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The Gion Matsuri Festival
Location: Yasaka Shrine
Time: Jul 1st – Jul 31st 2023
The Gion Matsuri Festival is one of Japan’s most famous and important festivals, held annually in Kyoto during July. It is a month-long celebration that culminates in two main processions known as the “Yamaboko Junko.” The festival dates back over a thousand years and is deeply rooted in Japanese tradition and culture.
The main attractions are the enormous and intricately decorated floats called “Yamaboko.” These floats are constructed by different neighborhoods in Kyoto and are paraded through the city streets.
The festival attracts a large number of visitors from both Japan and around the world, so it’s advisable to plan your trip and book accommodations well in advance.
11 Best Hotels for 2023 Gion Matsuri Festival in Kyoto
The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto
Rating: 8.6/10
Location: 604-0902 Kyoto, Kyoto, Nakagyo-ku Kamogawa Nijo-Ohashi Hotori, Japan
The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto is a luxurious 5-star hotel that opened in February 2014. Situated alongside the picturesque Kamogawa River, The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto offers stunning city views. It’s conveniently located just a 3-minute walk from Kyoto Shiyakushomae Subway Station and a 10-minute subway ride from JR Kyoto Station. In addition, Nijo-jo Castle, a renowned World Heritage Site, is only a 3-minute subway ride away.
During their stay, guests can indulge in rejuvenating massage treatments at the spa or maintain their fitness routines at the 24-hour gym. The hotel offers a 24-hour front desk and concierge services to cater to guests’ needs, and the business center is accessible anytime.
HOSHINOYA Kyoto
Location: 11-2 Arashiyama Genrokuzancho, Nishikyo-ku, Kyoto 616-0007
HOSHINOYA Kyoto is a renowned luxury hotel located in Arashiyama, a scenic district on the western outskirts of Kyoto. The hotel aims to provide guests with an immersive experience of Japanese culture, hospitality, and natural surroundings. It offers spacious and elegantly designed guest rooms inspired by traditional Japanese tea houses. Each room features a minimalist aesthetic, natural materials, and panoramic views of the surrounding scenery.
We can enjoy modern comforts while experiencing the tranquility of a ryokan, including traditional tatami flooring, futon bedding, and open-air hot spring baths. Moreover, these may include tea ceremonies, kimono dressing, calligraphy lessons, and guided tours of nearby attractions.
Hyatt Regency Kyoto
Rating: 8.5/10
Location: 605-0941 Kyoto, Kyoto, Higashiyama-ku Sanjusangendo-Mawari 644-2
Hyatt Regency Kyoto is a stylish and well-appointed hotel located just a 5-minute drive from Kyoto Station, where we can catch an express train to Kansai International Airport in 75 minutes or take a limousine bus to Osaka Itami Airport in approximately 55 minutes.
The hotel offers spacious rooms decorated in light natural tones and equipped with modern amenities such as a 32-inch plasma TV, a DVD player, and a safe. Free Wi-Fi is available in the lobby area. We can enjoy the convenience of three on-site restaurants, including Touzan for Japanese cuisine, Trattoria Sette for Italian food, and Restaurant cafe 33 for cafe-style dishes. There is also a bar, a pastry shop, and room service available. Additional amenities include a 24-hour concierge, a souvenir shop, and babysitting services.
Hyatt Regency Kyoto is also conveniently located within a 5-minute walk from Shichijo Station and attractions such as Kyoto National Museum and Sanjusangen-do Temple.
Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto
Rating: 8.5/10
Location: 605-0932 Kyoto, Kyoto, Higashiyama-ku Myohoin Maekawacho 445-3
The hotel is nestled in the heart of Kyoto’s cultural and historic district, surrounded by temples, shrines, and traditional Japanese gardens. It offers convenient access to popular attractions such as Kiyomizu-dera Temple and the Gion district.
The Brasserie provides all-day dining with a focus on international cuisine, while The Lounge offers a relaxing setting for afternoon tea and light meals. We can also enjoy cocktails and panoramic views of Kyoto at The Bar or indulge in authentic Japanese kaiseki cuisine at Sushi Wakon. In addition, these may include a fitness center, a spa offering rejuvenating treatments inspired by Japanese traditions, a tea house for tea ceremonies, a garden terrace, and a concierge desk to assist with our needs.
Hotel Granvia Kyoto
Rating: 8.8/10
Location: 600-8216 Kyoto, Kyoto, Shimogyo-ku Karasuma-dori Shiokoji-sagaru
Hotel Granvia Kyoto is directly connected to Kyoto Station, offering excellent connectivity to popular attractions in Kyoto and beyond.
The hotel has a variety of well-appointed guest rooms and suites designed for comfort and relaxation. The rooms feature modern amenities and elegant decor, providing a comfortable retreat for guests during their stay.
In here, we can enjoy Japanese cuisine at Kyoto Kappo Cuisine, European dishes at Le Temps, and international fare at The Bistro. Additionally, there are several other restaurants and cafes within the hotel complex offering a range of culinary experiences.
