travel guide to kyoto

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

Nijo Castle ••

Kyoto Railway Museum •

Sento Palace •

Nishiki Market •

Kyoto Imperial Palace •

Pontocho •

Nijo Jinya •

Honganji Temples •

Kyoto Manga Museum

Kyoto Aquarium

Kyoto Station

Kyoto Tower

Kiyomizudera •••

Higashiyama •••

Ginkakuji •••

Nanzenji Temple ••

Kyoto National Museum ••

Gion •

Kenninji Temple •

Philosopher's Path •

Kodaiji Temple •

Shorenin Temple •

Heian Shrine •

Chionin Temple •

Shogunzuka Mound

Eikando Temple

Shinnyodo Temple

Yasaka Shrine

Maruyama Park

Fushimi Inari Shrine •••

Daigoji Temple •

Tofukuji Temple •

Toji Temple •

Fushimi Sake District

Kinkakuji •••

Shugakuin Villa ••

Ninnaji Temple ••

Kibune •

Kurama •

Ryoanji Temple •

Ohara •

Sanzenin Temple •

Takao •

Hieizan •

Daitokuji Temple •

Kamo Shrines •

Kitano Tenmangu •

Enkoji Temple

Manshuin Temple

Arashiyama ••

Kokedera ••

Katsura Villa ••

Yoshiminedera •

Daikakuji Temple •

Tenryuji Temple •

Myoshinji Temple •

Toei Eigamura •

Hozugawa Cruise

Sagano Railway

Yamazaki Whisky Distillery

Gion Matsuri ••

Aoi Matsuri •

Jidai Matsuri •

Mount Koya •••

Nara •••

Kinosaki ••

Osaka ••

Himeji ••

Amanohashidate •

Kobe •

Iga Ueno •

Asuka and Sakurai

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

Questions? Ask in our forum .

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

• Tours & Experiences
• Tailor-made Trips
• Bahasa Indonesia

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

Top attractions in kyoto.

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Kinkakuji Temple

Yasaka Shrine

Around kyoto.

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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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Iwatayama Monkey Park

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The Kimono Forest Of Arashiyama

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Upcoming kyoto events.

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Kyoto 4 Day Itinerary: Best Places to Visit [+ Map]

Latest update: July 24, 2023

Kyoto is an absolute must-visit for any trip to Japan. The city was the capital of Japan for several centuries and so you’ll find historic buildings galore in Kyoto. You can easily spend a week here and you still won’t manage to visit all the sights and temples in and around Kyoto.

Most travelers don’t have that much time anyway. That’s why we’ve have compiled a 4 day itinerary for Kyoto in this post.

We’ll tell you which temples we’ve seen in Kyoto, what we thought of them, which ones you absolutely have to see, and we’ll give you a route suggestion for a tour of Kyoto.

Our Kyoto post features 4 walking tours for 4 days in Kyoto . If you have more than 4 days in Kyoto, you can obviously see even more, and if you have less time on your hands, we’ll tell you which sights we’d skip.

And as always, we have a lot of practical tips on where to stay in Kyoto, our favorite restaurants, and local public transport.

You can use the table of contents to jump to a section of your choice or read the entire article from top to bottom. Have fun!

Read all our posts about Japan

Kyoto sights and our route suggestion

When we started planning for Kyoto, we were completely overwhelmed by the huge number of temples and sights. The individual highlights in Kyoto are also quite far apart, so you have to plan ahead if you want to see as much as possible in a relatively short time.

To help you with your planning for Kyoto, we’ll show you the order in which we visited the temples and give you our tips for a route through Kyoto.

We read elsewhere that you should buy the Kyoto Bus Pass for a price of 500 yen per day to use all the buses in Kyoto. We can’t really confirm that though. Most days we didn’t need one as our hotel in Kyoto was in a perfect location and we were able to use our Japan Rail Pass on the local train.

We’ll tell you in each section whether the pass is useful for that day’s tour or not.

Of course we didn’t manage to see all the temples, but that’s completely impossible in just a few days anyway. Nevertheless, we did manage to see all the most important sights in Kyoto and also some checked out some well-kept secrets that you won’t find on your average itinerary for Kyoto.

Day 1: Guide to the temples in the east of Kyoto

For starters, we scoped out the temples in the east of Kyoto on our first day there. These temples are all close to the city center, making it a good first-day tour.

All the sights and attractions are within walking distance so there’s no need to buy the Kyoto Bus Pass on day 1 of our itinerary.

Our feet ached a bit at the end of the day, but all in all the distances between the temples don’t warrant taking the bus.

#1 Gion and Kennin-ji

Passing through the Gion district (a), which has developed into the center of Japanese geisha culture over the years, we headed to Kennin-ji Temple.

The 12th-century Kennin-ji is the oldest Zen temple in Kyoto. The vast temple complex is really worth seeing and not as crowded with tourists as many of the other temples.

The temple might not be all that spectacular, but it’s still a good entry point into world of temples in Kyoto.

Our verdict: Nice enough, but not a must-see.

