In this Kyoto travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This Kyoto trip cost calculator includes average trip costs from thousands of previous travelers, along with typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. Kyoto is a historic city known for Fushimi Inari Taisha, Nishiki Market, and Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, and you don't want to miss out on anything because you did't plan your budget. Whether you're exploring the museums, eating the delicious cuisine, or taking in the beauty, we'll help you plan the ideal trip to Kyoto that stays within your budget.
How much does it cost to travel to Kyoto?
A typical traveler spends $108 (¥17,406) per day on a trip to Kyoto. This is the average daily price for a vacation in Kyoto based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $39 (¥6,317) on meals
- $7.17 (¥1,157) on local transportation
- $120 (¥19,427) on hotels
A one-week trip to Kyoto for two people costs, on average, $1,511 (¥243,684). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from thousands of other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
Is Kyoto expensive to visit?
In Kyoto, budget travelers spend $45 (¥7,102) per day on average, mid-range travelers spend $109 (¥17,406) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $261 (¥41,502) per day. These costs are calculated from the reported expenses of previous travelers to Kyoto.
Kyoto is a popular city among visitors with a wide range of travel styles and spending habits. You'll find a wide array of accommodation options, such as luxury hotels, mid-range places, or budget-friendly hostels.
Kyoto can definitely get expensive if you let it, but you have options to reduce costs, including eating at less expensive restaurants and taking public transit.
Within Asia, Kyoto is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Nagasaki or Yaeyama Islands.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Kyoto Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Kyoto?
The average Kyoto trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Kyoto travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Kyoto cost?
Kyoto on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$24
(¥3,939)
|
$60
(¥9,714)
|
$143
(¥23,083)
|
|
Local Transportation1
|
$3
(¥448)
|
$7
(¥1,157)
|
$19
(¥3,058)
|
|
Food2
|
$16
(¥2,565)
|
$39
(¥6,317)
|
$93
(¥14,967)
|
|
Entertainment1
|
$5
(¥795)
|
$12
(¥1,993)
|
$31
(¥4,927)
|
|
Alcohol2
|
$2-7
(¥382-1,147)
|
$6-17
(¥926-2,777)
|
$13-39
(¥2,100-6,300)
|
Accommodation Budget in Kyoto
The prices for hotels in Kyoto can really vary, especially during peak travel season. Off-season, the average hotel room costs $101, while during peak summer season, that average price jumps to around $188. With budget accommodations starting at $34 and luxury hotels peaking at $440, there are options for every traveler. Dorm-style hostels are often the cheapest. Traveling during the low season or booking early can help you save.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Kyoto for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $120 (¥19,427). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $60 (¥9,714) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Kyoto? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Kyoto include:
- Denshin-An starting at $190
- Yasaka Yutone Kyokoyado starting at $174
- Villa Sanjomuromachi KYOTO starting at $101
- Hotel Kanra Kyoto starting at $131
- Aoi Hotel Kyoto starting at $172
You can save money on accommodation by staying outside the city in Kyoto thanks to a great public transit system, though your transportation costs and time spent commuting may rise.
Kyoto is a very family-friendly place, and when traveling with children, it's important to find accommodations with extra space.
Traveling during the shoulder or low season (instead of summer) means you'll get lower prices on accommodations and have fewer crowds to deal with.
Exploring Kyoto on foot is a popular choice, so it's wise to find a place in the center of it all. Just be prepared for potentially higher prices.
The city's old town is a significant attraction for travelers. Although hotels in this area may be more expensive, they usually feature plenty of character and easy access to all that the area has to offer.
Transportation Budget in Kyoto
Public transit in Kyoto is top-notch. The city has an extensive system of trains, subways, and buses that make it easy to get around. If you're looking to save time and money, public transit is the ideal option. Of course, taxis and rideshares are easy to find, too.
If you're someone who enjoys discovering a place on foot, you'll love it in Kyoto. It's one of the most walkable cities in Japan and there are many sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas.
Public Transit: 
(great)
Walkability: (excellent)
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $7.17 (¥1,157) per person, per day, on local transportation in Kyoto. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Kyoto is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$7.17
¥1,157
By air, Kyoto is served by Osaka's two airports: Kansai International Airport and Osaka International Airport (a.k.a. Itami Airport). There is a good road and railway network between Osaka and Kyoto.
By train from Kansai, the Kansai Airport Station is located opposite the arrival lobby where the Japanese Rail (JR) West Haruka Kansai Airport Limited Express Train can be caught.
