kyoto to visit

Kyoto (���s, Kyōto) served as Japan's capital and the emperor 's residence from 794 until 1868 . It is one of the country's ten largest cities with 1.5 million inhabitants and a modern face.

Over the centuries, Kyoto was destroyed by many wars and fires, but due to its exceptional historic value, the city was dropped from the list of target cities for the atomic bomb and escaped destruction during World War II . Countless temples , shrines and other historically priceless structures survive in the city today.

Top attractions in Kyoto

Kyoto by interest

Getting there and around

Itinerary ideas.

• Walk the Philosopher's Path
• Beautiful temples and shrines
• Attractive Higashiyama streets

• See the bamboo groves
• Visit the monkey park
• Serene temples and gardens

• Visit beautiful temples
• Explore Higashiyama and Gion

• Visit beautiful temples and shrines

• Explore attractive Arashiyama

• Explore Kyoto's northern side
• Visit Kinkakuji , Ryoanji and Ninnaji temples

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Links and Resources

Kyoto official travel guide, cycle kyoto, hotels around kyoto, kyoto hotel guide.

How to choose the best places to stay in Kyoto

Experiences around Kyoto

• Things to Do
• Tourist Spots & Attractions

25 Best Things to Do in Kyoto: Explore Bucket List Spots Like Arashiyama, Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, Gion, and More!

Shrines, temples, tours, day trips... If you've started looking into a trip to Kyoto, you might be overwhelmed by how much there is to see and do here. As the capital of Japan for over 1,000 years, Kyoto has a long history as a cultural powerhouse, and you can still experience the city's historical beauty and unique traditions today. In this article, we've compiled 25 of the best things to do in Kyoto. Read on to learn about the best sightseeing spots and activities to add to your Japan bucket list!

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About Kyoto

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Located in the Kansai area of Western Japan, Kyoto is one of Japan's most famous tourist destinations. As the old capital, Kyoto has a wealth of shrines, temples, historical areas, and gardens to see. At the same time, Kyoto is a modern city with plenty of shopping, gourmet dining, and entertainment options as well.

Kyoto is easy to access from Tokyo by bullet train, and is only a 30-minute train ride from Osaka. Kyoto also makes a great base for exploring the Kansai area, with the surrounding cities of Osaka, Nara, Kobe, and Japan's biggest lake, Lake Biwa, all very easy to get to from the Kyoto city center.

The climate in Kyoto can be very hot in the summer and fairly cold in the winter. The best times of the year to visit are arguably the cherry blossom season in early April, the autumn foliage period in late November, and the Gion Matsuri period in July. For obvious reasons, these are also extremely crowded periods, as are long Japanese holiday periods such as Golden Week (April 29 to early May) and Obon (mid-August). So if you're planning a trip during these times, it's best to secure all your reservations well in advance. 

A good starting point for planning any visit to Kyoto is our Ultimate Kyoto Travel Guide . Here you'll find everything you need to know about where to stay, eat, shop, as well as all the info you need to get around and stay safe in Kyoto. 

Nijo Castle Kyoto Tour

As the capital of Japan for a thousand years, Kyoto was the home to Japan's royalty, but the Imperial Family was not the only seat of power in ancient Kyoto. The shogunate, Japan's feudal military government, held power over the country from 1185 to 1868.

Completed in 1603, Nijo Castle served as residences, offices, and reception spaces for the Tokugawa shogunate. In 1867, the last shogun, Tokugawa Yoshinobu, declared the end of the shogunate and the return of power to the Imperial Court at this very castle. After this period, Nijo Castle was used as a detached palace of the Imperial Court before being opened to the public in 1940.

Ninomaru Palace in the Nijo Castle complex is famous for its “nightingale floors”, named for the chirping sound the floorboards make when stepped upon. Ninomaru Palace is not just a site for history lovers; it's also a rare chance to see a range of decorative artworks like folding screens and wall and ceiling paintings displayed just as they were when the castle was in use by the shogunate.

This castle has a long and complex history, and was the site of some of the biggest changes in Japan's history. To properly appreciate its cultural, artistic, and historical background, we recommend seeing Nijo Castle with a guide. The 60-minute Nijo Castle Kyoto Tour  via Voyagin gives you 10% off the original tour price and is both an easy and affordably-priced way to deepen your experience of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. For more information about this tour, please see the link below!

Kyoto Imperial Palace and Imperial Palace Park

Kyoto was Japan's capital for over a thousand years, during which Kyoto, known as Heian-kyo at the time, flourished as a cultural and economic center. Since the capital moved to Tokyo in 1868, the Kyoto Imperial Palace has been preserved as a historical site. While some official functions are held here today, the grounds and gardens are open to the public. Inside the palace gates you'll find preserved buildings used by the Imperial Household and beautifully-crafted Japanese gardens.

In the past, visitors were required to register in advance for a tour to access the palace grounds, but today, anyone can visit without a reservation. Free tours are still available, and are worth joining to find out more about the history and architecture here. English language tours are held daily at 10:00 am and 2:00 pm. To join, just visit the Visitors Room on the right of the entrance before the tour’s start time. Click this link for more details.

While historically the area around the Imperial Palace housed residences of court nobles and were walled off to the public, today this space serves as a large public park. Measuring 1.3 kilometers from north to south, the Kyoto Imperial Palace Park is an important green space for Kyoto locals, and also has a range of small shrines, temples, and historical buildings to see. In the spring, the weeping cherry blossom grove at the north of the park is one of the more spacious and peaceful spots in Kyoto for a hanami picnic .

If you're able to secure a tour reservation, the gardens of the Kyoto Sento Imperial Palace, also located in the park, are definitely worth visiting. This palace was built at the beginning of the 17th century for the retirement of Emperor Go-Mizunoo. While the original buildings have since been lost, many consider the gardens here to be some of the most beautiful in Kyoto.

Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine

Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, with its thousand torii (shrine) gates, is one of Japan’s most iconic sights, and is definitely an unmissable stop during any visit to Kyoto. Located in the city's south, the shrine features torii gate-lined trails that lead around four kilometers up Mt. Inariyama. Along the way, you'll find lush forest and many charming sub-shrines to explore. It can take around two hours to walk up the full length of the trail, so be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes!

Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine is open 24 hours a day, so you can walk the trails in the evenings or early morning if you want a more serene experience.

This shrine enshrines Inari, a fox god said to grant blessings for things like business and harvests, so keep your eyes peeled for the cute Inari statues found all over the complex.

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Kiyomizu-dera Temple, located in the southern Higashiyama district, is another of Kyoto’s busiest and well-known temples. The main hall’s balcony, or “stage”, seems to jut out of the mountainside, and gives a great view of Kyoto and the surrounding mountain forest. The vibrant red maples make a particularly beautiful sight here in the fall.

The main hall with its large stage was once the site of dangerous tradition. In the Edo period, it was said that if you survived the 13-meter jump from the stage, your wish would be granted. Of course, this practice has now been banned, but today you still hear Japanese people using the phrase “jumping from the Kiyomizu stage” to describe someone taking a leap of faith.

Luckily, there are still some safer places to make a wish at Kiyomizu-dera Temple! When you emerge from the main hall, take the stone stairs up to visit Jishu Shrine, which enshrines Okuninushi-no-Mikoto, a god of love and matchmaking. If you’re looking for love, stop and for one of the love-themed charms or fortunes here.

You’ll also see two stones decorated with ceremonial rope 18 meters apart on the central path of the shrine. If you can walk from one stone to the other with your eyes closed, it’s said you’ll find true love. Considering how busy this shrine can get, making the walk can be harder than it might seem!

Tenryu-ji Temple

World Heritage Site Tenryu-ji Temple is one of Arashiyama’s most famous sights. The gorgeous Sogen Pond Garden (Sogenchi Teien) here has remained almost unchanged since it was first designed hundreds of years ago, and was the first site in Japan to be designated a Site of Special Historic and Scenic Importance by the Japanese government. The temple itself houses a number of important works of art, and it’s worth paying the small extra fee to access the temple's main building to see the gardens from a different angle while you take in the peaceful atmosphere.

If you enter the temple from the entrance near Hankyu Arashiyama Station and exit from the North Gate, you can head straight into Arashiyama’s famous bamboo forest. This part of the garden is called the Hyakka'en (Garden of a Hundred Flowers), and is a beautiful place to see each season's flowers in bloom. There is also a rest area near the North Gate that looks out over the bamboo forest itself. If there’s a breeze, you can hear the peaceful rustling and crackling soundscape the bamboo forest is known for.

There is also a Japanese vegetarian restaurant called Shigetsu on the premises. With sets starting at 3,300 yen, it’s best for a special meal, but if you want to try Japan’s shojin ryori (Zen temple cuisine), it’s well worth the visit.

Byodoin Temple

Byodoin Temple, located in Uji City to the south of Kyoto City, is a good temple to combine with a visit to Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, as it’s just a few more stops south on either the JR or Keihan lines.

Byodoin Temple’s Phoenix Hall was built in 1053, and is one of the few wooden structures in Kyoto from the Heian Period that has never needed to be rebuilt after fire or other disaster. This hall is so treasured in Japan, it’s even featured on the 10 yen coin. You must reserve a spot on a guided tour to enter and see the interior architecture and artworks housed within the hall. If tours are booked out for the day, the iconic view of the hall reflected in the Aji-no-Ike pond is worth the entry fee in and of itself.

Byodoin Temple is also a particularly beautiful spot for seasonal flowers. Around Aji-no-Ike pond, there are cherry blossoms in early April and a gorgeous trellis of wisteria plus azaleas in bloom in late April to mid-May. In summer, you can see water lilies and lotus, including a variety of lotus called Byodoin Temple Lotus. This plant was successfully germinated from a single, 200 year-old seed found during an excavation on the grounds, and doesn’t grow anywhere else in the world.

Sanzen-in Temple

Sanzenin Temple is the lagest temple in Ohara, a rural town to the north of Kyoto City. This temple is part of the Tendai sect of Japanese Buddhism, and is also known to be a monzeki temple, or a temple where members of the Imperial Family served as priests. This temple has a range of buildings and gardens to explore, also houses a National Treasure, a image of Amida Nyorai flanked by two attendants that was created in the Heian era.

 The temple's Guest Hall offers a famous view of the picture-perfect Shuheki-en Garden. Here you can stop for some green tea and a traditional sweet as you take in the pond and landscaped features framed elegantly by the hall's architecture.

Sanzenin is particularly famous among Kyoto locals as a go-to destination for hydrangeas in the spring and beautiful autumn foliage that reaches its peak around a week before the city does. The reds and yellows of the autumn leaves look particularly stunning against the vivid green in the temple's Yusei-en moss garden.

If you're looking to experience Ohara the easy way, you'll find our suggestion for a half-day guided tour from the Kyoto City center that includes Sanzenin and other Ohara highlights below.

Fushimi Sake District Tour

The key to Japan’s most famous sake brewing areas is the quality of the local water. Kyoto Fushimi’s water is said to be perfect for sake thanks to its low iron content and ideal mineral balance, which is created by the underground layer of granite this water filters through.

Whether you’re a diehard sake fan or an absolute beginner, no visit to Kyoto would be complete without trying some of the city’s local sake. An easy way to do this is to explore the area with a guide on a Fushimi Sake District Tour .

This 2.5 hour tour gives you access to Kizakura Fushimigura, one of Fushimi’s best known breweries. You can learn about how high-quality sake is made and try sake pairings with different foods. Experts are on hand to explain the concepts to you in English, so you can leave confident about ordering sake for the rest of your trip!

This tour also takes you around the scenic Fushimi sake brewing area, including the historical buildings and tree-lined canals this area is famous for. This afternoon tour is good to pair with a morning visit to Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine. After the tour, why not take a cruise along the Fushimi canal?

Uji Tea Culture Exploration

Uji in Kyoto’s south is a city that produces some of the most prized matcha (green tea) in Japan. Uji was one of the first areas in Japan to start cultivating the green tea that was first imported from China. Over time, the custom of drinking tea spread through Kyoto’s nobility to the general public to become the staple of Kyoto’s food culture it is today.

Today, Uji is a popular scenic area, well known for its Uji Bridge, known as one of the three most ancient bridges in Japan, Byodoin Temple, and the city's rich tea culture. Many visitors enjoy strolling the riverbanks of the Uji River and trying foods made with the local tea like matcha ice cream and soba noodles.

If you want to escape the city, you can take a tour of different tea fields in Uji and its surrounding tea-growing areas. This is one of the easiest ways to find your way around the more rural areas where tea is grown. Visiting on a tour also gives you access to the private farms themselves, and usually come with tea tasting and other hands-on experiences, too. You can check out an example of Uji tea farm tours here !

Kyoto Izakaya Restaurant Tour

Kyoto is known for its many elegant, high-end restaurants, but the local izakaya culture is definitely not to be missed. Izakaya are Japanese-style pubs that serve affordable food and drinks in a relaxed environment. As casual as they are, if you’re new in town, it can be hard to know where to go and how to navigate the menus and sake choices.

This is why we recommend the Japanese Izakaya 101 tour via Voyagin . On this two hour tour, you'll meet with a guide who will take you to some of Kyoto’s best izakaya to try local food and sake. Unlike some other pub-crawl style tours, the guides on this tour take the time to teach you how to order, how to choose sake, and all the other basics travelers might need to know. After this tour, you’re sure to feel at home exploring izakaya on your own!

For more details, including pricing and how to book, check out the link below.

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

Located to the west of the Kyoto city center, Arashiyama is a historical area known for its beautiful natural scenery.The Arashiyama bamboo forest is one of the most iconic sights in Kyoto, and is a must-see when visiting the area any time of year. There are a number of paths through the bamboo forest, but the most popular area starts at the exit of the north gate of Tenryu-ji Temple mentioned above, and extends towards the entrance to Okochi Sanso Villa Garden.

Togetsukyo Bridge

Togetsukyo Bridge has been considered the symbol of Arashiyama for hundreds of years. This bridge has been rebuilt a number of times since its first version in 843, and the current bridge was rebuilt in 1934 to recreate the design first built in 1606.The name "Togetsukyo" means "Moon-Crossing Bridge", and it has a poetic origin. It's said that Emperor Kameyama, who reigned from 1260 to 1274, was enjoying a boating party on the river under a full moon when he was moved by the scenery before him to write a poem. In it, he remarked that it seemed as though the moon itself was crossing the bridge. This image clearly resonated with the Kyoto townspeople, as the bridge is still known by this name today.

Today, the sight of the Togetsukyo Bridge backdropped by mountains dotted with cherry blossoms or autumn foliage is one of the most iconic sights in Kyoto.

* Arashiyama is typically only lit up at night during the Kyoto Arashiyama Hanatouro period, which usually takes place every year on March.

West Kyoto Electric Bicycle Tours of Rakusai

If the crowds in Arashiyama leave you wanting to get off the beaten track, consider the  West Kyoto Electric Bicycle Tours of Rakusai . One of the main attractions of this bicycle tour is getting to cycle through the Rakusai Bamboo Park. Designed to educate the public about bamboo and its importance to Japanese culture, the park—consisting of a museum, bamboo path, and gardens—has over 200 varieties of bamboo from all over the world to see.

On this tour, you’ll also have the chance to visit Oharano Shrine and Nishiyama Yoshimine-dera Temple. Oharano Shrine is a historic shrine built in 784 that is known for its beautiful gardens, especially in the fall. Yoshimine-dera, built on the hillside, is best known for its 600-year-old white pine called Yuryu no Matsu (Frolicking Dragon Pine). Supported on bamboo trellis, this tree gets its name from the fact that it grows almost horizontally, resembling the body of a Japanese dragon. In fact, it's said to have the longest tree branch in Japan.

The Oharano area is definitely a hidden gem in Kyoto, but it's known as a tricky area to navigate. If you want to experience the history, nature, and culture of this little-known area without the hassle, look no further than this tour!

Philosopher's Path

Kyoto’s Philosopher’s Path is a charming walk that runs from the Eikan-do Temple area to the Ginkaku-ji Temple area in northern Higashiyama. This path runs along the Lake Biwa Canal, and gets its name from the fact that Nishida Kitaro, a famous Kyoto philosopher, was said to meditate while walking along this path.

Lined with cherry trees, the Philosopher's Path is beautiful to walk in the spring, but as its name suggests, the seasonal foliage, charming local houses and gardens, and gentle flow of water through the canal makes for a meditative experience no matter the time of year. It should take around half an hour to make your way along the path, but there are some small boutiques and cafes along the way if you want to linger a little longer.

While you're in the area, we also highly recommend taking the time to visit Nanzen-ji Temple. This important Zen temple complex is known for its enormous Sanmon Gate and unique Lake Biwa Canal brick aqueduct, and is located just beyond Eikan-do Temple at the north end of the path.

Hanami Koji

Hanami Koji (Flower-Viewing Lane) is a preserved historical street in Kyoto's Gion area. The main section of this street is found off Shijo Street between Shijo Bridge and Yasaka Shrine, and runs from Shijo Street towards Kennin-ji Temple.

This is a scenic area for a stroll or a meal in one of the cafes and restaurants housed in the historical houses that line the street. As Hanami Koji lies within the Gion Kobu geisha district, in the evenings you might even be lucky enough to see one heading to or from an appointment at one of the traditional tea houses here. Of course, remember that any geisha you do see are professional artists at work, so be sure to respect their privacy and personal space.

One highlight of the street is Ichiriki Chaya, a high end, exclusive tea house where well-connected visitors have enjoyed luxurious meals, famous Japanese hospitality, and geisha performances for over 300 years. Western readers may recognize the name from its role as an important setting in the book and movie Memoirs of a Geisha. While access is by invitation only, its imposing exterior architecture facing Hanami Koji is an interesting glimpse at a landmark of Kyoto's elite.

Gion Shirakawa Area

Shirakawa is the name of the preserved historical area in Gion that runs along the Shirakawa Canal. Known for its pretty stone-paved streets, traditional townhouses, and willow trees, this area is a beautiful spot that’s very easy to get to from the major sightseeing areas. You’ll find your choice of traditional restaurants and tea houses here, and exploring the area gives a lovely experience of a traditional Gion streetscape. We recommend coming for a walk here in the evenings, as this area takes on a truly special atmosphere when lit by street lanterns.

Tatsumi Daimyojin is a tiny shrine located at the intersection of two of the prettiest streets in the area, Shirakawa Minami-dori and Shimbashi-dori, and is said to be a spot where the local geisha would traditionally pray at while working in the area.

Ohara Kyoto: Sanzenin Temple, Raigoin Temple & Hosenin Temple

Ohara is a small, rural town located around an hour’s drive north of the Kyoto city center. Famous for its incredible autumn scenery and beautiful temples, it’s an area that’s definitely worth exploring if you’re looking for an experience of rural Kyoto.

As it’s somewhat remote and not connected directly to the city by train, we recommend considering the  Ohara Kyoto tour via Voyagin. This five-hour tour takes you to Ohara by chartered taxi, and gives you a chance to enjoy private guided tours and experiences at Sanzenin Temple, Raigoin Temple, and Hosenin Temple.

Sanzenin Temple with ist famous Shuheki-en Garden mentioned previously is Ohara's biggest attraction. The nearby Raigoin Temple was founded as a training site for Buddhist monks in the Shomyo style of ritual chanting. Hosenin Temple displays some interesting contrasts. It has a beautiful, 700-year-old pine tree to see in its gardens, but is also known as one of Kyoto's "bloody" temples, with ceilings made from blood-stained floorboards taken from the original Fushimi Castle.

On this tour, you’ll explore all these beautiful temples and gardens, and have a chance to try some hands-on activities like sutra copying and chanting. You’ll finish your tour with green tea while enjoying the magical view of Hosenin's gardens illuminated in the evening.

For more information about this unique tour, you’ll find all the details at the link below.

Miyama Thatched House Village (Kayabuki no Sato)

Japan’s most famous thatched roof village is Shirakawa-go in Gifu Prefecture, but not everyone knows that there is another village where you can see this beautiful style of traditional architecture not far from Kyoto City! 

Miyama is a thatched house village located around 50 kilometers from the Kyoto city center. Many of these beautifully-preserved houses are open as museums and restaurants, so you’ll have plenty to do as you explore the culture, history, and food of the area. You might find yourself not wanting to go back to the modern world, and luckily enough, you can also stay the night in some of these houses. If you’re with a group, you can even rent out an entire one for yourself!

Amanohashidate

Amanohashidate is a natural sand bridge that spans Miyazu Bay in northern Kyoto. It's famous for being one of the Three Views of Japan, a list of the three most scenic spots in Japan. Covered in pine trees, the sand bar is beautiful to explore in and of itself, and the view of it from the Kasamatsu Park observatory is stunning. A famous thing to do here is to look at the view upside down by bending forward and looking between your legs. It’s said the view from this angle makes the sandbar look like a dragon rising into the sky.

We've recommended a number Kyoto spots that are beautiful in spring and autumn, but Amanohashidate makes a great summer spot, especially if you're looking for somewhere to swim or enjoy water sports. There are regular events for visitors in the summer months, including sea kayaking, beach yoga, and paddle-boarding. For more information about how to book, check out the link to the Amanohashidate Tourism Association below. 

Of course, riding a bike along the sandbar, relaxing in the local hot springs, and trying some of the local, freshly-caught seafood is a relaxing way to enjoy the culture of Kyoto’s coastal areas any time of year!

Kurama and Kibune

If you’d like to experience the landscapes and lifestyles of people who live in the mountains that surround Kyoto City, Kurama and Kibune make a great half or full day trip. You can access both small towns on the Kurama line of the Eizan Electric Railway which departs from Demachiyanagi Station. You can take the train between them, or if you prefer, walk the 4 kilometer hiking trail that connects the two towns. 

Kurama is known for Kurama-dera Temple, situated on the top of Mt Kurama, a short walk from Kurama Station. The walk to the top is very scenic, with many charming shrines, statues, and natural features like waterfalls to explore. If you prefer, though, you can take a funicular up and down the mountain as well. 

Kurama Onsen is another famous destination in the area, and is known in Kyoto for its particularly scenic open-air hot springs.

Kibune is best known for Kifune Shrine, a shrine known for its famous red lantern lined stone stairs leading to the temple and its strong associations with water. You can drink sacred mountain water called "goshinsui" here, and even have your fortune told with water by buying a mizu-ura mikuji. To find out your fortune, just float the paper slip you're given in the temple's sacred water and wait for the text to appear.

Kibune is also known for its quality Japanese restaurants. In the summer, Kibune is one the best places to enjoy the tradition of kawa-doko (sometimes called kawa-yuka), where people dine on platforms built over the river. Here, visitors can enjoy meals while cooling down in the refreshing breeze that rises from the mountain stream.

Nishiki Market

Nishiki Market is sometimes nicknamed Kyoto’s kitchen, and when you visit this jam-packed shopping street you’ll quickly realize why. Whether you want to try Kyoto’s street food or are just interested in seeing some of the city’s traditional food culture, you’ll be amazed by the range of delicacies on offer here. Recommendations from Nishiki Market include Kyoto-style pickles, or tsukemono, made from local vegetables. The huge range of vegetables and pickling methods can be overwhelming, so be sure to take advantage of the free samples as you browse!

* The streets of Nishiki Market are quite narrow. Please be mindful of others by, for example, not staying in one place for a long time when the market is especially busy.

Kawaramachi Shopping Streets

Whether you're shopping for souvenirs, fashion, or local products, you're sure to find what you're after in Kawaramachi, Kyoto's main shopping area. As a general guide, you'll find Kyoto's high-end luxury stores and large department stores along Shijo-dori between Kawaramachi and Karasuma Stations, while the maze-like warren of shopping streets around the Teramachi shopping arcade are a hotspot for stylish fashion boutiques and lifestyle stores.

If you're into Japanese otaku culture, the Shinkyogoku shopping street which runs parallel to Teramachi is known for its game arcades and anime, manga, and video game stores. If you want to know more about these kinds of stores in Kawaramachi, check out our guide to the area here !

Ninen-zaka and Sannen-zaka

Ninen-zaka and Sannen-zaka are the names of the preserved hill roads that form the path to Kiyomizu-dera Temple. First built around the year 800, these preserved districts still have some of Kyoto's most unspoiled traditional streetscapes. 

If you're wanting to buy souvenirs, you won't have to look far in these areas. Here you'll find everything from boutiques selling high-quality local food, crafts, and ceramics, to touristy stores packed to the roof with all the cheap and cheerful souvenirs you could want. Make sure not to overload on souvenirs before you get to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, though!

Minamiza Theater

First founded in 1610 and recently reopened after extensive renovations, Kyoto’s Minamiza Kabuki Theater is one of the best places in Japan to experience kabuki theater. In fact, the kabuki tradition was said to have originated as performances held on makeshift stages on the Kamogawa River banks not far from where the Minamiza Theater stands today.

