8 Kyoto Airbnb Rentals to Book When Visiting the Old Capital

Kyoto feels like the best of both worlds: Its eclectic combination of heritage sites and contemporary attractions make it a truly alluring city to visit in Japan. For food lovers, Nishiki Market and Pontocho in the ancient city are some of the best places to find a variety of mouthwatering Japanese delicacies. Moreover, Kyoto also hosts a variety of entertaining activities that will capture everyone’s attention, like Gion Matsuri or Jidai Matsuri. Should you find yourself in the ancient capital, make the most of the culture by booking a Kyoto Airbnb near these attractions.

Also read: Traditional Towns & Villages in Japan That You Absolutely Have to Visit

Kyoto Airbnb rentals for your getaway in the ancient city

1. This cosy guesthouse at the heart of the city

Listing name: Kyoto Guesthouse Bokuyado Japanese Room B
Listing type: Entire guesthouse
Max. no. of guests: 2
No. of bedrooms: 1

This 70-year-old guest house is famous among travellers visiting Kyoto. It is also home to an immaculate Japanese garden. Thick beddings will keep you warm and comfortable when resting in this Kyoto Airbnb rental. The host even has a small collection of books for guests who are fond of reading. A kotatsu (heated table) inside the guesthouse will keep you warm as you settle in with a good novel.

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2. This beautiful artist-owned townhouse atop a hill

Listing name: Artist’s ZEN & ART house in Kyoto
Listing type: Entire townhouse
Max. no. of guests: 4
No. of bedrooms: 2

This Kyoto Airbnb is perched on a sloping hill and is close to several ancient cultural sites. Among them are The Philosopher’s Path, Kiyomizu Temple, and the Ginkakuji, which are all within a 30-minute drive of each other. 

Within the property, the stone garden is a peaceful place to meditate and clear your mind. Tatami mats are set out for your comfort in the washitsu-style room where you can spend chilly winter evenings cuddling, staying warm, and watching TV! Choose from three bedrooms with different sleeping arrangements. No matter which one you pick, all the beddings are incredibly plush. You’ll be dreaming about your adventures in the old capital in no time!

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3. This spacious modern house near Kinkakuji Temple

Listing name: 【一棟貸切】清掃料無料！金閣寺徒歩５分、最大９名、９３㎡広々一軒家貸切！認可取得済み！
Listing type: Entire home
Max. no. of guests: 9
No. of bedrooms: 2

If you’re travelling with a group, try out this modern house. The host can provide pocket WiFi access, so you can remain connected wherever you are in Kyoto.

Located in a tranquil neighbourhood close to Kinkakuji Temple, this Kyoto Airbnb is a short 10-minute stroll from Arashiyama and other surrounding sights. Up to five bicycles are available for rent for free, so you can explore the traditional Japanese neighbourhood with ease if you book this rental.

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Also read: 10 Things to Do in Japan for First-Time Travellers

4. This picturesque townhouse straight out of a movie

Listing name: <Airbnb service fee ¥0>Kyoto Traditional Art-House
Listing type: Entire townhouse
Max. no. of guests: 4
No. of bedrooms: 2

With its lovely exterior gardens and rustic wall structures, this historic art house in a calm residential area looks like something straight out of a movie. You can pick from two different rooms, each one gently heated with a futon for maximum comfort. They also have cosy bean bags for unwinding. And while you’re here, partake in Kyoto’s traditional activities nearby like the Aoi Festival to make the most of the property’s convenient location.

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5. This simple homestay in a laidback neighbourhood

Listing name: Cozy Zen Takashi’s Homestay
Listing type: Room in townhouse
Max. no. of guests: 2
No. of bedrooms: 1

Curious about Japanese culture and lifestyle? This Kyoto homestay will allow you to see the old city up close, thanks to its convenient and laidback neighbourhood.

From this Kyoto Airbnb, it takes only eight minutes to walk to the Metro Station and JR Train Stop. It is also close to the ancient neighborhood of Nishijin, a well-known weaving region where you can see machiya (old Kyoto townhouses).

This homestay’s cosy atmosphere easily makes it a home away from home for travellers in Kyoto. The room you will be staying in is equipped with everything you need for a restful night’s sleep, including quality linens and pillows. A fully furnished kitchen includes basic equipment, so cooking is always an option.

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6. This Kyoto Airbnb where the hosts feel like long-lost friends

Listing name: Fluffy Koo’s “Registered” Homestay
Listing type: Room in a home
Max. no. of guests: 2
No. of bedrooms: 1

This no-frills homestay treats its visitors like extended family. It’s like meeting long-lost relatives! This rural Japanese home, which is only a short stroll from Fushimi Inari Shrine and 15 minutes from Kyoto Station and the Gion District, invites you to live like a local and make new friends while in the ancient city.

Modern interiors and furnishings keep the house bright and full of charm. Plus, the hosts also offer a free breakfast!

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Also read: 13 Spots in Korea & Japan to Recreate Your Fave K-drama & Anime Scenes

7. This modern Kyoto Airbnb perfect for relaxing vacations

Listing name: 【季・院町中a】京都駅徒歩5分、信楽焼風呂、寝室3つ、浴室2つ
Listing type: Entire vacation home
Max. no. of guests: 6
No. of bedrooms: 3

This chic Kyoto Airbnb is at a prime location in the middle of the city, just a short stroll from Kyoto Station. Modern interiors and amenities keep the house comfortable for travellers, while keeping Japan’s traditional design aesthetic. A flourishing bonsai is there to greet anyone on the three-seater dining table. 

For entertainment, guests can access Netflix on the huge TV. The rental also comes with a reliable WiFi connection — a definite plus, whether you need it for business or recreation. Then, after a busy day of exploring, guests can unwind with a relaxing dip in the hot tub to recuperate their tired limbs.

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8. This lavish vacation home with a gorgeous garden

Listing name: 【季・院町南】京町家京都駅5分、信楽焼風呂、坪庭2、寝室4、浴室2
Listing type: Entire vacation home
Max. no. of guests: 10
No. of bedrooms:  4

This gorgeous Kyoto Airbnb home is only a stone’s throw away from Kyoto Station. Its rooms are tastefully decorated and personally curated by the homeowner. There are tatami mats in the living area, and bedrooms contain cosy futons for comfortable sleeping all throughout the stay.

Additionally, heating and air conditioning in the rental assures comfortable temperatures for guests, no matter the season. Highlights of the vacation rental include a refreshing tub and a small garden. This rental allows for long-term stays for up to a month, too!

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Also read: 8 Stunning Places in the Philippines That Look Like Japan

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