By bus from Kansai, comfortable limousine buses run from the airport to Kyoto Station, twice an hour, stopping at some of the major hotels along the way.
From Itami Airport, the easiest way to get to Kyoto is by limousine bus No. 15.
Once inside the city, the best way to navigate is by public transportation via bus, subway, bicycle rental or train.
In Japan, trains are one of the fastest and lowest cost means of transportation. Getting a Japan Rail Pass can save you money if you plan to stay for several days or more. Regional and nation-wide passes are available, usually for the number of days of your choice.
Some of the standard transportation options and hotel transfers include:
- Shared Departure Transfer : Kyoto City to Kansai International Airport for $124 details
- Kansai Airport(KIX)to/from Osaka or Kyoto Private Transfer for $107 details
- Arashiyama Kinkakuji Quiet Trail E-Bike Tour with Hotel Transfer for $120 details
How much does it cost to go to Kyoto? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Kyoto will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Food Budget in Kyoto
You can't miss the fantastic food in Kyoto. Make sure you carve out some time to enjoy all the local tastes. The local cuisine is as beautiful as it is delicious. There is a long running history to many of the dishes, and the recipes are expertly prepared by world class chefs at many of the restaurants. You can enjoy everything from a tea ceremony to multi-course meals, referred to as kyo kaiseki.
Calculated from travelers like you
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While restaurant and meal prices in Kyoto can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Kyoto is $39 (¥6,317) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$39
¥6,317
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Kyoto is around $40 (¥6317) per person, with previous travelers spending from $16 to $94. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Kyoto are as follows:
- Breakfast: $4 to $12
- Lunch: $6 to $16
- Dinner: $12 to $28
- Coffee: $3
- Fast Food or Street Food: $6
Kyoto is well known for matcha, or green tea. While it is very popular to drink the matcha flavor can be found in just about any flavor from ice cream to yatsuhashi, another kind of local snack. Yatsuhashi can be baked or raw - the original was a type of crunchy biscuit with cinnamon flavor. Today the baked biscuits remain the same, though you have the option for matcha and strawberry-flavored glazes. The raw yatsuhashi, also known as hijiri, was also made with cinnamon, but the cinnamon is mixed with bean paste and then folded into the hijiri to make a triangle-shape. Today flavors range from chocolate or banana to matcha or poppyseed. There are even seasonal flavors like the sakura (cherry blossom) yatsuhashi in the spring and mango, peach, blueberry, and strawberry, available from May to October. These are available nearly everywhere, though Honkenishio Yatsuhashi is the most famous.
Other specialties of the region include a white fish served with ume as sushi called hamo, tofu at places around Nanzenji temple, an expensive turtle dish called suppon, vegetarian dishes, ramen noodles, and a multi-course chef's choice called kaiseki-ryori. Sake is another thing, an alcohol, which cannot be missed during your visit. Some of Kyoto's most famous sake comes from Gekkeikan Brewery in the Fushimi area of Southern Kyoto. The brewery is about 400 years old and offers tours of its facilities.
When you have kids in tow, look for eateries that feature a kids' menu. This can save you a lot, as those meals are usually priced lower. Keep in mind that some restaurants may not list kids' options, so it's a good idea to ask your server before placing your order.
Many accommodations throw in breakfast at no extra cost, though others might charge you for it. The price and quality can greatly vary by hotel. Knowing this in advance can help you figure out if you need to spend more money. You might find the hotel's buffet is worth it, or you may prefer to grab a cheaper bite at a local bakery or cafe.
Enjoying the scenery while saving money is easy with a picnic. Head to a local grocery store or market, pick up some fresh food, and find a charming park or picturesque location for your meal.
Bring a water bottle along to avoid the need to buy drinks. It's also good for Mother Earth.
Before you head out on a tour, be sure to find out which meals are included. You could end up paying for some meals out of pocket, which can impact your budget.
If you're looking to experience the culinary culture in Kyoto, taking a food tour or cooking class is a terrific way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. Some of the best food-related activities here include:
- Near Fushimiinari: Kyoto Home Cooking Class & Supermarket tour for $120 details
- Ramen Gyoza Onigiri Japanese Cooking Class in Kyoto for $89 details
- Kyoto Udon and Tempura Cooking Class with Professional Chefs for $82 details
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Kyoto
It's evident that Kyoto is a hotspot for tourists, largely due to its museums and attractions, historical sights, romance, and food.