Kabuki is known for its bold, stylized performances and spectacular costuming and stage design. It originated as a form of popular entertainment, and even today is often said to be the most popular form of Japan’s traditional theater. This speaks to just how lively and entertaining kabuki can be, even to a modern audience. Even if you can’t understand the dialogue, a kabuki performance is a feast for the eyes and ears. While Minamiza Theater also hosts plays and concerts, it’s definitely worth trying to get a ticket to a kabuki performance at this historical theater while you’re in Kyoto.

Kyoto National Museum

Kyoto National Museum is one of Japan’s four official national museums, and displays fine art, handicrafts, and archeological artifacts from pre-modern Japan and Asia. There are almost always a number of different exhibits to see here, including rotating displays of the museum’s permanent collection and regular special exhibits. 

Even if you’re not particularly knowledgeable about Japanese art, you’re sure to find the classical pieces here beautiful in and of themselves. Since so much about a trip to Kyoto is about appreciating the history of the area, a visit to the Kyoto National Museum gives you a chance to learn a little more about the artistic and cultural background of the other sites you’ll be seeing.  When you come to Kyoto, be sure to visit the museum's official website below to see what exhibitions are on!

Kyoto Museum of Traditional Crafts Fureaikan

The Kyoto Museum of Traditional Crafts displays examples of all 74 of the designated traditional industries in Kyoto, with everything from textiles to ceramics and even roof tiles! Workshops and demonstrations are held almost every day, and you can even buy some handmade pieces for yourself. This museum is a great way to get a sense of the scope of the arts and crafts culture in Kyoto.

If you’re looking for a deeper experience of Kyoto’s craft culture, the Kyoto Museum of Traditional Crafts also manages the Kyoto Artisan Concierge. This service connects visitors with local artisans who are willing to open up their studios for visits. If you find yourself drawn to a particular craft while visiting the Kyoto Museum of Traditional Crafts, why not make use of this service to learn more?

Kyoto is a city that everyone should visit at least once. But with so much to do here, planning a trip to Kyoto can definitely be a challenge. We hope you can use this introduction to 25 things to do in Kyoto as a starting point for your itinerary. We've definitely just scratched the surface in this article, so if you want to know more, check out our other articles about Kyoto here . As long as you avoid peak travel periods such as the cherry blossom period (late March to early April), the autumn foliage period (late November to early December), and the Gion Festival period (July), we're sure you'll have a grand time exploring Kyoto!

If you want to give feedback on any of our articles, you have an idea that you'd really like to see come to life, or you just have a question on Japan, hit us up on our  Facebook ,  Twitter , or  Instagram !

Thumbnail: Benny Marty / Shutterstock.com

The information in this article is accurate at the time of publication.

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15 Best Things To Do in Kyoto

Updated Apr. 24, 2024

Kyoto receives scores of visitors each year and crowds can be overwhelming at many of the city's top attractions. But never fear: A bit of planning can yield introspective experiences in peaceful atmospheres. Climb the well-worn steps of a  Shinto

• All Things To Do

Fushimi Inari Shrine Fushimi Inari Shrine free

As far as Shinto shrines go (there are about 400 in Kyoto), this one is pretty special. Perched on a wooded hillside in southern Kyoto, Fushimi Inari is a 1,300-year-old temple dedicated to Inari, the Shinto deity of rice and  sake  (Japanese rice wine). The shrine complex dates back to the eighth century, but it's not the star of the show. Most visitors come for the close to 10,000 red and orange lacquered  torii  gates that line the 2 ½-mile-long path up Mount Inari, where the shrine sits. Sometimes in dense rows and other times more staggered, the gates are all engraved with the names of Shinto devotees who donated them.

It takes about three hours to make the trek up the mountain, and some recent visitors say that the hike is mildly strenuous, but almost all agree this is a must-see spot in Kyoto, especially for first-time visitors. Plus, travelers report that there are plenty of places to stop and rest along the way. Peer at the dozens of stone and bronze foxes that line the paths along with the gates (foxes are thought to be Inari's sacred messengers). Or stop in to one of the tea houses or restaurants situated on the path, which serve udon noodle soup and sushi. Because crowds are drawn to their picturesque beauty, Fushimi Inari's trails can get quite congested during the day. To avoid the multitudes, opt for an evening stroll up the mountain – recent visitors say the pervading quiet coupled with the fading light filtering through the trees and  torii  gates makes for an eerie and spiritual experience. Early morning is another optimal time to experience the shrine sans the crowds.

Kiyomizu-dera Temple Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Situated on Otowa Mountain in eastern Kyoto, Kiyomizu-dera Temple wows travelers with its stunning natural scenery, which visitors say is best viewed from the verandah off the temple's main building. The "stage," as it's called, sits atop huge pillars more than 40 feet above the hillside and affords visitors panoramas of the surrounding forest. Those views are even more beautiful in the spring when the cherry blossoms are in bloom or in the fall with the changing foliage. When you're done taking in the temple's surrounding beauty, you are invited to drink from the Otowa Waterfall, which gave the temple its name ( kiyomizu means "pure water"). The waterfall is divided into three streams, each of which is said to bring longevity, academic success or love, respectively. But according to temple etiquette, drinking from all three streams is bad luck, so don't be greedy.

Also within in the complex is the Jishu Shrine, a red-lacquered temple dedicated to Okuninushi-no-mikoto, the Shinto god of love. Visitors who can successfully walk between two stones outside of the shrine with their eyes closed (the stones are about 20 feet apart) will supposedly have their love-related wishes granted. Along with toying with their fates, recent travelers also enjoyed the souvenir shops found along the path to the temple. Many visitors insist that Kiyomizu-dera Temple should be on every Kyoto traveler's to-do list.

Gion Gion free

Recent visitors to Gion were in awe of its quaintness (though some travelers note that hordes of camera-wielding tourists can detract from the scenery). This neighborhood is known for its charming historic features: historic tea houses, willow-lined roads,  kaiseki  (Japanese haute cuisine) restaurants, wooden  ryokan  (Japanese guest houses) and shops selling local crafts and antiques. But all of those things are secondary to Gion's real source of fame – the geisha. Visitors to Gion may catch a glimpse of these extravagantly dressed women flitting between tea houses on wooden-sandaled feet.

Contrary to western belief, geisha are not prostitutes. A geisha's primary role is entertainment; she is hired to provide diversions at dinner parties and banquets in the form of singing, dancing, games and conversation. But they are more than mere performers: Geisha are living, breathing gatekeepers of ancient Japanese culture. They train from an early age in traditional Japanese art, dance and music, and perform at exclusive dinners in  ochaya  (tea houses), usually only for locals. While tourists can arrange geisha dinners as well, it will put quite a dent in a travel budget. Hiring one geisha for the evening with dinner for two can cost about 103,000 yen (about $900) or more. A less costly way to see Gion's geishas in action would be to check out the daily geisha performances at the Gion Corner theater, which cost 3,150 yen (about $28). Or, if you're visiting during April, you can catch the  Miyako Odori  dance festival – geisha dance performances, which are held four times daily during the festival at the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo theater, cost between 4,000 and 5,500 yen (about $35 to $48) per person. You may also see geisha strolling through the neighborhood; keep a polite distance and refrain from photographing them without explicit permission.

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Arashiyama Arashiyama free

Arashiyama is a quaint neighborhood surrounded by trees and mountains on the western edge of Kyoto. The neighborhood's most iconic landmark is the wooden Togetsu-kyo Bridge, which has spanned the Katsura River since 1934. It makes a great spot for admiring cherry blossoms or changing fall foliage, depending on the season, though some visitors seem less than impressed with the bridge. If you want to avoid the tourist crowds that congregate on the bridge, consider renting a paddle boat to enjoy the scenery from the water. On either end of the bridge are a number of shops, restaurants, temples and gardens to explore. Some recent visitors enjoy walking around and taking in the sites, but others suggest renting a bike. You can get one for the day for around 1,000 yen (about $9) near train stations in Kyoto.

A visit to Arashiyama can be overwhelming, as there is so much to do and see here. It's best to arrive with a plan of action, and to not try to fit too many activities into one day. For example, you won't want to miss a stroll through the area's lush, peaceful bamboo groves, which recent visitors highly recommend. Once you're through the bamboo, you'll find yourself at Okochi Sanso Villa, a beautifully landscaped former residence of Japanese actor Okochi Denjiro. You can tour Denjiro's mossy, manicured gardens daily from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m., and the admission price of 1,000 yen (about $9) includes matcha green tea and cake (make sure you keep your admission ticket to enjoy this).

Ryoanji Temple Ryoanji Temple

Every day, hundreds of people visit Ryoanji Temple to see its Zen rock garden – which is probably the most famous of its kind in Japan. Located in Kyoto's northern outskirts, the temple was built in 1450, but details surrounding the rock garden's origins are hazy. Its white pebbles, which surround 15 larger rocks, were laid sometime during the Muromachi period (between 1392 and 1573), but beyond that, the garden's origins are unknown.

From any vantage point, at least one of the garden's 15 rocks is obscured from view. But why? Visitors are invited to come to their own conclusions about the garden's deeper meaning. Along with viewing the rock garden, you can explore the temple's grounds, which include a 1,000-year-old pond fringed with lily pads and tree-lined walking trails. The garden, as well as the grounds, are among the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto, which were designated by UNESCO in 1994.

Nishiki Market Nishiki Market free

For those unfamiliar with Japanese cuisine, a trip to Nishiki Market can be an overwhelming experience. This bustling, five-block-long covered market is lined with more than 100 stalls, each one hawking Japanese foods and specialty items that are hard to come by in the United States. With barely any English signage for reference, it might be difficult to determine what to buy or where to start. But just because Nishiki Market is busy and confusing doesn't mean you should avoid it. In fact, recent visitors said that's exactly why you should go, saying it's an essential food tour. Others pointed out that this is a great way to sample many different local cuisines without having to buy a whole meal.

The key here is to start small. Sample some authentic green tea or nosh on some  nigiri (rice balls). After you've acclimated yourself to the flavors, you can work your way up to the unfamiliar: roe-stuffed squid, dried kelp or silky  yuba  (tofu-milk skin). Of course, connoisseurs of Japanese cuisine can feel free to jump right in, but Nishiki Market can also offer new eating experiences to old pros. Alongside the more traditional Japanese fare, you'll find some trendier shops like Konnamonja, which sells doughnuts and soft-serve ice cream that are both made from tofu (and reportedly delicious). One thing to note: You'll have to sit (or stand) to eat your food. Walking and eating is not permitted, according to recent visitors.

Nijo Castle Nijo Castle

After years of bitter strife, the aging samurai lord Tokugawa Ieyasu finally wrested power from Japan's many warring clans and unified them at the turn of the 17th century. Upon being proclaimed Shogun (feudal military dictator) of Japan in 1603, Ieyasu constructed a palace that would reflect his supreme power. Nijo Castle in central Kyoto was certainly ostentatious enough to fit the bill. Unlike other noble homes of the day, Tokugawa's gleaming white structure – decorated with ornate wood carvings – was built for show, not for defense. Even the palace's moat and inner wall stood not as defensive structures, but rather as examples of the shogun's exclusivity; only Japan's highest-ranking officials were allowed into the castle's inner sanctum.

That is not to say that Nijo lacked in protective properties entirely. Decades of war had instilled in Tokugawa Ieyasu a deep-seated paranoia, so he had "nightingale floors" installed in his palace. Designed to creak under even the lightest footstep, these floors prohibited anyone from walking through the Nijo Castle unnoticed. Travelers today can tread upon these fabled floorboards as they tour the inside of the castle, but visitors suggest wearing socks, as you'll have to remove your shoes to enter the building. Outside the palace is the lovely Ninomaru Palace Garden designed by famed landscaper and tea master Kobori Enshu. Recent visitors applaud the site’s excellent guided tours in English and say the castle and surrounding gardens are quite beautiful. However, because it is on every tourist's "must-see" list, the castle can get quite crowded. To enjoy your visit in peace, stop by just after opening or right before closing.

Sanjusangendo Hall Sanjusangendo Hall

At nearly 400 feet, Sanjusangendo Hall is the longest wooden structure in Japan (there are archery contests held along the length of the hall every yeah). And lining its lengthy walls is a rare full set of 1,000 wooden statues of Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy. The human-sized statues were carved from Japanese cypress in the 12th and 13th centuries. Recent travelers are consistently blown away by Sanjusangendo and its statues, calling it an "amazing" and "thrilling" place to visit.

Sanjusangendo Hall is open between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. from April through mid-November, and between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. from mid-November through March. Visitors suggest arriving at Sanjusangendo early, as the hall is not well ventilated and only gets hotter and more crowded as the day goes on. Admission costs 600 yen (about $5.25) per person (half-price for children). To get to Sanjusangendo Hall, take bus No. 100, 206 or 208 from Kyoto Station to the Hakubutsukan-Sanjusangendo-mae stop. Alternatively, you can take the Keihan subway line to Shichijo Station (Sanjusangendo is about a 5-minute walk from there). The temple sits across the street from the Kyoto National Museum, and many visitors suggest stopping by both attractions. For more information, visit the official website (in Japanese).

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Philosopher's Walk Philosopher's Walk free

Honoring Japanese philosopher Nishida Kitaro, who used to stroll here on his commute to Kyoto University in the early 20th century, the Philosopher's Walk is a roughly mile-long pathway along the Lake Biwa Canal in the Higashiyama district of northern Kyoto. In the spring, the cherry trees overhang the canal blossom, emitting a flurry of petals onto the path every time the wind blows. But recent visitors say that Philosopher's Walk is gorgeous no matter the season.

Past travelers suggested setting aside about an hour to enjoy the walk, noting that you'll probably want to stop along the way to admire the temples and shrines that can be found just outside the walking path. Others also caution that the area can get quite congested during cherry blossom season. Although there are no public restrooms along the walk, there are cafes and shops.

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Its top two floors swathed in gold leaf, the Golden Pavilion sits pretty in Kyoto's northern reaches, overlooking the glassy surface of Mirror Lake. Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu lived in the gilded structure in the late 14th and early 15th centuries after he passed political power down to his son, Ashikaga Yoshimochi. When his father died, Yoshimochi had the pavilion converted into a Buddhist temple. However, in 1950, an extremist monk set the golden temple aflame, reducing it to smoldering ashes. What now stands is a replica of Kinkaku-ji that was built in 1955.

Many recent travelers note the gorgeous natural scenery surrounding Kinkaku-ji; the golden temple reflecting in the smooth lake makes for a great photo, no matter the season. Unfortunately, some visitors say that throngs of tourists mar the temple's tranquil atmosphere. To enjoy the attraction without the crowds, heed the advice of reviewers and avoid an afternoon or weekend visit. Keep in mind: Visitors are not permitted to enter the pavilion.

Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion) Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion)

Unlike the very literally named Golden Pavilion, the Silver Pavilion is not actually silver – though it was intended to be. Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa, who built Ginkaku-ji in 1482 as his retirement villa, died before he could swath the structure in silver leaf. But even without the bling, Ginkakuji and its grounds are stunningly beautiful.

The main pavilion, which was converted into a Zen shrine, sits overlooking a glassy pond surrounded by trees. Unfortunately, you can't go in – none of the buildings are open to the public. But visitors come here to enjoy the outdoors. As you stroll around the grounds, you'll come across a lush garden filled with mossy groves, as well as a Zen garden called "The Sea of Silver Sand." If you continue up along the path to the back of the garden, you'll enjoy a stunning view of the temple grounds as well as the city below. Many recent visitors said that a stroll around the garden at any time of day is gorgeous, even if it gets crowded at times (your best bet is to visit right when it opens or on Mondays). Several travelers stopped here while enjoying the Philosopher's Walk as the temple is located just off the trail.

Kyoto International Manga Museum Kyoto International Manga Museum

Many of Kyoto's top attractions pay homage to a Japan of the past, but the Kyoto International Manga Museum focuses on a very current form of Japanese art. Manga is a style of comics that exploded in popularity during the post-World War II period (though some historians date it back to the 12th century) and has steadily been gaining worldwide exposure in the past 60 years. The International Manga Museum, which opened in 2006, showcases a massive collection of Manga (around 300,000 items), from famous works like "Astro Boy" to more obscure comics by non-Japanese artists.

Recent visitors marvel at the museum's extensive collection, and said this is a must-do if you're a manga fan. For many, being able to sit and read the manga copies stored here was a highlight (reviewers said it felt more like a library than a museum). Travelers were also pleased that there were translations in other languages besides Japanese.

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Japan's ancient capital home to sacred shrines and Zen gardens

Top attractions in kyoto.

Nijo Castle

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Kinkakuji Temple

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About Kyoto

Japan’s capital from AD 794 to 1868, the list of possible tourist destinations in Kyoto Prefecture (京都府, Kyōto -fu) is endless.

You can attempt to visit all of major sites, including but certainly not limited to: Fushimi Inari Shrine and its brilliant vermillion row of torii gates, its many temples (most notably Kiyomizu-dera , Sanjusangen-do , and Kinkaku-ji ), Nijo Castle , and Amanohashidate (one of the Three Views of Japan).

Or you can attempt to “experience” Kyoto and its rich culture: appreciate the traditional architecture and maiko of the Gion district , witness the Gion Festival (held every July), and indulge in the various delicacies Kyoto has to offer, such as Uji matcha green tea, tofu, and various Japanese confectioneries. Kyoto is on the bucket list of many a traveller, and for good reason. 

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31 Unforgettable Things to Do in Kyoto, Japan

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Kyoto is a magical city like nowhere else. As the imperial capital of Japan for over 1000 years (until 1868), it’s the heart of traditional Japanese culture.

There are so many incredible things to do in Kyoto—you can visit golden temples and vermillion shrines, stroll through Zen rock gardens and swaying bamboo forests, slurp down bowls of ramen and participate in graceful tea ceremonies.

It’s one of the only places you can still glimpse geisha in extravagant kimono and white makeup rushing to appointments in wooden teahouses.

Monks still live and work in the city’s 2000 temples and shrines—you’ll see them in flowing robes performing ceremonies and hear the chanting.

You’ll visit a lot of temples in Kyoto, but even after spending three months in the city, we never tire of them. They all offer something unique—a shimmering pavilion, peaceful garden, forest hike, or a delicious vegetarian meal.

Although Kyoto is the centre of traditional Japan, it’s also a modern city with concrete high-rises, numerous vending machines, and a vibrant food scene.

But it’s on a smaller, more manageable scale than Tokyo or Osaka with plenty of green spaces, views of the surrounding hills, and neighbourhoods that feel like villages.

Despite the numerous attractions (including 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites), Kyoto is best explored at a slower pace with time for aimless wandering down narrow stone streets.

In this Kyoto travel guide, I share all the best things to do in Kyoto as well as tips on avoiding the crowds and how to get around. You’ll find a map with all these top Kyoto attractions at the end of the post.

How to Avoid the Crowds in Kyoto

Top things to do in kyoto, quieter temples to visit in kyoto, foodie things to do in kyoto, kyoto activities in nature, cultural things to do in kyoto, kyoto attractions map, how to get to kyoto, video: what to do in kyoto, is kyoto worth visiting, more japan posts.

In 2011, when we first visited Kyoto, Japan received 6.2 million overseas visitors. In 2023, 25 million tourists visited the country.

That’s a huge increase, and as Kyoto is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Japan , we did notice a startling rise in crowd sizes on our recent visits. 

Here are some tips to enjoy Kyoto despite the crowds:

1) Visit for as long as possible

Kyoto deserves more than the two days many people allocate it.

I recommend spending at least four full days here, but a week is ideal and allows time for some of these Kyoto day trips (Nara is the most popular).

We’ve spent three months in the city and still haven’t seen it all.

A longer stay will give you more time to explore less well-known Kyoto attractions and visit popular places at off-peak times.

2) Stay close to major sights

In order to do the next tip, it will help if you are staying close to the popular Kyoto tourist attractions.

You’ll be able to set out early in the morning, take a break in the busy afternoons, and head out again in the evenings without having to travel too far.

I think the best area to stay is Southern Higashiyama (including Gion) at the foot of Kyoto’s eastern hills.

There are a multitude of temples to explore as well as the most beautiful preserved streets and the chance to spot geisha.

We enjoyed our stay at Hotel The Celestine Kyoto Gion on a quiet street in Gion. It has stylish, modern rooms and an onsite onsen and tempura restaurant.

If you’d like to stay in a ryokan (traditional inn), the Japanese-style suites at  Ryokan Yachiyo  are beautiful (and huge!) with private open-air baths and garden views. It’s a little further from Gion but close to Nanzen-ji temple and the famous Philosopher’s Path.

We also loved our stay at Sora Niwa Terrace , which has incredible views from its roof terrace and onsen. It’s just over the river from Gion in downtown Kyoto (ideal for shopping).

See my guide to where to stay in Kyoto for more recommended hotels and neighbourhood information.

3) Get up early

Visiting the most popular sights early in the morning is essential to truly enjoy them. It’s so much harder to appreciate the magic when you’re battling through tour groups.

These are the places that are most important to visit early (on weekdays if possible). If you can’t manage to make it early, then try an hour before closing.

• Fushimi Inari shrine – It’s open 24 hours so go around sunrise (6 am is best) or as late at night as possible (after 8 pm). It’s our favourite place in the city (and one of the most unique things to do in Kyoto), but we gave up after 10 minutes when we visited one afternoon as the crowds were intense.
• Kiyomizu-dera Temple – It opens at 6 am and this is the best time to visit (or definitely before 8 am). The picturesque streets leading up to it are also best enjoyed early (or late).
• Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion) – It’s open from 9 am – 5 pm so either arrive in time for opening or at 4 pm, but it’s hard to escape the crowds.
• Ginkaku-ji Temple (Silver Pavilion) – Arrive at opening at 8.30 am or at 4 pm (before it closes at 5 pm).
• Nishiki Market – It’s not as essential to arrive early, but lunchtime here is packed. 10 am is better or just before closing around 5 pm.

I could also add the Arashiyama bamboo grove to this list as it’s one of the most popular Kyoto tourist spots and gets horribly crowded (even before 9 am).

Honestly, I think it’s overrated and haven’t included it in my things to do in Kyoto list. I suggest some quieter, more enjoyable bamboo groves below.

If you have limited time in Kyoto and prefer exploring with a guide, this popular Kyoto early bird tour avoids the crowds at Fushimi Inari, Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), and the bamboo grove by starting before 7 am. 

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4) Discover quieter temples and shrines

It’s easy to find quiet temples and shrines in Kyoto —they are often just around the corner from the crowded spots that everyone feels they have to see.

I highly recommend including some hidden gems along with popular attractions. Perhaps start your day early at one of the temples above and then head to some quieter alternatives.

5) Take a break from temples

Although the temples are incredible, save your energy by mixing them up with some fun and unusual activities.

Take a cooking class , stroll along a quiet canal, sip matcha in a tearoom (or make your own during a tea ceremony ), learn samurai skills , or hike through a forest—you’ll find plenty of ideas of what to do in Kyoto below.

Back to Contents

These are the most popular things to do in Kyoto and they do get crowded.

1) Hike Through Torii Gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine

Fushimi Inari is a Kyoto must see. We’ve never visited anywhere else like it—thousands of bright orange torii gates snake up through the forest into the mountains.

It’s as much of a hike as a temple visit (and quite steep in parts), although you do pass many small shrines with stone fox statues and miniature toriis.

The fox is considered the messenger of Inari, the Shinto god of rice.

It takes us about an hour and a half to complete the whole walk (a 5 km/ 3.1 mile loop from the station—see the AllTrails map ), but you could easily spend two or three hours here.

You could also choose just to do the lower loop to a viewpoint over the city. I recommend continuing up the mountain as it gets much quieter and feels very peaceful as you walk through the deep forest.

Fushimi Inari gets insanely busy and it’s no fun when you are walking with a crowd, so try to visit around 6 am (7 am at the latest) or after 8 pm.

It’s a very different experience at night with atmospheric lighting and a slightly spooky feel (we even heard a wild boar!).

Details: Free entry and open 24 hours. Take the train to Fushimi Inari Station on the Keihan Main Line (if coming from Higashiyama, 10 minutes from Gion-Shijo) or JR Inari Station on the JR Nara Line (if coming from Kyoto Station, 5 minutes).

2) Wander Around Gion and Southern Higashiyama

Southern Higashiyama, which includes Gion, is one of the top places to visit in Kyoto with some of the most picturesque and best-preserved streets in the city.

In this historic district you’ll find wooden houses on narrow lanes with paved stone pathways and paper lanterns lighting the way.

There are many temples to visit, but this area is perfect for aimless wandering (ideally early morning or late at night, which is why it’s one of the best areas to stay in Kyoto ) and soaking up the charm.

Many visitors rent kimono for a day and explore in traditional Japanese attire. 

Streets not to miss include Yasaka-dori which leads to Yasaka Pagoda (Hōkanji Temple), Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka, Nene-no-michi, and Ishibei-koji lane.

Please respect any signs that say no photos are allowed.

