Your First Visit to RIHGA Royal Hotel Kyoto
RIHGA Royal Hotel Kyoto is a large full-service hotel located approximately seven minutes on foot from Kyoto Station, or about five minutes by the hotel’s free shuttle bus. The hotel features seven banquet rooms, led by the flagship Shunjū ballroom — renovated in 2018 and capable of hosting up to 1,000 guests in theater-style seating — making it one of Kyoto’s primary venues for international conferences, corporate general meetings, academic symposia, and large-scale receptions. Being able to attend an event and stay in the same building makes it particularly convenient for participants traveling from overseas or other regions of Japan.
This guide covers practical information including how to get to RIHGA Royal Hotel Kyoto, where to stay, dining options nearby, and tips for your visit.
Getting to RIHGA Royal Hotel Kyoto
The hotel is within walking distance of Kyoto Station, which is well connected to both Kansai International Airport and Itami Airport.
From Kansai International Airport (KIX)
-
JR Haruka limited express: approx. 80 min, approx. ¥3,370 (reserved) / ¥2,850 (unreserved) The fastest route from KIX to Kyoto Station. From the station, walk approximately seven minutes to the hotel, or take the free shuttle bus (approx. 5 min) from the Hachijō-guchi exit, stop G3. Seats sell out quickly during the cherry blossom (March–April) and autumn foliage (October–November) seasons — advance reservations are strongly recommended.
-
Nankai Railway + JR Rapid: approx. 105 min, approx. ¥1,910 Take the Nankai Limited Express Rapi:t to Namba, then transfer to a JR rapid service at JR Namba or Osaka Station to Kyoto Station. This route takes longer but is a more affordable option.
From Itami Airport (Osaka International Airport)
-
Direct limousine bus: approx. 55 min, approx. ¥1,340 A direct limousine bus runs from Itami Airport to the Kyoto Station Hachijō-guchi stop G3. From there, walk approximately seven minutes to the hotel, or take the free shuttle bus (operating 9:05–19:05).
-
Osaka Monorail + Hankyu + JR: approx. 90 min, approx. ¥1,020 Take the Osaka Monorail to Hotarugaike Station, transfer to the Hankyu Takarazuka Line to Umeda, then take a JR rapid service from Osaka Station to Kyoto Station. This route involves multiple transfers; the limousine bus is recommended for those traveling with luggage.
From Kyoto Station to the Hotel
-
Kyoto Station (JR Lines / Kintetsu Kyoto Line / Subway Karasuma Line): approx. 7 min walk Head toward Higashiborikawa-dori. Accessible from both the Central Exit and the Hachijō-guchi exit.
-
Free shuttle bus from Hachijō-guchi: approx. 5 min Departs from stop G3, operating 9:05–19:05 at approximately 15-minute intervals. Outside these hours, please use a taxi or walk (approx. 7 min).
Venue Summary
- Official name: RIHGA Royal Hotel Kyoto
- Address: 1 Taimatsu-cho, Higashiborikawa-dori Shiokoji Sagaru, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto 600-8237
- Nearest station: Kyoto Station (JR Lines / Kintetsu Kyoto Line / Subway Karasuma Line), approx. 7 min walk
- Official website: https://www.rihga.co.jp/kyoto
- Free shuttle bus: From Kyoto Station Hachijō-guchi stop G3, 9:05–19:05 (approx. every 15 min)
- Inquiries: Please check the official website for the latest information
Event Venues at RIHGA Royal Hotel Kyoto
The hotel offers seven banquet rooms — from small meeting spaces for a few people to the grand Shunjū ballroom for 1,000 guests — covering a wide range of event formats and sizes.
Shunjū
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Capacity (theater) | Up to 1,000 |
| Area | approx. 1,000 m² |
| Ceiling height | 5 m |
| Features | Divisible into 3 sections, renovated in 2018 |
The hotel’s largest banquet room, with a soaring 5-meter ceiling that lends an open, elegant atmosphere. The space can be divided into three sections for smaller events. Widely used for international conferences, corporate general meetings, and large receptions.
