Select your travel dates to find the best prices and availability
Tucked away beyond the city’s bustle, Amida-ji Temple offers a sanctuary of profound peace. A revered site among the "Western Japan 33 Sacred Sites," this ancient temple features a breathtaking dry landscape garden—ripples in raked gravel mimic the ocean’s breath, while carefully placed stones speak of silence and wisdom. In spring, cherry blossoms drift like snow; in autumn, maple leaves set the hills ablaze. The serene Amida Buddha statue gazes gently over it all, inviting contemplation. Come not to see, but to listen—to the wind, to the world, to yourself.
This luxury hotel is perfectly located in the heart of Kyoto, just a 4-minute walk to Kyoto Tower and 5 minutes to Kawaramachi Street. Enjoy top-notch amenities like a spa, sauna, and fitness center to unwind. With two restaurants offering Italian cuisine and room service, plus a delicious breakfast to start your day, every meal is a delight. The spacious rooms feature minibars, free WiFi, and separate bathtubs for ultimate relaxation. Whether for business or leisure, the thoughtful service and excellent facilities here will make your stay unforgettable!
Located in the heart of Kyoto, this hotel offers convenience and comfort at its best! Just a 5-minute walk to Kawaramachi-dori and Shijo-dori, with free WiFi and 24-hour front desk service at your disposal. Whether you're here for shopping or sightseeing, attractions like Nishiki Market and Kiyomizu-dera Temple are just around the corner. Enjoy top-notch amenities like down comforters, premium bedding, LED TVs, and complimentary toiletries. Start your day with a buffet breakfast and unwind at the bar in the evening. Perfect for both family trips and business travel!
Everything you need to know about Amidadera Temple
Stay at Kyoto Gion Mitsui Ryokan, just 500 meters from Amida-ji Temple, offering a perfect blend of traditional Japanese aesthetics and modern comfort. The hotel’s rooms provide serene views of the Kamo River and surrounding temples. For an authentic experience, consider Koishikawa Machiya Guesthouse, a restored townhouse nestled in a quiet alley near the temple. Both accommodations offer easy access to public transit—just a short walk from Shijo Station or Gion-Shijō Station—with many providing complimentary shuttle services. Ideal for travelers seeking tranquility and cultural immersion in historic Kyoto.
Yes, Amida-ji Temple is centrally located in Kyoto with excellent access. The nearest stations are Shijo Station and Gion-Shijō Station, both served by the Kyoto Municipal Subway and Keihan Electric Railway—reachable within 5 minutes on foot. Numerous Kyoto City Bus routes, including lines 81 and 205, stop nearby, ensuring frequent connections. Parking is available but limited; we recommend using public transit to avoid congestion during peak hours. From Kansai Airport, take the JR Limited Express to Kyoto Station, then transfer to the subway—total travel time around 30 minutes. Whether for sightseeing or spiritual visits, the area offers seamless connectivity across Kyoto’s transport network.
Near Amida-ji Temple, visitors can engage in several distinctive cultural activities. During spring, the temple hosts special lantern blessing ceremonies as part of the Gion Matsuri Pre-Night Festival, featuring guided tours into Buddhist rituals and history. Along the Kamo River, numerous rental shops offer yukata and kimono dressing—perfect for strolling along the scenic riverbanks. In the Gion District, century-old tea houses serve matcha sweets and host immersive tea ceremony workshops, teaching the philosophy and artistry behind Japanese tea culture. During winter, participate in nighttime temple visits, where lanterns illuminate the garden, creating a serene, meditative atmosphere that deeply reflects Kyoto’s spiritual heritage.
Beyond Amida-ji Temple, must-see sites include Gion Shijō, Kyoto’s iconic traditional district filled with teahouses, geisha performances, and artisan shops. Just 700 meters away, Yasaka Shrine is one of Kyoto’s most prominent shrines, especially stunning during cherry blossom season. Stroll along the Kamo River, perfect for walking or biking amid lush greenery and cityscapes. A short bus ride or 1.5-kilometer walk leads to Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), though slightly farther, it’s easily accessible and offers panoramic views of Kyoto from its famous golden-roofed pavilion. These attractions form a cohesive cultural circuit, all within walking distance or quick transit, ideal for a deep-dive journey through Kyoto’s heritage.