Gion, Kyoto’s main geisha district, is also lovely for strolling day and night. Don’t miss Hanami-koji, the Shirakawa Canal, Shinbashi-dori, and Yasaka Shrine (free entry). 

On the traditional streets of Gion, you may spot a geisha rushing to an appointment at one of the teahouses (especially between 5.30 pm and 6 pm).

Yes, it’s exciting, but the hordes of tourists trying to take photos have made life unpleasant for them. Please keep your distance and be respectful.

We often saw geisha without mobs of tourists following them in the quieter Miyagawacho geisha district when we stayed near Miyagawacho Kaburenjo theatre.

Wandering around Gion is one of the top things to do in Kyoto at night.

If you’d like to explore with a guide, this Gion at night group walking tour has excellent reviews and is a good way to learn about geisha culture. 

Details: Free to wander the streets. The nearest train stations are Gion-Shijo and Kiyomizu-Gojō on the Keihan Main Line. Or take the bus from Kyoto Station.

3) Enjoy the View from Kiyomizu-dera Temple 

Another top Kyoto sightseeing spot, Kiyomizu-dera was founded in 778 AD and has a dramatic hillside location in Southern Higashiyama with views across the city.

The large wooden main hall was built without nails and houses a statue of the eleven-faced, thousand-armed Kannon. 

It’s a large complex with many other buildings including an impressive entrance gate, red three-storey pagoda, quiet paths into the forest, and the bizarre Tainai-meguri where you enter into darkness to make a wish (one of the weirdest things to do in Kyoto).

Kiyomizu-dera opens earlier than other temples, and it’s well worth visiting at 6 am to avoid the tour groups. I especially appreciated my early morning visit when visiting Kyoto in autumn .

It can also be quieter during the night illuminations (when it’s open until 9.30 pm) in March and April. We found the November illuminations much busier.

Details: 400 yen ($3) entry fee. Open 6 am – 6 pm. It’s a 20-minute walk from Kiyomizu-Gojo Station on the Keihan Main Line. Walking up through the atmospheric lanes full of souvenir shops is part of the fun, but they get extremely busy in the middle of the day.

4) Stroll The Philosopher’s Path

The Philosopher’s Path is a pedestrian walkway along a cherry-tree-lined canal in Northern Higashiyama.

It’s 2 km (1.2 miles) long and connects two of the most famous temples in Kyoto, Nanzen-ji and Ginkaku-ji.

It’s named because the Japanese philosopher Nishida Kitaro was said to have used it for his daily meditation.

The Philosopher’s Path is a pleasant place for a stroll and you can stop off at several quieter temples along the way including Honen-in.

In cherry blossom season, the path is a must do in Kyoto. We also found it pleasant (and much quieter) in autumn.

Details: Free to stroll the path. It’s not very near any train stations (Keage Station on the Tozai line is a 15-minute walk away). We always walk here from Southern Higashiyama via Maruyama Park as there’s lots to see along the way. It’s about 5 km (3.1 miles) without detours from Yasaka Pagoda to the end of the Philosopher’s Path near Ginkaku-ji.  

5) Explore Nanzen-ji Temple

At one end of the Philosopher’s Path you’ll find Nanzen-ji, a large Zen temple complex that’s well worth a visit. It’s not usually too crowded and there’s plenty of space for everyone.

The shady grounds are free to wander and you can see the massive Sanmon entrance gate and a large brick aqueduct built during the Meiji period.

From here we like to head up the hill into the forest to the simple shrine Nanzen-ji Oku-no-in beside a small waterfall.

You can also pay to enter the sub-temples. We visited Tenjuan, which has two lovely gardens and is a peaceful escape from the crowds.

There’s a rock garden as well as a large pond garden featuring mossy rocks and a small bamboo grove. It’s especially beautiful in autumn leaf season .

Details: Grounds are free. 500 yen ($3.50) to enter Tenjuan which is open 9 am – 4.45 pm. The nearest subway station is Keage Station on the Tozai line. We usually walk from Gion and continue along the Philosopher’s Path.

6) Visit the Ginkaku-ji Temple (Silver Pavilion)

Ginkaku-ji means Silver Pavilion, but it was never covered in silver leaf. It’s one of Kyoto’s most popular temples and is located at the end of the Philosopher’s Path.

Even without the silver, it’s a lovely temple reflected in a pond.

The stunning gardens include an immaculately raked white sand Zen garden and a beautiful moss garden.

Make sure you follow the path up the hill to admire the temple from above.

Details: 500 yen ($3.50) entry fee. Open 8.30 am – 5 pm (9 am – 4.30 pm in winter). It’s best reached by walking the Philosopher’s Path or you can take bus 17 or 100 from Kyoto Station (40 minutes).

7) See the Golden Pavilion at Kinkaku-ji Temple

The Golden Temple or Kinkaku-ji is one of the most photographed sights in Kyoto.

We were prepared for the famous Zen temple to be overrated, and although it is almost always crowded, we couldn’t help but be impressed by the shimmering golden pavilion reflected in a pond dotted with islands of trees.

It was once the retirement villa of a shogun and it became a Zen temple after his death in 1408 (the building has been rebuilt after numerous fires since then). 

The gardens are pleasant for a stroll (if not too busy) and it’s fun to get an English fortune from a vending machine.

Although it’s beautiful, it’s a bit out the way in northwest Kyoto, so if you only have one or two days in Kyoto, I would probably skip it.

Details: 500 yen ($3.50) entry fee. Open 9 am – 5 pm. There are no train stations nearby. You could cycle here (like we did), take a taxi, get the bus 101 or 205 from Kyoto Station (at least 40 minutes) , or take a guided tour like the Kyoto early bird tour .

8) Spend a Day in Arashiyama

As I said above, I left out the Arashiyama bamboo grove from this list because the crowds have made it unenjoyable (see suggestions for quieter bamboo groves below).

That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t visit Arashiyama, though—we love this neighbourhood up in the western hills and recommend spending a day here. Away from the main sights it’s very peaceful.

Highlights include:

• Tenryu-ji – This Zen temple is the most popular attraction in the area and has beautiful gardens and delicious vegetarian lunches at the Shigetsu restaurant (see our Kyoto vegetarian guide ). The bamboo grove is just outside if you want a quick walk through (just keep your expectations low).
• Okochi-Sanso Villa – The former home of famous film actor Okochi Denjiro features lovely strolling gardens and views of the city.
• Jojakko-ji  – See below.
• Gio-ji – A tiny temple with a thatched-roof main hall overlooking a moss-covered grotto.
• Otagi Nenbutsu-ji – See below.
• Daikaku-ji – A grand temple complex and large pond with cherry trees.

Details: From Kyoto Station take the JR San-In line to Saga-Arashiyama Station (17 minutes) which is about a 10-minute walk from Tenryu-ji. From Gion we walked to Kawaramachi station, took the train to Omiya then the Randen tram to Arashiyama, which took about an hour.

9) Seek out Cherry Blossoms or Autumn Leaves

The beauty of Kyoto is that every season is different.

Winter is chilly and quiet; summer is hot, humid, lushly green, and festival-filled; but the most popular times to visit are spring or autumn.

In early April, the cherry blossoms (sakura) transform the city into a flowering wonderland.

While it’s crowded and expensive, it’s also magical and the festive atmosphere is fun. See our picks for the best places to see the Kyoto cherry blossoms .

Late November to early December is usually the best time to see colourful autumn leaves in Kyoto, which are just as beautiful as the blossoms.  

Eikando Temple is our favourite place to see the fall colour, but there are many other fantastic spots. See our Kyoto in autumn guide for the best locations and forecast tips.

Recommended Reading: If you’re also visiting Tokyo, check out our guide to the coolest things to do in Tokyo .

These temples may not be as well known as the ones above, but they can often be a more enjoyable experience without the crowds.

See our guide to Kyoto temples and shrines for even more hidden gems.

10) Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple

Otagi Nenbutsu-ji is a fairly long walk from the popular sights in Arashiyama, but it’s well worth it for an offbeat experience.

It’s the quirkiest temple we visited in Kyoto with 1200 stone sculptures of rakan, the Buddha’s disciples, scattered throughout a shady temple complex.

They all have different facial expressions and poses—scary, serene, cheerful, cute, and just plain bizarre.

Details: 400 yen ($3) entry fee. Open 9 am – 4.30 pm. We walked from the Saga Arashiyama station, which takes about 40 minutes uphill, and there are other temples to visit on the way. There’s also an infrequent bus or you can take a taxi from the station for about 1500 yen ($11).

11) Jojakko-ji Temple 

Jojakko-ji is another hidden gem in Arashiyama and one of my favourite temples in Kyoto.

The hillside gardens are extensive and feature a large cherry tree, mossy roots, small bamboo cluster, a thatched roof gate, and pagoda. There’s a fantastic view of Kyoto from the top.

It’s a beautiful temple to visit in autumn, but it’s much busier then.

Details: 500 yen ($3.50) entry fee. Open 9 am – 5 pm. It’s a 15-minute walk from Saga Arashiyama station.

12) Kodai-ji Temple

Kodai-ji isn’t quite as off-the-beaten-path as the two temples above, but we had it to ourselves when we visited at opening time.

It’s in a convenient location in Southern Higashiyama, so it’s easy to add in a visit while visiting more popular sights like Kiyomizu-dera.

The Zen Buddhist temple was established in 1606. The main hall features beautiful artwork and painted screen doors, but the gardens were the highlight for us.

The rock garden includes raked gravel and a weeping cherry tree, which is gorgeous in sakura season.

The other garden includes a pond and attractive teahouses. Make sure you walk up the hill to the bamboo grove, which is one of our favourites in Kyoto.

Three times a year (April, August, and November) the temple opens for special night illuminations, which are well worth visiting although it’s much more crowded.

Details: 600 yen ($4.30) entry fee (or 900 yen/$6.50 combo ticket with Entoku-in). Open 9 am – 5 pm. Best visited on a walking tour of Southern Higashiyama. It’s a 15-minute walk from Gion-Shijo station or a bus will get you closer.

13) Entoku-in Temple

Entoku-in is a sub-temple of Kodai-ji that’s usually quiet.

There’s a small karesansui (dry stone) garden and some beautiful screen paintings, but what we most liked were the interactive elements here. You can make your own raked stone garden, trace a Buddha picture or sutra, or try zazen meditation.

You can also drink matcha (500 yen/ $3.50) overlooking a rock garden. It’s a very relaxing temple.

Details: 500 yen ($3.50) entry fee (or 900 yen/$3.50 combo ticket with Kodai-ji). Open 10 am – 5 pm. It’s a two-minute walk from Kodai-ji.

14) Kennin-ji Temple

Kennin-ji is conveniently located in Gion and is close to other temples like Kodai-ji, but it doesn’t get too crowded, especially if you visit at opening.

It’s the oldest Zen temple in Kyoto and was founded in 1202. There’s a large complex where you can wander for free, but it’s worth paying to go inside.

The main building overlooks a large raked gravel garden, one of the best we visited.

There are lots of small rooms where you can admire beautiful screen paintings and you can walk in the gardens to an old teahouse.

Don’t miss the separate building where there’s a stunning ceiling painting of twin dragons, painted in 2002 to celebrate the temple’s 800th anniversary.

Details: 800 yen ($6) entry fee. Open 10 am – 5 pm. Gion Shijo is the nearest station.

15) Yoshida Hill Temples and Shrines

The temples and shrines on Yoshida Hill are hidden gems and are my top pick if you’re looking for non touristy things to do in Kyoto.

We couldn’t believe how empty they were, despite being just as beautiful as more well-known temples. Entrance is free and there are some good cherry blossom spots .

They are a little out of the way, but we combined them with a walk on the Philosopher’s Path—it’s a 2 km (1.2 mile) walk from the Ginkaku-ji end.

These are the four we visited with around a 5–10 minute walk between them.

• Takenaka Inari Shrine – A small shrine with a tunnel of red torii gates that is especially lovely in cherry blossom season.
• Yoshida-jinja Shrine – A peaceful forest shrine with many classic elements like torii gates and sake barrels. We saw a monk performing a ceremony here.
• Shinnyodo Temple – A large temple complex with a huge hondo (main hall) and small pond. We walked down the hill through the neighbouring graveyard to get to the next temple.
• Konkai-Komyoji Temple – Also known as Kurodani Temple, this large complex has an impressive grand entrance gate and staircase lined with cherry trees.

Details: Free entrance. Best explored on foot while in Northern Higashiyama.

Recommended Reading: If you’re looking for inspiration for the rest of your trip, see the 56 best things to do in Japan .

16) Saihoji Moss Temple

Saihoji, commonly known as the Moss Temple, is our new favourite temple in Kyoto.

It won’t be on every visitor’s must do list (it’s expensive, requires booking, and is out of the way), but it’s well worth the effort if you can fit it into your itinerary (I recommend combining it with Arashiyama).

The vibrant green mossy garden is stunning, and as visitor numbers are limited, it’s a peaceful experience (especially as you start your visit with sutra copying—easier than it sounds).

Read our guide to Saihoji Moss Temple Kyoto for everything you need to know.

Details: Entrance costs 4000 yen ($28). Bookings are essential on the Saihoji website . Opening hours vary.

17) Eat Shojin Ryori in a Temple

Kyoto is one of the best places in Japan for vegetarians as it’s the home of shojin ryori or Zen Buddhist temple cuisine, which is free from animal products.

Shojin ryori features multiple small dishes including tofu, seasonal vegetables, and rice. It’s healthy, balanced, and delicious, although you might find some of the unusual ingredients rather odd.

You can try shojin ryori at a number of temples including Shigetsu restaurant in Tenryu-ji in Arashiyama where you eat on the floor in a large tatami room overlooking the gardens.

See my vegetarian restaurants in Kyoto guide for more delicious places to eat.

Details: Shigetsu is open from 11 am – 2 pm (closed Thursdays) and lunch sets costs from 3800 yen ($27). You must also pay the 500 yen Tenryu-ji entrance fee. Make sure you book—ideally a month in advance or two months in peak seasons like autumn.

18) Take a Cooking Class

Japanese cuisine is fascinating and a cooking class is a great way to learn more about it beyond sushi and tempura.

We had an excellent lesson with Emi at Uzuki Kyoto Cooking Class but, unfortunately, the school has now closed.

Another option that looks good (and they can cater to vegetarians) is this Afternoon Japanese Izakaya Cooking Class with Cooking Sun where you learn to make 5-6 home-style dishes.

Other cooking classes available in Kyoto focus on different dishes such as bento boxes and ramen (with vegan option).

19) Shop at Nishiki Market

Once you’ve learnt miso from mirin on a cooking class, you can delve into Kyoto’s foodie culture some more with a visit to the Nishiki Market.

On this narrow shopping street you’ll find all the ingredients essential for Japanese cooking including an array of pickled vegetables, fish, tofu, giant miso-smothered aubergine, sweets, and other snacks.

There are plenty of opportunities to try free samples or to buy a snack to take with you. We liked the sweet black beans and the chilli coated rice cakes.

The market has become very crowded in recent years, so it’s best to visit early.

You might find it more relaxing to visit a basement food hall in a nearby department store such as Takashimaya or Daimuru instead. This is Kyoto’s main shopping area so there are plenty of options.

Nishiki Market can be overwhelming and confusing, so if you want to learn what everything is you might want to explore with a guide. Options include:

• Kyoto Nishiki Market Food Tour – Visit 10 vendors with food tastings on this 3-hour tour.
• Nishiki Market and Culture Walking Food Tour – Combine tastings at Nishiki Market with a temple visit.
• Nishiki Market Food Tour with Cooking Class – On this private tour, you shop at the market then make a donburi (rice bowl) with the ingredients you’ve chosen.

Details: Opening hours vary by stall, but it’s best to visit between 10 am to 5 pm. The nearest stations are Shijo Station on the Karasuma Subway Line or Karasuma or Kawaramachi Stations on the Hankyu Line.

20) Drink Green Tea in a Teahouse

Kyoto is famous for its green tea and stopping at one of the many traditional teahouses is a Kyoto must do and the perfect break on a busy sightseeing day.

Slightly bitter, bright green matcha is served in beautiful bowls accompanied by wagashi, small Japanese sweets such as mochi made from pounded rice and sugar and stuffed with bean paste.

It can be an acquired taste, but even if you’re not a fan, it’s a great cultural experience and worth trying at least once.

There are a wide variety of other types of green tea to try too.

We loved our experience at Ippodo Tea , a highly regarded tea shop that’s been around for nearly 300 years.

This is the ideal place to buy some high-quality tea to take home as a souvenir, but you can also sample it in their tearoom.

You can choose from a range of teas and you’ll be given exact instructions (in English) on how to brew it—they take their tea very seriously here. Our tea and wagashi were superb.

Another favourite of ours for a serious tea experience is Mandaracha in Gion.

Details: The Ippodo Tearoom is open from 10 am – 5 pm. It’s a little out of the way but it’s not far south of Kyoto Imperial Palace and a 15-minute walk north of Nishiki Market.  Mandaracha is open from Friday – Tuesday (closed Weds/Thurs) from 1-6 pm on weekdays and 10 am – 6 pm on weekends. It’s easy to combine with Gion and Southern Higashiyama sights (a 15-minute walk from Kiyomizu-dera).

21) Enjoy the Perfect Pizza at Monk

Monk is one of our favourite restaurants in Kyoto. While the menu of wood-fired roasted vegetables and pizza might not seem Japanese, this intimate restaurant has a Japanese soul.

Chef Imai prepares his eight-course tasting menus with love, using local, seasonal ingredients. Every dish is simple but perfectly cooked.

Getting a reservation at this 14-seat restaurant is challenging since it was featured on the Netflix TV show, Chef’s Table: Pizza .

Read my Monk Kyoto review for what to expect at the restaurant and step-by-step instructions on how to book.

Details : Monk is located on the Philosopher’s Path. Bookings must be made on Tablecheck exactly two months in advance. Tasting menus cost 15,400 yen ($110). They can cater to vegetarians but not vegans or gluten-free.

22) Try Liquid Cuisine at Nokishita711

Some might describe Nokishita711 as a cocktail bar, but it’s like no bar you’ve ever been to.

Owner Tomoiki Sekine serves liquid cuisine, extracting flavours from food including meat, fish, vegetables, and fruit.

At his tiny, quirky bar, Nokishita711, there is only one table seating four people, so be prepared to be sociable.

Everyone signs up for the six-course omakase tasting menu which pairs drinks with small snacks (vegan and non-alcohol options are available).

Don’t expect sweet, fruity beverages here. Many have a fermented, kombucha-like vibe, and everything will challenge your taste buds.

As we had the vegan menu, we skipped the deer cocktail and fish ice cream. Instead, our drinks featured unusual, seasonal ingredients like incense ash, mushrooms, and artichoke roots.

The accompanying snacks were delicious, including mushroom crepes, spring rolls, and teeny tacos. It’s not enough for a meal but don’t arrive full.

The drinks are low alcohol, so even after six drinks, we didn’t feel drunk at all.

If you are want a more typical cocktail bar, consider speakeasy-style Bee’s Knees or magic-themed L’Escamoteur .

Nokishita711 is a unique culinary experience for adventurous eaters.

Details: Bookings for Nokishita711 are essential (up to two months in advance) and are easily made on Tablecheck. The tasting menu costs 8800 yen ($63) and lasts two hours. It’s located downtown.

23) Cycle Along the Kamo River

The Kamogawa or Kamo River cuts through the city and is a popular recreation spot for locals.

It’s a great place for a run, walk, or bike ride, especially in spring when the banks are lined with cherry blossoms.

On summer evenings, head to the Sanjo bridge where you’ll often find bands playing and young people hanging out and drinking—a cheaper night out than paying bar prices.

Cycling is an especially good way to explore and you can use the river path as a way of getting to northern Kyoto.

You could start in Gion and cycle north with a detour to the Imperial Palace. At the Demachiyanagi area the river forks and you’ll find the 2000-year-old shrine Shimogamo-Jinja.

Take the left fork to head to the Kyoto Botanical Gardens and the 7th-century shrine, Kamigamo-jinja.

The right fork will eventually take you to Takaraga-ike Park, an off-the-beaten-track spot that’s popular with locals for walks, picnics, and boating on the pond. I had a lovely birthday picnic here under the plum blossoms.

If you want to leave the river and cycle up Kyoto’s hills, I recommend getting an e-bike.

Details: Bicycle rental Raku-chari Nanajo is one bike rental option close to the river and a 10-minute walk from Kyoto Station. A one-day rental from 9 am – 6 pm costs 1400 yen ($10) for a standard bike or 2400 yen ($17) for an e-bike.

24) Stroll by the Takase River

The Takase River is a narrow canal that runs next to Kiyamachi-dori parallel to the much larger Kamo River.

It was used for transporting rice and sake for over 300 years from 1611. You can see a replica of the flat-bottomed boats that were used at the starting point near Nijo-dori.

It’s an enjoyable place for a stroll by day and night, especially in spring when the cherry trees bloom, and there are lots of cafes and restaurants along the way.

The section between Sanjo-dori and Shijo-dori can be busy, especially in sakura season, but south of here it’s much quieter.

We often walked along the canal south of Gojo-dori and down past Kyoto Beer Lab and it was always a peaceful escape.

Details: Sanjo station is about a five-minute walk from the start of the canal near Nijo-dori. You could also start further south near Kawaramachi station.

25) Hike from Kibune to Kurama

A peaceful half-day trip from Kyoto is to the villages of Kibune and Kurama in the mountains a scenic 30-minute train ride north of the city.

You can do the walk in either direction. We usually start in Kibune, visit the Kifune Shrine, then walk through the forest up a steep path up and over the mountain to Kurama-dera temple, which has fantastic views, especially in autumn.

We enjoy a tasty shojin ryori (Buddhist vegetarian) lunch at Yoshuji in Kurama before taking the train back to Kyoto.

See my guide to the best day trips from Kyoto for more information.

Details: The train on the Eizan Kurama Line from Demachi-Yanagi Station to Kibuneguchi Station takes 30 minutes. Return on the same line from Kurama Station. Entrance to Kurama-dera is 500 yen ($3.50) .

26) Discover Quieter Bamboo Groves

The Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is the most famous in Kyoto. While it’s worth popping by, keep your expectations low as it gets extremely crowded.

Instead, we prefer the smaller but much quieter bamboo groves at these temples:

• Jizo-in (Take-no-tera) – We accidentally discovered this on the way to Saihoji and were amazed by how quiet it was.
• Kodaiji – A lovely bamboo clump on the hillside. Beautiful at the night illuminations too.
• Jojakko-ji Temple – A good option in Arashiyama and quiet outside of autumn.
• Enkoji – Small but peaceful.

27) Wander Around Kyoto Botanical Gardens

The extensive Kyoto Botanical Gardens are a relaxing place for a walk with a wide range of trees and flowers, a turtle and carp filled pond, and a huge conservatory with plants from different climatic zones.

We visited in late summer, but it’s even lovelier with the cherry blossoms of spring or red leaves of autumn.

Details: 200 yen ($1.50) entry fee plus 200 yen for the conservatory. Main gardens open from 9 am – 5 pm and the conservatory from 10 am – 4 pm. The nearest subway station is Kitayama Station. This is a great place to cycle to as you can get there along the Kamo River.

28) Participate in a Tea Ceremony

If you do just one cultural activity in Kyoto, make it a tea ceremony.

The tea ceremony ritual originated in Kyoto and is a fascinating insight into Japanese culture—it’s about so much more than just enjoying a hot drink.

The ceremony is all about being in the moment and makes a relaxing break from sightseeing.

There are many tea ceremonies in Kyoto. We did this one with Tea Ceremony Ju-An at Jotokuji Temple , which lasts about an hour with a maximum of 9 people (some groups are much larger, which I would avoid).

It’s run by two friendly women and is not at all intimidating. We learnt a lot as they took us through each stage of the ritual and enjoyed some delicious matcha we whisked ourselves.

Details: We booked Tea Ceremony Ju-An on Get Your Guide three weeks in advance (it is open weekdays only and books up). It costs 3300 yen ($24). It’s across the river from Gion, just south of downtown.

29) Watch the Geisha Spring or Autumn Dances

Geisha (or geiko) are one of the most fascinating aspects of Kyoto. These professional entertainers are highly skilled in traditional Japanese arts and wear elaborate outfits that belong to another time.

It’s exciting to glimpse geisha as they slip into the teahouses of Gion, but it’s even better if you can watch them perform.

Every year in April and November, the geisha districts put on spectacular dances where you can see dozens of geiko and maiko (apprentice geisha) dancing, acting, singing, and playing traditional instruments.

They are stunning shows and I loved getting a closer look at those extravagant kimono and hairstyles.

Don’t miss a show if you’re visiting when they are on—it’s one of the best things to see in Kyoto.

In April, the Miyako Odori in Gion is the most famous, but we went to the nearby Kyo Odori i n our neighbourhood Miyagawacho instead where there were very few tourists. See my Kyoto cherry blossom guide for more details.

