Due to safety and budget, solo female travellers always look for a hostel that ticks all their boxes. But can it be done in an expensive and touristy city like Kyoto? Well, to your surprise – YES! Ryokan Hostel Gion, Piece Hostel Kyoto, CAFETEL Kyoto Sanjo, Hostel Kyoto KIZUNA, Len Kyoto, and Kyoto Hana Hostel are some of the safe and budget hostels in Kyoto. 

Just like Kyoto’s different aspects—culture, tradition, and people—hostels in Kyoto are also of different kinds. From hostels for youth, digital nomads, and women-only accommodations to traditional stays, Kyoto has a hostel for everyone.

However, reserve all your stays in Kyoto 1-2 months before your trip. As of now, let’s explore what the amazing hostels in Kyoto have in store and what makes them the best of the best in the cultural capital of Japan. 

1. Ryokan Hostel Gion

If you want to experience the real Kyoto, check out Ryokan Hostel Gion. It is located in one of the safest neighbourhoods of Kyoto, Gion, and is an ideal base for exploring the city. Plus, it is budget-friendly. 

The moment you arrive, you’ll be a part of the neighbourhood. The wooden exterior blends well with the Gion’s ambience and lined-up antique shops. 

Honestly, this hostel in Kyoto exceeded all my expectations. Its mix-and-match style of traditional tatami flooring, private rooms, mixed dorms, and female-only dorms on the second and third floors is a vibe to experience. 

Besides, there is a communal kitchen and lounge area on the first floor and a coin laundry with a designated smoking area on the fourth floor. 

You can access this beautiful hostel in Kyoto from Sanjo Keihan station’s Exit 2 in 3 minutes.  

Rating: 8.8/10

Cost for a dorm bed: Starts from $35

2. Piece Hostel Kyoto – One of the Highly Recommended Hostels in Kyoto

If location is your priority, – Piece Hostel Kyoto is one of the budget hostels near Kyoto Station (3 minutes from Hachijo Exit). It is based on the “Active Traveller” theme for travellers who want to experience new things.

In addition to the private rooms and dorms, this trendy hostel in Kyoto boasts a shared kitchen, lounge, library area, and outdoor terraces where you can meet and engage with fellow travellers. 

Apart from that, there’s a free beverage counter – pick what you need. And, if you love to sip on authentic coffee, buy a freshly brewed latte or espresso. In addition, they also provide complimentary breakfast! 

Rating: 8.9/10

Cost for a dorm bed: Starts from $34 

3. CAFETEL Kyoto Sanjo for Ladies

Nothing can beat CAFETEL Kyoto Sanjo for Ladies regarding a safe hostel for solo female travellers in Kyoto. This women-only hostel is a two-in-one combo of a café on the first floor (8 am to 10 pm) and a hostel on the second and third floors, all painted pink. 

The rooms are built in a glamping style design – like staying in a house within a house. And, if you like a room with a view, reserve a room with the Kamo River view.  

That said, there’s more to this budget-friendly hostel in Kyoto—they have created three itineraries for you. If you don’t have one, pick any of them and start Kyoto sightseeing.

Rating: 9/10

Cost for a dorm bed: Starts from $30

4. Hostel Kyoto KIZUNA 

Do you like bonding with fellow travellers on a trip? If yes, Hostel Kyoto KIZUNA in Gojo might be your ideal stay. It is one of the finest youth hostels in Kyoto and thrives on bringing people together. 

With a comfortable, calm, and relaxing atmosphere, this hostel is the escape you need after an entire day of exploration. If you want to explore Kyoto beyond the tourist spots, I highly recommend renting a bike from them. 

Besides, you have the usual dorms on a 4- and 6-sharing basis and private rooms alongside a communal kitchen and dining. For the guests here, there are also event nights. 

Rating: 8.4/10

Cost for a dorm bed: Starts from $60

5. Len Kyoto Kawaramachi 

Hostel, café, bar, and dining—Len Kyoto Kawaramachi is one of the best party hostels in Kyoto. It is a minute from the Kamo River and within walking distance of major attractions like Maruyama Park and Kyoto Tower.

All the rooms are cosy and comfortable, equipped with clean facilities. The staff are also super nice and helpful. 

You can easily access this hostel from Kawaramachi Station (a 7-minute walk) and Kawaramachi Matsubara bus stop (1 1-minute walk).

Rating: 8.6/10

Cost for a dorm bed: Starts from $45

6. Kyoto Hana Hostel

If you are looking for a cheap hostel in Kyoto centre – Kyoto Hana Hostel offers a great deal. It is just beside Higashi Hongan-ji and close to the station.

The staffs create an inclusive social atmosphere to make you feel at home. The kitchen and living room have all the amenities for a satisfactory stay.

Moreover, all beds are of Japanese futon bedding. Generally, the bedding is in a bunk bed in dorms, and the tatami flooring is in a private room. 

In addition, you also have access to PCs with free internet on-site, which is a perfect setup for digital nomads in Kyoto. Overall, this hostel in Kyoto is worth the money.

Rating: 8.5/10

Cost for a dorm bed: Starts from $26

Are Hostels in Kyoto Worth it?

Yes, 100%—hostels in Kyoto are absolutely worth it. They help you stick to a budget without compromising on safety, comfort, and convenience. Besides, they help you socialise, expand your circle, and discover hidden gems in Kyoto.

I hope these six hostels in Kyoto have ended your “Where to stay in Kyoto?” query. No matter which one you pick, all these hostels are safe and light on the pocket. If you need help planning your solo trip to Kyoto, read my ultimate guide to Kyoto as a solo traveller.