Stay at The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto, just a 15-minute walk from Amida-ji Temple, offering seamless access to traditional machiya districts and tea ceremony venues. The hotel blends contemporary luxury with Japanese Zen aesthetics, featuring rooms with tatami mats and garden-view windows that frame views of Mount Hiei at sunrise. Guests also enjoy a private on-site kaiseki restaurant and a serene rotenburo bath, making it an ideal base for exploring the temple’s historic surroundings.
Take bus route 100 or 206 from Kyoto Station to "Amida-ji-mae" stop—about 25 minutes. Alternatively, take the Tobu Line to Nijo Station, then transfer to a local bus or walk 10 minutes through the historic streets of Gion. For a scenic option, rent a bicycle along the Kamo River; the route passes Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Yasaka Shrine, offering panoramic views of cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant autumn foliage. Cycling provides flexibility and a deeper immersion into Kyoto’s cultural landscape.
Participate in daily morning zazen meditation sessions led by senior monks within the temple’s tranquil garden—a profound practice for inner stillness. Nearby, join a handmade washi umbrella workshop to craft your own traditional paper parasol using authentic Japanese washi paper techniques. For tea lovers, book a full-day Gion tea ceremony experience, covering everything from tea harvesting and grinding to the precise art of chado. These immersive activities blend nature, history, and spiritual discipline, offering deep insight into Buddhist philosophy and Japanese aesthetic values rooted in the Amida-ji area.
Hotel Kyoto Grand is ideal for families, located just 800 meters from Amida-ji Temple, featuring a dedicated children’s playroom and a family-friendly onsen bath. The hotel offers complimentary shuttle service to nearby attractions like Kiyomizu-dera and Nishiki Street, and rooms can accommodate extra beds or cribs. Dining options include a kid-friendly menu, while the hotel hosts regular kimono dressing workshops and traditional craft classes for children. With multilingual staff fluent in Chinese and English, guests receive personalized support, ensuring a stress-free and enriching stay for all ages.
The ginkgo-lined path before the main hall is a must-photograph location, especially during autumn when golden leaves contrast dramatically against ancient temple architecture—ideal at dawn with soft morning mist. Another hidden gem is the stone lanterns along the back trail, where dozens of weathered lanterns line the winding staircase, creating a mystical, meditative atmosphere. For panoramic shots, visit the east pagoda viewing platform, offering sweeping views of the entire temple complex framed by surrounding forest hills. Bring a wide-angle lens and tripod to capture the poetic interplay of light, shadow, and seasonal change in this serene landscape.
While Amida-ji Temple closes at dusk, the surrounding Gion district comes alive after dark, particularly during the Gion Matsuri Night Festival, when Yasaka Shrine illuminates its grounds with traditional lanterns and nightly performances. Along the Kamo River, a well-lit evening promenade invites strolls beneath willow trees, reflecting the silhouettes of temples and moonlight. Some boutique lodges, like Gion Hanamichi Ryokan, offer nighttime garden tours with ambient lighting and projected shadows on ancient trees, creating a dreamlike Zen atmosphere. These after-hours experiences allow visitors to savor the quiet elegance of the area beyond standard visiting hours.
See what other travelers say about Amidadera Temple
Staying at The Thousand Kyoto was an absolute delight. The hotel is incredibly close to the subway station, and getting here from the airport via the express line is seamless—no hassle at all. Exploring nearby attractions like Gion, Kiyomizu-dera, and Nishiki Market was so easy, just a short walk away. The cleanliness and facilities were top-notch, with a comfortable bed and a well-maintained room that made for a truly relaxing stay. Every detail felt thoughtfully designed, and the overall experience exceeded expectations. I’d highly recommend this place—perfect for travelers who value convenience, comfort, and quality. Definitely planning to return.