In autumn, the Gion Odori is held from 1 – 10 November and we found it just as beautiful (if busier with tourists). We bought tickets a few days in advance from the Gion Kaikan Hall where it is held (online ticket sales don’t work with foreign cards).

30) Geek Out at Kyoto International Manga Museum

If you are interested in manga (comics) culture, the Kyoto International Manga Museum is the ideal rainy day destination.

There’s a small exhibition looking at the role manga has played in Japanese culture, but mostly there are just lots and lots of manga comics and graphic novels.

The collection houses 300,000 volumes, and although they are mostly in Japanese, they have translations into many other languages, too.

Throughout the museum you’ll find towering bookshelves and geeky kids quietly reading.

Details: Entrance to Kyoto Manga Museum is 1200 yen ($8.50). Open 10 am – 5 pm (closed Wednesdays). Karasuma-Oike is the nearest subway station.

31) Learn a Traditional Japanese Skill

As the home of traditional Japanese culture, there are many opportunities in Kyoto to learn more about the arts and try a unique activity.

We’re adding these fun things to do in Kyoto to our list for our next visit:

• Samurai Experience – Wield a real katana (Japanese sword) and learn about Zen and bushido (the moral code of samurai) in a 250-year-old samurai residence.
• Itajime Shibori Scarf Class – Learn the oldest dyeing method in Japan and take home a scarf you’ve made.
• Ninja Training Dojo – Learn ninja skills including how to use ninja weapons.
• Calligraphy Workshop – Make your own silkscreen-printed kanji t-shirt in this private calligraphy workshop.

This Kyoto sightseeing map shows the best things to do in Kyoto. Temples and shrines are marked in red, interesting streets and walking paths in blue, other points of interest in purple, and recommended hotels in yellow. 

Kyoto is best reached by train.

If you fly into Kansai International Airport (KIX), the Airport Express Haruka train to Kyoto takes 1 hour 20 minutes.

If you fly into Tokyo, you can take the shinkansen (bullet train) to Kyoto in 2 hours 15 minutes on the fastest train.

If you’ll be travelling around Japan, it’s worth considering a Japan Rail Pass . Read my post on whether a Japan Rail Pass is worth it for more details. 

The Japan Travel by Navitime website or app is the best way to check train times and prices. 

Getting Around Kyoto

We love to walk as much as possible in Kyoto as we often discover hidden spots along the way.

Cycling is also great along the Kamo River, but I wouldn’t venture up to the main sightseeing areas of Higashiyama or Arashiyama as they’re too hilly and crowded.

The public transport system isn’t brilliant and you’ll need to take a mix of trains, subway, and buses to get to every part of the city. A prepaid ICOCA or Suica card can be used on all of them.

We use Google Maps for public transport routes and directions.

Life will be much easier if you have a data plan on your phone—a Japan e-SIM by Airalo is the easiest way to get affordable data. You can set it up before you arrive and it doesn’t require a physical SIM card (so you can keep your home SIM in your phone).

Taxis can be convenient for out of the way locations and are much faster than the buses (which can also be crowded). I recommend taking a taxi when you arrive with luggage. Red lights mean the taxi is available.

Drivers don’t usually speak English, so it’s best to have your destination written down in Japanese (or show the Google Maps listing) unless it’s a well-known sight.

You can also use Uber in Kyoto. It’s easier as you don’t have to explain your destination, but it costs more than hailing a taxi from the street and the wait can be longer.

At Kyoto Station, there’s a foreigner-friendly taxi stand (the drivers speak English and accept credit cards), but we found the waits here long, so it’s best to join the regular queue.

Watch our video for an overview of what to see in Kyoto, Japan.

Yes, Kyoto is absolutely worth visiting! It should be top of your list of places to visit in Japan.

It’s a wonderful mix of traditional culture, stunning temples, beautiful gardens, delicious food, and interesting activities.

I hope the ideas in this post will help you love Kyoto as much as we do! There can be an overwhelming amount to do in the city, but don’t try to see it all.

Choose a few activities from each of the sections above and you’ll have an amazing Kyoto trip that includes some classic spots as well as more peaceful sights off the beaten track.

Read more of our Kyoto and Japan travel tips.

• Where to Stay in Kyoto: Recommended Hotels and Areas
• 14 Stunning Places to See the Cherry Blossoms in Kyoto
• Kyoto in Autumn: 10 Stunning Fall Foliage Spots
• 20 Best Vegetarian Restaurants in Kyoto
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30 Comments

Where would you recommend staying in Kyoto?

Reply ↓

If you want to be close to the oldest streets and temples, Gion is great. We liked Hotel The Celestine on a quiet street there or we often get an Airbnb.

Or to be closer to shopping and slightly better transport links, you could look at downtown (a more modern area). We liked Sora Niwa Terrace for the amazing view from its onsen and rooftop bar. The rooms are really nice (it’s quite new) but small.

Thank you for the details of your trip. If I may ask, is there a place you can recommend where to rent kimono’s?

I don’t have any personal experience, but if you want to book online and pick up downtown (near the Ju An Tea Ceremony that we enjoyed) there’s Kyoto Kimono Rental Yumeyakata .

Or there are loads of shops (no booking needed) in Gion (near Yasaka Pagoda) such as Rental Kimono Rose.

THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR THIS AMAZING GUIDE IT IS VERY HELPFUL

Wow! Thank you so much for this wonderful guide! It’s so beautifully written, and the attention to detail is much appreciated. I don’t have to look any further for my Kyoto plan.

Thank you Bharath and enjoy Kyoto!

Thank you for such a brilliant detailed post. I’ve been to Kyoto a few times and am here again currently! I was looking for other things to do aside from the usual recommendations and this post has given me lots of ideas :)

It’s been many years since I’ve visited Japan and though I went 4 times (with another one on the way!) there’s still more to explore. Thanks for the pointers (and reminders) for some good places to spend time. The photos are beautiful and the links are so helpful. Thank you so much for putting this together (and I completely agree re Arashiyama).

First Japan guide I’ve seen that mentioned eSim. I HAD NO IDEA about these. Thank you very much.

Definitely easier than the pocket wifis that everyone recommends!

Thank you. This gives so much information :-)

Amazing guide! Thank you for putting something so comprehensive together. Looking forward to using your list when we visit this weekend.

Enjoy Kyoto, Randy!

Thank you for putting so much time and energy into creating this excellent resource!

Aw, thank you Ryan! We love Kyoto and are lucky to have had so much time there.

Thank you for providing this information on places to visit. I plan to return to Kyoto once we are able to travel again. I loved it!! It is an amazing place to visit.

I am taking my Mom to Japan, I must confess, when ran across ur site, I must say, it was my 1st and last sop during my trip research process. your attention to detail and useful information is overwhelming, Thank you so much. I am a fan.

Thank you so much, Carlos! I’m glad you found it useful and hope you don’t have to wait too long to visit Japan.

Ugh it’s on my bucket list to visit Japan during cherry blossom season! Maybe next year!

Your article is brilliant, so informative. I’m planning a trip to Japan next summer and I’m torn between an extra day in Kyoto or a day trip to Nikko (when in Tokyo). What would you recommend? We would have 2 and a half days in Kyoto if we kept in the Nikko day trip but I’m starting to think I would prefer the extra day in Kyoto. Thank you.

I would probably go for an extra day in Kyoto – there’s just so much to do there. Enjoy!

If staying for a week in Kyoto, would you recommend hiring a car, or is driving too stressful?!

I think driving would be too stressful and it’s so easy to get around by train, it’s not really worth it. We spent a month in Kyoto and never felt the need for a car.

We went some time ago and I found by chance the railway museum there. Very interesting collection of equipment. Within walking distance of the regular railway station. The locomotives seemed to be a mixture of US and European designs.

We’ll have to check that out next time, thank you!

Excelent tips, will make my trip to Japan much enjoyaBle. Thanks a lo, will continúe to check the other articles

WOW, Kyoto is just beautiful, I will love so much to go and know this place!! The scenes are very beautiful, the great landscapes that you have in your pictures are amazing! I will love to go and take a lot of pictures!

Great pics. We spent 4 weeks in Kyoto a few years back and saw most of these temples. I like what you say about the tourists and how to avoid them…we were surprised by just how many tourists there were (all fighting to take photos…but politely because they’re Japanese :) ). And also about the local transport which, surprisingly, is not very good. Many of the temples on the foothills of the city and some only accessible by city bus which sometimes made for some long journeys.

We also did the Ninja training. Lots of fun, would recommend.

I would also mention a visit to the train station (Kyoto Station). Incredible building and some great views over the city.

And you’re very right about the Kamo river. Nice place for a walk or a jog and best of all free. We spent a lot of time walking it.

Frank (bbqboy)

Yes, Kyoto Station is lovely! Glad you enjoyed your stay as much as we did!

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• Destinations

30 Best Things to Do in Kyoto

What to Do in Kyoto: Bucket List

Kyoto is one of  the most popular tourist destinations in the whole world today, which is known for the well-preserved old town with majestic historic monuments. It’s located in the heart of Kansai Region in  Western Japan alongside of Osaka  and Nara .

The city used to serve as the capital city of the country for over 1,000 years (from 794 to 1868), called Heian-kyo, and is home to over 4,000 well-preserved historical monuments such as temples and shrines which are the main tourist attraction of the city. Kyoto attracts millions of visitors from Japan and overseas in all year around.

In comparison to the modern capital, Tokyo, the ancient capital Kyoto is a must-visit destination for every tourist to Japan to experience the traditional Japanese culture and old town atmosphere.

 If you are going to visit Kyoto for a short period, you should definitely plan your itinerary in advance to travel efficiently and without wasting time. As Kyoto is a big city and there are tons of tourist attractions in the city, you may get confused what to see or where to visit in the city. So in this article, I am sharing my Kyoto Bucket List with 30 best things to do in Kyoto, especially for the first time. The list includes not only must-visit temples and shrines but also some of hidden gems and recommended tours and activities available today. So let’s check them out 🙂

In addition to these things to do in Kyoto, the following article compiles the latest information on Kyoto sightseeing. In this article, we will introduce to you the best things to do in Kyoto for the year 2024. From the highly anticipated Nintendo Museum and Nintendo KYOTO shop to the VS PARK Aeon Mall Kyoto! Check out also the new hotels opening in 2024 and some of the anticipated art exhibitions for this year!

▶️ 10 Best Things to Do in Kyoto 2024

*Please note that this article contains affiliate links.

When is the Best Time to Visit Kyoto?

Kyoto has four distinctive seasons just like other parts of the country and each season offers different attractions such as cherry blossoms in spring, vibrant festivals in summer, golden foliage in autumn and snowy scenery in winter. It is hard to tell you which season is the best to visit Kyoto as each one offers unique charms and the city is undoubtedly beautiful throughout the year, but here are some ideas for you to decide when to visit Kyoto, by introducing some of the main attractions in Kyoto in each season.

▶ Best Time to Visit Kyoto

1. Marvel at the stunning Golden Pavilion and its reflection on the pond at Kinkakuji Temple

The Zen Buddhist temple, Kinkakuji Temple (金閣寺) is one of the most famous landmarks and popular tourist attractions in Japan. The temple was originally built in 1397, and its real name is Rokuonji Temple, however, because of the iconic appearance, it’s known as Kinkaiji (Golden Pavilion).

More info ▶ Kinkakuji Temple: Kyoto’s Golden Pavilion

2. Walk through the thousands of torii gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine, a popular and picturesque shrine in Kyoto

Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine (伏見稲荷大社) is Kyoto’s most visited shrine and one of the most iconic sights in Japan today. The shrine became famous since its iconic vermilion torii gates made an appearance on the popular movie “Memoirs of a Geisha” in 2005.

More info▶ Fushimi Inari Taisha: Kyoto’s Most Visited Shrine by Foreign Visitors!

Fushimi Inari Taisha might be the busiest tourist site in Japan today, but there is a way to avoid crowds while visiting there! Take the “ Fushimi Inari Hidden Hike Tour ” via the secret route and see the different side of the shrine off the crowded main path!

3. Visit Kiyomizudera Temple for stunning views of the city and historic architecture

Kiyomizudera Temple (清水寺) is one of the most important and oldest historic monuments in Japan, which was built in 780. The temple has a massive wooden terrace surrounded by nature, and it displays a pleasant scenery in each season. Especially in autumn, it attracts many visitors since the night light-up event is held during the peak season of autumn leaves.

More info▶ When is the Best Time to Visit Kyoto Kiyomizudera Temple?

4. Contemplate the minimalist rock garden at Ryoanji Temple

Ryoanji Temple (龍安寺) is best known for its stunning rock garden, which is designated to UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994, as a part of Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto. This rock garden is considered to be the finest example of Kare-Sansui (dry landscape), the traditional form of Japanese rock gardens.

More info ▶ Kyoto’s Best Zen Rock Garden: Ryoanji Temple

5. Visit the serene Kifune Shrine, nestled in the forested mountains north of Kyoto

Kifune Shrine (貴船神社) has is a highly popular photo spot in Kyoto, which is famous for the astonishing scenery of the shrine approach with stairs lined with red lanterns. The shrine is also known for the divine favour for love knots and a popular site for wedding.

More info ▶ New Travel Destination in Kyoto: Kifune Shrine

6. Explore the beautiful gardens and historic architecture of Ginkakuji Temple

Ginkakuji Temple (銀閣寺) , officially named Jishoji Temple, is a Zen temple also known as the Silver Pavilion because it was modeled after Kinkakuji Temple (the Golden Pavilion). Unlike the later, Ginkakuji is not actually painted in silver, but the temple consists of amazing complex including main hall and landscape gardens.

More info▶ Silver Pavilion: Kyoto Ginkakuji Temple

7. Photograph the iconic Yasaka Pagoda and wander through the historic streets of the Higashiyama district

Yasaka Pagoda (八坂の塔) is located at Hokanji Temple in Higashiyama District in eastern Kyoto City. It’s the famous landmark of the district and one of the most photographed places in Kyoto. Visitors can actually enter inside the pagoda, too.

More info ▶ Yasaka Pagoda: the Best Photo Spot in Higashiyama

8. Step back in time: Wander through Gion, Kyoto’s historic geisha district

Gion (祇園) is a traditional entertainment district known as “Geisha District”. The streets of Gion is lined with traditional wooden houses which serve as shops, restaurants and teahouses. Visitors can have upscale dining experience with authentic Geisha/Maiko dance show.

More info▶ Gion: Traditional Geisha District in Kyoto

Across the Kamogawa River from Gion is Pontocho, another atmospheric district of Kyoto where geisha live and work, and where many restaurants and bars line the narrow stone paved alley. Gion and Pontocho are two wonderful areas to experience the authentic food culture of Kyoto. If you wish to enjoy food and drink in Kyoto like the locals, it’s highly recommended to take a tour with a local guide, especially in areas like Gion and Pontocho that have many hidden dining spots but it could be challenging to enter them for tourists. Join the “Kyoto Night Foodie Tour” to explore the beautiful dining areas of Kyoto at night and taste delicious, authentic Kyoto cuisine and drinks with a local guide. Check the following link to find more details about the tour!

▶️Book the Kyoto Night Foodie Tour here!

So, how exactly can one interact with Maiko? For those not very familiar with the Gion area, it’s recommended to have a professional guide show you around to closely experience the culture of Maiko and Geisha.

▶︎Let’s check the details of the Maiko and Geisha performance tour in Gion from here!

9. Dine along the river at a Kawadoko restaurant and enjoy Kyoto’s traditional summer cuisine

Every great city has an iconic river within, don’t you agree? Kamogawa River or Kamo River (鴨川) is a symbolic river run through the city of Kyoto, and a popular landmark itself. The riverbank of Kamogawa River is a great spot to walk down and it’s lined by numbers of cafes and restaurants.

During summer, they extend their outside terrace towards the river, and make a larger seating space by the river so the guests can feel the breeze in hot weather. This is called Kawadoko , and it’s one of the traditions and seasonal attractions in Kyoto area. Enjoy the delicious and authentic Kyoto cuisine with the pleasant view of Kamo River only in summer time!

More info ▶ Kamogawa River: 5 Nice Viewing Restaurants and Cafes on Kamogawa River

10. Savor local flavors: Embark on bar hopping and food tours in Kyoto

To understand the food culture and tradition in Kyoto, it is highly recommended to join a food tour with a local guide. It is not easy for first time visitors and tourists to find good restaurants or choose what to eat, but with a help of local guide, you can experience Kyoto’s authentic culinary scene and enjoy food and drink like locals! Here are our picks of food tours in Kyoto:

-Explore the 400 year-old Nishiki Market, a.k.a. Kyoto’s Kitchen! It’s the great place to explore the authentic local food culture of Kyoto where over 100 shops and stalls lined. Join the guided food walking tour to learn the history and culture of food in Kyoto and try various local food ( ▶Review )!

Book ▶ Kyoto Food and Drink Tour at Nishiki Street & Gion

-One of the best ways to enjoy Kyoto at night is joining a bar-hopping tour with a local guide. Through the tour, you can experience the deep izakaya culture in the backstreets of Kyoto that might be hard to find for tourists. Enjoy drinking like locals as well as the delicious Japanese bar foods in the popular nightlife areas in Kyoto!

Book ▶ Kyoto Bar Hopping Nightlife Food Tour

11. Explore Arashiyama District

-togetsukyo bridge.

Arashiyama (嵐山) is a touristic area outside of Kyoto City, and it can be accessed in 20-30 mins from Kyoto Station by train or bus. Arashiyama is home to several important historic monuments and the rich nature, and highly popular side trip destination from the central city of Kyoto. Togetsukyo Bridge (渡月橋) is a symbol of Arashiyama area, originally built during the Heian Period (794–1185). It’s a popular place to stop by and take photos or watch the beautiful scenery with Katsura River and surrounding mountains.

-Bamboo Grove

Another iconic landmark of Arashiyama area is this Bamboo Grove , which runs between Tenryuji Temple and Okouchi Sanso Garden. Here, visitors enjoy strolling through the picturesque bamboo forest and take some great photos. It’s one of the most recognizable spots in Kyoto along with Kinkakuji Temple and Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine. If you wish to capture the path in the Bamboo Grove without crowds, it is highly recommended to visit there in early morning.

More info▶ Kyoto’s Iconic Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Have a depth of experience in Arashiyama area with the “Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo forest & Garden Half-Day Walking Tour”, a small group tour with a local English-speaking guide. Walk through hidden routes often overlooked by tourists and experience the best of Arashiyama, including a UNESCO World Heritage temple, famous bamboo grove, traditional villa and picturesque zen garden. The tour also includes an authentic Shojin cuisine lunch served at a restaurant inside the temple grounds. For more information about the tour, please check the following link!

-Tenryuji Temple

Some of Kyoto’s must-visit temples and shrines are located in Arashiyama area. Tenryuji Temple (天龍寺) is the head temple of the Tenryu branch of Rinzai Zen Buddhism, known for its gorgeous Japanese garden, and the astonishing Japanese art work, The Cloud Dragon on the ceiling of the Hatto hall. The temple was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto in 1994.

More info▶ Kyoto’s Yet Another UNESCO World Heritage Site: Arashiyama Tenryuji Temple

-Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama

Kyoto is surrounded with lush greenery, where there are a lot of places to interact with animals aside from zoos and aquariums. Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama (嵐山モンキーパークいわたやま) is inhabited by about 120 Japanese macaques, which has been visited by both Japanese and foreign tourists for a long time. The park located on the mountaintop offers an enjoyable opportunity to see the monkeys up close and feed them with snacks and apples. In addition to the changing season like cherry blossoms and autumn leaves, you can get a panoramic view of the whole city of Kyoto.

More info▶ Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama, Kyoto

-Arashiyama Yusaitei

Arashiyama Yusaitei (嵐山 祐斎亭) , a laboratory of the dyeing artist Yusai Okuda, is located in the Arashiyama Park. The old quiet building is composed of several rooms with the theme mixed with Japanese culture, seasonal nature, a traditional garden and unique dye dating from 1,200 years ago. At the Dyeing Art Gallery, Yusai’s renowned works are displayed. You can see fresh green leaves in summer and tint leaves in autumn through the circular windows of The Room of Round Windows. Seasonal scenery is reflected on the water at the Water Mirror room.

Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/6AkbJ7yuFMm3MF4J6

12. Nintendo KYOTO and Nintendo Museum

Kyoto is a great destination for Nintendo game fans. It is lesser known but the Japanese video game company was founded in Kyoto in 1889, and its headquarters is located there.

Nintendo KYOTO opened on the 7th floor of the newly renovated department store Kyoto Takashimaya SC in October 2023 as the brand’s third official store after Tokyo and Osaka. The shop offers game consoles and software as well as a wide range of merchandise from Nintendo’s popular games such as Super Mario, the Legend of Zelda, Splatoon and Kirby, including toys, apparel, stationery, snacks and some exclusive products to the Kyoto store. At the entrance on the ground floor of the building, you will be greeted by the giant statue of Super Mario from a green pipe, which is a great photo spot. There’s also a photo spot on the rooftop of the building, with Super Mario hanging on the goal pole.

More info ▶ Nintendo KYOTO: The Latest Official Nintendo Store in Japan

One of the most anticipated openings for gaming fans is the Nintendo Museum , which is scheduled to open in Kyoto in 2024 autumn. The museum will be a facility that displays products released by Nintendo in past and the extensive history of the company, It’s converted from the former Uji Ogura plant of Nintendo. More information about the museum will be revealed in near future so let’s stay tuned.

13. Make an excursion to the scenic long sandbar Amanohashidate

If you want to witness something you don’t see every day, Amanohashidate (天橋立) will take priority for your trip to Kyoto. It is the 3.6-kilometer-long sandbar in Miyazu City, famous as the most popular tourist site outside Kyoto City and one of Japan’s three scenic views. There are over 5,000 pines growing luxuriantly on the sand. A local amusement park Amanohashidate View Land is perfect to take an overview image of the long pine-clad sandbar. You can reach an observation deck by monorail or chairlift.

More info ▶ Amanohashidate: Kyoto’s Bridge to Heaven

14. Explore the charming fishing village of Ine no Funaya

While most of visitors to Kyoto Prefecture only visit within Kyoto City to see historic sites, there are a lot more to explore in this fascinating land. Ine no Funaya (伊根の舟屋) is located on Tango Peninsula, the northern coast of Kyoto, and it is considered to be one of the most beautiful villages in Japan. As it’s often described as the Venice of Japan, the traditional fisherman village of Ine town is formed with over 200 floating houses called Funaya.

The picturesque view of the village has rapidly spread online and Instagram, then this charming village is now becoming a popular day trip destination from the city.

More info ▶ Ine no Funaya: Kyoto’s Hidden “The Venice of Japan”

15. Visit the Wazuka Tea Plantation to learn about tea production and taste some delicious Matcha

Kyoto is Japan’s best Matcha and green tea producer, and nearly half of the tea is produced in this small town called Wazuka (和束町) . Wazuka is a small town in south Kyoto, and as well as being famous for the production of the Uji tea, the town is also known for its picturesque scenery of tea plantation. The beautifully maintained tea farm is blended well with the surrounding nature, and displays the stunning scenery in each season.

Wazuka Tea Plantation is today one of the most popular day trip destination from the central Kyoto, and various activities are available for visitors such as guided tours, tea picking, plantation experience, tea ceremony lesson and so on.

More info▶ Wazuka Tea Farm: Kyoto’s Hidden Teatopia

16. Discover Kyoto’s untouched traditional village Miyama

Miyama (美山) is a small town surrounded by mountains, located in rural area approx 50km north of central Kyoto. The area is known for their traditional grass thatched roof houses and the astonishing landscape of countryside. Visitors can see the authentic atmosphere of rural and the beauty of the surrounding nature that changes its scenery in each season.

The main attraction of the area is the northern village called Kayabuki no Sato, which consists of approx 40 thatched roof houses. Houses in the village are private, but some are open to public as museums, cafe and accommodation. There are also several shops and restaurants within the area.

If you have time, it is highly recommended to stay over at one of traditional thatched roof houses and experience traditional Japanese style accommodation with classic facilities, which is totally different from staying in a hotel.

More info ▶ Miyama: A Treasure of Rural Traditional Japan

27. Immerse yourself in cultural experiences: Top activities to explore the rich traditions of Kyoto

-wearing kimono.

There is no better place to try on traditional Japanese dress kimono than Kyoto. Stroll down the streets of beautifully preserved ancient town in Kyoto wearing elegant and colourful kimono dress. You can take a lot of photos of yourself in beautiful kimono at/with Kyoto’s historic monuments such as temples, shrines and stone-paved streets.

Kyoto Kimono Rental is highly recommended kimono rental shop in Kyoto, offering a large selection of high quality, beautiful kimono at very affordable price. From the latest designs to antique patterns, you can find your favourite kimono. The shop provides everything you need such as dressing up, makeup, hairdo and other accessories, so you can simply make a reservation in advance and bring yourself in!