10:00 am to 5:00 pm

#2 Yasui-konpira-gu

If you explore Kyoto on foot, you’ll come across small hidden temples that you’d never get to see if you had just taken the bus from A to B.

That’s how we came to visit Yasui-konpira-gu Shrine, which we stumbled upon by chance after our visit to Kennin-ji. At first glance, the small temple doesn’t really stand out amidst Kyoto’s large and well-known temples.

If it wasn’t for one wonderfully weird thing: There’s a large stone covered with notes standing in the temple complex. And there’s a hole in this stone that grown-up men and women actually crawl through – first in one direction, then in the other. The things people do…

Of course we wanted to know what it was all about, so here’s what we found out: The stone has the power to help you with your relationships with other people. If you want to establish a relationship with someone or to end a relationship, then this is the stone for you.

Here’s how it works :

• First you have to pray in the main hall of the temple.
• Then you buy a note to stick on the stone for 100 yen.
• Write down your wish on the note.
• Then you crawl through the stone from front to back while reciting your wish.
• Next you crawl back in the other direction while you continue to recite your wish.
• When you’re done, you stick your note next to all the others and the magic stone will take care of the rest.

Sounds good, doesn’t it?

Our verdict: A real hidden delight that we highly recommend. Plus it’s magic, so there’s that.

Open 24 hours

#3 Kodai-ji

Kodai-ji is a Zen temple that we liked a lot. Surprisingly enough, we hardly encountered any tourists here. That’s probably because the bus tours don’t visit the temple, so only independent tourists come here.

The vast temple complex includes a Zen garden and a small bamboo forest that’s great for taking pictures.

Our verdict: One of the most beautiful temples in Kyoto and absolutely worth seeing.

9:00 am to 5:30 pm

600 yen or 900 yen in combination with the Entoku-in Temple

#4 Entoku-in

Entoku-in is a small sub-temple of Kodai-ji, located right on the opposite side of the road. The temple has a nice garden, but apart from that it isn’t particularly spectacular.

Sometimes Entoku-in hosts light shows in the evening, which we hear are very worthwhile.

Our verdict: Not something you really need to see.

500 yen or 900 yen in combination with Kodai-ji Temple

#5 Chion-in

Chion-in is a Jodu Shinshu Buddhist temple. This particular version of Buddhism is particularly popular in Japan.

The huge entrance gate is especially interesting, with the stairs leading up to the temple right behind it. The main hall is currently undergoing renovation and is hidden beneath a huge corrugated iron construction.

The inside of the hall is partly accessible though and a huge ceremony with lots of believers was in progress while we were there.

Our verdict: Due to the ongoing construction work, scheduled to last until 2019, the temple isn’t a highlight at the moment.

9:00 AM to 4:30 PM

#6 Ninning-zaka, Sannen-zaka & #7 Kiyomizu-dera

At the end of the day we visited Kiyomizu-dera Temple. The 8th-century Kiyomizu-dera is one of the most famous temples in Kyoto, which makes it a prime destination for all tourist groups. The pretty streets, Ninnen-zaka and Sannen-zaka, exude the ‘old’ Kyoto charm.

Since Kiyomizu-dera is one of the best-known sights in the city, the streets are packed with tourists and souvenir shops. If you have the time, try to get off the main roads and explore the side streets.

Kiyomizu-dera’s main hall is under renovation and is hidden behind an impressive bamboo scaffolding. That’s not that big a problem though, the hall isn’t that photogenic on the outside anyway. You can still get inside despite the ongoing construction work.

Our verdict: Of course Kiyomizu-dera is a must-see in Kyoto and the location with a view overlooking the city alone is worth the visit.

6:00 am to 6:00 pm

Day 2: Temples in the south and around Kyoto Station

We started the second day in the south of Kyoto. The temples there are too far to walk from the city center, but you can get there in a few minutes by train. You don’t have to get a ticket if you have a JR Railpass. If not, the trip still only costs about 2 euros.

Once again, the Kyoto Bus Pass isn’t worth it for day 2 of our itinerary.

#1 Fushimi Inari Shrine

Fushimi Inari Shrine is one of the absolute highlights of any Kyoto visit. The shrine itself is rather unspectacular, but the red torii you pass through on your way up the mountain more than make up for it.

In total, there are more than a thousand of these red gates, all of them donations by individuals or companies. In the beginning, the torii are very dense, but later on the gaps between them get larger and larger.

It’s still very crowded right at the bottom around the first torii, and taking pictures is almost impossible when you’re surrounded by that many people. Fortunately, the bus tourists don’t go very far up the mountain, so it empties out as you get closer to the top.

Have a bit of patience and you’ll get a chance to take some great souvenir photos.

Our verdict: An absolute highlight that you mustn’t miss.

open 24 hours

It’s a 14-minute train ride to Inari Station from Kyoto Station with the JR Nara-Line. The ascent starts right outside the train station.

#2 Tofuku-ji

After Fushimi Inari, we walked to Tofuku-ji. Tofuku-ji is a Zen temple, one of the most beautiful temples we’ve seen in Kyoto. Surprisingly, only few tourists come here.

