Karasuma Hotels, Kyoto

Top reasons to visit Karasuma

• Cultural Hub: Karasuma is rich in cultural attractions, including temples and shrines, making it ideal for history enthusiasts.
• Vibrant Shopping District: The lively Shijo shopping area offers a fantastic mix of local markets and unique souvenirs.
• Convenient Location: Situated in the heart of Kyoto, Karasuma provides easy access to major attractions and public transport.
• Diverse Accommodations: Range of comfortable hotels and guesthouses cater to families and various travellers.
• Local Cuisine: Experience delicious local dishes and immerse yourself in Kyoto's culinary delights.

Find great hotels near Karasuma

Explore a range of comfortable hotel accommodations in Karasuma, Kyoto, where you'll find options catering to families and LGBTQIA travellers alike. From city-themed hotels to welcoming guesthouses, this vibrant area offers a variety of choices to suit your needs. Whether you're looking for hotels near Karasuma Station or quaint lodgings throughout Kyoto, you're sure to find the ideal base for your unforgettable Japanese adventure.

• Cross Hotel Kyoto: Nestled only 966m from Karasuma, Cross Hotel Kyoto is a vibrant 3.5-star accommodation that embraces an LGBTQIA-friendly ethos, making it an excellent choice for inclusive travellers. The hotel’s modern design, chic decor, and warm atmosphere create a welcoming space for all. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a stylish lounge, a bar for relaxed evenings, and contemporary rooms equipped with all the essentials for a comfortable stay. With its affiliation to LGBTQI travel guides, Cross Hotel Kyoto ensures a unique and supportive experience for every visitor.
• Onyado Nono Kyotoshichijo Natural Hot Springs: Located 1.6km from Karasuma, Onyado Nono Kyotoshichijo is a charming 3-star ryokan offering a serene hot spring experience. This hotel features a natural hot spring within easy reach, perfect for guests seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. The property boasts traditional Japanese aesthetics, with tatami-matted rooms and an inviting onsen area. Guests can enjoy the public indoor hot springs, providing a genuine taste of Japanese culture while unwinding after a day of exploring Kyoto’s treasures.
• Hotel Granvia Kyoto: Positioned 1.6km from Karasuma, Hotel Granvia Kyoto stands as a luxurious 4.5-star establishment ideal for business and leisure travellers alike. This upscale hotel not only offers elegant accommodations but also caters to LGBTQIA guests, ensuring a welcoming and inclusive environment. With exceptional business facilities, including meeting rooms and high-speed internet, it’s perfect for corporate visitors. Guests can also enjoy fine dining options and a fitness centre, making it an excellent choice for those seeking comfort and convenience during their stay in Kyoto.

Where to stay near Karasuma

Karasuma offers a vibrant blend of culture and convenience, making it an ideal base for exploring Kyoto. Just a stroll away, you’ll find the bustling downtown and the lively Shijo shopping district, perfect for soaking up local vibes. The friendly atmosphere and rich history of the region create a relaxing experience, while easy access to nearby attractions ensures you won’t miss a thing. Embrace the essence of Kyoto right from the heart of Karasuma.

• Kyoto: As a vibrant metropolis, Kyoto is the heart of culture and tradition in Japan. Situated in the very centre of the city, Karasuma serves as a gateway to explore this historical hub. Visitors flock to Kyoto year-round, with peak seasons in April to May and October. Here, you can indulge in a blend of family-friendly attractions, business experiences, and urban exploration. Expect a rich variety of activities, from bustling shopping markets to serene onsens. Don't miss notable landmarks like the famous theme parks and historic sites that encapsulate the essence of Kyoto's rich heritage.
• Gion: Just 1.6km away from Karasuma, Gion is a charming neighbourhood famed for its traditional wooden machiya houses and geisha culture. Like Kyoto, Gion enjoys a steady stream of visitors throughout the year, peaking in spring and autumn. This area offers a quintessential city-themed experience, where you can wander through shopping areas and vibrant public markets. Gion is also home to significant historic places and temples, making it a perfect spot for those keen on cultural immersion and exploration of Japan's spiritual side.
• Fudocho: Located a mere 483m from Karasuma, Fudocho is a quaint neighbourhood that exudes a rich cultural atmosphere. Although it sees a consistent flow of tourists, the peak seasons mirror those of its neighbours. Fudocho invites you to experience its remarkable places of worship and historic sites, providing a unique glimpse into Kyoto’s spiritual roots. This area is ideal for those seeking a culture-themed journey, allowing you to discover the depth of Japanese traditions in a peaceful, intimate setting.