▶Find more details about Kyoto Kimono Rental

-Tea Ceremony

Experience Tea Ceremony : The Famous Matcha drinking Ritual in Kyoto.

Time magazine lists tea ceremony as one of the most essential things to do in Kyoto. Although tea ceremony has been enjoyed all around the world, it feels more special in Kyoto given the fact the most famous tea is grown in Uji Kyoto and famous tea ceremony schools were born in Kyoto City.

After visiting many temples and shrines, finally you can forget all about all the trip related troubles and enjoy drinking the perfectly made bowl of tea in a zen moment. Some tea rooms offer kimono wearing experience as well, a perfect activity that goes all along with this ritual.

▶ Book Online: Maikoya Kimono Tea Ceremony in Kyoto and Osaka

-Geisha watching/experience

It’s very easy to meet Geisha/Maiko (Japanese traditional dancers) on the street of Kyoto especially in Gion area. Kyoto is the perfect place to experience authentic Japanese traditional arts. However, due to its traditional system, I cannot guarantee that first-time visitors can easily access Geisha or Maiko performances. To ensure a seamless experience, it’s recommended making a reservation in advance or participating in a tour.

Book your tour ▶Maiko & Geisha performance and Cultural Walking Tour in Gion

Or there are several traditional dance shows that are held annually in some months such as Miyako Odori in April and Kamogawa Odori in May.

-Samurai Experience

Dress up in Samurai or Ninja costume, and learn and practice how to use a Japanese sword from a Japanese sword master! Kyoto is the best place to learn “Bushido” (the way of the warrior) and feel Zen.

Book activity ▶ Guided Museum Tour and Samurai & Ninja Experience

18. Walk in the historical grounds of the UNESCO Heritage site Nijo Castle

Nijo Castle (二条城) was a Kyoto residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of Tokugawa shogunate during Edo period. The construction began in 1601, and completed after 25 yeas during the time of Tokugawa Iemitsu (Ieyasu’s grandson).

The castle consists of circles of defense walls and moats, Honmaru Palace and Ninomaru Palace, various buildings and gardens in the 27.5 ha space. It is part of UNESCO World Heritage Site registered as Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto since 1994, together with 16 other sites in Kyoto such as Kiyomizudera Temple and Kinkakuji Temple.

The castle is home to several gardens and groves that display seasonal scenery with greenery and flowers, and the site is especially popular during cherry blossom season. There are approx 300 cherry trees at the site with 50 variations from early to late blooming ones. A cherry blossom festival and light-up event is held during the season.

The recent events in a collaboration with NAKED, INC., a Tokyo-based creative company, featuring modern digital art with seasonal theme in traditional settings, have drawn large crowds from all over the world.

More info ▶ Nijo Castle: Kyoto’s Magnificent Samurai Treasure

Related article ▶ Nijo Castle Cherry Blossom Light-Up by NAKED

19. Meet 1,001 Kannon Statues at Sanjusangendo Temple

Sanjusangendo Temple (三十三間堂) , officially known as Rengeo-in, is a Buddhist temple built in the year 1165. It’s located in Kyoto’s Higashiyama district. The temple is famous for having 1,001 human-sized standing thousand-armed Kannon statues. All those statues are stored in the main hall called Hondo, which is the longest temple hall in Japan, with the length of 120m. The temple and its collection are designated a National Treasure of Japan.

More info ▶ Sanjusangendo: the Buddhist Temple with 1,001 Golden Statues

20. Explore the national treasures at Nanzenji Temple

Nanzenji Temple (南禅寺) is what you should go to in the center of Kyoto, which is less known to international tourists than other historical spots that have worldwide recognition. Founded in the end of the 13th century, it is known as the highest-class temple ranked above Kyoto’s Five Mountain temples including Tenryuji Temple and Tofukuji Temple.

A huge temple gate called Sanmon, which is designated as a nationally important cultural property, awaits you near the entrance. The Hojo, designated a national treasure, includes a beautiful Japanese rock garden and golden wall paintings. The temple is also distinguished by an old red-brick aqueduct to carry irrigation water from Lake Biwa in Shiga Prefecture. In autumn, you can see leaves turn red and gold around the site.

21. Snap some photos at Kyoto’s many Instagram-worthy spots

The biggest travel trend today is taking “Instagram-Worthy” photos , and Kyoto is the top destination among photographers and Instagrammers worldwide. The city has numbers of cool and beautiful photo spots including temples, shrines and traditional streetscape. There are also many cafes and restaurants serving Instagram-Worthy food, too. You’d better make sure to have enough storage space in your camera before visiting Kyoto!

More info ▶ 7 Most Instagram Worthy Temples&Shrines in Kyoto ▶ 10 Most Instagram-Worthy Desserts in Kyoto

22. Learn to cook traditional Japanese dishes with a cooking class

Joining a cooking class could be the best way for foreign visitors to explore Japanese food culture. Numbers of cooking classes are held in English today, and you can learn not only cooking but also Japanese culture and history by communicating with local teachers through the class. Cooking class has been one of the most popular activities among foodie travellers from all over the world.

A variety of cooking classes are available in Japan today with various food options including vegetarian, vegan and halal. In Kyoto, a wide range of cooking classes by local teachers are available today, which you can learn how to cook authentic local dishes as well as Kyoto’s food culture, including popular Japanese dishes, classic home cooking dishes, unique Bento Box Making and Kyoto’s specialties.

Pick your favourite Japanese food cooking class, learn how to cook, then enjoy tasting! Also you can bring the original recipe from the teacher back home to cook for your family and friends!

Check out the attached link below for more cooking classes available in Kyoto today! ▶ Book Online: Best Kyoto Cooking Classes

23. Experience Kyoto’s vibrant traditional festivals, such as Gion Festival and Jidai Matsuri

Kyoto hold several traditional festivals through the year, and there are three biggest festivals which have been celebrated for centurie:  Aoi Matsuri (葵祭) in May, Gion Matsuri (祇園祭) in July and Jidai Matsuri (時代祭) in October. The ceremonies and parades are usually open for public viewing and  some reserved seats are available for a limited number, with booking in advance required.

More information about Gion Festival ▶ Gion Festival: The Complete Guide

24. Admire the cherry blossoms in spring at some of Kyoto’s most beautiful parks and temples

The most popular season to visit Japan among international tourists is spring as cherry blossoms cover the whole country with dreamy pastel pink. Kyoto is one of the best cities to enjoy cherry blossoms in Japan, offering a splendid scenery of city’s historic sites and pink cherry blossoms.

The best time to enjoy cherry blossoms in Kyoto is usually late March to early April (depending on the weather condition). Some of temples and shrines in Kyoto are especially popular for cherry blossom viewing, and special events and night light-up is available at some sites.

Check the list below for top cherry blossom viewing spots in Kyoto. ▶ 15 Best Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots in Kyoto

25. See the spectacular colors of the autumn leaves at places like Eikando Zenrin-ji Temple and Arashiyama

Along with cherry blossoms in spring, autumn leaves are also a top seasonal attraction in Japan as the whole country turns into warm red colours. Like for cherry blossoms, some spots in Kyoto are particularly popular for autumn leaves viewings such as Kiyomizudera Temple and Arashiyama area. Some temples in Kyoto such as Eikando Zenrin-ji Temple and Nanzenji Temple hold light-up events at night during the season, too.

The best time to see autumn leaves in Kyoto is mid November to early December depending on area.

Check more places to view autumn leaves in Kyoto: ▶ 10 Best Autumn Leaves Spots in Kyoto ▶ Tofukuji Temple: the Best Temple for Autumn Leaves Viewing in Kyoto! ▶ Enrian Temple: the REDDEST Autumn Leaves in Kyoto!

26. Relax on hidden beaches in the northern part of Kyoto

Since Kyoto is richly endowed with nature, there are lots of beaches in the historical prefecture in addition to abundant natural resources from mountains and rivers. The coast of Kyotango, a northern city in Kyoto, consists of less-known but beautiful beaches. For instance, Hatchohama Beach is a perfect spot for surfers, Hamazume Yuhigaura Beach is surrounded by nice Ryokan accommodations, the 1.8-kilometer Kotohiki Hamakakezu Beach is known as one of the best beaches in Japan.

27. Stay in a traditional Machiya for an authentic Kyoto experience

Machiya (町屋) is a traditional old houses in Kyoto which are around 100 years old (or more). Nowdays, a lot of Machiya are transformed to guesthouses, shops and restaurants (even Starbucks Coffee!), and became a popular attraction/accommodation among tourists. If you are looking for great accommodation in Kyoto, how about staying at a Machiya house instead of ordinary hotel for more unique and traditional Kyoto experience?

More info ▶ Best “Machiya” Style Hotels in Kyoto!

28. Uncover Kyoto’s Matcha green tea tradition and tasting experiences

Kyoto is known as the finest green tea producer in Japan, especially Uji Matcha from Uji City is considered to be the highest graded Matcha products. You can find many traditional teahouses and cafes in Kyoto serving delightful Matcha tea and desserts. There are also various snacks and sweets made with Matcha sold at sweets shops and souvenir stores in the city.

More info ▶ Top 5 MATCHA Cafes in Kyoto

29. Uncover Kyoto’s thriving ramen scene

Did you know Kyoto is one of the most competitive Ramen cities in Japan? The city might be known for fine Japanese dining and traditional cuisine, but locals love eating Ramen here in Kyoto. Therefore, there are a lot of good Ramen restaurants in the city, from traditional Kyoto style Ramen to everyone’s favourite, Ichiran. If you are a Ramen fan, make sure to pop by a few good Ramen stores while travelling Kyoto!

More info ▶ 7 Best RAMEN Restaurants in KYOTO

30. Buy souvenirs unique to Kyoto, such as Yatsuhashi or Matcha snacks

Along with tourist attractions, one thing that you shouldn’t miss before leaving Kyoto is shopping. Souvenir shopping is one of the most exciting things while travelling in Japan, and Kyoto is an amazing city to shop especially if you like Japanese handicrafts or traditional sweets.

More info ▶ What to Buy in Kyoto More info ▶ Best Places to Shop in Kyoto

As I mentioned earlier, Kyoto is known for its Matcha products, and a variety of Matcha snack souvenirs are also available. If you need a little assist for shopping, I have written articles introducing popular souvenirs from Kyoto so please check them out!

More info ▶ 7 Must-Buy Matcha Sweets in Kyoto!

+Take Side Trips to Neighbouring Cities

Along with your visit to Kyoto, why not to explore the beauty of neighbouring cities around. Kyoto Prefecture is surrounded by other attractive prefectures in Kansai region including Osaka, Nara, Hyogo, Shiga, Mie and Fukui.

Osaka, Japan’s second largest city and western capital, is always a popular destination among tourists, and often visited with Kyoto. Although they are located next to each other, two cities offer completely different charms and attractions. While Kyoto offers historical and cultural experiences, you can expect more vibrant and energetic city ambiance in Osaka. It very is possible to visit Kyoto from Osaka for a short trip and enjoy the best highlights in one day.

▶ Best Things to Do in Osaka: Osaka Bucket List 

These two cities are located next to each other and it’s very convenient to move around. Check out the link below and find out the best way to travel between Osaka and Kyoto.

▶ Transportation Guide: How to Travel between OSAKA and KYOTO

If you wish to explore Western Japan beyond Osaka and Kyoto, please check out the following articles, too!

▶ Western Japan Bucket List

▶ Best Day Trips from Kyoto

Travel Tips in Kyoto

-wifi and internet access in kyoto.

Having internet access during your trip in Kyoto is essential, and it would be even better with a fast and stable connection. While free WiFi is offers at many places in Kyoto including hotels, shops, cafes and tourist information, renting a pocket WiFi is still highly recommended for internet access with faster speed, bigger data and a convenience of using it whenever you like and wherever you are.

▶ Best Pocket WiFi in Japan

-Transportation in Kyoto

There are various ways to travel between airports and Kyoto. If you are arriving in/departing from airports in Osaka (Kansai International Airport or Osaka International Airport), here are useful tips for how to move between airports and Kyoto. Also if you are planning to visit Tokyo before or after Kyoto, you can check the below link to find the best way to travel between Tokyo and Kyoto!

▶ How to Get to Kyoto from KIX

▶ Ways to Move from Osaka International Airport (Itami Airport)

▶How to Get to Kyoto from Tokyo

If you are thinking of taking a one day trip from Kyoto, the best way to get around in Japan is to use the bullet train . In high season tickets can be sold out so we recommend buying them in advance.

▶︎Book now your Shinkansen tickets!

-Itinerary Ideas in Kyoto

Do you need some ideas to plan sightseeing in Kyoto? What you can see and visit in Kyoto largely depends on how long your stay. Check out our suggested itineraries in Kyoto with different lengths, which may help you plan a perfect Kyoto trip!

▶ 1 Day Itinerary in Kyoto

▶ 2 Days Itinerary in Kyoto

▶ 3 Days Itinerary in Kyoto

▶ 5 Days in Kyoto

▷ One Week in Kyoto, Osaka and Nara

Hope you have enjoyed my bucket list of Kyoto with the top tourist highlights of the city! If you are a first visitor to Kyoto, save the link and use this article to plan your best trip to Kyoto 🙂

▽Subscribe to our free news magazine!▽

Check more Bucket Lists in other popular areas in Japan!

▶️30 Best Things to Do in Japan ▶︎Top Things to Do in Tokyo ▶︎Top Things to Do in Osaka ▶︎Top Things to Do around Mt Fuji ▶︎Top Things to Do in Hokkaido ▶︎Top Things to Do in Okinawa ▶︎Top Things to Do in Western Japan

For more ideas about things to do and see in Kyoto, please check out these articles, too!

▽Related Articles▽

"The world is my oyster" A globetrotter 🌎 and hammock lover 🌞 who loves taking adventures to fuel wanderlust. Born and raised in Japan, I have spend almost a decade living and exploring countries across the world. Based on my travel experience, I'd love to share my knowledge and tips for travelling with my readers. I hope my stories help you plan your trip and have a great time in Japan 🌈

• Things to Do

14 things to know before visiting Kyoto

Dec 11, 2023 • 6 min read

Plan your trip to Kyoto with these tips on packing, where to stay and etiquette © anek.soowannaphoom / Shutterstock

Kyoto is the embodiment of traditional Japanese culture.

It's a place where authentic crafts are kept alive and historic temples and teahouses line the narrow streets. So perhaps unsurprisingly, it’s also a destination where etiquette can have a big part to play. 

Be ready for your visit with this rundown of some key things to know before going to Kyoto .

1. Tune in to the seasons

Kyoto is a very  seasonal destination , so plan your trip accordingly. The spring cherry blossom season is when the city is at its most photogenic but also its busiest. If you want to visit during this time, you’ll need to book accommodations a year or more in advance – expect to pay premium prices. The same is true of the fall foliage season, although not to quite the same degree. Summer sees the streets come to life with festivals, while winter is the quietest time in Kyoto. New Year is a big holiday in Japan, with many shops, restaurants, museums and other businesses closing between December 29 and January 3.

2. Think carefully about where you want to stay

Kyoto has plenty of great neighborhoods to choose from, but southern Higashiyama and downtown Kyoto are among the most convenient for sightseeing. In terms of accommodations, you can find everything from budget guesthouses to high-end international hotels. For a more authentic Japanese experience, consider spending a night in a ryokan inn, where you’ll sleep on futons on tatami mat floors with traditional meals served in your room.

3. Pack shoes you can slip on and off

When traveling in Kyoto, you’ll find yourself having to take your shoes on and off frequently, so choose your pairs wisely, and wear nice socks! Outdoor shoes are generally not worn in tatami mat rooms, people’s homes, or traditional temples, restaurants and ryokan inns. You can normally tell when you’re expected to take your shoes off because there will be a raised step where the flooring changes. You’ll see other people’s shoes lined up, and slippers may be set out for you to wear inside. Be aware that there’s usually a separate pair of slippers to wear in the bathroom – don’t forget to swap them back afterward!

4. Explore on foot

Not only is Kyoto a very walkable city, but navigating its streets on foot also enables you to discover lots of lesser-known but no less impressive spots. From tiny restaurants and bars with counter seats only to ancient shops specializing in wagashi sweets, tofu or local crafts, many of Kyoto’s most interesting locations aren’t in obvious places. You might come across picturesque shrines down tiny alleyways, find street stalls serving freshly baked mochi rice cakes or spot a kimono-clad maiko (apprentice geisha).

5. The city will probably be crowded

Kyoto is home to some of the most famous and beautiful sightseeing spots in Japan , and they attract large numbers of domestic and international tourists. Big-name attractions such as  Kinkaku-ji temple, the  Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and  Kiyomizu-dera temple are definitely worth visiting, but time your trip for the early morning or toward the end of the day to avoid the crowds. Similarly, when visiting the endless red torii gates of  Fushimi Inari-Taisha shrine, head farther up the mountain to find room to breathe.

6. Kyoto isn’t all temples and shrines

Kyoto is the spiritual heart of Japan, and with some 2000 temples and shrines to explore, you’d be forgiven for thinking that’s all the city has to offer. But there’s so much more to discover. Head to  Nishiki Market to sample top local cuisine, take an evening stroll around the atmospheric streets of  Gion and admire the mighty  Nijō-jō castle. Kyoto also has a wealth of prestigious museums to discover, plus pleasant parks and serene  walking paths .

7. Allow time to explore the wider region beyond

You could easily spend your entire trip in Kyoto city, but if you have time, broaden your itinerary to include day trips to other parts of the region. The surrounding prefecture has fantastic  hiking routes within easy reach that let you experience the area’s stunning natural scenery, as well as quieter temples such as  Kurama-dera and  Enryaku-ji . Smaller towns, such as coastal Kinosaki Onsen and green tea-loving Uji, are also great for a day out.

8. Mind your manners

Politeness is hugely important in Japanese society. Although tourists will be forgiven the occasional etiquette breach, it’s always best to be courteous. That means not talking too loudly on public transport, avoiding eating on the sidewalk and allowing room for others to pass on the narrow streets. Littering and cutting in line are seen as particularly rude. Smokers should take care to use the designated smoking areas, and many parts of the city are now no-smoking zones.

9. Pay in cash, but don't leave a tip

Tipping isn’t customary in Japan, and in fact, it can be seen as insulting. If you attempt to leave a tip, it will almost definitely be declined. As a side note, in most restaurants, you pay up at the front counter rather than at your table. Cash is far more commonly used than card payment, and you should place your money in the small tray provided rather than hand it directly to the cashier (this goes for shops, hotels and other locations, too). They will place your change in the same tray for you to pick up once the transaction is complete.

10. Geisha are not a tourist attraction

Lots of people hope to spot geisha – or geiko as they’re known in Kyoto – when visiting the historic Gion district. However, it’s important to be respectful when doing so. Any geiko you see will probably be on their way to an appointment and won’t appreciate being swarmed by strangers! Ask politely if it’s okay to take a photograph, rather than behaving like paparazzi.

11. Kyoto is an extremely safe city

Crime rates in Kyoto are low, the tap water is clean, and if you lose something, it will almost certainly be returned to you. It’s safe to walk the streets at night, even as a solo traveler, and the city is welcoming to LGBTIQ+ visitors. Of course, you should still exercise common sense during your stay and take the normal precautions that you would at home. If you need help, you’ll find police boxes (known as kōban ) on most intersections, although the police inside might not speak much English.

12. Watch out for bikes

Cycling is common in Kyoto, and it’s a convenient way to get around the city. Many people ride on the sidewalk, so keep an eye out when you’re walking or leaving shops and restaurants. If you hear a bell, someone behind you is probably trying to get past.

13. In an emergency, dial 119

In a medical emergency, dial 119 for the ambulance service (this is also the number for the fire department). Medical care in Kyoto is reasonably priced and of a high standard, although it is always advisable to take out travel insurance before your trip to ensure that you can receive treatment at a hospital or clinic should you need it. Police can be reached by dialing 110.

14. Earthquakes are common; serious earthquakes are not

Earthquakes are fairly frequent in Japan; however, most are low-intensity and cause little to no damage. You’ll find instructions in your accommodations about what to do in the unlikely event of a serious quake.

This article was first published Dec 16, 2021 and updated Dec 11, 2023.

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The Kyoto checklist: 15 things you absolutely must do in Kyoto

Kyoto is easily one of the most FOMO-inducing cities in the world. Packed with so much to see/do/taste/try/fall in love with, you might be unsure of what should be on your Kyoto-do list. That’s why we’ve done it for you! Here are the  15 things you absolutely must do in Kyoto  in order to get the ‘full experience’ and keep those nasty feelings of missing out safely at bay.

1. Explore a world of temples

There are more than 1600 temples in Kyoto. 

Sixteen. Hundred. That means if you visited a different temple every day of the year for four years, you  still  wouldn’t have seen every temple in Kyoto. For the time poor, there are a handful of famous Kyoto temples that you need to visit (particularly first-timers), with each one bringing something entirely unique to the table. We suggest ticking off one or two of these:

• Daigoji:   The temple’s five-storey pagoda is the oldest surviving structure in Kyoto.
• Kiyomizudera :  One of the most iconic temples with a beautiful panoramic view of Kyoto (note: the main hall is undergoing renovations until March 2020, but visitors can still enter)
• Ginkakuji   (‘Silver Pavilion’) :  Once a shogun’s retirement villa, now a classic Zen temple
• Kinkakuji (‘Golden Pavilion’):  A Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf
• Tofukuji :  See the oldest Zen gate in the country
• Ryoanji :  Draw inspiration from the world-famous rock gardens
• Tenryuji :  The temple boasts one of the  finest examples of traditional Japanese garden design
• Honen-in:  A tranquil temple covered in moss and mystery
• Eikando (aka Zenrinji) :  The temple is famous for brilliant foliage in the fall

2. Stroll through Shinto shrines

Meaning “the way of the gods”, Shinto is Japan’s oldest religion and lives on in over 400 Shinto shrines across Kyoto. Again, there’s a lot of them, so make sure you leave room to wander through at least one of the following:

• Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine :  One of Kyoto’s most prominent and popular attractions
• Heian-jingu Shrine :  An iconic symbol of Kyoto with its towering red torii gate
• Yasaka-jinja Shrine :  Buzzing with energy and home to the Gion Matsuri (festival)
• Kifune-jingu Shrine :  A retreat nestled in a quaint village in the northern mountains of Kyoto

Kitano-tenmangu Shrine:  One of the most famous plum blossom viewing spots in Kyoto, this shrine holds an annual plum blossom festival in February

3. Join a ‘zazen’ meditation session at a Buddhist temple

Practice mindfulness by joining a zazen  meditation session  at one of Kyoto’s many Buddhist temples.

Typically catering to groups, you’ll be guided through the basic techniques of Zen Buddhist meditation, its history and how to incorporate it into your everyday practice.

Kyoto has an abundance of temples that offer meditation courses as well as lodging e.g. Shunkoin or  Myoshinji Temple , with many offering English sessions. Reservations are often required, so be sure to plan your journey to self-realisation in advance!

4. Get bamboozled by Arashiyama

One of Kyoto’s most iconic and insta-famous attractions, the  Arashiyama Bamboo Grove  truly is a sight to behold. Located in the Sagano area of western Kyoto (a 20 minute train ride from JR Kyoto Station), the bending walk through the vibrant, emerald green bamboo forest is a short, immersive experience that transports you to another world. (Hot tip: the experience is most stunning if you approach from the side gate of  Tenryuji Temple .) If you happen to be here in December, be sure to catch the winter illumination event, Hanatoro, which involves thousands of lanterns lighting up the night throughout the Arashiyama area.

For a non-touristy experience, consider visiting Otokuni Bamboo Grove in Muko City (a 10 minute train ride to Mukomachi Station from JR Kyoto Station, followed by a 10 minute taxi ride), a 1.8km forest path lined with eight kinds of bamboo hedges.

5. Meet a geisha in Kyoto

The geisha of Kyoto (known locally as ‘geiko’) live and work in one of five ‘kagai’ (‘Flower Town’) neighbourhoods where they sing, dance and entertain clientele in exclusive teahouses. Stroll through the oh-so-charming streets of Gion or Pontocho at dusk and you may be lucky enough to spot maiko—geiko in training, as they make their way to an appointment.  

The most authentic way to get up and personal with a maiko or geiko is at a teahouse or ryokan, which can be arranged by a tour operator and high-end hotels. Or head straight to  Gion Corner  at Yasaka Hall to watch daily maiko dances and enjoy six other traditional performing arts including tea ceremony, koto (six-stringed zither), gakaku (court music) and kyogen (short-form theatre).

6. Don a kimono in Higashiyama

What better way to explore the traditional district of Higashiyama than in an authentic kimono! Neighbouring Gion, Higashiyama has plenty of rental shops (many with English websites) that will properly fit you with a beautiful kimono or yukata of your choosing. Male kimono are also available! The best place to take your kimono for a spin? Take a stroll down by the canal along the  Philosopher’s Path , one of Kyoto’s most scenic city walks. The path also conveniently connects many of the temples and shrines listed above.

