If you are looking for a place to live near Kyoto University, you may come across areas such as Hyakumanben, Demachiyanagi, Mototanaka, Kita-Shirakawa, and Jodoji.
Each neighborhood has its own character.
For international students and researchers who prefer a quiet residential environment while staying close to Kyoto University, Kita-Shirakawa and Jodoji are areas worth considering.
Located in Sakyo-ku, northeast of central Kyoto, these neighborhoods offer a different side of Kyoto—one that is less focused on tourism and more connected to everyday local life.
If you are just beginning your search for accommodation, you may also find our “guide Living Near Kyoto University: A Guide for International Students “useful.
1. Where Are Kita-Shirakawa and Jodoji?
Kita-Shirakawa and Jodoji are located in the northeastern part of Kyoto, relatively close to Kyoto University.
The neighborhoods are mainly residential, with local shops, restaurants, cafés, convenience stores, and residential streets.
They are also close to some of Kyoto’s well-known cultural and natural attractions, including the Philosopher’s Path, Ginkaku-ji, and the Higashiyama mountains.
For students, researchers, and other long-term residents, this location offers an interesting combination:
close to Kyoto University, but away from the busiest parts of central Kyoto.
2. A Quiet Residential Environment Near Kyoto University
One of the main attractions of Kita-Shirakawa and Jodoji is their atmosphere.
Compared with some of the busier areas of central Kyoto, many streets in this part of Sakyo-ku have a more residential and relaxed feeling.
For an international student, this can be particularly attractive.
University life can be busy with classes, seminars, research, and social activities. Having a comfortable and relatively quiet place to return to can make everyday life more enjoyable.
If you prefer a peaceful environment rather than a busy nightlife scene, Kita-Shirakawa and Jodoji may be a good match.
3. Living Close to Kyoto University
One of the advantages of living in this area is access to Kyoto University.
Depending on your department and exact location, you can travel by bicycle, bus, or on foot.
Cycling is particularly convenient for many students in Kyoto.
Instead of depending entirely on public transportation, you can use a bicycle for everyday trips to the university, supermarkets, restaurants, and other nearby areas.
When choosing accommodation, however, it is important to check the actual route and travel time to your department rather than relying only on the distance shown on a map.
4. Everyday Life in Kita-Shirakawa and Jodoji
Living in Kyoto is about more than commuting to university.
You also need to think about shopping, eating, exercise, and the simple routines of everyday life.
Kita-Shirakawa and Jodoji offer a combination of residential streets and local services.
There are places to buy everyday necessities, eat out, and enjoy a coffee or a walk.
The area is also close to Kyoto’s natural environment.
You can take a walk, explore the surrounding streets, or visit nearby cultural sites when you want a break from studying.
This combination of student life, local life, culture, and nature is one of the attractions of living in this part of Kyoto.
5. A Different Experience From Central Kyoto
Many international students first imagine Kyoto as a city of temples, traditional streets, and busy tourist destinations.
Those places are certainly part of Kyoto.
But living in Kyoto is a different experience.
In Kita-Shirakawa and Jodoji, you can experience a more residential side of the city.
You may see local residents going about their daily routines, students cycling to university, and small neighborhood businesses serving the local community.
For someone staying in Kyoto for several months or longer, this can provide a more everyday experience of life in Japan.
6. Is Kita-Shirakawa and Jodoji Good for International Students?
International students have different priorities when choosing accommodation.
Some want to live in the middle of a lively international community.
Others prefer a quiet place where they can concentrate on their studies while still having opportunities to meet people from other countries.
Kita-Shirakawa and Jodoji can be particularly suitable for the second group.
You can enjoy the international atmosphere of a share house without necessarily living in one of Kyoto’s busiest areas.
This balance between international exchange and personal space can be especially valuable for students and researchers.
7. Getting Around Kita-Shirakawa and Jodoji
When considering accommodation near Kyoto University, transportation is an important factor.
The area around Kita-Shirakawa and Jodoji is served by buses, while cycling can also be a practical option for many students.
Your best transportation method will depend on where your department is located and where you need to travel regularly.