Suzaku
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Capacity (theater) | Up to 800 |
| Area | approx. 790 m² |
| Ceiling height | 4.25 m |
| Features | Divisible into 3 sections |
The hotel’s second largest ballroom, also divisible into three sections. Well suited for events accommodating up to 800 guests.
Le Bois / Salon de Charme
Two mid-size banquet rooms for 60 to 200 guests. Suitable for seminars, standing receptions, and training sessions. Please see the official website for detailed specifications.
Horikawa / Kurama / Nishijin
Three smaller banquet rooms for more intimate meetings and gatherings. Please see the official website for details.
Staying at RIHGA Royal Hotel Kyoto
For event participants, staying at RIHGA Royal Hotel Kyoto itself is the most convenient option. Having the venue and guest rooms in the same building eliminates the need to move luggage or navigate the city late at night. For room types and reservation details, please visit the official website.
Recommended Hotels Near RIHGA Royal Hotel Kyoto
If the hotel itself is fully booked, the following options near Kyoto Station are convenient alternatives.
Richmond Hotel Premier Kyoto Ekimae
A well-located hotel directly in front of Kyoto Station, equally suited to business and leisure travelers. From here, RIHGA Royal Hotel Kyoto is easily reachable on foot or by the free shuttle bus.
The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Umekoji
An upscale hotel in the Umekoji area featuring Japanese modern design. Guests can enjoy the surrounding park and cultural facilities alongside comfortable, refined accommodations.
Recommended Restaurants Near RIHGA Royal Hotel Kyoto
The Shimogyo Ward and Umekoji area surrounding the hotel offer a range of dining options — from high-end traditional Kyoto cuisine to casual cafés.
Fine Dining (Japanese)
Ito
A reservation-only kaiseki restaurant regarded as one of Kyoto’s finest. Ideal for important client dinners or special occasions. Please check the official website for availability and reservation details before your visit.
Casual Japanese
Wa Nichi
A sushi and Japanese cuisine restaurant conveniently located near Kyoto Station. Mid-range pricing with lunch and dinner service, suitable for group dining.
Western
Genka Bistro Cheese Plus Kyoto Station Tower Front
An Italian bistro specializing in cheese dishes and wines, located inside Kyoto Station Tower Front. Casual pricing and a relaxed atmosphere make it a good choice for a post-event meal.
Asian
Korean Restaurant AYAN
A Korean barbecue and cuisine restaurant in the Umekoji area. Mid-range pricing and accommodating for group dining and gatherings.
Café
COYOTE the ordinary shop
A specialty coffee café that opens at 8:00 AM. Conveniently located within walking distance of the hotel, making it a good stop before an early morning event.
Bar
bar HIGH CENTRAL whisky & cocktail
A whisky and cocktail bar with late-night hours, offering a calm and refined atmosphere. A good choice for a post-event drink or a client gathering.
Tips Before You Visit
Confirm the Shuttle Bus Schedule
The free hotel shuttle bus operates only from 9:05 to 19:05, departing from Kyoto Station Hachijō-guchi stop G3 at approximately 15-minute intervals. For arrivals before 9:00 AM or returns after 19:05, plan to walk (approx. 7 min) or take a taxi.
Check Parking Rates and Reservations in Advance
The hotel parking lot became fee-based from April 1, 2026. If you plan to arrive by private car or arranged vehicle, check the current rates and reservation process on the official website before your visit.
Book Transport Early During Peak Seasons
Kyoto Station and the surrounding area become heavily crowded during cherry blossom season (March–April) and autumn foliage season (October–November). JR Haruka limited express seats from Kansai International Airport to Kyoto sell out quickly during these periods — book your tickets well in advance.
Check the Western Access Route for Construction
Redevelopment and renovation works are ongoing in the Umekoji area as of 2026. Routes west of the hotel may be affected by construction; check for the latest updates before your visit.
Higashiborikawa-dori Is One-Way
The street running along the hotel (Higashiborikawa-dori) is one-way north–south. When arriving by taxi or group bus, share the drop-off point and approach route with your driver in advance to avoid confusion.