Things to do in and around Karasuma

Karasuma offers a blend of city-themed activities perfect for families and business travellers alike. Explore bustling shopping areas and vibrant public markets, where you can immerse yourself in local culture. Don't miss the chance to experience the area's rich history and stunning sights, making it an ideal destination for sightseeing enthusiasts. Whether you're after unique souvenirs or delicious local cuisine, Karasuma has something for everyone.

Shopping

Nishiki Market is a vibrant public market only 644m from Karasuma, perfect for local delicacies. Kawaramachi Street, 1.6km away, offers a mix of city and family vibes. For entertainment, stroll through Pontocho Alley, located within Karasuma’s area, featuring shops and dining options.

Recreation

Funaoka Thermal Bath offers a soothing body treatment experience, perfect for unwinding amidst its calming ambiance. For a dose of culture, visit Kyoto Concert Hall for uplifting music concerts. Alternatively, enjoy the energetic atmosphere at Nishikyogoku Athletic Stadium, where you can watch thrilling sports events.

Adventure

Biwako Valley Ski Resort, located 25.7km from Karasuma, offers thrilling skiing adventures amidst breathtaking mountain scenery. For a different experience, trek the Fushimi-Inari-Taisha Pilgrimage Circuit, situated 4.8km away, where you can enjoy picturesque landscapes and immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere of thousands of vibrant torii gates.

Nightlife

In Karasuma, Gion Corner offers a captivating theatre experience with cultural performances, just 1.4km away. At 1.1km, the Kyoto MINAMIZA Theatre showcases enchanting shows in a romantic setting. For family fun, the Kyoto Municipal Science Center for Youth, 4.8km away, features a fascinating planetarium.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Karasuma

To save money during your visit to Karasuma, plan your trip for January to February or September when prices are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance, and check for last-minute deals on Expedia. Tuesdays are the cheapest days to stay, while Saturdays are the most expensive. Use Expedia’s search tools to find budget-friendly accommodation and consider combining hotel, flight, and activity bookings for additional savings. Look for free activities around Karasuma, and always compare prices to secure the best deals for your stay.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Karasuma are January to February and September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March to April and November, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Karasuma is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Karasuma is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Karasuma is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Karasuma hotel booking with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Karasuma

Karasuma, located in the heart of Kyoto, is perfect for city, business, and family holidays. Visitors can explore a mix of cultural attractions, including temples, shrines, and lively streets. Notable sites include the Kyoto Shiyakusho and the Kyoto Imperial Palace, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a rich cultural experience. Don't forget to grab a Kyoto map for easy navigation and consider visiting Kaze Kyoto for a unique local experience.

• Kiyomizu Temple: This UNESCO World Heritage site, located 1.6km from Karasuma, offers stunning views of Kyoto from its wooden stage. The temple is famous for its cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn, creating a serene escape steeped in cultural significance.
• Fushimi Inari Shrine: Situated 4.8km away, this iconic shrine is renowned for its thousands of vermillion torii gates that create enchanting pathways up the sacred Mount Inari. It's a unique blend of spirituality and natural beauty, perfect for an adventurous hike.
• Kyoto Tower: Just 1.6km from Karasuma, Kyoto Tower stands as a modern landmark, offering panoramic views of the city. Its observation deck provides a striking contrast to Kyoto’s traditional architecture, making it a must-visit for a modern city vibe.

Best time to go to Karasuma

The best time to visit Karasuma is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	37.8°F (3.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
February	39.4°F (4.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	46.0°F (7.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
April	54.3°F (12.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
May	63.5°F (17.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
June	70.5°F (21.4°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
July	77.9°F (25.5°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
August	80.2°F (26.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
September	73.0°F (22.8°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
October	62.2°F (16.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
November	52.3°F (11.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
December	42.1°F (5.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Karasuma

Travelling to Karasuma, Kyoto is convenient with three major airports nearby. Kansai International Airport (KIX) is situated 78.9km away, with excellent hotels like Hotel Nikko Kansai Airport, a 4-star hotel just 161m from the terminal, and Star Gate Hotel Kansai Airport, also a 4-star hotel, located 6.4km away. Itami Airport (ITM) is closer at 37.0km, featuring luxurious options such as Swissotel Nankai Osaka and InterContinental Osaka, both 7-14.5km away. Alternatively, Kobe Airport (UKB) is 314.5km from Karasuma, with nearby accommodation including the 5-star ANA Crowne Plaza Kobe just 8.0km away. Transportation services are readily available from these hotels to the respective airports.