Shijo Street is Kyoto’s pulse—where mornings buzz with indie cafés and boutique charm, and nights ignite with neon-lit izakaya magic. From delicate matcha sweets to bold fusion tapas, every bite redefines what Kyoto cuisine can be. At night, Shijo glows like a dreamy film set: lights ripple along the streets, and walking here feels like stepping into a story that never ends.



Everything you need to know about Shijo
Shijo Kiyomizu Daiya Hotel is a top choice, located just a 5-minute walk from Shijo Street’s bustling shopping district. This hotel blends authentic Machiya townhouse architecture with modern amenities, offering rooms with wooden lattice windows framing serene garden views. Guests can enjoy daily matcha tea ceremonies and complimentary kimono rentals for exploring nearby Gion and Pontocho alleys.
Excellent transportation access: the hotel is a 10-minute subway ride from Kyoto Station via the Karasuma Line, or a short walk to bus stops serving major attractions. Perfect for travelers seeking both convenience and cultural immersion in central Kyoto.
Gion Sankaku Hotel is ideal for exploring Gion and Pontocho, located just 300 meters from Gion (a 5-minute walk). Its proximity to Pontocho’s famed cherry blossom alley makes it perfect for evening strolls through historic teahouses and lantern-lit streets. The hotel features traditional Machiya-inspired interiors with tatami mats and shoji screens, creating an authentic Kyoto ambiance.
Guests enjoy complimentary kimono rental and guided cultural tours. Located a mere 3-minute walk from Shijo Station, the hotel provides seamless access to Kyoto’s subway and bus networks—ideal for hassle-free sightseeing across the city.
Hotel Gracery Kyoto Shijo, part of the Tokyu Hotels chain, is a top-rated family-friendly option featuring interconnecting rooms, a kids’ playroom, and complimentary baby cots and toiletries. Located just a 5-minute walk from Kawaramachi shopping district, it offers easy access to large malls, kid-friendly restaurants, and toy stores.
The hotel hosts regular family workshops such as washi paper crafting and tea ceremony sessions tailored for children, blending fun with cultural education. Additional amenities include 24-hour self-service laundry and luggage storage—perfect for long-distance travelers. Easily reachable from Kyoto Station via subway in just 8 minutes, making it ideal for stress-free family getaways.
Don’t miss the Pontocho Cherry Blossom Walkway at night—lantern-lit stone paths wind through historic teahouses, creating a dreamlike atmosphere beneath glowing sakura lights. Pair it with a kaiseki dinner at a Gion teahouse, savoring seasonal Kyoto vegetables and delicate seafood dishes that highlight local craftsmanship.
Some teahouses also offer live Noh theater performances or appearances by geiko (Kyoto’s geisha) dancers, providing rare glimpses into traditional arts. The contrast of neon signs along Shijo Street against ancient temple silhouettes, especially when viewed from the direction of Kiyomizu-dera, creates stunning photo opportunities perfect for capturing Kyoto’s timeless beauty under moonlight.
See what other travelers say about Shijo

Located just a short 15-minute walk from Kyoto Station, this hotel offers incredible convenience. Follow the signs through the underground passage to emerge directly onto the street—just a five-minute stroll from there. The temple of Jōnen-ji is right across from the hotel, and it’s absolutely worth a visit. A bus stop is just a five-minute walk away, with direct access to popular spots like Fushimi Inari, Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), and the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. The 17-line bus stops right outside for trips to Gokoku-ji Temple and beyond. Inside, the room is spacious with a generous bathroom and a cozy little sitting area—perfect for families or travelers who value comfort and space. Clean, well-designed, and thoughtfully laid out, this place delivers excellent value without compromising on quality. I’d definitely stay here again.

Staying at 22 Pieces Apartments in Kyoto was an absolute delight, especially with kids in tow. The facilities are incredibly well thought out—everything you need for a comfortable family stay is right there in the unit. The kitchen is fully equipped with a dedicated oven and microwave (no sharing required!), plus you get access to essentials like knives, cutting boards, and plastic wrap. Even better, they lend hair curlers—such a thoughtful touch! I bought groceries nearby and cooked meals at home, which saved money and gave us more flexibility. The location is convenient, close to public transit and major attractions. This place truly makes family travel stress-free and enjoyable. Highly recommend for anyone traveling with children or planning a self-catering getaway in Kyoto.