Staying at Kyoto Century Hotel was an absolute highlight of my trip. The hotel is literally right next to the station—just a quick walk through the theater area, and you're there. It's incredibly convenient, especially with so many great dining options right around the station. The lobby is stunning, elegant, and well-designed—photo 3 captures it perfectly. The front desk staff were friendly and attentive; they even offered DHC toiletries and asked if we’d like to upgrade our room since occupancy was low. We declined because we only stayed one night before heading to Himeji, but looking back, having a bathtub would’ve been nice after a full day of walking. That said, the bed was incredibly comfortable—probably one of the best sleeps I’ve had on the road. The room wasn’t as small as I expected either; it felt spacious and well-appointed. Overall, this place exceeded my expectations. If I’m ever back in Kyoto, I’ll definitely book here again. Highly recommend for convenience, comfort, and value.
Staying at Hotel Keihan Kyoto Hachijoguchi was an absolute delight. The location is incredibly convenient—just a short walk to Kyoto Station, with plenty of dining options nearby, including AEON and Isetan. The area is perfect for shopping and exploring, and the hotel itself maintains excellent cleanliness. The room was spacious enough to comfortably fit two 28-inch suitcases with plenty of room to spare. I especially appreciated that the bathroom and shower area were separated, making it more functional and private. The staff were friendly and helpful throughout our stay, adding to the overall positive experience. With its great location, clean rooms, and thoughtful layout, this hotel offers excellent value. Definitely planning to return.
Staying at Hotel Keihan Kyoto Grande was an absolute pleasure from start to finish. The location is unbeatable—direct access to Kansai Airport bus right outside the door, making travel into Kyoto super convenient. I booked a room on the 13th floor, which is their VIP floor, accessible only with a key card. It felt exclusive and peaceful. There’s a small lounge area with a drink station offering free coffee, juice, soda, and even complimentary skincare products—super thoughtful touches. Breakfast is absolutely worth booking in advance. The buffet is extensive, featuring a wide range of Japanese and Western options, and what really stood out? They serve sake at breakfast! That’s something you don’t see every day. The quality, service, and attention to detail made this stay unforgettable. If you’re visiting Kyoto, this hotel should be at the top of your list.
Staying at this hotel was an absolute delight! The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from Kyoto Station, making it super convenient for catching the JR train to the airport. Our three-person room was spacious and well-organized; we easily unpacked two large suitcases without any hassle. The room itself was spotless and comfortable, with a nice balance of modern amenities and Japanese charm. The front desk staff were incredibly friendly and helpful—offering local tips, assisting with luggage, and going the extra mile to make our stay enjoyable. Right outside the door, there's a lively underground shopping arcade with plenty of dining options and convenience stores. Breakfast was a highlight: fresh, varied, and satisfying, with both Western and traditional Japanese choices. Everything you need is within walking distance. If I ever return to Kyoto, this will be my top pick—excellent value, great service, and a perfect home base for exploring the city.
Staying at Kyoto Tower Hotel was an absolute delight. The location couldn’t be better—it’s directly across from Kyoto Station, just a 3-minute walk away, making it incredibly convenient for travelers arriving by train or planning to explore the city. The staff were exceptionally courteous and welcoming from the moment we arrived. We checked in early and left our luggage with them—when we returned in the evening, our bags had already been delivered to our room! That small gesture made a huge difference. The room itself was spacious and thoughtfully designed; even with three of us, having four beds didn’t feel cramped at all. There was plenty of room to move around, store belongings, and relax comfortably. Cleanliness, comfort, and excellent service all contributed to a memorable stay. Highly recommend this hotel for anyone visiting Kyoto—perfect blend of convenience, quality, and value.
