I love Kyoto. It’s one of the few cities in the world where I slow down a little, walk more, and actually look around.
Friends always ask me where to stay and what to eat in Kyoto. So I finally wrote it all down.
These are the exact hotels I book, the restaurants I tell people about, and the simple tricks that make the whole trip way more enjoyable.
Hotels
I’ve stayed in two hotels in Kyoto so far. Both stays taught me something new about the city — its history, its design, and the quiet luxury Kyoto does so well.
Hotel The Mitsui, Kyoto
I traveled to Kyoto in January 2025, and on that trip I stayed at Hotel The Mitsui — a former samurai residence that’s now a modern luxury hotel. It’s steps from Nijo Castle, yet it feels like a completely hidden world once you walk inside.
Imagine stepping into calm gardens, walking along quiet pathways, and then discovering a private onsen bath that instantly became my favorite part of the trip.
I filmed a full hotel tour while I was there. You can watch it below, or click here if you prefer watching it on YouTube.
The Ritz-Carlton Hotel, Kyoto
Three months later, I went back to Kyoto and stayed at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel.
It’s set along a serene riverside path, and the whole place feels like a blend of modern luxury and authentic Japanese design.
There’s a beautiful gym and a great pool, but my favorite part was the quiet library — easily one of the best spots in the hotel to read, write, or just relax.
I filmed a full walkthrough of the Ritz-Carlton Kyoto, too. You can watch it below, or click here to watch it on my channel.
Restaurants
I tried a bunch of restaurants in Kyoto, but these were the standouts. Some came from personal exploration, and others were recommendations from friends.
Monk
Monk is a tiny, special restaurant tucked right along the Philosopher’s Path — a calm, quiet stretch near Ginkakuji.
They use seasonal ingredients from local farmers’ markets, and everything is cooked in the most primitive, beautiful way: over live fire.
L’Escamoteur
This recommendation came from our friend Austin Rief. It’s run by a French magician (yes, really), and the whole place feels like stepping into a tiny, theatrical world.
If you go, try to get there early and grab Seat 1A. It’s the best spot in the house.
Yakiyasai Isoya
This place is really fun and a little hip — the kind of restaurant where they play upbeat Japanese jazz and everything feels lively. The food is incredibly fresh and fully farm-to-table, with lots of vegetable-forward dishes.
It’s a great spot if you want something lighter or need a break from sushi.
Honke Owariya
One of Kyoto’s oldest restaurants, Honke Owariya is famous for its handmade soba served in a traditional wooden townhouse. It’s simple, classic, and a great stop if you want an authentic Kyoto meal.
Conclusion
I want to go back to Kyoto soon. Maybe next spring when the cherry blossoms are out.
It’s one of the few places where I don’t feel the need to rush around and check off a list. I just walk. I eat. I look around.
The onsen at Hotel The Mitsui might be the most relaxed I’ve felt in years.
If you’re planning a trip, use these spots as a starting point. But also leave room to wander and find your own favorite places.
Email me if you go. I want to hear what you discover.
Related Articles:
This is my only dedicated Kyoto guide so far. But if you’re also visiting Tokyo, check out these articles:
