11 Best Business Hotels in Kyoto

Our first-hand business trip to Kyoto was a remarkable blend of efficiency and cultural immersion. Kyoto’s allure lies in its seamless fusion of modernity and tradition. We found a plethora of business hotels in Kyoto, each offering a unique charm and impeccable service. The city’s public transportation, including buses and trains, was a revelation, whisking us effortlessly from one meeting to another. But the city’s rich cultural and historical background truly captivated us. We marveled at the ancient temples, serene gardens, and geisha districts that whispered tales of Japan’s storied past. During breaks, we always make sure to check out the best day trips to Kyoto to make the best of our stay.

The key to a productive stay begins with selecting the perfect business hotel. Fortunately, we’ve made a list of all the hotels we’ve been to during our business trip, so you don’t have to sweat yourself. Without further ado, here are all 11 of the best options.

Did you know that the city is especially known for its capsule stays, which originally started out as business hotels? Check out the best capsule hotels in Kyoto.

Piece Hostel Sanjo

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Best Value for Money. First on our list is Piece Hostel Sanjo, situated in the bustling Karawamachi district. This budget-friendly business hotel offers ideal amenities for a successful and efficient business trip. Unlike many typical Japanese “business hotels” designed for short stays, Piece Hostel Sanjo accommodated us comfortably for longer periods.

The hotel boasts numerous communal spaces perfect for conducting business, networking, and remote work. Whether we were meeting clients or working on our laptops, the hostel’s lounge provided a spacious and inviting environment. The high-speed Wi-Fi ensured seamless conference calls and Zoom meetings, while the hostel’s well-designed interior kept us feeling comfortable indoors. When we needed a change of scenery, the rooftop terrace offered a refreshing escape.

Additionally, Piece Hostel Sanjo offers a wide range of services and facilities, including a laundromat, communal kitchen, and library. When it comes to accommodations, we had the option to choose between communal dormitories and private studio rooms with en-suite bathrooms, catering to various budgets.

ibis Styles Kyoto Station

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Best Location. The convenience of having a business hotel near Kyoto Station is one of the reasons we include the Ibis Styles Kyoto Station on this list. The strategic location alone enabled us to easily reach our business partners anywhere in the city and beyond. Plus, with the station so near, exploring the city’s cultural treasures, such as Kyoto Tower and To-ji Temple, is doable even when we’re on a business trip. With many of the top things to do in Kyoto nearby, this hotel unarguably has the best location for a work-based hotel.

Furthermore, the hotel’s business center was well-equipped with modern amenities, computer stations, and fast internet, enabling us to work effortlessly. Additionally, there were various spaces available for client meetings and networking, including the welcoming lobby.

In addition to its strategic location and excellent business services, the hotel offered a range of amenities for our comfort. These included on-site currency exchange, vending machines, a laundromat, and an ice machine. Our guest room was spacious, spotlessly clean, and featured a comfortable bed that ensured a restful night’s sleep. We eagerly anticipate returning to this hotel in the future.

Hotel Pagong with M’s

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Our recent stay at Hotel Pagong with M’s in Kyoto was nothing short of exceptional, solidifying its reputation as one of the city’s premier work hotels. From the moment we stepped into the stylish lobby, we were captivated by the hotel’s modern charm.

The hotel’s business center truly stood out. With high-speed internet and cutting-edge technology, it was a haven for productivity. Plus, with their ample communal spaces to hold meetings and network, we knew that we could comfortably stay here for our business trip.

Nestled in the heart of Kyoto, the hotel’s location is a treasure trove of attractions. After a day of meetings, we had the pleasure of exploring nearby gems like the iconic Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion) and the tranquil Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, striking the perfect balance between work and leisure.

The guestrooms were a sanctuary of comfort, featuring sleek and pristine decor, plush beds, and breathtaking city views. Our stay at iHotel Pagong exceeded all expectations, cementing its status as our top choice for business accommodation in Kyoto.

RIHGA Royal Hotel Kyoto

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The RIHGA Roya Hotel Kyoto is on another level compared to the previous hotels on this list. Yes, all of them are perfectly adequate for a business trip, but this business hotel is the one you’d want to invite the CEOs and shareholders to.

As a work-based hotel near Kyoto Station, the RIHGA Royal offers luxury and convenience. With 16 versatile event spaces, including meeting rooms and banquet halls accommodating up to 1,000 guests, it’s the perfect venue for board meetings or company galas. The hotel’s attentive staff is always on hand to assist with event coordination. Additionally, the RIHGA Royal provides state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment, ensuring a seamless experience for all our event needs.

Moreover, the hotel’s luxury and elegance are also reflected in its facilities, from the expansive indoor swimming pool to each of its guestrooms, not to mention the fancy restaurants. Of all the hotel’s seven equally astounding restaurants, the Top of Kyoto stands out as our favorite. Sitting on the 14th floor of the hotel, with a 360-degree view of Kyoto, this restaurant works wonders in impressing our business partners and clients.

Tokyu Stay Kyoto Sanjo-Karasuma

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The Tokyu Stay Kyoto Sanjo-Karasuma is a fantastic choice for budget-conscious young entrepreneurs looking for an efficient and convenient stay in the heart of Kyoto. Its central location with easy access to public transportation made our trip highly productive. Plus, compared to other work hotels in Kyoto, this one allowed us to stay longer with a cheaper budget.

That said, the facilities and hospitality of this hotel are still exemplary. We spent most of our time on our laptops in the hotel’s common area, which was equipped with comfortable seating and a beverage station. It’s also a perfectly acceptable place to meet with clients or just to network with other guests. When we’re not there, the hotel’s guestroom also makes a cozy alternative when we want privacy.

Speaking of guestrooms, we stayed at the hotel’s standard double room. And like all the rooms here, ours was sleek and pristine, complete with great amenities. To our surprise, we had a seating area, a TV, a microwave, a coffee machine, and an in-room washing machine. The room is designed for two guests for maximum comfort, but if you’re traveling in a big group, the hotel has a family room accommodating up to six people.

The Prince Kyoto Takaragaike

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Best Architecture Design. The Prince Kyoto Takaragaike, designed by the renowned architect Togo Murano, is a top-tier hotel celebrated for its architecture and cultural ambiance. We chose to stay in this stunning circular hotel to combine business with the tranquility of Japanese traditions.

With seven versatile event spaces, including a grand hall accommodating up to 1,400 guests, the hotel provides state-of-the-art technology for seamless gatherings. Our company event took place in the elegantly designed Togo Murano Gold Room, known for its exquisite glass mosaic walls resembling a forest.

Leading up to our main event, the hotel offered various delightful services. Our clients were particularly impressed by our Saryo tea ceremony experience in the exclusive Sukiya tea house in the hotel’s Japanese garden. The restaurants were also unquestionably amazing, especially when seasoned Japanese chefs were the ones preparing our meals.

Regarding accommodation, the hotel has one of the most comfortable guestrooms we’ve ever stayed at. The bedding was plushy and comfortable, the amenities were convenient, but the view was especially beautiful. Facing the serene Japanese forest, our weariness simply went away whenever we entered our guestroom.

GOOD NATURE HOTEL KYOTO

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The Good Nature Hotel Kyoto is an incredible work-based hotel for many reasons. Firstly, it boasts a top-notch business center that’s complete with fax and photocopying facilities. Other than that, the hotel also offers a convenient meeting space for our business discussions. Its strategic location was another standout feature, as we were just a short walk away from Gion Sijo station and the Kyoto Shigaku Kaikan Conference Hall.

Furthermore, the hotel provides plenty of common areas ideal for meetings with clients or focused work sessions. Notably, the Michelin-starred restaurant on-site, TAKAYAMA, served as an exquisite venue for our corporate gatherings. However, our favorite spot was the hotel’s indoor garden, where we could unwind and be productive. Moreover, when our schedule allowed, we took the opportunity to explore nearby attractions, such as the renowned Hanamikoji Street and Nishiki Market.

“This is a business hotel that makes you forgot you’re on a business trip”

WOW Travel

All in all, our work trip to Kyoto didn’t feel that taxing, thanks to the hotel’s excellent services. Plus, our guestroom also played a big part in that. What with its stylish and warm decoration, and not to mention the modern amenities. Truly, we couldn’t recommend you enough to check out this hotel!

The Royal Park Hotel Iconic Kyoto

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We wholeheartedly declare The Royal Park Hotel Iconic Kyoto as the epitome of excellence among Kyoto’s work-based hotels. The hotel’s dedication to impeccable business services, including a well-equipped business center, blazing-fast Wi-Fi, and an impeccably trained staff, ensured that our work-related needs were not just met but exceeded. The hotel’s lounge was mainly where we spent our time working, which we had zero qualms about since it’s perfectly comfortable, spacious, and accommodating. Plus, the hotel’s sleek and chic interior improved our trip. The on-site Michelin-starred restaurant also became our go-to place to meet with clients.

But it’s not just the business services that make this hotel shine; their “Start Anew” concept really stood out to us. Providing unique meditation spaces, our business trip doubled as a healing trip in a sense. Whenever the hectic starts creeping in, we had the option to meditate at the “Blank Room,” have a relaxing tea session, or unwind in the onsen. It also helps a lot when the hotel is located right in the heart of Kyoto and is just a stone’s throw away from iconic attractions like Gion and Kiyomizu Temple. This proximity allowed us to effortlessly combine business with leisure as we explored Kyoto’s rich culture during our free time.

As for the guestrooms, they are an absolute delight. Luxurious bedding, spacious layouts, and all the modern conveniences you could ask for ensured our stay was as comfortable as it was enjoyable. The icing on the cake was the tranquil ambiance and breathtaking views of Kyoto’s skyline.

The Westin Miyako Kyoto

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Biggest Function Hall. The 5-star Westin Miyako Kyoto went all out to make our business trip exceptional. The hotel had everything we needed for a seamless trip, from a fully-equipped business center to 20 versatile function halls, giving us plenty of choices. Whether we needed a traditional meeting room surrounded by a lush Japanese Garden or a banquet hall big enough for 2,000 guests, the hotel has them in store. And, of course, we were also provided with hands-on staff to help us in every way we needed for our event.

Furthermore, the hotel’s prime location is also another feature that we love. It’s close to downtown but still surrounded by nature, offering us the best of both worlds. Our business partners and colleagues especially appreciated the privacy and luxury that come with it. Plus, the extra facilities that are available at the hotel are the cherry on top during our business trip. Fancy restaurants, indoor pools, private onsen, wellness center, and heavenly guestroom, you name it. Our hard work was rewarded with all the incredible facilities we enjoyed.

The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto

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The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto, a renowned 5-star luxury hotel, exceeded our high expectations during our Kyoto work trip. Its prime location in the quieter part of the city center offered both privacy and convenience, with the Kamogawa River providing a picturesque view.

In terms of business services, the hotel surpassed our needs. The staff expertly assisted us in arranging our company event, from decorations and audiovisual setup to catering. Furthermore, four smaller venues were also available and equipped for productive work sessions. The diverse on-site restaurants and lounges also served as excellent client meetings and networking settings.

Additionally, the hotel offered exceptional facilities. After long meetings, we enjoyed rejuvenating massages at the spa center and found solace in the spacious en-suite bathrooms for relaxation.

Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto

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The Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto unquestionably tops our list as the ultimate work-based hotel. The moment we entered, its opulence and professionalism were palpable, evident in the attentive staff and exquisite aesthetics. Its remarkable features, strategic location, historical significance, and business amenities stood out prominently.

