Pokémon is not only a global icon; it’s a part of Japan’s cultural heart. While there are now over 20 Pokémon Centers across Japan, Pokémon Center Kyoto stands out for its unique “Kyoto-style” design. Following its successful relocation to SUINA Muromachi, it remains a must-visit for any fan.
The Kyoto Experience
Located on the 2nd floor of SUINA Muromachi, the shop is directly connected to Shijo Station (Subway) and Karasuma Station (Hankyu). At the entrance, you can see two legendary Pokemons, Lugia and Ho-Oh welcoming you. Most of the Pokemon goods sold at this store are limited editions, so make sure to stop by the Pokémon Center Kyoto when you’re in Kyoto!
SUINA Muromachi: More than just Pokémon
The SUINA Muromachi building has become a beloved landmark for foodies.
The restaurants, café, and bars at SUINA Muromachi offer a wide range of cuisines, including Japanese, European, and Chinese. A food supermarket that sells fresh food is also available. Make sure to stop by SUINA Muromachi if you want something delicious when you’re in Kyoto!
Best Hotels Nearby
If you want to stay in the heart of the action, these three hotels offer fantastic access and modern amenities:
Sotetsu Fresa Inn Kyoto-Shijokarasuma
Sotetsu Fresa Inn Kyoto-Shijokarasuma is located within a 20-second walk from SUINA Muromachi, where Pokemon Center Kyoto is located. The hotel is also located within a 2-minute walk from Shijo Station and Karasuma Station. With easy access to Kyoto’s most popular sightseeing spots, you can travel around Kyoto without haste by staying in this hotel!
https://fresa-inn.jp/en/karasuma
Opened in April 2017, all rooms are clean and comfortable. There are various types of rooms here, including twin rooms, and you can choose your room preferences based on the number of people traveling and the purpose of the trip.
This hotel is designed in a modern, Japanese style making use of some elements of Kyoto and Japanese décor. Offering a stylish and elegant Japanese taste, you can relax at this hotel without doubt!
This hotel offers a buffet-style Japanese and Western breakfast for those who have booked the rooms with a meal plan. Made from Kyoto’s finest local ingredients, this hotel serves a different breakfast menu on a daily basis. Start your day by enjoying Kyoto’s delicious treats offered by this hotel!
Amenities are available for free at the hotel lobby on the second floor. Among these amenities, bath salt is the most popular item among foreign guests, and there are various types of bath salts offered for free at the lobby. So, how about having a relaxing bath with one of these bath salts? In addition to its satisfying amenities, free Wi-Fi is available in all rooms, so you can browse the Internet for information on transportation and sightseeing spots. A spacious laundry room is also available, and you can wash your clothes without haste here.
Tanakacho Narazuketen, a famous pickles shop of Kyoto, is located on the first floor of this hotel. Tanakacho Narazuketen is a well-established shop in Kyoto with a history of more than 230 years. The shop is famous for its top-notch Narazuke (Nara-style pickles). Narazuke uses vegetables like oriental pickling melons, eggplants, and cucumbers. These vegetables are first pickled in salt before pickling them in sake lees. Narazuke pickles are very delicious and easy to eat. Even some foreign tourists found that Narazuke is enjoyable even though they don’t really like pickles. Offering traditional tastes which have been passed for generations, make sure to purchase these items as souvenirs for your family back home!
THE POCKET HOTEL KYOTO SHIJO KARASUMA
THE POCKET HOTEL KYOTO SHIJO KARASUMA is another recommended hotel located opposite the Pokémon Center Kyoto. The hotel is neither a business hotel nor a capsule hotel, and it offers comfortable minimalist rooms that ensure guests’ security and privacy. Offered for a reasonable rate, this hotel is recommended for those who want to stay in a private room while traveling on a budget!
https://pocket-hotel.jp/karasuma
Sotetsu Fresa Inn Kyoto-Hachijoguchi
If you’re looking to stay near Kyoto Station, then Sotetsu Fresa Inn Kyoto-Hachijoguchi is the hotel you’re looking for! Located within a 3-minute walk from the Hachijo East Exit of Kyoto Station, this hotel provides convenient access to Kyoto’s most famous historical sightseeing spots. Offering you a comfortable stay, all rooms at this hotel are very stylish, clean, and tidy.
https://fresa-inn.jp/en/hachijo
Kyoto is packed with many attractive sightseeing spots and seasonal views. Kyoto is a one-of-a kind destination, where you can feel both the modern and the good old traditional culture of Japan. Therefore, how about planning a trip to Kyoto on this occasion?
Sotetsu Fresa Inn Kyoto-Shijokarasuma
Address: 160 Dojishacho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
Number of rooms: 140
Check-in: 15:00
Check-out: 10:00
https://fresa-inn.jp/en/karasuma/
THE POCKET HOTEL KYOTO-SHIJOKARASUMA
Address: 474 Setoyacho, Nishikikoji-sagaru, Yanaginobanba-dori, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
Number of rooms: 147
Check-in: 16:00
Check-out: 10:00
https://pocket-hotel.jp/karasuma/
Sotetsu Fresa Inn Kyoto-Hachijoguchi
Address: 11 Higashikujo-Nishisannocho, Minami-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
Number of rooms: 138
Check-in: 15:00
Check-out: 10:00
https://fresa-inn.jp/en/hachijo/
Planning Your 2026 Trip
Kyoto remains a one-of-a-kind destination where you can feel both the modern energy of Pokémon and the traditional soul of Japan. If you are visiting in early 2026, also look out for the 30th Anniversary “PikaPika Lucky Boxes” at the Pokémon Center—they are a legendary New Year tradition!
