?
Absolutely—some ryokans like Luck You Kyoto are designed specifically with families in mind. They offer Japanese-style rooms with futons and heated floors, making them both safe and cozy for young kids. Look for properties that provide child-sized yukata or baths with private options to make the experience smoother.
When is the best time to book a family hotel in Kyoto?
For peak seasons like cherry blossom (late March to early April) and autumn leaves (November), it's best to book 3–6 months in advance. Family-sized rooms sell out quickly, especially at popular properties. Booking early gives you more choice and better prices—especially if you need extra beds or connecting rooms.
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James Saunders-Wyndham
I've been immersed in Japanese culture and daily life for over 30 years and am proud to call Japan my home. Originally from Australia, my journey has taken me from teaching at Japanese universities to traveling extensively across the country, uncovering its hidden gems. As a web developer, I built Romancing Japan from the ground up to share these experiences with you. Whether it's the charm of old Kyoto, the pulse of Tokyo, or the tranquility of the countryside, I love helping others discover the magic of Japan—one story at a time.
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