7. Craft your own Kyo-Yuzen keepsake

Invented in the late 17th century, Kyo-Yuzen is a traditional Kyoto dyeing technique used to bring textiles to life (like that kimono you’ll be donning). 

If you want to try your hand at the ancient craft, workshops are dotted over the city that give you the opportunity to learn about the intricate dyeing process and create your own Kyo-Yuzen memento to take home to show off. Workshops usually run for an hour or so, making them perfect for slotting between other must-dos!

8. Visit the Kyoto International Manga Anime Fair and the Kyoto International Manga Museum

If you’re a fan of anime, manga and cosplay, head to the Kyoto International Manga Anime Fair, an event held over two days in September each year. Featuring shops, exhibition booths, a character café, cosplay show, workshops and more, the event aims to promote anime and manga culture to the world and connect budding creators with companies.

At the Kyoto International Manga Museum you can choose from 50,000 volumes of manga to read, see original artwork, and attend a workshop to learn how to create your own manga. The museum is open year-round except for Wednesdays, the New Year’s holiday and maintenance periods.

9. Sip on Sake in Fushimi Sake District

While many travellers include a visit to Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine on their itinerary, it’s a little known fact that Fushimi is one of Japan’s most famous sake-producing areas.

Fushimi is blessed with abundant spring water containing the perfect balance of potassium and calcium – ideal for creating delicious sake.

Take a scenic canal boat ride on jikkokubune, flat-bottomed boats that once transported sake and rice to the old Fushimi river port. Visit the Sake Café Fushimi Yume Hakushu to taste different kinds of sake made by local breweries or head to Sake Bar Aburacho to sample premium Ginjo-shu from over 80 varieties.

10. Visit Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama

Climb up Mt. Iwatayama to see around 120 Japanese macaques in the wild at Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama. A 20-minute walk from the park entrance takes you to the mountain’s summit and you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views over Kyoto city. There’s a feeding area for monkeys here too (for a change, visitors enter a caged hut and feed the free-roaming monkeys outside through the fencing), and a playground for children. The area is known for its beautiful cherry blossoms in spring and vivid autumn colours.

11. Munch down Michelin-stars

Kyoto is the 3rd most Michelin-starred city in the world. (Tokyo and Paris take 1st and second place, respectively). From traditional Kyoto-style  kaiseki  to sushi to French cuisine, the city of Kyoto is a gastronomical nirvana. What makes things even more exciting is that many of the starred establishments are very budget friendly, especially if you visit during lunchtime. If you’ve always wanted to go to a Michelin-starred restaurant, Kyoto is your chance to do it.

12. Experience ‘kawadoko’, Kyoto style al fresco dining

During the warmer months (typically May through September), some restaurants set up decks over or next to rivers and waterfalls so you can enjoy a meal while the flowing water beneath you keeps you cool. 

Well-known areas to try kawadoko include the village of Kibune in the northern mountains of Kyoto and along the Kamogawa River, the city’s main waterway.

After dinner, take a stroll along the riverbank, beautifully illuminated by lanterns and streetlights.

13. Explore Nishiki Market, the kitchen of Kyoto

No trip to Kyoto is complete without strolling through Nishiki Market, stretched along a 400m path from Teramachi to Takakura. Popular with locals and tourists alike, the market sells everything from pickles and preserves to kitchen knives. Samples are always on offer, so go hungry! 

Local specialities include ‘yuba’ (tofu skin) and soy milk doughnuts. The best time to visit is around 10am in the morning.

14. Stay the night in machiya, a traditional townhouse

Machiya  are the traditional townhouses that line the busy streets of Kyoto. Many of the narrow wooden homes have been restored and preserved, and open their doors to travellers looking for a one-of-a-kind stay unique to Kyoto. 

Machiya are popular accommodation options in Kyoto so be sure to book ahead, especially during peak season or dates that align with festivals and big events.

15. Attend Kyoto’s biggest festival

The legendary  Gion Matsuri  transforms the entire city into a massive party in the summer! There are many different events, however the grand procession of giant floats (Yamaboko Junko) held on 17 and 24 July is the main event not to miss. Taking place over the entire month of July, make sure you book your ryokan, Machiya or hotel well, well, well in advance. 

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The 10 Top Things to Do in Kyoto, Japan

If Kyoto is not at the top of your bucket list, it should be. The Japanese city is one of the rare destinations you can count on to constantly exceed the hype built up around it. Which is not surprising, what when you consider that walking its streets exposes you to more than a millennium of history, most of which saw Kyoto as Japan's imperial capital.

As you'll see exploring the selections below, which have all earned mentions as the Top 10 things to do in Kyoto, the city is not so much a tourist trap as it is a tourist paradise, a place where you'll want to stay for far longer than your plane ticket allows.

Kiyomizu-dera

You might find yourself concerned as you walk the hill up to Kiyomizu-dera, an eighth-century Buddhist temple perched on a hill in the eastern reaches of Kyoto. It's extremely crowded here, rain or shine, sun or snow and at almost all hours of the day.

Once you reach the main view point inside the temple, however, particularly if you happen to visit around sunset, you'll understand why this is among the best of Kyoto's top attractions, and is totally worth putting up with the throngs of tourists.

Tip: While Kiyomizu-dera is beautiful 365 days a year, it's especially stunning under spring's cherry blossoms and autumn's brilliant colors.

Taylor McIntyre / TripSavvy

Would you believe that one of Japan's most picturesque bamboo forests sits within Kyoto's city limits? You will once you set foot in Arashiyama, which is less than half an hour from Kyoto station by train or bus. As an added bonus, you enter the forest through Tenryuji Temple, which provides an absolutely gorgeous gateway to the grove.

Fushimi Inari Shrine

 Taylor McIntyre / TripSavvy

Another of Kyoto's most iconic images is of seemingly endless orange gates extending up the side of a mountain. This is the Fushimi Inari Shrine , whose path is actually less than two miles, just in case you're thinking to hike its entirely.

Of course, if you're just on the hunt for the ultimate Kyoto selfie, you won't have to walk far from Inari station. After just a few minutes, in fact, you'll realize why this is one of Kyoto's top 10 attractions!

Kinkaku-ji (The Golden Pavilion)

While a gold-covered Zen temple has technically existed at the site of Kinkaku-ji since the mid-15th century, the one you see reflecting on the pond today actually dates back less than 100 years to 1955, when it was rebuilt after arson at the hands of a fanatic monk. Like most of Kyoto's top ten attractions, the aptly-named Golden Pavilion looks great no matter when you visit, although the white snows of winter seem to contrast best with its shiny exterior.

The Philosopher's Walk

Interestingly, the second-most famous Zen temple in Kyoto is called the Silver Pavilion (Ginkaku-ji), although it is not conspicuously silver in color. Although not as pretty as its golden sister, the Silver Pavilion sits at the beginning of the so-called Philosopher's Walk, which might just be Kyoto's prettiest stroll. If you head to the Silver Pavilion after lunch, you can walk the entirely of the path before sunset, potentially winding up at Kiyomizu-dera in time for sunset.

Explore Kiyomizu-dera or nearby Gion, which boasts a few important selling points. First among these is the fact that Gion is the surest place in Kyoto to spot a geisha, although this title does come with a caveat: Geishas are still incredible rare to spot , and most of the ones you do won't want their pictures taken. Rather, you're much more likely to spot visitors from around Japan and neighboring countries dressed in geisha outfits. And let's face it: Some of them look convincing enough that your friends back home might not realize they're impostors!

Kyoto Imperial Palace

In spite of its important name and massive size, Kyoto Imperial Palace does not make it on to lists of Kyoto's top attractions as often as some of the other places you see above and below it. Yet it's a worthwhile addition to any Kyoto itinerary, both because it served as the residence of Japan's imperial family for more than 1,000 years, and because it sits right in the middle of many of the attractions you're going to see anyway.

Kyoto Tower

Most of the top ten attractions in Kyoto are ancient, which isn't a shock when you consider how much history the city has. With this being said, a trip to the top of Kyoto Tower is worth considering, if only because of the incredible panorama it offers.

Even if you only manage to admire Kyoto Tower from afar (it looks great from the view point of Kiyomizu-dera!) it's impossible to miss from ground level in the city, on account of the fact that it towers 430 feet into the air—Kyoto's tallest structure, by a long shot.

Nijo Castle

Like Kyoto Imperial Palace, Nijo Castle is the most unsung of Kyoto's top ten attractions, since it's not as selfie-worthy as Fushimi Inari Shrine or Arashiyma, nor as scenic as the Philosopher's Walk or Kiyomizu-dera. Yet Nijo Castle is as picturesque as it is historically important—it was built in the early 17th century to house the first Shogun of the Edo period (which, ironically, was what led to Japan's capital being moved to Tokyo). Like the Imperial Palace, Nijo Castle is also convenient enough that there's no reason you shouldn't visit it.

Kyoto Station

As is the case with Kyoto Tower, Kyoto Station is among the most modern of the top ten attractions in Kyoto, with most of what remains of it having been built long after its 1877 inauguration. Even more surprising than the station's inclusion on this list, however, is the incredible perspective you get from its 15th floor, which reveals a building much more futuristic than you'd expect for the gateway to a largely ancient city like Kyoto.

Related Articles

More related articles.

24 Best Things to Do in Kyoto, Japan (2024 Update)

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: July 12, 2024

With so many things to do in Kyoto like witnessing the cherry blossoms in full bloom, enjoying tea ceremonies in traditional tea houses, and walking through Zen gardens, you’ll never want to leave. Known for its remarkable history, Kyoto Prefecture has managed to preserve its authenticity and ancient traditions and acts as a window into Japan’s past. It has one of the world’s largest collections of UNESCO World Heritage Sites and is one of the most visited and loved cities in Japan. Once the capital city, Kyoto remains the cultural and spiritual heart of Japan.

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Top Things to Do in Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto, Japan is a place that is full of temples, and by spending some time here and exploring each one you can really see why this is considered the capital of traditional Japanese culture.

While downtown Kyoto lacks onsens, it offers numerous sentos or public baths for a traditional bathing experience.

You can still see geisha in their traditional kimono and white makeup walking the streets and all of the temples and shrines are still occupied and maintained by monks that still carry on the old ways, wearing their flowing robes and performing ceremonies from long ago.

If you are looking for a destination that allows you to get away from the hustle and bustle of large cities like Tokyo and Osaka then this is the place for you. It can be overwhelming to have so many things to do in Kyoto, so this guide should give a good idea of all the must-see things in Kyoto.

About Kyoto

Kyoto is located in the Kansai area, about 3 hours away from the capital city of Tokyo by Shinkansen (the main train line). The Kansai region is renowned for its local cuisine, which makes Kyoto a fantastic place for culture and food lovers alike. We suggest planning on at least three days in the city to really get the most bang for your buck.

Pick up your 1 or 2 day hop-on-hop-off bus pass to explore the top attractions, temples, and shrines in Kyoto at your own pace. Including UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Nijo Castle, Kinkakuji, Kiyomizu-Dera Temple, and more.

1. Explore the trails of Fushimi Inari Shrine

One of the best things to do in Kyoto is to walk the trails of the Fushimi Inari Shrine. Once an important pilgrimage walk, the Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine is one of the most visited shrines in Japan. Famed for its thousands of vermilion Torii gates, the Fushimi Inari Shrine is dedicated to the Shinto God of rice.

Its beautiful gates make it one of the top things to do in Kyoto. The hike along the forest trail is fairly easy. You can choose to do the whole loop, which will take about 3 hours or do the lower loop if you don’t have that much time.

The trail itself is very busy all year round, however, the clever traveler can avoid the crowds by hiking up the mountain just before sunset or early in the morning. Along the way, you will encounter the best view at the Yotsutsuji intersection for an amazing photographic opportunity over Kyoto.

Where is the Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

The Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine is located in southern Kyoto at the foot of Mount Inari. To reach it, take the train to Fushimi Inari Station on the Keihan Main Line, and the entrance is a 5-minute walk from there. Book a highly-rated Fushimi Inari Shrine tour with a local guide. Journey into a secret bamboo forest, see the red tori gates and take in the views away from the crowds. 

2. Kinkakuji Temple

Located in northern Kyoto, The Kinkakuji Temple is a Zen temple that is really worth seeing. Decorated in gold leaf (hence why they call it the golden pavilion), the temple sits on a calm lake surrounded by trees. When you visit Kyoto, don’t miss seeing this striking temple; it is one of the most photographed places in Kyoto.

The Kinkakuji Temple was originally built as a retirement home for a famous shogun, and he sanctioned it to become a temple after he died in 1408. Strolling the grounds, it is easy to see why this would make a perfect retirement place.

Like most places in Kyoto, we recommend visiting early in the morning to avoid the crowds and to enjoy the morning light that shimmers off of the calm waters and the Golden Temple itself.

3. Philosopher’s Walk

One of the best things to do in Kyoto is to stroll along the Philosopher’s Walk. The Philosophers Walk is the perfect place to enjoy a peaceful yet beautiful stroll. Along the Philosopher’s Walk, visitors can find charming tea shops offering traditional tea ceremonies and unique matcha beverages.

This pedestrian walkway is located along the Biwa Canal that is lined with cherry trees. It also connects the Nanzen-ji and Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavillion) temples. This walk is one of the top things to do in Kyoto especially if you are here when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. There are some smaller temples as well as some cafes and restaurants along the path that are worth visiting.

This Kyoto Walking Tour lets you discover the magic of Kyoto through cultural experiences, temples, and shrines, including Tofukuji Temple, Zen garden, and Fushimi Inari Shrine, plus a visit to the Geisha district.

4. Visit the Arashiyama bamboo grove

One of the top attractions in Kyoto is the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Walking through the tall green stalks is like stepping into an alien world. The bamboo grove in Arashiyama is perhaps the most beautiful natural spot in Kyoto. When the wind blows, the bamboo stalks slowly rock, creating an elegant and dreamy dance.

The best time to visit Arashiyama is just before sunrise when the warm rays of the sun slowly penetrate the silent forest. It is also when you will avoid most of the crowds and tour busses. This is just something you cannot miss when visiting Kyoto.

The Arashiyama bamboo grove is located in Western Kyoto and can be reached by taking the train from Kyoto station to Arashiyama station. Then it is just a 10-minute walk to the entrance of the paths, just follow the signs. It is also free to enter.

This highly rated bamboo forest tour takes you on a rickshaw ride through Arashiyama forest with a personal guide. Imagine traveling by traditional means through one of Japan’s most iconic scenes.

5. Go Geisha Spotting in the Geisha District: Gion

Kyoto remains a romantic vision of Japan, with Geishas being its most alluring subject. Gion, known as the entertainment quarters in Kyoto, is the best place to go Geisha spotting. These elusive performers are highly skilled in traditional Japanese arts such as dancing, singing, and playing instruments and are still very much admired and idolized, not just by the Japanese but by the whole world.

There are several companies in Kyoto that organize Geisha shows. These usually include partaking in a tea ceremony, followed by a Geisha dance. Book this night walk Geisha Tour – one of the most popular walking tours in Kyoto. A 100-minute guided walk takes you through nighttime Gion to learn about Geisha traditions.

Update on closed streets in Gion: As of April 2024, the government of Kyoto has decided to close some streets to tourists in the Gion District. Unfortunately, this is due to the lack of respect, trespassing, and bad behavior of tourists. The penalty for being caught on these streets is a fine.

So please respect the closures. As for the streets that are closed, these are the ones I believe have the restrictions: Nanyuan Alley, Nishihuami Alleyway, Dongsongzhu Alley, West Songzhu Trail, Shochiku Koji, Hatsunekoji, Middle Road, Yayoi Koji, and few smaller ones.

Read about dressing up as a Geisha in Memoirs of a Male Geisha in Tokyo, Japan by NomadicBoys.

6. kiyomizu dera temple

Kiyomizu Dera Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located in eastern Kyoto and has to be one of Kyoto’s most famous attractions. Built in 778 this zen Buddhist temple has some of the best views across the city. The main hall was actually built without nails, which is pretty cool to see, and the rest of the complex is just as impressive.

The Otowa Waterfall has three streams of water each with a different benefit. One for longevity, one for academic success, and the other for success in their love life. Locals use cups attached to long poles to drink from one of them.

As with most of the extremely popular things to do in Kyoto, it is advised to get there early to avoid the busses and crowds. Luckily the Kiyomizu Dera Temple opens earlier than most (6 am) so that is a bit easier to do. It is easily accessible as it is a 10-minute bus ride from Kyoto station. Take bus 100 or 206. the entrance fee is 400 Yen.

7. Witness the Cherry Blossoms

Almost everyone has heard of the famous Cherry Blossom Festival (Sakura) that takes place each year in Kyoto. During this time the cherry blossoms around the city’s temples and shrines are in full bloom and it creates this fairytale-like atmosphere. Some of the top places to see the cherry blossoms are The Philosopher’s Path, the Yasaka Pagoda, and the Kodai-ji Temple which houses the weeping cherry blossom tree.

If you do choose to visit Kyoto when the cherry blossoms are in bloom just be aware that is insanely busy all around the city at this time and everything is more expensive. Cherry blossom season is in the spring (April is the main month) so make sure to book early.

8. Admire The City From Kyoto Tower

A lot of the popular things to do in Kyoto revolve around Japanese culture, Zen temples, and cherry trees, but there is a modern side to Kyoto as well. One of the best places to visit in Kyoto for a taste of modering Japan is the highest structure in the city, Kyoto Tower.

Located in central Kyoto, the tower offers spectacular 360-degree views of the surrounding area as well as telescopes and touch screens that show the names of what you are looking at. It is strange to see such a structure in the middle of a city that is known for its temples and it has been a controversial subject for locals since it was built.

In our opinion, it is still worth making the trip up to get the full appreciation of the beauty of this city.

9. Attend a tea ceremony

The Japanese Tea Ceremony is a fascinating practice that dates back to the 15th century when a Zen Buddhist monk influenced the way such ceremony was performed. Although an old tradition that is said to have started around Uji, the practice of the tea ceremony is still very much taken seriously today.

Attending a traditional tea ceremony in Kyoto is a must-do experience. Many study it in detail and are willing to share their knowledge with travelers, who can experience an authentic tea ceremony in one of the myriad tea houses located in Kyoto. Experience your own Japanese tea ceremony led by a tea master as you learn of the rules, history, and spiritual role of tea in Japanese culture.

10. Nishiki Market

Nishiki Market should be on every food lover’s bucket list. Visitors can also find a variety of Japanese sweets, which are a delightful treat and a part of Kyoto’s culinary culture. A maze of narrow streets lined with food stalls, Nishiki Market has been nicknamed Kyoto’s kitchen.

This is the best place to try the bizarre Tako Tamago (small octopus on a stick with an egg inside its head), local pickles, and fresh eel.

11. Eat in Shijo Dori

No trip to Kyoto can be complete without spending a considerable amount of time devouring local delicacies. For the culinary enthusiast, Shijo Dori is the place to be, as this is a long street dotted with food shops and eateries.

Furthermore, it is on Shijo Dori that most tourists can indulge themselves in sampling traditional foods, including matcha goods, charcoal ice cream , fruity mochi, and plum tea.

12. Shrine and Temple hopping

Kyoto remains the spiritual soul of Japan, being home to over 2000 shrines and temples. With so many options, it’s difficult to imagine visiting all religious sites during a short visit to Kyoto. Yet there are several shrines and temples not to be missed, including Ginkaku-ji, and Ryan-ji.

Although few know it, one of Kyoto’s best-kept secrets is Otagi Nenbutsu-ji, a small Buddhist temple located way off the beaten path, around the Arashiyama district.

Book this Zen Meditation Tour , where you’ll practice Zen meditation with a Buddhist monk, participate in a tea ceremony, and wander through the bamboo grove. Plus, many more cultural experiences. Details here.

13. Tofuku-ji

Tofuku-ji stands as one of the city’s most esteemed Zen temples, gaining significant attention for its breathtaking autumn colors. Established in 1236 by the imperial chancellor Kujo Michiie, the temple’s roots trace back to the monk Enni, who formed its inaugural community of monks.

The name “Tofuku-ji” itself is a blend of characters from two of Nara’s ancient temples, Todai-ji and Kofuku-ji, symbolizing its aspiration to exceed their magnificence. The expansive temple grounds are home to various notable structures, with the main hall and temple gate both honored as National Treasures of Japan. Moreover, several buildings within the compound are recognized as Important Cultural Properties.

14. The Zen Gardens

One of Tofuku-ji’s highlights is its Zen gardens, which encompass the Hojo or the Abbot’s Hall. Designed in the 1930s by the renowned garden designer Mirei Shigemori, each of these gardens mirrors a distinct theme and showcases the essence of modern Zen garden landscaping.

The southern Zen garden, with its iconic moss and granite squares in a checkered layout, is perhaps the most distinguished. In contrast, the Western Zen garden paints an imaginative scene of a mother tiger and her cubs traversing a river, represented through moss mounds and white gravel. The remaining northern and eastern gardens also possess unique designs, employing elements like rocks, moss, and azaleas to craft abstract patterns and landscapes.

Beyond the gardens, the Tsutenkyo Bridge, leading to the Kaisan-do Hall, offers another visual treat, especially during the autumn. The surrounding valley, brimming with maple trees, transforms into a vivid canvas of reds, oranges, and yellows, drawing large crowds.

Located conveniently near the Tofukuji Station on the JR Nara Line, the temple is relatively easy to access from Kyoto Station. While most of the temple grounds are open to the public for free, certain areas, such as the Hojo gardens and the Tsutenkyo Bridge, require an entrance fee. A visit to Tofuku-ji, whether for its tranquil gardens or the animated autumn foliage, promises an unforgettable Kyoto experience.

15. Sleep in a Ryokan

To experience traditional Kyoto, staying in a traditional Japanese inn or ryokan is an absolute must. Although relatively expensive, these Japanese inns usually include dinner and breakfast, top-notch service, and the use of the hot springs (onsen).

Ryokans vary in terms of facilities and budget, but the best ones will include all of the above. A friendly word of warning: the ryokan experience is so incredible that it becomes rather addictive.

The Gion Fukuzumi Ryokan ** is a top-rated ryokan for travelers to Kyoto. See it on TripAdvisor . Search more Kyoto Ryokans here. **

16. Take a day trip to Mount Hiei

Although Kyoto has so much to offer, the true zen can be pursued outside of the city and within its surrounding mountains. Mount Hiei is a fantastic option for a day out, being easily accessible and home to a few temples along the way.

To access the top of the mountain, there is a cable car (a recommended experience) or a mountain trail that leads to an old Buddhist monastery. For a great day out, it is best to take the cable car to the top and then descend on foot to enjoy some of the ancient Japanese forested trails.

17. Lose yourself in the Kyoto station

Perhaps the least expected recommended attraction, the Kyoto Station, is an amazing place to spend a day. With over 14 stories full of shops and eateries, this place has something for everyone. Start in the basement and shop in the local department store, which sells mouthwatering fresh food.

End the evening by eating either sushi in Musashi or tonkatsu in Katsukura. It is also a great spot to enjoy amazing views over the city at night.

18. Kyoto International Manga Museum

If you are looking for something a little out of the ordinary to do make sure to check out the Kyoto International Manga Museum. Even if you are not into manga comics you will be impressed by the 300,000 volumes of comics that are translated into many different languages. The museum is a fun stop if you have kids and is the perfect place to kill a few hours if the weather is bad.

19. Kyoto Imperial Palace

The Kyoto Imperial Palace is a place not to be missed, especially if you are visiting in the spring or fall. This palace was used as the residence of different Emperors for 500 years until the capital moved to Tokyo in 1869. The walled compound has some incredible and expansive gardens which really come to life in the fall.

The building themselves are designed in the traditional Japanese style and make the perfect accent to the surrounding nature. This is a place you definitely want to stroll around for an hour or so. It is close to Nijo Castle and the Kyoto International Manga Museum as well as the Nashinoki Shrine.

20. Nijo Castle

Nijo Castle in Kyoto is a beautiful piece of traditional Japanese architecture and a historical landmark. Built in 1603 as the Kyoto residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Tokugawa Shogunate, it represents the power and prestige of the shogunate during the Edo period. It marked the beginning of the Edo era, a long period of peace and stability in Japan.

The castle is divided into two main areas: the Ninomaru Palace and the Honmaru Palace. Ninomaru Palace is the main building and is famous for its interior decoration and the sliding door paintings by the Kano school. It’s also famous for its “nightingale floors” which chirp when you walk on them as a security measure against ninjas. This is a fun added experience to your visit.

21. Nazen-ji Temple complex

Nazen-ji Temple is located in the eastern part of Kyoto, Japan and is a lovely spot that combines history, architecture and nature. Founded in 1291 by Emperor Kameyama, it’s a Rinzai sect of Japanese Zen Buddhism temple. The emperor abdicated his throne and became a monk and lived here in his later years.