Calculated from travelers like you
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Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Kyoto typically cost an average of $12 (¥1,993) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$12
¥1,993
A few of the most popular sights (with prices):
- Fushimi Inari Taisha (Free)
- Nishiki Market (Free)
- Arashiyama Bamboo Grove (Free)
- Gion District (Free)
- Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) for ¥500
- Kiyomizu-dera for ¥400
- Togetsukyo Bridge (Free)
- Philosopher’s Path (Free)
- Sanjusangendo Hall for ¥600
- Kyoto Imperial Palace (Free)
- Nijo Castle for ¥800
- Ryoan-ji Temple for ¥500
- Heian Shrine for ¥600
Being a large and ancient city, Kyoto has an incredible number of sights to see, with a total of 17 historic locations on the UNESCO's World Heritage List. 14 are located in Kyoto itself, with two in neighboring cities. Kinkaku-ji, Ryoan-ji, Ninna-ji, Kozan-ji, Shimogamo Shrine, and Kamigamo Shrine are all in Northern Kyoto, Nijo Castle, Nishi Hongan-ji, and To-ji are in Central Kyoto, Kiyomizu-dera and Ginkaku-ji are in Eastern Kyoto, Tenryu-ji and Koke-dera are in Western Kyoto, and Daigo-ji is in Southern Kyoto.
There are also a handful of Imperial Palaces and Villas open to the public in Kyoto. These include the Imperial Palace and Sento Imperial Palace in Central Kyoto, as well as the Katsura Imperial Villa in Western Kyoto, and Shugakuin Imperial Villa in Northern Kyoto. Admission is free, though reservations need to be made with the Imperial Household Agency. The gardens of each location are most enchanting during cherry blossom season and autumn when colors are vibrant and beautiful.
And don't miss the Fushimi Inari Shrine, which is one of the most photographed places in the city. It should definitely be on your list of things to see with 2 days in Kyoto.
Another homage to tradition, Kyoto's public baths, or sento, date back to the 13th century. Today, about 140 bath houses remain in the city. Funaoka Onsen is the oldest of these, though all of them are true to Kyoto culture.
Buddhist meditation sessions are another cultural activity that many visitors seek during their stays. In Northern Kyoto, the Taizo-in and Shunko-in temples offer authentic Zen meditation sessions, complete with explanations of the meaning and significance of such meditation. Reservations are required.
One of the most popular activities in Kyoto is definitely the viewing of cherry blossoms. On a list compiled by the Japan Cherry Blossom Association, three of the best spots for viewing are located in Kyoto (Arashiyama, Daigoji, Ninnaji). The striking colors and softness of the petals set against mountain scenery and temples overwhelms the viewer with an air of serenity and peace that is so inherent to Japanese culture. Eastern Kyoto is the most popular, especially for walking from Nanzen-ji to Ginkaku-ji along the Philosopher's Path.
Plenty of other fun activities can be found in this dynamic city. Kyoto is a very family-friendly destination, too. Check out this list of things to do in Kyoto with kids, for example. From cooking classes to exploring the temples and shrines mentioned earlier, a child of any age will find exciting new things here.
Museums and Attractions:
Many people visit Kyoto specifically to see its famous museums and landmarks. With its long-running history, there are many traditional buildings and temples in town. Nijo Castle is stunning to explore, but also make sure you visit the Fushimi-Inari Taisha Shrine, the Golden Pavilion, and Kiyomizu-dera Temple.
Historical Sights:
Many people come to experience the charm of the historic old town. This is among the most historic cities in Japan and there are many traditional buildings and temples. Higashiyama is filled with interesting districts and it has many UNESCO World Heritage temples.
Shopping:
You won't want to miss out on the shopping here. There's a mix of modern shopping venues and traditional boutiques. Shijo Street is a popular shopping area, as is the area around JR Kyoto Station.
A nice way to explore destinations in Kyoto is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Private car tour in Kyoto (up to 4) for $285 details
- Shamisen Experience in Kyoto 【Private】 for $95 details
- Kiyomizu Temple and Backstreets of Gion, Half Day Group Tour for $57 details
Nightlife Budget in Kyoto
While Kyoto features some nightlife activities, it doesn't reach the excitement levels of other, more renowned destinations. While it isn't known for its wild nightlife scene, there is a relaxed and active energy in the evenings here. You can visit the beautiful Arashiyama Kimono Forest or explore some of the riverfront areas such as Kamo Riverside.