The Westin Miyako Kyoto
Rating: 9/10
Location: 605-0052 Kyoto, Kyoto, Higashiyama-ku Awada Chika-cho 1
The hotel provides concierge services and a free shuttle service from JR Kyoto Station. Keage subway station is only a 3-minute walk away, and the Gion district can be easily reached in 5 minutes by car.
The hotel is located within close proximity to several popular attractions. We can explore Yasaka Shrine and Heian Jingu Shrine, both within a 15-minute walk. Kyoto Gyo-en Garden and Kiyomizu-dera Temple are less than a 10-minute drive away. Additionally, Nanzen-ji Temple can be reached within a 10-minute walk, and the famous Philosopher’s Walk is a 15-minute walk away.
We also can indulge in buffet-style meals, savor French cuisine, or experience interactive Teppanyaki dining.
Kyoto Hotel Okura
Rating: 8.9/10
Location: 604-8558 Kyoto, Kyoto, Nakagyo-ku Ichinofunairi-cho 537-4
The hotel enjoys a prime location in the city center, offering convenient access to major attractions and transportation hubs.
The hotel boasts an array of dining options to cater to diverse culinary preferences. We can enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine at the traditional-style restaurant Yamazato, international dishes at The Café Restaurant, or savor fine French cuisine at La Belle Epoque. Additionally, the hotel offers a variety of bars and lounges where guests can unwind with a drink or enjoy afternoon tea.
These may include a fitness center for maintaining an active lifestyle, a spa for relaxation and rejuvenation, and a business center for those traveling on business.
Suiran, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Kyoto
Rating: 8.4/10
Location: 616-8385 Kyoto, Kyoto, Ukyo-ku Saga-Tenryuji Susukinobaba-cho 12
The hotel is nestled in the Arashiyama district of Kyoto, renowned for its scenic beauty and historical landmarks. It offers a tranquil setting along the Hozu River, surrounded by lush nature and famous attractions such as the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge.
The hotel provides exceptional dining experiences. We can enjoy exquisite kaiseki cuisine, a traditional multi-course Japanese meal, at the renowned Kyo-Suiran restaurant. The restaurant offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, creating a truly immersive dining experience.
These may include a spa and wellness center where guests can enjoy rejuvenating treatments, a fitness center for maintaining an active lifestyle, and a beautiful Japanese garden for relaxation and contemplation.
Hotel Kanra Kyoto
Rating: 9.2/10
Location: 600-8176 Kyoto, Kyoto, 190 Kitamachi Karasuma-dori Rokujo-sagaru Shimogyo-ku
The hotel is located in the heart of Kyoto, providing easy access to popular attractions, historic sites, and transportation hubs.
Hotel Kanra Kyoto seamlessly combines contemporary design with traditional Japanese elements. Each room offers a serene atmosphere and incorporates natural materials, such as wood and stone, creating a harmonious and calming environment.
The hotel’s restaurants serve authentic Kyoto cuisine, highlighting the flavors and seasonal ingredients of the region. We can savor traditional kaiseki multi-course meals and experience the artistry of Kyoto’s culinary traditions.
The Screen Kyoto
Rating: 9.0/10
Location: 604-0995 Kyoto, Kyoto, Nakagyo-ku Shimogoryomaecho 640-1
The Screen is a boutique hotel located just a short 3-minute walk from Kyoto Imperial Palace. Jingu Marutabashi Train Station is conveniently only a 7-minute walk away. The hotel’s location is just a 5-minute walk from Kamo River, and JR Kyoto Station can be reached within a convenient 10-minute walk.
During their stay, guests have the option to indulge in rejuvenating massages for an additional charge. The 24-hour front desk offers concierge services, and bicycle rentals are available for exploring the city.
Each room is adorned with sophisticated décor and distinctive furnishings, equipped with modern amenities such as a 42-inch flat-screen TV, an iPod dock, and BOSE speakers. Guests will also find a coffee machine and a refrigerator in their rooms.
For dining experiences, Bron Ronnery restaurant serves creative fusion dishes highlighting local ingredients. Lounge Sunsun offers café dishes and beverages. Additionally, Sorayuka Shoki provides dinner meals on the open-air terrace from May to October.
Dhawa Yura Kyoto – Banyan Tree Group
Rating: 8.9/10
Location: 605-0009 Kyoto, Kyoto, Higashiyama-ku Ohashi-cho 84
With its convenient location, we can easily visit nearby attractions such as Samurai Kembu Kyoto, Gion Shijo Station, Shoren-in Temple, and Heian Shrine.
The air-conditioned rooms at Dhawa Yura Kyoto are well-appointed and include amenities such as a wardrobe, coffee machine, fridge, minibar, safety deposit box, flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom with a bidet.
To start the day, the hotel offers an American or Asian breakfast for we to enjoy. For those interested in exploring the city, Kyoto International Manga Museum and Kyoto Shigaku Kaikan Conference Hall are within a reasonable distance. The nearest airport, Itami Airport, is approximately 47 km away.
