Flights to and from Kyoto
About Kyoto
Kyoto, once the capital of Japan, is a city rich in history, culture, and tradition. Renowned for its classical Buddhist temples, as well as gardens, imperial palaces, Shinto shrines, and traditional wooden houses, Kyoto offers a unique glimpse into Japan's ancient heritage.
Visitors can experience traditional tea ceremonies, explore the famous Gion district, and walk through the stunning Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Kyoto is also a culinary haven, offering a variety of traditional Japanese dishes such as kaiseki and yudofu.
While Kyoto does not have its own major airport, it is well-connected to other parts of Japan and the world through nearby Kansai International Airport (KIX) and Osaka Itami Airport (ITM).
Popular Landmarks in Kyoto
Airlines Serving Kyoto
Kyoto is accessible via Kansai International Airport (KIX) and Osaka Itami Airport (ITM), both of which are served by numerous airlines. Some of the airlines include:
Best Times to Visit Kyoto
Kyoto experiences four distinct seasons, each offering a unique experience:
- Spring (March to May): This is one of the most popular times to visit Kyoto, as the cherry blossoms are in full bloom.
- Summer (June to August): Summer in Kyoto is hot and humid, but it’s also festival season with events such as the Gion Matsuri.
- Autumn (September to November): The fall foliage makes this another beautiful time to visit, with vibrant colors throughout the city.
- Winter (December to February): Winters are cold, but Kyoto's temples and shrines look particularly picturesque with a dusting of snow.
Transportation from the Airport
Kyoto is primarily served by Kansai International Airport (KIX), located in Osaka. Here are the main transportation options from the airport to Kyoto:
- Train: The JR Haruka Express provides direct service from Kansai International Airport to Kyoto Station in about 75 minutes.
- Bus: Limousine buses run frequently from the airport to various locations in Kyoto, including major hotels and Kyoto Station.
- Taxi: Taxis are available at the airport, but this is a more expensive option and the ride to Kyoto can take around 90 minutes depending on traffic.
- Rental Car: Several car rental agencies operate at the airport, providing a convenient option for those looking to explore the region at their own pace.
Hotels in Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto offers a wide range of accommodations to suit all budgets, from luxurious hotels and traditional ryokan to more affordable mid-range and budget options. Here are some of the top choices in each category:
Luxury Hotels
- The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto - A luxury hotel along the Kamogawa River, known for its refined elegance and exceptional service.
- Hyatt Regency Kyoto - A sophisticated hotel located in the heart of the city, offering spacious rooms and top-notch amenities.
- Aman Kyoto - Nestled in a secret garden at the foot of the Hidari Daimonji mountain, this hotel is a peaceful retreat.
- Hoshinoya Kyoto - A riverside retreat offering a blend of traditional Japanese aesthetics and modern comforts.
- Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto - A luxurious hotel with a beautiful garden, a traditional tea house, and a relaxing spa.
Mid-Range Hotels
- Kyoto Hotel Okura - Centrally located, this hotel offers a comfortable stay with stunning city views.
- Hotel Granvia Kyoto - Located within Kyoto Station, providing convenient access to transportation and attractions.
- Mandarin Oriental, Kyoto - A modern hotel with spacious rooms and excellent dining options.
- Hotel Kanra Kyoto - Offers a blend of contemporary design and traditional Kyoto elements.
- Daiwa Roynet Hotel Kyoto Ekimae - A comfortable and convenient choice near Kyoto Station.
Budget Hotels
- Sakura Terrace - A budget-friendly hotel with modern amenities and a welcoming atmosphere.
- Super Hotel Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi - Known for its clean and efficient accommodations at reasonable rates.
- Hotel MyStays Kyoto Shijo - A budget hotel with comfortable rooms and easy access to public transportation.
- First Cabin Kyoto Karasuma - A unique capsule hotel experience with private cabins and shared facilities.
- Kyoto Hana Hostel - An affordable hostel offering private rooms and dormitories, popular among budget travelers.
Popular Connecting Flights
Travelers flying to Kyoto often have connecting flights through major international hubs. Some popular connecting airports include:
- Narita International Airport (NRT) - Tokyo, Japan
- Incheon International Airport (ICN) - Seoul, South Korea
- Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) - Hong Kong
- Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) - Singapore
- Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) - Los Angeles, USA
- San Francisco International Airport (SFO) - San Francisco, USA
- Doha Hamad International Airport (DOH) - Doha, Qatar
Bon Voyage!