Calculated from travelers like you
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The average person spends about $11 (¥1,851) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Kyoto per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$11
¥1,851
Exploring the nightlife is often a fun part of any trip, but skipping a few drinks can make a big impact on your overall travel cost.
When enjoying the nightlife, stay alert and cautious, as you may attract the attention of pickpockets or other criminals. It's best to stay with a group of people you trust.
Nightlife activities and tasting tours are popular in Kyoto. A few favorites from other travelers include:
- Fushimi Sake Brewery Tour - 18 Tastings in 2.5 Hours for $108 details
- 3-Hour Kyoto Insider Sake Brewery Tour with Tastings & Pairings for $81 details
- Private Kyoto Sake Brewery Tour: Certified Expert & Inside Access for $152 details
Travel cost data last updated: May 2, 2026
Traveling in Kyoto
Eikando Temple, Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto is a larger city of Japan, though it is very much set in the old ways. With quiet temples, sublime gardens, colorful shrines, and geisha walking amidst a city surrounded by stunning mountains, Kyoto feels like a world of another time and place. True to ancient Japanese tradition, most aspects of daily life are tied closely with the changing of the seasons.
Neighborhoods & Around
Downtown Kyoto is located at the heart of the city with the bustling streets of Nishikikoji, Teramachi-dori, Shinkyogoku, and Kawaramachi at its center. You'll find plenty of things to do in Kyoto in this area. It is a place where the modern mixes with the old-department stores and banks standing side by side with old book shops and printmakers. Shijokawaramachi is the main place in Kyoto for restaurants and shopping, while Gion is another center where old townhouses have been converted to stylish boutiques. There is also a stage on Gion Corner for the traditional arts where performances are held twice daily in the evenings. Along the narrow backstreets of Ponto-cho, Hanamikoji-dori, and Miyagawa-cho you might catch sight of a geisha, and see the quieter, simpler side of life when traditional lanterns light the paths at night in contrast to the glowing modernity of the main street.
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Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
It's important to set realistic expectations for your travel budget in Kyoto. While many think they can cut costs for many things, the reality is that most people won't enjoy such a low-budget experience. Consider your preferences and travel style. Do you like resorts, hotels, vacation rentals, or hostels? Are activities and dining out a big part of your travel plans? Your answers will shape your budget and itinerary.
Kyoto on a Shoestring Budget?
You might think that you're a budget traveler. But unless you're willing to eliminate a lot of comforts from your trip, prepare to spend a lot more than the daily average of $45 that backpackers often get by on.
Young backpackers often get away with this shoestring budget, but it usually involves staying in hostel dorms, eating at the cheapest restaurants or fast food places, taking public transit or walking, and only visiting free attractions.
Luckily, there are plenty of hostels in Kyoto, such as Backpackers Hostel K's House Kyoto, Kyoto Hana Hostel, and Len Kyoto. Staying at these hostels means you can score affordable dorm lodging and a lively social vibe, but be prepared for basic amenities. Additionally, the city boasts excellent public transit, allowing budget travelers to evade costly taxi or Uber trips. While food is an important aspect for all visitors in Kyoto, budget travelers tend to favor street food or prepare their own meals in hostels, which might keep them from experiencing the local cuisine.
Do You Fit the Profile of an Average Traveler?
Couples and families on a fun trip will likely choose a mid-range hotel, enjoy meals at popular dining spots, and visit significant museums and attractions that have entry fees. Most visitors to Kyoto will want to visit Fushimi Inari Taisha, Nishiki Market, or Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. After all, most activities are not free. So, it's realistic to expect your actual daily budget to be about $109 per person, per day.
There's a wide selection of hotels and vacation rentals in Kyoto. If you're traveling with others, sharing a hotel room with a partner, friend, or kids will help split costs and save money. When traveling as a family, look for hotels and restaurants that welcome children. Hotel Kanra Kyoto is a great choice for kids, and Aoi Hotel Kyoto is another wonderful option. For more family and couple-friendly places to stay, check out our Kyoto hotel costs guide.
Dreaming of a Stylish Getaway?
If you want a vacation with premium amenities and superior service, brace yourself for a price near $261 daily. Choosing upscale hotels, dining at award-winning eateries, enjoying lavish excursions, and using taxis or private drivers around the city will require a luxury budget. Also, higher-end tours are common with luxury travelers, such as Scenic Green Tea Fields of Hidden Kyoto & Local Tea Exp - offered by Viator.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
