Hotels in Ohara

Discover Ohara: Where Serene Hot Springs Embrace Timeless Temples and Rolling Hills

Ohara, nestled in Kyoto Prefecture, is a serene countryside gem that invites travelers to immerse themselves in Japan’s natural beauty and rich culture. Surrounded by lush hills and tranquil landscapes, this off-the-beaten-path destination is home to stunning temples like Sanzen-in, where visitors can meditate amidst zen gardens. Explore picturesque trails leading to the Fushimigataki Waterfall or unwind in soothing hot springs. With charming accommodations and a slower pace of life, Ohara offers a romantic hideaway perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. Experience the essence of Kyoto's countryside in this enchanting locale. For the best hotel rates in Ohara, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Ohara

Ohara, Kyoto, offers unique experiences for travelers, with Kiyomizu Temple showcasing breathtaking architecture and views, Kawaramachi Street providing vibrant shopping and dining, and Kinkaku-ji Temple enchanting with its golden serenity. For accommodations, options range from traditional minshuku to modern hotels, often featuring comfortable rooms and local charm. Kawaramachi Street is ideal for first-time visitors due to its accessibility and lively atmosphere. Enjoy your stay in this captivating area of Japan! Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Ohara:

1. Near Kiyomizu TempleOpens in a new window: This area is rich in cultural significance and offers stunning historical sites, making it a perfect spot for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in Kyoto's heritage. The proximity to Kiyomizu Temple allows easy access to one of Japan's most celebrated landmarks. For accommodations, consider Kyoto Higashiyama SANTOUANOpens in a new window, a cozy 2.5-star guesthouse known for its dining options, including a restaurant and coffee shop. It also features entertainment amenities like a flatscreen TV. Another option is Kiyomizu GardenOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star guesthouse that provides comfortable rooms equipped with flatscreen TVs. Lastly, Yadoya ManjiroOpens in a new window, also a 2.5-star guesthouse, offers a delightful Japanese breakfast, making it a great choice for food enthusiasts.
2. Near Kawaramachi StreetOpens in a new window: This vibrant area is the heartbeat of Kyoto’s shopping and dining scene, perfect for families and business travelers alike. With countless shops, eateries, and easy access to public transport, it’s an ideal base for exploring the city. HOTEL U's KouroenOpens in a new window is a 3.0-star hotel that provides modern comforts with entertainment options like a flatscreen TV. Abiko Guest HouseOpens in a new window, another 3.0-star guesthouse, features a welcoming atmosphere and is close to shopping districts and metro stations, making it convenient for travelers. For budget-oriented guests, IosakahouseOpens in a new window offers hostel-style accommodations, perfect for backpackers seeking an economical stay.
3. Near Kinkaku-ji TempleOpens in a new window: Known for its breathtaking Golden Pavilion, this area is a serene retreat that showcases Kyoto’s stunning architecture and gardens. It’s a must-visit for culture enthusiasts and nature lovers. Imazu Sun Bridge HotelOpens in a new window is a 3.5-star hotel that offers a restaurant and daily breakfast, providing guests with a comfortable stay and entertainment options like flatscreen TVs. Ocean Resort Hotel & Spa UminpiaOpens in a new window, also a 3.5-star hotel, boasts a variety of dining options, including English breakfast and wrapped meals, ensuring guests have a delightful culinary experience. Both hotels offer a blend of comfort and accessibility to Kinkaku-ji Temple, making them excellent choices for your stay.

What to do in Ohara

Ohara is a hidden gem for travelers seeking a serene escape into nature. With its lush mountains, tranquil countryside, and soothing hot springs, visitors can enjoy hiking through picturesque trails, relaxing by lakeshores, and exploring scenic waterfalls. Three days here offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Ohara:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at Kiyomizu Temple, renowned for its wooden stage that offers stunning views of the cherry and maple trees below, especially during spring and autumn. After soaking in the serene atmosphere, stroll to Hokanji Temple, where you can admire the iconic five-story pagoda and enjoy the quaint streets lined with traditional shops. As the day winds down, make your way to Yasaka Shrine, a vibrant hub of local culture. Here, you can experience the lively atmosphere and perhaps witness a traditional ceremony, all while enjoying the beautiful lanterns that illuminate the shrine at night.
• Day 2: Start your day with a visit to Sanzenin Temple, nestled in the tranquil mountains of Ohara. Take your time to explore the lush gardens and ancient hall that house beautiful relics. Next, head to Kochidani Amida-ji Temple, a hidden gem offering a peaceful retreat with its stunning architecture and surrounding nature. In the afternoon, make your way to Hiei-zan & Enryaku-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, you can hike or take a cable car to the summit, where you’ll find breathtaking views and a rich history that dates back over a thousand years.
• Day 3: Kick off your exploration at the iconic Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion, where you can marvel at its stunning reflection in the surrounding pond. Following this, head to the Kyoto Imperial Palace, where you can stroll through the beautiful gardens and get a glimpse of Japan's imperial history. Conclude your day with an invigorating hike up Mount Hiei, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Kyoto and the surrounding landscape, providing the perfect backdrop to reflect on your incredible journey through this historic region.

5 tips to find a great Ohara hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Ohara is during January, February, and September, when hotel prices are more affordable. For a great value for money experience, it's recommended to stay for at least 2-3 days to fully explore the main attractions, including the picturesque temples and relaxing hotsprings. This allows you to appreciate the beautiful hilly countryside and majestic mountains that Ohara has to offer.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're seeking budget-friendly accommodations in Ohara, consider exploring last-minute deals that can offer significant savings. To uncover these offers on Hotels.com, navigate to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you may discover discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. Additionally, by enabling email alerts or push notifications, you could find out about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, helping you to maximize your savings without missing out on affordable stays. Plus, many options come with price guarantees and refundable choices for added peace of mind.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Ohara.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your vacation, keep your location in mind. Staying closer to major attractions or city centers can offer convenience, but it usually tends to come with a higher price tag. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods while striking a balance between cost and accessibility to the places you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Become a member of Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program when booking your stay in Ohara. Earn points for your hotel bookings and progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers. Unlock a range of exclusive rewards, including room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and member-only offers. Join today.

What to eat in Ohara

Here are some famous dishes in Ohara, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan:

• Sushi: Experience the art of sushi in Ohara, where fresh, local ingredients come together in beautifully crafted rolls and nigiri. Look for sushi spots that emphasize seasonal fish and traditional preparation methods, providing a true taste of Kyoto's culinary heritage.
• Ramen: Indulge in bowls of steaming ramen, showcasing rich broths that often include miso from local storehouses. Many ramen shops in Ohara offer customizable options, allowing you to select your noodles, broth, and toppings, making each bowl a personal experience.
• Tempura: Delight in crispy tempura, featuring seasonal vegetables and fish lightly battered and fried to perfection. In Ohara, you may find tempura served as part of a multi-course meal, highlighting the dish's role in Japanese dining culture.

Best time to go to Ohara

Ohara experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 37.8°F (3.2°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 80.2°F (26.8°C). July is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Ohara, March, April, and November are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, January, February, and September are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light to moderate rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.