Enjoy Japanese Zen
12 serene hotels, ryokan, and temples across Kyoto and Kanazawa
12 places curated by KidsGoTravel for family travelers.
1. Aman Kyoto
Kyoto, Japan
A forest retreat in northern Kyoto with mossy paths, ryokan-inspired rooms, and mineral hot springs, close to Kinkaku-ji.
2. ROKU KYOTO, LXR Hotels & Resorts
Kyoto, Japan
A contemporary Takagamine retreat framed by the Kitayama mountains, with a natural thermal pool and easy access to Kinkaku-ji.
3. Park Hyatt Kyoto
Kyoto, Japan
A refined Higashiyama base in Kyoto's preserved streets, within an easy walk of Kodai-ji, Kennin-ji, and Kiyomizu-dera.
4. Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto's iconic gold-leaf Zen pavilion reflected in Kyoko-chi pond, followed by a compact garden walk and traditional teahouse.
5. Ryoan-ji Temple
Kyoto, Japan
Pause before Japan's best-known Zen rock garden, then walk around Kyoyo-chi pond to give younger travelers room to reset.
6. Kennin-ji Temple
Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto's oldest Zen temple, known for contemplative gardens, folding screen art, and the dramatic Twin Dragons ceiling.
7. Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Kyoto, Japan
An essential Kyoto temple with a vast wooden stage, hillside views, and a lively approach; visit early for a calmer family experience.
8. Asadaya Ryokan
Kanazawa, Japan
An intimate 1867 sukiya-style ryokan celebrated for seasonal Kaga cuisine, refined tableware, and deeply personal service.
9. Kinjohro
Kanazawa, Japan
A storied six-room ryotei and ryokan near Kanazawa's historic core, pairing formal hospitality with beautifully presented Kaga cuisine.
10. Motoyu Ishiya
Kanazawa, Japan
A secluded hot-spring ryokan with amber-colored water, traditional rooms, seasonal Kaga cooking, and a century-old Noh stage.
11. Myoryu-ji (Ninja Temple)
Kanazawa, Japan
A temple engineered with hidden stairs, concealed rooms, and clever defenses. Phone reservations are required, and preschoolers cannot enter.
12. Daijo-ji Temple
Kanazawa, Japan
A living Soto Zen monastery on Nodayama, with connected wooden halls and public zazen sessions for visitors ready for a very early start.