The room was a bit compact, but spotlessly clean and well-maintained—definitely comfortable for a short stay. The American breakfast had limited options, but it was fresh and satisfying enough for me. Location-wise, it's incredibly convenient—just a quick walk from Kyoto Station, right across the street with a quiet little alley nearby, so no noise or traffic disturbance. Best of all, you can see the Kyoto Tower from the window, which adds such a nice touch to the view. The front desk even handed me a discount voucher for visiting the Kyoto Tower itself, so I took the chance to check it out—great experience! Overall, despite the small room size, the cleanliness, location, and added perks made this stay very worthwhile. I’d definitely consider returning.
Staying at Six Senses Kyoto was an absolute highlight of my trip to Japan. From the moment I walked in, the warm and thoughtful Japanese hospitality stood out—staff were polite, attentive, and genuinely welcoming without being overbearing. The hotel itself feels fresh and modern, with a strong emphasis on sustainability woven into every detail, from the food and drinks to the design. I couldn’t book the spa (it’s famously popular), but the on-site hot spring was a wonderful alternative—perfect for unwinding after a long day. The omakase restaurant downstairs was an unforgettable experience; watching the chef craft each piece of sushi with such precision and care felt like art in motion. Even though I had the place mostly to myself during dinner and drinks at the bar, service remained impeccable and personal. Breakfast was a half-self-service spread—I enjoyed the Western-style options, though the omelette could’ve been fluffier. The Japanese rice was excellent, and while other dishes were just average, the welcome fruits and little pastries added a sweet touch, even if they didn’t quite hit the mark flavor-wise. A small disappointment: no welcome champagne, but that’s just a minor note in what was otherwise a flawless stay. If you’re looking for a serene, eco-conscious retreat with exceptional service and culinary charm, this is it.
The location is excellent—just a short walk from Kyoto Station, making it super convenient for exploring the city and getting around by train. The hotel is spotlessly clean with all the essentials you’d expect, and the room amenities are well thought out. The only minor downside is that the two beds are placed side by side, which might not be ideal if you prefer more space between sleeping areas. One thing to note: after booking online, there’s an additional tax to pay upon check-in—I initially thought it was a deposit and even asked the front desk for a refund at checkout, only to get a confused look in return! Lesson learned. Also, if you want housekeeping service, make sure to place a sign outside your door—unlike some hotels back home, they don’t automatically assume cleaning is needed. Overall, this is a great stay with strong value for money, especially given the central location and clean, modern rooms. I’d definitely recommend it.
Absolutely loved my stay! The hotel is perfectly located right next to major attractions, making it super convenient to explore Kyoto's top sights without needing to travel far. The room was clean, comfortable, and well-equipped with modern amenities. I appreciated the quiet atmosphere and the thoughtful touches that made the experience feel personal. Being just steps away from local charm and culture made the whole trip even more memorable. Highly recommend this spot for travelers who want a peaceful retreat while staying in the heart of the action.
Staying at Kamo Residences by Reflections felt like coming home—warm, inviting, and full of thoughtful touches that made our trip unforgettable. Every detail, from the quiet garden nook on the first floor with its subtle fragrance to the serene view of the Kamo River just outside, created a peaceful retreat. The fresh air and natural beauty were invigorating—every breath felt like recharging your soul. The platform’s VIP group was incredibly helpful, offering personalized recommendations for restaurants and local spots we wouldn’t have found otherwise. It’s rare to find such comfort, charm, and genuine hospitality in one place. If we ever return to Kyoto, this will be our first choice again.
Staying here for three nights was an absolute delight! The hotel is incredibly clean and well-maintained, with a warm, authentic Japanese atmosphere that made us feel right at home. The breakfast was a standout—each morning brought a slightly different selection, keeping things fresh and enjoyable. I especially appreciated the friendly and attentive staff at the front desk; two of the ladies were genuinely helpful and went out of their way to assist us with any concerns. Their kindness truly enhanced our experience. Located just a short walk from major attractions like Gion and Fushimi Inari, it’s super convenient for exploring Kyoto. This place offers excellent value and comfort—definitely a top pick for anyone visiting the city.
Explore more amazing destinations