When comparing accommodation, consider:
◆Cycling time to Kyoto University
◆Bus routes
◆Access to supermarkets
◆Access to convenience stores
◆Travel time to central Kyoto
◆Bicycle parking
Before renting a room, it can be helpful to check the route at the time you would normally travel.
A location that works well for your daily routine can be more valuable than simply choosing the accommodation with the shortest distance to campus.
8. Nature and Seasonal Beauty
Another attraction of Kita-Shirakawa is its access to nature.
The area is close to the eastern mountains of Kyoto and provides opportunities to enjoy greenery and walking routes.
The Philosopher’s Path and surrounding areas are popular places to walk and enjoy the changing seasons.
Spring, summer, autumn, and winter each offer a different atmosphere.
For international students who want to experience not only university life but also the natural side of Kyoto, this can be a major advantage.
You can study during the day and enjoy a walk through Kyoto’s quieter neighborhoods when you have free time.
9. Share Houses in Kita-Shirakawa and Jodoji
If you are an international student, a share house near Kyoto University can be an alternative to renting a private apartment.
A share house normally provides a private room together with shared facilities.
One of the main advantages is the opportunity to meet other residents.
For someone arriving in Japan for the first time, living with people from different countries can make it easier to meet people, exchange information, and experience different cultures.
However, share houses can vary considerably.
Some are large and lively, while others are smaller and quieter.
If you prefer a calm environment, it may be worth looking specifically for a small international share house near Kyoto University.
10. Flat Bolero Jodoji
If you are looking for an international share house near Kyoto University in a quiet residential area, Flat Bolero Jodoji is one option to consider.
Flat Bolero is located in Jodoji and is designed for international students and residents who want opportunities for cultural exchange while maintaining a comfortable living environment.
The house is relatively small, so residents can naturally get to know one another.
Private rooms provide personal space, while shared areas provide opportunities to meet other residents.
Another feature is that there is no regular cleaning duty for residents.
This can be convenient for students and researchers who have busy schedules and would rather spend their free time studying, exploring Kyoto, or relaxing.
The house is directly managed by the owner, and communication in English is available.
Listed by Kyoto University’s International Suport Center
Flat Bolero Jodoji is also currently listed on the Kyoto University International Support Center’s accommodation information page under “Shared House.”
The university’s page states that applications from overseas are accepted and that English-speaking staff, furniture and household appliances, and free internet are available.
You can see the official listing here:
Kyoto University International Suport Center – Shared House Information
If you would like to learn more about the house itself:
Flat Bolero Jodoji – International Share House in Kyoto
11. Who Might Enjoy Living in Kita-Shirakawa and Jodoji?
These neighborhoods may be particularly suitable if you:
◆Study or conduct research at Kyoto University
◆Want to live relatively close to Kyoto University
◆Prefer a quiet residential environment
◆Enjoy cycling
◆Like walking and nature
◆Want to experience everyday life in Kyoto
◆Are interested in international exchange
◆Prefer a smaller share house
◆Want both private space and opportunities to socialize
On the other hand, if your priority is nightlife, large shopping centers, or being in the busiest part of central Kyoto, another area may suit you better.
12. Discover a Different Side of Kyoto
Kita-Shirakawa and Jodoji may not be the first areas that come to mind when people think about Kyoto.
But for international students and researchers, they offer an attractive combination of convenience, nature, culture, and a peaceful residential atmosphere.
You can cycle to Kyoto University, explore the surrounding neighborhoods, enjoy Kyoto’s seasonal scenery, and return home to a quieter environment.
For someone who plans to spend several months or more in Kyoto, this can be a wonderful way to experience the city.
If you are still deciding where to live, you may also want to read:
Living Near Kyoto University: A Guide for International Students
Looking for a Share House Near Kyoto University?
If you are searching for an international share house near Kyoto University, take some time to compare different neighborhoods and different types of accommodation.
Think about your daily routine, commuting time, privacy, social atmosphere, and the kind of Kyoto experience you want.
If a quiet residential neighborhood and an international community sound right for you, Flat Bolero Jodoji may be worth considering.
Learn more about Flat Bolero Jodoji →
The best neighborhood depends on your lifestyle.
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