The temple complex is a beautiful example of traditional Japanese architecture with several sub-temples, a rock garden, and well-maintained landscape gardens. One of the highlights of Nazen-ji is the Sanmon Gate, a two-story gate that offers great views of Kyoto from the top floor. Built in 1628, it’s not only a work of art but also a symbol of the temple’s legacy.

The Hojo is another must-see. It has beautiful sliding doors with intricate paintings, and the adjacent Leaping Tiger Garden is a karesansui (dry landscape garden) masterpiece. The gravel is raked to perfection, and the rocks are placed strategically to create a sense of calm.

Beyond its physical beauty, Nazen-ji Temple has cultural and historical importance. It was an important place for the development of the tea ceremony, and its sub-temple, Konchi-in, was a hub for tea culture. The temple has inspired many poets, artists, and monks over the centuries.

22. Monkey Park in Iwatayama

Monkey Park in Iwatayama, Arashiyama, Kyoto, is fun for all ages. It is home to over 100 Japanese macaques, also known as snow monkeys, in their natural habitat. Located in a mountain forest, you can observe these amazing primates up close and enjoy views of Kyoto.

You can reach the Monkey park via a 30–40 minute difficult hike up Mount Arashiyama or a 5-minute walk from the Hankyu Arashiyama Station. If you choose the trail, it goes through a beautiful forest, and when you get to the top, you are rewarded with some incredible views.

Interacting with the monkeys at Iwatayama is a great experience. The monkeys are used to human and often come to you, so you can observe their behavior and social interaction. You are basically put in a cage in the designated feeding area, which allows you to feed the monkeys with food you can buy at the park and get up close and personal. The monkeys are playful and curious.

When you visit the park, please follow the rules to ensure your safety and the monkeys’ well-being. Do not make direct eye contact with the monkeys, as they may perceive it as aggression. Keep a safe distance, and do not touch or pet the monkeys. Feeding is only allowed with the provided food in designated areas to prevent any health issues for the animals. Keep your belongings secure and out of reach, as the monkeys are curious and may snatch your stuff.

23. Fushimi Sake District

Fushimi Sake District is located in the south of Kyoto and is famous for its traditional sake breweries. Fushimi has a sake making history over 400 years. Fushimi means “hidden water” and it’s the high quality water, rich in minerals and soft in texture that has given Fushimi sake its reputation.

The history of sake brewing in Fushimi goes back to the Azuchi-Momoyama period (1573-1603) when the area was strategically located near the confluence of rivers and was a perfect spot for production and distribution. During the Edo period (1603-1868), Fushimi sake became nationally famous, and many of the breweries established during this time are still operating today.

Walking through the narrow streets lined with these old buildings, you can visit various breweries, and each of them offers tours and tastings. The tours will show you the process of making sake, from rice polishing to bottling.

Besides the sake breweries, the district has canals, willow-lined streets, and shops selling sake souvenirs. The calm and beautiful scenery of the area makes it a lovely place to wander and enjoy Kyoto’s sake.

24. Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto

Historically, Kyoto has been the imperial capital of Japan for more than a thousand years. In 1994, UNESCO inscribed 17 historical sites in Kyoto (as well as nearby Uji and Otsu cities) as a collective World Heritage Site known as the “Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto.” Not all temples in Kyoto are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, so if you want to make a point of visiting the designated monuments, here is a list.

• Kiyomizu-Dera Temple : Known for its wooden terrace that offers a panoramic view of Kyoto, this temple is particularly popular during cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons.
• Enryaku-ji Temple : Located on Mount Hiei, it’s historically significant as the headquarters of the Tendai sect of Japanese Buddhism.
• Daigo-ji Temple : Famous for its five-story pagoda, it’s another popular site during cherry blossom season.
• Ninnaji Temple : It’s known for its traditional imperial palace style architecture and beautiful gardens.
• Byodo-in Temple : Located in Uji, this temple’s Phoenix Hall is prominently featured on the Japanese 10 yen coin.
• Ujigami Shrine : Also in Uji, it’s considered to be the oldest standing shrine in Japan.
• Kozan-ji Temple : Located in the Takao region of Kyoto, it’s recognized for its ancient scriptures and its beautiful surroundings.
• Saiho-ji Temple : Known as the “Moss Temple”, it’s famous for its moss garden.
• Tenryu-ji Temple : Located in Arashiyama, it’s particularly noted for its scenic garden.
• Ryoan-ji Temple : Famous for its rock garden, which is a quintessential representation of Zen garden design.
• To-ji Temple : Known for its five-story pagoda, which is the tallest in Japan.
• Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion) : Renowned for its golden pavilion which shimmers beside a pond.
• Ginkaku-ji Temple (Silver Pavilion) : While not covered in silver, it’s renowned for its sand garden and beautiful grounds.
• Shimogamo Shrine : One of the oldest Shinto shrines in Japan, it’s located in a forested area, providing a serene atmosphere.
• Kamigamo Shrine : Another ancient Shinto shrine with a tranquil ambiance.
• Nijo Castle : Known for its “nightingale floors” which chirp when walked upon, as well as its beautiful gardens.
• Kyoto Gyoen (Imperial Palace and Sento Imperial Palace Gardens) : Located in the heart of Kyoto, it was the former residence of the Emperor.

Each of these sites has been recognized for its historical, cultural, and architectural significance, contributing to Kyoto’s reputation as the cultural heart of Japan. If you’re planning to visit Kyoto, exploring these World Heritage Sites would offer a deep dive into the city’s rich history and unmatched beauty.

How to Get to Kyoto, Japan

Getting to Kyoto, Japan, largely depends on where you are starting from and your mode of transportation. Most people travel to Kyoto after visiting Tokyo but you can fly directly to Kyoto as well.

Kansai International Airport (KIX) : This is the nearest major international airport to Kyoto. From Kansai Airport, you can take the Haruka Express train which directly connects the airport to Kyoto Station in about 75 minutes.

Osaka International Airport (Itami Airport, ITM) : It’s a domestic airport but also quite close to Kyoto. From here, you can take buses that run between the airport and Kyoto Station.

Chubu Centrair International Airport (Nagoya) : Another option, though farther away. From here, you’d typically take a train to Kyoto.

If you’re traveling within Japan, the Shinkansen (bullet train) is one of the most convenient methods. From Tokyo , the Tokaido Shinkansen takes about 2-2.5 hours to reach Kyoto.

If you’re planning to travel around Japan, consider getting a JR Pass (Japan Rail Pass). It allows unlimited travel on JR lines (including most Shinkansen lines) and can be a cost-effective option if you’re traveling between multiple cities.

Long-distance buses connect Kyoto with other parts of Japan. While they take longer than the train, they can be cheaper, especially if you’re traveling overnight.

You can also drive to Kyoto if you’re comfortable navigating Japanese roads and traffic rules. Ensure you have an appropriate driver’s license and understand toll road fees.

Getting Around Kyoto

Once you’re in Kyoto, the city has a comprehensive bus and subway system to get you to most major attractions. There are also taxis and bike rentals available.

Accommodations in Kyoto

Kyoto has a wide range of accommodations from luxury hotels, ryokans (traditional Japanese inns), guesthouses, to capsule hotels. It’s recommended to book in advance, especially during peak seasons like cherry blossom season or autumn foliage season.

Important : Always check travel advisories, entry requirements, and other pertinent details before planning your trip, especially if you’re traveling internationally.

Remember, these are general guidelines, and the best way to get to Kyoto would largely depend on your starting point, budget, and travel preferences. Safe travels!

Final Thoughts

Kyoto is the perfect place to enjoy traditional Japanese culture, get a glimpse into the history of Japan as well as take in the incredible architecture that has made this one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. If you plan on visiting Kyoto you won’t be disappointed.

This post was originally written by Cory Varga and has been updated by The Planet D. Cory and G, are the happy British couple behind You Could Travel, a website geared towards inspiring others through information-packed articles that revolve around travel guides, recommendations, and tips. They specialize in soft adventure travel, off-the-beaten-path destinations, and culinary affairs. They motivate and encourage a nomadic lifestyle through storytelling and photographic essays. Follow them at: YouCouldTravel / Facebook / Instagram / Pinterest / Twitter

Plan Your Trip to Japan With These Resources

• 50 Awesome Things to do in Tokyo, Japan
• Traditional Japanese Food: 20 Dishes You Can Try in Japan or At Home
• Mind-Blowing Facts about Japan
• Places to Visit in Kyoto – My Favorite City in Japan
• Complete Nikko Japan Travel Guide – 18 Things to do and Places to See

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About The Planet D

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5 thoughts on “24 Best Things to Do in Kyoto, Japan (2024 Update)”

Plant D really this superb blog and cherry blossoms are so nice and its treat for my eyes. Thanks for sharing with us!

I am going to Kyoto in march. I am looking forward to walking in the bamboo forest. Thanks for the great tips!

I want to spend a lifetime in Japan.

I was in Japan last winter and wish I would have stayed in a Ryokan and seen the Fushimi Inari Shrine! Just means I have to go back I suppose!

We’re visiting Japan in 2018, as part of our round the world trip! We’ve just started planning for it and I can’t wait! Will definitely be noting down Kyoto when we visit Japan, beautiful pictures as always 😀

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InsideKyoto.com is designed to read on all your devices

• Plan your trip to Kyoto on your laptop – view our Kyoto Itineraries and the Best Times Of The Year To Visit Kyoto , book a Kyoto hotel or Ryokan (traditional Japanese inn), and explore Kyoto’s bewitching districts
• Get a Japanese SIM card on arrival in Japan – then you can access all your important online services and use InsideKyoto.com on your phone too to guide you around the city – the same info is on every webpage, and it will resize to be readable on your phone and tablet too
• Nearly every attraction listed on InsideKyoto.com has a Google Map location you can use on your phone to put you right where you need to be. Plus Japanese text to show to taxi drivers, opening times, price of admission and more
• InsideKyoto.com is written by Chris Rowthorn, author of Lonely Planet Kyoto for 7 editions – for more Kyoto travel guide goodness, we recommend you buy Lonely Planet Kyoto

Kyoto Vacation Checklist

• For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Kyoto guide
• Check Kyoto accommodation availability on Booking.com and Agoda.com - often you can book with no upfront payment and free cancellation
• You can buy shinkansen (bullet train) tickets online from Klook - popular routes include Tokyo to Kyoto , Kyoto to Osaka and Kyoto to Tokyo
• Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Kyoto
• See my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
• You can buy an eSim to activate in Japan or buy a data-only SIM card online for collection when you arrive at Tokyo's Narita or Haneda Airports or Kansai International Airport . You can also rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
• Compare Japan flight prices and timings to find the best deals
• If you're making frequent train journeys during your visit, you might save money with Japan Rail Pass – see if it's worth it for you
• A prepaid Welcome Suica card makes travelling around Kyoto easy – here's how
• World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world
• Do you want help planning your trip? Chris Rowthorn and his team of Japan experts at Japan Travel Consulting can help

Kyoto District Map

• Central Kyoto
• Northwest Kyoto
• Northern Higashiyama
• Southern Higashiyama
• Downtown Kyoto
• Kyoto Station Area
• South East Kyoto

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Girl Eat World

A girl's adventure in food and travel around the world, kyoto travel guide: things to do and itinerary for first-time visitors.

Recently, I had the opportunity to revisit Kyoto again, for the third time. I visited Kyoto for the first time during Sakura (Spring) season, then again in Momiji (Fall) season, before coming back during the pandemic when there weren’t any international tourists in Japan .

Needless to say, I feel like I’ve seen Kyoto at its best times. I can’t wait to share everything I know about Kyoto with you!

• How to get to Kyoto

How many days should I spend in Kyoto?

When is the best time to visit kyoto.

• Where should I stay in Kyoto?

How can I get around Kyoto?

• Can I store my luggage in Kyoto?
• 2-days Kyoto Itinerary

Things to do in Kyoto

• What and where to eat in Kyoto

How can I get to Kyoto?

First things first, let’s cover the ways you can get to Kyoto. Kyoto is located in Kansai, south of Honshu, Japan’s main region. It is around 500km south of Tokyo . Here is how you can get to Kyoto:

1. Fly to Kansai International Airport (KIX)

As a foreign visitor, the best and fastest way to get to Kyoto is to fly into Kansai International Airport (KIX) and take the train to Kyoto, going through Osaka. There are several ways to do this:

Option 1: JR Haruka Airport Express Train (Fastest way)

From Kansai International Airport to Kyoto station, it takes about 1 hour 20 minutes by Haruka airport express train . This is a direct train, meaning you won’t have to step out of the train at all, making it a very convenient option to get to Kyoto.

JR Haruka Airport Express Ticket: You can purchase Haruka airport express train ticket here .

If you’ve purchased a JR Pass, this journey might already be included with your pass. Please double check.

Option 2: Airport Limousine Bus

There is also a direct airport limousine bus that takes you directly from KIX to Kyoto station. The journey takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes.

Airport Limo Bus to Kyoto: You can purchase the ticket here

Tip: You might want to explore staying in Osaka when visiting Kyoto. Osaka is a great base for your trip if you’re interested in exploring other things in Kansai aside from Kyoto, as I have outlined here

2. Take the Shinkansen, Japan’s ultra-fast bullet train

If you’re thinking of making Kyoto one of your stops on a long trip to Japan, it’s very possible to take Shinkansen. From Tokyo, it will take only 2.5 hours to reach Kyoto by Shinkansen.

🚆 Book train ticket online: Purchase Japan train ticket via Klook for easy redemption at the station once you’re in Japan.

The Shinkansen conveniently drops you off at the main Kyoto / Osaka station (depending on where you’ve decided to base yourself – I’ve written about that here ), and from there you’ll be able to take local trains to wherever you need to go.

If you want to use JR pass, it’s possible to cover this journey via JR Pass. Just make sure you’ve purchased a JR Pass that covers both areas, in this case, if you’re traveling from Tokyo to Osaka / Kyoto then you’d probably want the Unlimited JR Pass .

You should be able to see most things you want to see in Kyoto in 2 days , but it really depends on your travel style. If you wake up early and are okay with going around the entire day til night time, then 2 days will be enough.

However, if you prefer to take things slow, there are definitely enough things to do in Kyoto to fill 3 to 4 days of slow travel. You can see the list of things to do in Kyoto below, where I outline my recommended places to visit and decide for yourself!

Without a doubt, the best time to visit Kyoto (and many other parts of Japan) is in the Spring during Sakura season or in Autumn during Momiji season . You can click on the links to determine the best times as it varies every year.

Kyoto (and all of Japan) is insanely beautiful during these two seasons. However, these periods are also probably the most popular time to visit Kyoto, so expect a lot of crowds.

Avoid Golden Week which is the first week of May and Obon in the middle of August, as these two are big holidays in Japan. You’ll not only have to battle the international tourists coming to Japan, but domestic Japanese tourists too!

Where should I stay when visiting Kyoto?

I believe that Osaka is a better place to base yourself especially if you’re interested in exploring other things in Kansai, as I have outlined in my Kansai itinerary post .

Staying in Osaka is my preference for many reasons:

• Cost – Accommodations in Osaka tend to be more diverse and affordable. Kyoto on the other hand is seen as a luxury place to stay. You’ll be expected to pay a luxury price too!
• Proximity – It only takes 15 minutes to reach Kyoto from Osaka by Shinkansen (which you’d be using if you have a JR pass) or 30 minutes by local train.
• Variety of activities – Kyoto gets pretty quiet (read: dead) by nighttime, whereas Osaka, being the second largest city in Japan, is still very lively at night so you’ll still find plenty to do.
• Ease of reaching more destinations – Osaka is a great base if you’re exploring other areas in Kansai , since it’s located right in the middle of everything with great train connectivity. If you stay in Osaka, you won’t have to change hotels many times.

➡️ Where to stay in Osaka: If you want to know where you can stay in Osaka, click on my Osaka travel guide .

Accommodations in Kyoto

That said, I understand that some people prefer the quaintness and quiet of Kyoto, so for those who prefer it, it is still worthwhile to stay in Kyoto. Here are some good places you can consider.

• Yadoya Manjiro – If you want the true Japanese experience, you’d want to stay in a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn). Yadoya Manjiro is located a stone-throw away from Kiyomizu-dera, making it extremely convenient to explore the quiet old streets of Kyoto at night, once other tourists have left Kyoto.
• Kyoto Higashiyamaso – Another ryokan in the same area as Yadoya Manjiro. You really can’t beat the location!
• Kyoto River-view House Kyoraku – with rooms starting from US$70 a night, this is probably one of the most affordable options in Kyoto. It is located in the more modern part of Kyoto closer to the main station, but still within walking distance of the old Kyoto part.

Okay, now that we’ve covered the basics. How can we get around Kyoto? There are a few ways:

1. Using local train and bus

As with most cities in Japan, Kyoto’s public transport is top-notch. You can easily use Google Maps to chart out how to get from point A to point B with public transport in Kyoto.

I highly suggest getting a train card (IC card) if you plan to use public transport. It just makes everything so much easier, since you don’t need to buy a ticket for every journey – you just have to tap the card in and out of the station. The local train card is called ICOCA in Kansai, but if you have Suica or Pasmo from Kanto / Tokyo (or IC card from other regions), those should work here too.

Good news for iPhone users – the IC cards have gone virtual and you can use your phone as an IC card! This makes everything even more convenient, as you can refill the balance via your phone without having to go to the station. Note that you  do not need to buy a physical IC card to do this , just start the process straight from your phone!

Virtual IC Card: Read up on how to travel in Japan without a physical IC Card here !

2. Renting a bicycle

One option that not many people know about is renting a bike. This is what I did on my first visit to Kyoto and it allowed me to see more of the city that I wouldn’t get to see if I had stuck to using the train. The tourist area in Kyoto is not actually that big, so this is a very feasible option and locals bike a lot. We biked from Kyoto station to Arashiyama , which only took about an hour with some detours.

🚲 Hidden Kyoto E-Bike Tour : If you want to try biking in Kyoto while sightseeing, I recommend booking this E-Bike Tour . E-bike is a very popular option with locals for commuting. It allows you to bike with less effort so you won’t get tired.

3. Renting a car

On my latest visit, we rented a car as we were traveling with a toddler. But I would say exploring Kyoto by car is not the most ideal, as the streets are quite narrow in the areas that you would want to visit as a tourist. Parking can also get expensive in Japan. We paid 1,000 – 1,500 yen each time we parked our car, which adds up quickly if you’re visiting multiple places in Kyoto.

However, it was certainly the most convenient way when traveling with a toddler. In that sense, I did not regret renting a car to explore Kyoto.

Rent a car in Kyoto: You can rent a car from near Kyoto station via Klook here . Don’t forget to bring your International Driver License!

Can I store my luggage at Kyoto station?

Yes!! There are plenty of coin lockers to store your luggage at the train stations in Kyoto, or any other major train stations in Japan. You can choose the size of the lockers, ranging from 300 – 700 yen. Here is a photo of what it might look like:

You can’t really see from the photo above, but the locker is very deep. The 300 yen option is good for backpacks (the kind you take for backpacking trips), while the 700 yen option would fit very large luggage. The 300 yen one looks small but you can comfortably fit a 10kg backpack laying flat with plenty more room, so I think bigger backpacks would fit too.

Take note that the locker fee is only good to open the locker once, so if you forget something and need to take your luggage out, you’ll need to pay another set of fees. And don’t forget where your locker is located! You might want to take a photo of it just so you don’t have a hard time locating it later.

2 Days in Kyoto Suggested Itinerary

I think it is possible to visit Kyoto in 2 days, if you start your day early and plan your route well. Here is how I would suggest you break up 2 days in Kyoto:

Day 1: Kyoto’s Higashiyama District

• See Senbon Torii at Fushimi Inari Taisha – You can go all the way up to Mount Inari if you start really early. The shrine is never closed and the Senbon torii path is always open.
• Make your way to Kiyomizu-dera – The temple opens as early as 6AM, so it is great to visit as one of your first stops of the day
• Check out Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka
• Lunch at Nishiki Market
• Walk around the Gion district
• Walk the Philosopher’s Path from Nanzenji to Ginkakuji
• Check out Ginkakuji
• Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Day 2: Arashiyama

• Explore Nijo Castle – Open at 8:30 AM
• Visit Kinkakuji in the morning – Open by 9:00 AM
• Make your way to Arashiyama by train
• Check out Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
• Check out the temples Tenryu-ji and Seiryo-ji
• Take the Sagano scenic train to Kameoka

Now that you know how to travel around Kyoto – you might be wondering “What are the must-do things in Kyoto?”.

Here are some of the things I consider must-see and do in Kyoto:

1. See Senbon Torii (“thousands of gates”) at Fushimi Inari Taisha

Tip: Fushimi Inari Taisha does not close and the Senbon torii path is always open. If you want to avoid the crowd, you can come here at off hours, either early in the morning or after the sun has gone down.

When you think of Kyoto, I’m willing to bet the first thing that comes to mind is the rows upon rows of vermilion-colored torii that are so symbolic of Japan. Well, these rows of torii can be found at Fushimi Inari Taisha !

Enter the temple area and go past the shrine, then continue your hike up and you’ll see the torii soon. The rows of torii actually double up as a 5km trail up to Mount Inari. If that sounds too far for you, you don’t actually have to go all the way up, you could just do a little bit of the walk and circle back.

In the three times I’ve been to Kyoto, I’ve never made it up to the top of the mountain due to time constraints, but I’ve been told the further away you go, the lesser the crowd! I would do it if I had the time.

The main temple area is also worth a visit. I got this super cute Ema (wooden plaque for prayers) shaped like a torii for 800 yen. You’re supposed to write your wishes on an ema and leave it at the temple, but you could also take it home as a souvenir like I did.

Another thing you might want to do while at the temple (or any other temple in Japan) is purchase an Omamori , a small amulet containing a blessed piece of wood meant to protect you or you can gift it to your loved ones for their protection. They cost about 500-800 yen and there are different types of Omamori for different purposes – for health, giving birth, for students, etc. Most temples in Kyoto will have signs in English explaining what they are!

There is also a great lunch option nearby, at a restaurant called Kanoko . Scroll down for more info and my food recommendations in Kyoto!

2. Visit Kiyomizu-dera

Tip: Kiyomizu-dera opens very early at 6AM, so if you want to avoid the crowd I suggest being there when it opens.

Kiyomizu-dera is undoubtedly one of the most famous temples in Japan. There is a public area outside which you can explore for free, and then there is a ticketed area which costs 400 yen. I skipped the ticketed area on my first two visits because it was very crowded and there was a line to enter. But I finally went in on my latest visit – I can honestly say the ticketed area is well worth it!

Kiyomizu-dera means “Pure water temple”. If you decide to enter the ticketed area, you can see the actual Kiyomizu-dera main hall. Take a moment to marvel at the ancient Japanese architecture, which is built on a cliff and without using any nails (a common feat for Japanese temples).

Past the main hall, you’ll be taken on a path to walk around the garden which will be so beautiful, especially during Sakura and Momiji time! There is another smaller temple for safe delivery (a common pattern with many other places in Kyoto, I noticed) where you can see the main hall from afar.

Then, at the base of the temple is Otowa waterfall , where you can take some water for drinking. The water here, as the name “Kiyomizu” suggests, is considered to have many fortune benefits. Next to it is a small teahouse where you can have snacks and a light lunch.

3. Stroll around Kyoto’s Higashiyama District (東山)

Kyoto is charming for its quaint old Japan look. Well, the old Japan area is mostly located in the Higashiyama district.

Higashiyama means “eastern mountain” and that’s exactly where the district is located – along the slope of the eastern mountain of Kyoto. Kiyomizu-dera is actually located in Higashiyama district, so you can combine this activity with visiting the temple.

You can expect to see quaint traditional buildings, unique souvenir shops (this is a great place to pick up something to bring back home), small ryokan (Japanese-style inn) and street food vendors. It’s a very nice area to stroll around.

Aside from the obvious Kiyomizu-dera , there are a few places you won’t want to miss in this district:

• Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka (literally translated two year hill and three year hill) – the slopes near Kiyomizu-dera that are symbolic of Kyoto. You can find souvenir shops and street vendors in this area.
• Hidden Starbucks ( map ) – There is a Starbucks at Ninenzaka, but it’s not obvious as it does not have any of the iconic green Starbucks color. The facade of the store has been designed to fit the aesthetic of the rest of the neighborhood. Inside, you’ll find a garden on the first floor and traditional tatami seats (straw mats) on the second floor.
• Studio Ghibli store ( map ) – if you are a fan of Ghibli, and who isn’t, make sure to stop by here for a chance to bring back some souvenirs home. They have all kinds of things – from cups and utensils to stuffed toys and apparel.

4. Explore Gion District

Near Higashiyama is Gion district – also known as the Geisha district. Gion is not technically part of Higashiyama, but it’s very close by. The district is filled with tea houses where a geisha and a maiko might be doing their job as entertainers. There are also some high-end restaurants in this area.