Nestled in the city center and close to Kyoto Station, the hotel brilliantly maintains Kyoto’s tranquility and traditional charm through a blend of modern design and Japanese aesthetics. A highlight for us was the 800-year-old Shakusui-en garden pond, which provides a serene backdrop for client meetings at the Fuju Lounge.

Regarding business services, the hotel offers seven versatile event spaces, including a spacious ballroom for up to 360 guests, perfect for galas and conventions. We primarily utilized meeting rooms and hotel lounges for our business discussions during our stay.

As a 5-star establishment, the Four Seasons Kyoto boasts a plethora of facilities we couldn’t resist. These include an onsen, indoor pool, fitness center, and our personal favorite, the spa center. Not to be overlooked, the guestrooms, particularly our garden-front room, offered unparalleled comfort after long days. It was nothing short of heavenly. It’s no wonder that it’s one of the best hotels in Kyoto.

Our Verdict!

Kyoto is brimming with fantastic work-based hotels, but we have to hand it down to Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto as the best one among the rest. That said, there are still other business hotels that stood out to us for their specific feature that you can also check out. Without further ado, here’s the highlight:

• Best Value for Money: Piece Hostel Sanjo
• Best Location: Ibis Styles Kyoto Station
• Biggest Function Hall: Westin Miyako Kyoto
• Best Architecture Design: The Prince Kyoto Takaragaike

Where to Stay in Kyoto

When it comes to business trips to Kyoto, Japan, we’ve discovered the city offers a blend of modern convenience and traditional charm. Our top areas to stay cater perfectly to our professional needs while providing an authentic Japanese experience.

First on our list is the bustling downtown district of Kawaramachi. Its vibrant atmosphere, numerous restaurants, and excellent transportation links make it an ideal base for our business activities. The proximity to major commercial centers ensures we’re never far from important meetings. The Higashiyama district captivates us with its historic beauty for those seeking a more serene environment. Staying here allows us to unwind amidst stunning temples and shrines after a busy day. Gion, within Higashiyama, treats us to a glimpse of traditional Kyoto, and its quaint streets are perfect for evening strolls.

Finally, we have found the Shimogyo ward, home to Kyoto Station. This central hub simplifies our travel, with Shinkansen connections and easy access to the airport. The adjacent hotels near Kyoto Station provide comfort and efficiency, enhancing our overall trip.

In Kyoto, the fusion of work and cultural exploration becomes seamless, thanks to these prime districts. Whether it’s the energy of Kawaramachi, the tranquility of Higashiyama, or the convenience of Shimogyo, each area contributes to a memorable and successful business journey.

What’s the best way to get from Tokyo to Kyoto?

The Shinkansen (bullet train) is the most convenient mode of transportation between Tokyo and Kyoto. It takes around 2 hours and 15 minutes and costs ¥‎13,080 (non-reserved seat) to go between Tokyo and Kyoto. If you go outside of peak travel hours and seasons, you do not need to reserve seats on the Shinkansen.

What’s the best way to get from Kansai Airport to Kyoto Train Station?

The train is the quickest and most convenient way to travel between Kansai International Airport and Kyoto. You can catch JR West’s Limited Express Haruka at platform 4 in the airport station, and it’ll take about 75 minutes to get to Kyoto Train Station. On the way, the train also stops at Osaka City’s Shin-Osaka Station and Tennoji Station.

Should I get the JR Rail Pass?

The Japan Rail Pass (also known as the JR Pass) is a low-cost rail pass for traveling in Japan (it covers Shinkansen, trains, buses, and ferries). The pass is solely valid for foreign tourists and provides unlimited travel on JR trains for up to three weeks. So, if you’re planning to stay in Japan for more than a week and visit multiple provinces/cities, then definitely get the JR Rail Pass.