Backpacker hostel in Gion, Kyoto
There are no strangers here.
Only friends you haven’t yet met.
Friends Kyo is 1 minute from Gion-Shijo Station. Next to us are the geishas and Kyoto’s oldest Zen temple. Then there are the bars and izakayas of Kiyamachi and Pontocho just across the river. Our super convenient location and hangout spaces means you can meet new friends here and explore Japan’s ancient capital together.
Rooms
Mixed dormitory
8 beds for all genders.
All separated by walls for privacy.
Shared bathroom and 2 in-room toilets.
Women-only dormitory
5 beds for women only. In-room shower, in-room toilet, and extensive range of toiletries (make-up removal oil, make-up sponges, sanitary products, etc).
Amenities
Privacy curtains
Bedside reading lamps
Power outlets
Bath towels
Air-conditioning
24-hour air purifier & humidifier
Free safe deposit boxes
Strong wifi signal
Hair dryers
Shampoo & body wash
Sanitary products
24-hour ventilation
Microwave and toaster
Free all-day coffee
Free snacks & refreshments
Smoking area (rooftop)
What our guests say
I’ve never felt more at home at a hostel. experience. I was traveling alone, they even joined me a night out for dinner. I would stay here time after time again.
USA, MALE, 25-30
This is the best hostel I’ve been in my life! All the staff were so nice, helpful and kind. The location is great, easy to get to farthest places and fair price. I recommend 100% this place!
CHILE, FEMALE, 25-30
I loved that the beds were not bunk beds and that there were privacy curtains. The added bonus of free laundry service and a rooftop to hang out on and dry your clothes… not to mention the free breakfast!
USA, FEMALE, 31-40
Fabulous hostel! I love the set up of the rooms. Nicest hostel beds I’ve ever seen. Really really great location that’s central. Can’t recommend it enough. Can’t wait to go back!
CANADA, MALE, 25-30
Covid-prevention measures
Hand sanitisers provided
Temperature check
Travel history noted
Don masks at all times
Are fully vaccinated
Take their temperatures daily
Shared areas (sofa, tables)
Bathrooms & changing rooms
Door handles, staircase railings
We have installed top-of-the-line Sharp Plasmacluster air purifiers in both dormitories
Where we are
1 minute by foot…
Gion-Shijo Station
7-11 convenience store
24-hour coin laundromat
Bicycle rental shop
Ramen, udon, oden, bbq mutton
Miyagawacho Geisha District
Kyoto Ebisu Shrine
Kamogawa Riverside
5 minutes by foot…
Kawaramachi Station
Pontocho Geisha District
Gion Geisha District
Kennin-ji Temple
Yasaka Pagoda
Takashimaya Kyoto Store
Questions? Collaborations?
Our shared space on the ground floor is open to events and collaborations. We’ve been host to tea making sessions, free walking tours, and yoga classes. Please write to us below if you have an event in mind.