There is a chance you might see a geisha or a maiko walking down the narrow paths of Gion, on their way to their next appointment. Take note that if you do happen to see a geisha or a maiko, it is best to leave them alone . You’re not allowed to speak to them or touch them. They put hours to get ready for their appointments, and the kimono they are wearing are usually very expensive (some are up to $10,000). It is not polite to touch their clothing. You’re also not allowed to take photos of them without permission. Most are in a hurry and can not entertain requests to take photos with them.

In Gion, you can stop by Yasaka Shrine , famous for Gion Matsuri (Gion Festival) in the entire month of July. If you happen to be there on 17th or 24th of July, you’re in for a treat – this is the day when they will do float processions called Yamaboko Junko , where you can see a parade of highly decorated floats.

Yasaka Shrine is also one of the few temples that are always open. It is lit up at night, so you can visit at any time.

5. Take a walk down the philosopher’s path

Tetsugaku no Michi , aka Philosopher’s path is a beautiful serene path along the canal that takes you from near the old streets of Kyoto to Ginkaku-ji. The path gained its name from Kitaro Nishida, a famous philosopher from Kyoto, who would take this path as a way to meditate.

The path is lined with beautiful cherry blossom trees, so you definitely want to be here during Sakura season! However, it is still a good place to visit even if it’s not Sakura season.

You can start the walk from Keiage incline, to Nanzenji, then taking your way up the philosopher path before ending up at Ginkaku-ji.

6. See Ginkaku-ji and Kinkaku-ji

Yes, the names are very similar but these are two different temples, located quite a distance apart from each other ! Kinkaku-ji is Temple of the Golden Pavilion, while Ginkaku-ji is Temple of the Silver Pavilion.

Kinkaku-ji, located in northern part of Kyoto, is a unique-looking temple, with pure gold-leaf coating covering the top two levels of the temple. Ginkaku-ji, on the other hand, is located within Higashiyama district. It was meant to be the silver version of Kinkaku-ji as the name might have indicated. However, the temple has remained “unfinished” and to this date, no silver foil has been used to coat the exterior of the temple.

7. Visit Arashiyama

Another famous visual from Kyoto is the serene Arashiyama bamboo forest . There are a few entry points to get to the bamboo forest, but I usually start from this point at Google maps , and end at Kameyama Park.

And I’m not gonna lie, the bamboo forest is a very popular activity and you’re definitely not going to be the only one here. I was lucky to visit during the pandemic when there weren’t that many foreign visitors, but even then we were not the only ones at the bamboo forest.

The bamboo forest path is not very long – it probably will take you 15 to 30 minutes max to walk. Once you’re done with the bamboo forest, take some time to explore the area too! Kameyama Park offers a tranquil walk around, and there is a trail that takes you down to Katsura River.

Once you’re done exploring, you could walk down the river to a nearby park along Katsura River, called Arashiyama Park . During Sakura time, this park is filled with cherry blossom as well as snacks you can buy. I bought a Sakura ice cream here!

You can also visit the temples in Arashiyama. Tenryu-ji and Seiryo-ji are the big temples nearby. Each visit would set you back 400 yen per person.

8. Take the Sagano Romantic Train

The Sagano Romantic Train, aka Sagano Torokko Scenic Railway , starts from near Arashiyama bamboo forest and takes you to JR Kameoka station. It takes 25 minutes to complete this journey, or 50-60 minutes to do a round trip. The train runs every hour from 9 to 4 PM.

Pre-book your ticket: To make things simpler, you can pre-book a ticket for Sagano Romantic Train and pick it up at the Kyoto station.

The Sagano Romantic train is popular all year round, but especially in the Spring for Cherry Blossom season and in Autumn during the Autumn leaf time as the route is filled with trees that will turn into colorful red and orange during fall. If you’re going during those times, definitely pre-book your ticket because they will sell out.

9. Dress up in traditional Japanese clothing

If you want to fully immerse yourself in the Japanese atmosphere, you might want to rent a Kimono (or Yukata if it’s summer) while you’re walking around Kyoto. I saw plenty of tourists who did this and it definitely makes for a good photo. Here is where you can rent a kimono / yukata in Kyoto near Kiyomizu-dera.

Or, if you want to take it a step further, you can take a peek into the life of a maiko and dress up as a maiko (complete with the makeup). It also comes with a photoshoot so you can remember the experience.

If you’re wondering if it’s considered offensive to wear Japanese traditional clothing – the short answer is no . Japanese culture does not consider it cultural appropriation when a foreigner wears traditional Japanese clothing, especially when you’re wearing it properly!

10. Iwatama Monkey Park in Arashiyama

Iwatama Monkey Park is an open-air park where you can see and feed Japanese Macaque. The monkeys here are not confined in a cage, because they are wild and are free to come and go as they please.

Personally, I have never been because I am scared of wild monkeys, and they could be quite territorial.

11. See Kyoto at night / after dark

Temples and shrines in Kyoto close as early as 5 pm. But if you’re lucky, during certain times of the year, you can come back at night to certain temples to see them illuminated with lanterns and lights. These events are:

• Kiyomizu-dera special night viewing – Only happens three times a year
• Yasaka Shrine – Open 24/7 and lit up at night

Some events are one-off and don’t repeat every year, so be sure to pay attention to posters when you are visiting during the daytime. They might tell you if there is any special events for nighttime.

What and Where to Eat in Kyoto

The name of this dish tells you a lot about the dish itself. “Yu” means hot water, and “Dofu” means… well, tofu. Quite literally, the translation for this dish is boiling tofu. If you don’t like tofu, you probably won’t enjoy it but I am a tofu lover and I thought it was great! Yudofu is usually served as kaiseki, a Japanese multi-course meal, and it does come at a price.

Where you can have Yudofu in Kyoto:

• Shoraian – By Katsura River near Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. It is a little difficult to find and might require a reservation as the place is small. We were turned away when we tried to walk in.
• Yudofu Sagano – We went to Yudofu Sagano near Arashiyama and had a 10-course kaiseki for 4,000 yen. It was an expensive lunch, but worth it because the food was so good and even being in the restaurant itself was really nice experience. They have a zen garden in the middle!
• Okutan – a 350 years old restaurant near Nanzen-ji temple.

2. Uji Matcha

If you enjoy matcha (fine green tea powder), you’ll want to try matcha from Uji, a city in Kyoto. Uji is blessed with soil that is favorable for growing tea leaves. Matcha from Uji is considered one of the best in Japan, as it is rich in taste and very fragrant.

That’s why you’ll see matcha nearly everywhere in Kyoto – in the form of a tea drink, mochi, green tea ice cream topped with matcha powder, or even chasoba , noodles that are green in color from green tea ingredients.

Where you can try Uji Matcha in Kyoto:

To try Uji Matcha without visiting Uji itself, look out for these names while you are in Kyoto:

• Tsujiri – One of the most famous tea houses originated from Uji in Kyoto. They also have a small ice cream shop at Kyoto station, and their green tea soft serve is one of the best I’ve had.
• Itoh-kyuemon – another famous tea house from Uji. They also have a shop close to Kyoto station, selling dessert and their tea leaves.

3. Shojin Ryori

Shojin Ryori is a traditional Buddhist cooking, usually served as a multi-course meal. There is no animal product used, making it suitable for vegans, vegetarians, and those who need a halal option.

Shojin Ryori is made using the five basic concepts: five flavors (sweet, sour, spicy, bitter, and savory) five cooking styles (steamed, boiled, roasted, stewed, and raw), and five colors (white, black, red, green and yellow).

Shojin Ryori does come at a price – and it could be over 10,000 yen per person!

Where you can have Shojin Ryory in Kyoto:

Here are places where you can try Shojin Ryori:

• Shigetsu at Tenryu-ji ( map ) – near Arashiyama Bamboo forest
• Ajiro ( map ) – Michelin-starred vegetarian restaurant
• Hyotei ( map ) – A 400-year-old restaurant that is also a 3-star Michelin, located conveniently near the Higashiyama district

4. Other notable places to eat in Kyoto

Kinkaku soft ice cream ( map – near Kinkaku-ji) – This place serves gold-leaf softserves. It might be gimmicky, as it is obviously playing on the fact that Kinkaku-ji is covered in gold-leaf coating, but it does look special doesn’t it? Each ice cream will set you back 950 yen.

Nishiki Market ( map ) – Amazing food market that has been around for 400 years. It spans over 400m long and contains 100 stalls. You can find basically every Japanese food here. I’ve had sushi, sakura mochi, ichigo daifuku, just to name a few.

Pontocho Alley ( map ) – This atmospheric narrow alley filled with restaurants comes alive at night. A great choice if you’re looking to have dinner in Kyoto. During summer time, temporary platforms (called kawayuka) are erected to cater for riverside outdoor dining experience.

Kichi Kichi Omurice ( map – near Nishiki Market and Pontocho Alley) – Have you seen the viral video of a guy serving the perfect Omurice a few years back? that restaurant is Kichi Kichi, and it is in Kyoto! I would highly recommend making a reservation if you intend to go, as the restaurant does not do walk-ins due to its popularity.

Gion Yata ( map )- Great restaurant for traditional kaiseki (multi-course) meals.

Ogawa Soba ( map – near Kinkaku-ji) – Great soba near Kinkaku-ji. It’s a little out of the way from most other places you’d want to see in Kyoto, but it might be worth it if you’re already in the area for Kinkaku-ji.

Kanoko ( map – near Fushimi Inari Taisha) – A simple restaurant right off the exit of Fushimi Inari Taisha. It looked unassuming from the outside, but they have a zen garden in the restaurant. They serve the usual suspect of Japanese cuisine fare like soba, tempura and set meals. Such a nice atmosphere and great food!

Bread & Espresso & Arashiyama ( map ) – Unique coffee shop near Arashiyama bamboo forest. It’s pretty popular so you might have to wait for a table.

Okay, folks, that’s all I have on Kyoto. If you end up making it to Kyoto, please comment below and let me know how your experiences are. And if my guide has helped you, please let me know too! I love reading and responding to your comments.

Until next time 🥰

Japan is one of my most-written topics in this blog and I go to Japan quite often. If you’re looking for more posts about Japan, please click here !

18 Comments

• February 22, 2024

Hi Melissa,

I will be travelling to Kansai area in March 8-16. 8-10 Mar – staying in Kyoto 10-16 Mar – staying in Osaka, day trip to Kobe & day trip to Nara

Do you think I can just buy the Kansai pass thru and use it from Kansai airport to the rest of the places? What other passes to you recommend.

Thank you for your time!

• February 17, 2024

Thank you for your site. It’s super helpful.

I am wondering what kind of pass I should be getting when in Japan.

We plan to to fly to KIX on March 10

Here is our itinerary March 10 Osaka March 11 leaving Osaka and spent the day in Nara. After visiting Nara, we will be leaving Nara for Kyoto, and stay in Kyoto March 11 to March 14 4 nights in Kyoto March 15 leaving Kyoto, and arriving in Hakone March 15 and March 16 2 nights in Hakone March 17 leaving Hakone and arriving in Fuji 5 lake March 17 and 18 both nights in Fuji 5 lake March 19 leaving Fuji 5 lake and heading to Tokyo March 19 – March 22 – 3 nights in Tokyo

In the Kensai area, should I get JR west Kensai pass, or should I get Kintensu 1 day pass, and purchase Haruka airport express to Osaka separately?

What would you recommend to go from Kyoto to Hakone?

Thank you so much.

• February 20, 2024

Your itinerary used to be covered by the unlimited JR, but since the price increase it is no longer worth it.

For Hakone and Fuji Five Lakes, I recommend looking into the Fuji-Hakone pass. This include the one way back from Fuji five lakes to Shinjuku. However it is only valid for 4 days, so you might want to activate it on your second day in Fuji five lakes.

For the Kyoto to Hakone portion, you’ll have to buy the tickets a la carte.

For Kansai, both of the options you mentioned are good, it just depends on your preference – do you like taking JR trains more or are you ok with the Kintetsu trains?

• January 18, 2024

Melissa, your blog is super helpful with planning of my Japan trip itinerary in late April/early May. I have prepared the draft of the plan as follows – however i stil cannot determine whether i am not spending too much time in Tokio, yet adding Nikko as day trip would mean i would spend most of that day travelling 🙂 Is the below reasonable or should i play with dates?

Date Activity 2024-04-20 arrival at KIX Osaka, checkin in hotel – dinner Dotonbori 2024-04-21 Osaka – day trip to Nara 2024-04-22 Koyasan – arrival ca noon, sighseeing of temples, evening cementary visit. 2024-04-23 Koyasan – early morning sightseeing return to Osaka (Osaka Castle and temples) 2024-04-24 Trip to Hiroshima with stop over in Himeji 2024-04-25 daytrip Mijaima, evening departure to Kyoto 2024-04-26 Kyoto – Fusimi Inaria Taisha, Nishiki market, Gion 2024-04-27 Kyoto – Arashima Bamboo Grove, Kinkaku-ji, Kiyomizu Dera. Pontocho 2024-04-28 Kyoto – Hokanji Temple, departure to Tokio 2024-04-29 Tokio – Shinjuku, Shibuya (Gotokuji Temple, Meiji Shrine, Park Yoyogi, Harajuku,Roppongi Hills ) 2024-04-30 Tokio – Toyosu Market, Tsukiji Market, Ginza and Tokyo Station, TeamLabs (?), Imperial palace gardens 2024-05-01 Tokio – Asakusa (Imado. Senso-ji Temple, Akihabara, Park Ueno, Akihabara i Ikebukuro, 2024-05-02 Tokio – Hakone day trip 2024-05-03 Tokio – day trip Kamakura – 2024-05-04 Tokio – souvenir shooping,evening Departure from Narita

Hey Krysztof, I think your itinerary looks very reasonable! You can save Nikko for later since you’re already heading to Hakone (the vibe is somewhat similar). I myself didnt go to Nikko until my 3rd visit to Japan. Just be mindful of the first few days of May being Golden Week. It is one of Japan’s largest holiday and there will be more domestic tourism on those days. However tourist attractions should still be open.

• July 5, 2023

Hi Melissa, So basically i can just rent a bicycle and cycle around Kyoto the whole day before i head back to Osaka? Was thinking if i should stay in Kyoto because I plan this way: Day 1-2 : Osaka Day 3 : Kyoto Day 4-6 : Tokyo Day 7-8 : Hakone

Hey Mandy, that sounds good to me! I highly recommend biking around Kyoto if the weather is good. Since you plan to head out to Tokyo, it could be good to stay in Kyoto if you want. I would try to stay near the JR station.

• May 30, 2023

Thanks for such a helpful writeup.

I clicked on the recommended accomodations and it seems like none are taking reservations. Are they perhaps alr closed due to the pandemic? Would you have other recommendations for accom?

Thanks alot! <3

• May 31, 2023

Hey Claire, they are still operational, but popular so they may be sold out on the days you are looking at

• May 8, 2023

I plan to travel to Kyoto Osaka in mid November this year. May I know when you travelled to Kyoto Osaka? I meant in fall foliage or before that? I would like to ask, is it worth to reschedule my plane to late Nov when fall foliage? because i need to pay penalty fee to airlines. Is mid of Nov worth or not? Thanks

Hey Ellen, I can’t say because it’s different every year, but generally for Osaka and Kyoto the peak is at the end of November. You can refer to this map: https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2014.html

• May 2, 2023

Thanks for the comprehensive write-up. We are making a trip to Kyoto, Hiroshima and Osaka (10 days in total….taking it slow as we have some senior citizens with us). Am wondering if I should get the 5 days JR West pass and activate it only when in Kyoto to Hiroshima and return to Osaka, as we plan to stay in Hiroshima for 3 days, or should I get the 7 days pass? And would it be different compared to JR All Pass or should I stick to JR West Pass? Thanks

Hey Dave, by JR West, do you mean the JR Kansai-Hiroshima pass with 5-day validity? As far as I know, the JR West Kansai only has a 1-4 day validity and doesn’t cover Hiroshima. and by JR All do you mean the JR Whole Japan one?

In any case, the bulk of the train price would be the train going from Kyoto to Hiroshima and back to Osaka, like you mentioned so I would make sure to activate the JR validity to cover those days. So for example it sounds like your itinerary might look like this:

Day 1-2: Kyoto Day 3-6: Hiroshima Day 7-10: Osaka

I would then activate the JR Pass on day 3 when traveling to Kyoto-Hiroshima, and make sure it is still valid on Day 7 when traveling to Hiroshima. Given the trains are already 12,000 yen one way without JR Pass, It sounds like the JR Kansai-HIroshima is what you want.

• April 7, 2023

Hi Do I need the Kansai JR pass if I stay in Osaka and travel to Kyoto for 3 days?

• April 10, 2023

If you’re only traveling to Kyoto, I would just take the local train and not buy JR pass. Unless you want to take the shinkansen from Osaka to Kyoto. But the time difference isn’t much (15 mins by shinkansen vs 25-30 mins by local train from Osaka)

• January 2, 2023

Hai Melissa,

Thank you for the travel info provided. It help me a lot on my journey this month. But, may you help me to explain regarding Kansai Area Pass? I still don’t understand the use of trains in Kansai. Do I need to buy a Kansai Area Pass ticket to visit places around Kyoto, Osaka and Nara? and is the Kansai Area Pass a JR pass? and can I use it to take the train from the airport to Kyoto? Sorry for so many questions. I have read a lot of information, but regarding the train I still confuse, either the train is local train or the JR train.

• December 28, 2022

Thanks this was so helpful!!

• December 18, 2022

I really love your sharing on Kansai area. Thanks!

Do you find Osaka and Kyoto is pram accessible? I am bringing my 3 years old kid there.

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• Purchase Tickets

2024.09.24 NARUTO & BORUTO Oshizato Event & Feature

[Direct and Comfortable Access from Kyoto to NARUTO & BORUTO Shinobi-Zato” at Nijigen no Mori! Round-trip bus tickets and attraction tickets for “NARUTO & BORUTO Shinobi-Zato” at Nijigen no Mori are now available as a set!

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Easy access from Kyoto to Awaji Island in a straight line! This set includes a round-trip bus ticket and an attraction ticket to "NARUTO & BORUTO Shinobi Village" at Nijigen no Mori!

Nijigen no Mori's popular attraction "NARUTO & BORUTO Shinobi Village" has partnered with Shinki Kanko Co., Ltd.'s LIMON division to sell the popular "NARUTO & BORUTO Shinobi Village" day trip ticket, which includes a round-trip direct bus ticket from Arima Onsen, Kyoto to Nijigen no Mori and an attraction ticket! Easy access without transfers! For those who want to enjoy day trips and activities based in Kyoto or Arima Onsen, this is a must-check!

Reserve your tickets here!

Easy access without transfers! Convenient and comfortable one-day bus tour

Easy access! You can travel directly to the site without having to transfer by bus, making travel smooth. Arrive from Kyoto/Arima Onsen to Nijigen no Mori stress-free!

Attraction tickets are also included in the set for your convenience! The bus ticket and the "NARUTO & BORUTO Shinobi Village" attraction ticket are packaged together, so it's very convenient as you don't have to make separate arrangements.

A comfortable round trip bus with a reservation system! You can easily manage your schedule as the round trip bus has fixed schedules. Enjoy a comfortable trip and immerse yourself in the world of NARUTO all day long!

This special ticket was created in collaboration with the LIMON division of Shinki Kanko Co., Ltd. and includes a round-trip bus ticket from Arima Onsen in Kyoto to Nijigen no Mori, an attraction ticket for "NARUTO & BORUTO Shinobi Village", and original benefits.

Nijigen no Mori's popular attraction "NARUTO & BORUTO Shinobi Village" is celebrating its 5th anniversary this year, and many visitors from Japan and abroad have come to the attraction. With this ticket, you will receive an original clear file commemorating the 5th anniversary as a bonus. With this ticket, you can enjoy the world of NARUTO all day long!

▲ "NARUTO & BORUTO Shinobi Village" 5th Anniversary Clear File

Ticket overview

Operation period.

November 2024st (Sun) -January 9st (Sun), 29 *Please see the Shinki Tourism LIMON website for operating dates.

Two types of special tickets will be sold on specified dates that combine a round-trip ticket between Kyoto and Nijigen no Mori with a ticket for the "NARUTO & BORUTO Shinobi Village" attraction.

[① Light Ticket] You can experience the three-dimensional maze "Heaven's Scroll" and the Ninjutsu Walk Rally "Earth's Scroll" [② Premium Ticket] You can experience the 3D maze "Heaven's Scroll", the Ninjutsu Walk Rally "Earth's Scroll", and the special ninja village missions, and you'll receive a "Sage Mode Bag" as a gift *Attraction business hours are 10:00-22:00 (last reception 20:00)

[Excursion schedule (timetable)] 9:00 Depart from Kyoto Station Hachijo Exit　 10:15-10:20 Depart from Arima Onsen 11:00 Arrive at Nijigen no Mori F Parking Lot Attraction experience at “NARUTO & BORUTO Shinri” ・3D maze “Ten no Maki” ・Ninjutsu walk rally “Ji no Maki” Special Missions * Premium ticket customers only ・Receive a free "Sage Mode Bag" 　 * Premium ticket customers only ・Restaurant “Ramen “Ichiraku”” 　 *Entry permitted. Purchase will incur a separate fee. ・Goods shop “Konoha Shoten” 　 *Entry permitted. Purchase will incur a separate fee. 17:00 Depart from Nijigen no Mori F parking lot 17:40～17:45 Arrive at Arima Onsen　　 19:30 Arrive Kyoto Station Hachijo Exit * Arrival time may vary depending on traffic conditions.

[Light Ticket Set] ■ From Kyoto: Adults (12 years and over) / 10,000 yen (tax included) Dwarf (5 years old or older - 11 years old or younger) / 8,000 yen (tax included) Under 4 years old/Free ■ From Arima Onsen: Adults (12 years and over) / 6,600 yen (tax included) Dwarf (5 years old or older - 11 years old or younger) / 4,600 yen (tax included) Under 4 years old/Free [Premium Ticket Set] ■ From Kyoto: Adults (12 years and over) / 18,000 yen (tax included) Dwarf (5 years old or older - 11 years old or younger) / 16,000 yen (tax included) Under 4 years old/Free ■ From Arima Onsen: Adults (12 years and over) / 14,600 yen (tax included) Dwarf (5 years old or older - 11 years old or younger) / 12,600 yen (tax included) Under 4 years old/Free

Plan details and ticket sales

Japanese is here

English here①

English is here②

Experience the new “earth wind”!

The mission rally attraction "Chi no Maki" from "NARUTO & BORUTO SHINOBI-ZATO" was reopened on Saturday, March 3th of this year! In this attraction, participants head to the "Legendary Cave" to support their village friends as they fight against enemies, based on an original story exclusive to Nijigennomori.However, the "Legendary Cave" can only be reached by collecting "sign" stamps hidden in Oshiri. Stamps can be obtained at 12 spots set up in the area. Some of them can be obtained at ninjutsu experience spots that have digital technology that reads hand movements, and by tying the correct "sign" at the monitor installed at the spot, you can activate the ninjutsu and get a stamp. .Participants can enjoy the attractions while becoming more immersed in the world of anime.

What is "NARUTO & BORUTO Shinobizato"?

This is an attraction area based on the themes of the popular ninja anime "NARUTO" and the animation "BORUTO NEXT GENERATIONS", which depicts the activities of Naruto Uzumaki's son Boruto, the main character of "NARUTO".The huge "Hokage Rock" and full-size dolls of characters appearing in the TV anime are set up to reproduce "Konohagakure no Sato".While experiencing the world view of the work, you can challenge attractions such as athletics where you can experience training and three-dimensional mazes.

Click here for Shinobizato's special website

We recommend purchasing tickets online!

Purchase your tickets in advance to get in smoothly!

Click here to purchase tickets

What is the Hokage's Villa?

The main room is based on the concept of the villa of the Hokage, who rules the Hidden Leaf Village. It is a playful room with a theme for each room, including the living room, bedroom, bathroom, and toilet. Users can visit places that recreate scenes from the anime, photo spots set up throughout the room, Enjoy exclusive amenities found only here.

Click here to stay!

Overview of Hyogo Prefectural Awajishima Park Anime Park “Nijigen no Mori”

Since 2008, Pasona Group has collaborated with local governments and local stakeholders on Awaji Island, Hyogo Prefecture, and has been working on its own regional revitalization project by attracting various human resources. In 2013, the "Awaji Manga/Anime Island Project" was adopted as part of the "Private Business Planning and Proposal for Prefectural Awajishima Park" publicly invited by Hyogo Prefecture. Together with Hyogo Prefecture, we are promoting regional revitalization projects by attracting tourists.

Click here for details on "Nijigen no Mori"

Purchase your tickets in advance to get in smoothly! Please confirm your visit date and proceed to purchase tickets.

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