Staying at HIDEOUT was a fantastic experience—definitely one of the best places I've stayed in Kyoto. The bed is 1.6 meters wide, noticeably larger than standard Japanese twin beds, making it super comfortable for two people. The soundproofing is excellent; I barely heard any noise from neighboring rooms, which made for a peaceful night’s sleep. The room features a well-designed three-part layout: sink, toilet, and shower are completely separated—great for privacy and convenience. While there's no kettle in the room, you can easily get drinking water from the B2 communal kitchen area. Housekeeping isn’t daily, but the trash needs to be placed outside by 11 a.m. for pickup, and towels, pillows, and slippers are self-service—simple and efficient. What really stands out is the location: just a short 8-minute walk from Kyoto Station, the bus stop to Fushimi Inari Shrine, and even a Don Quijote store. Perfect for exploring the city without needing a car or long transit times. With modern amenities, smart design, and unbeatable accessibility, this place offers incredible value. I’ll definitely come back.

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.

Staying at Kyoran Kisaragitei was an absolute delight. The moment I stepped into the property, I was captivated by the serene garden area—perfectly manicured with traditional Japanese elements that create a calming atmosphere. The room itself was spacious, clean, and well-appointed with modern comforts blended seamlessly with classic design. I especially appreciated the thoughtful touches like high-quality toiletries and excellent bedding. What truly stood out was the location—within walking distance to major attractions like Gion and Kiyomizu-dera, yet tucked away in a quiet neighborhood. There are plenty of local cafes, boutiques, and restaurants nearby, making it easy to explore Kyoto’s charm without needing to travel far. For a peaceful retreat with great convenience, this place is a must-book.

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.

Staying at Floral Green Maple House in Kyoto was an absolute delight! The room was immaculately clean and surprisingly well-equipped—complete with a washing machine, stove, microwave, and even a dryer right in the bathroom. I loved being able to wash and dry my clothes on-site; it felt so convenient and homely. The staff were incredibly attentive and genuinely warm throughout the entire stay. I accidentally left my headphones behind, and instead of just waiting for me to notice, they reached out immediately and arranged to send them back to Tokyo—such a thoughtful gesture! It really made the experience stand out. Located right near Shijo Kawaramachi, everything is within walking distance, and the overall vibe is cozy yet modern. This place offers incredible value and service that feels personal and genuine. I’ll definitely be coming back and would highly recommend it to anyone visiting Kyoto.

Staying at The Prince Kyoto Takaragaike, Autograph Collection was an absolute delight. The atmosphere is wonderfully serene and peaceful—every corner of the hotel feels thoughtfully designed and impeccably clean. I especially appreciated the breakfast spread: fresh, flavorful Japanese dishes like silky miso soup and perfectly grilled fish made my mornings truly special. The location is fantastic—just a short walk to nearby temples and excellent access to subway lines for exploring other parts of Kyoto. The quiet, cozy ambiance made it feel like a true retreat from the city’s hustle. It's rare to find such comfort, convenience, and charm all in one place. This isn’t just a hotel—it’s a memorable experience. I’ll definitely be back.

Staying at this hotel was absolutely one of the best decisions I made during my trip to Kyoto. The location is perfect—just a short walk from major attractions like Gion and Fushimi Inari, and public transportation is super convenient. The building itself won a design award, and it shows in every detail—from the thoughtful layout to the elegant finishes. My room had a private bathroom, but what really stood out was the on-site Japanese-style bath with a soaking tub, plus an outdoor hot spring pool that felt magical under the night sky. The room also came stocked with drinks including beer, wine, and coffee, and even had a high-end fridge and a laundry machine—so much convenience! It’s rare to find such a peaceful yet well-equipped retreat in the heart of Kyoto. I’d come back in a heartbeat.
Explore more amazing destinations