The temple complex is beautifully idyllic, with an old wooden bridge, a small stream, lots of greenery, and beautiful gardens.

Our verdict: Apparently it’s a well-kept secret, but one you definitely shouldn’t let slip you by.

9:00 am to 4:00 pm

The main buildings are free, while the area with the bridge and the Zen garden cost 400 yen each. But both they’re both really worthwhile.

It’s 20 minutes’ walk from Fushimi Inari. When you’re done here, you can take the JR train from nearby Tofuku-ji Station to Kyoto Station.

To-ji Temple is located to the south of the train station. It dates back to the 8th century and is mainly known for its 5-storey pagoda, which rises up from the beautiful temple garden.

To-ji isn’t featured on the usual tourist routes, so it isn’t particularly crowded here.

Our verdict: Pretty temple away from the crowds. But not something you absolutely need to see.

8:30 am to 5:00 pm

It’s a 10-15 minute southbound walk from Kyoto Station.

#4 Higashi Hongan-ji and #5 Nishi Hongan-ji

As the final stop on our temple tour around Kyoto Station, we checked out the two Hongan-ji twin temples. The two temples look very similar on the outside.

But the golden interior of the huge halls is what makes these temples worth seeing. They’re the largest of their kind in Kyoto. The two temples are only 5 minutes apart and are a good way to end, or if you want to do it in reverse, start this day’s itinerary.

Our verdict:  Their proximity to the station make them a nice way to finish the day, but they’re not an absolute Kyoto highlight.

5:50 am to 5:30 pm

5 minutes’ walk from Kyoto station

Day 3: Sightseeing in the northwest and center of Kyoto

It’s actually worth buying a Kyoto Bus Pass for day 3 of our itinerary. Taking the bus is the only way to get to the temples in the northeast because they’re not connected by train or metro.

#1 Kinkaku-ji – The Golden Pavilion

The first stop of the day is an absolute highlight on any Kyoto itinerary, Kinkaku-ji Temple. The pavilion languishes in a picturesque setting by a small lake a small lake and is a real eye-catcher with its entirely gold-plated facades.

If you want some peace and quiet here, you should make sure to be at the front of the line when the ticket counter opens at 9 am.

Otherwise, be prepared to be buoyed along by tourist groups pushing their way through the rather narrow pathways. Of course the pavilion is really beautiful, but it’s no place to relax.

Our verdict: The golden pavilion looks great, there’s no question about it. But the masses of tourists really cloud the picture. This was the most crowded place we visited in all of Kyoto.

9:00 am to 5:00 pm

Bus routes 12, 59, 101, 102, 204, and 205 go straight to the temple from Kinkakuji-michi Station. The bus ride takes a good half hour from the city center.

#2 Ninna-ji

About two kilometers to the west of Kinkaku-ji lies the Zen temple Ninna-ji. The temple has a beautiful garden and is an especially popular place during cherry blossom season.

There’s a vast cherry tree park on the grounds, which must look absolutely magnificent when the trees are in bloom.

We were there towards the end of cherry blossom season, so unfortunately many of the flowers had already dropped. It was still very pretty.

If you feel like it, you can stop at Ryoan-ji Temple on the way from Kinkaku-ji and Ninna-ji, which is known for its beautiful rockery.

Our verdict: During cherry blossom season, this temple is an absolute highlight. If you’ve already taken the long journey to the Golden Pavilion, a little detour here is definitely worth your time.

500 yen (and an additional 500 yen for the orchard in the back during cherry blossom season)

The bus number 59 takes about 10 minutes from Kinkaku-ji to Ninna-ji.

#3 Imperial Palace

The Imperial Palace is located in the center of Kyoto and was the seat of the Japanese Emperor for many centuries. It wasn’t until the 19th century that the Emperor moved to Tokyo, which has been the capital of Japan ever since.

Many travel guides and online sources claim you need to apply to visit the Imperial Palace in advance, but that’s not true any more.

The grounds are open to everyone nowadays. And there’s a free guided tour in English at 10 am and 2 pm every day.

Our verdict:  Huge grounds and an interesting insight into the world of the powerful. But if we had to choose between the Imperial Palace and Nijo Castle, we’d probably opt for the castle.

9:00 am to 4:00 pm (until 5:00 pm from April to August), closed on Mondays and during special ceremonies

The bus number 59 takes about 20 minutes to get from Ninna-ji to the Imperial Palace. From the train station, the fastest way is to take the metro (closest stop: Imadegawa, Karesama Line).

#4 Nijo Castle

Nijo Castle is located just over a kilometer from the Imperial Palace. The castle used to be the residence of the shoguns, the leaders of the samurai.

The castle buildings are very impressive and the circular path through the gardens is very worthwhile. The castle is particularly famous for its squeaking parquet floors, which are said to have been specially built so no one could enter undetected.

It’s been said that the squeaking sounds like a nightingale. We think it sounds more like bats.

Our verdict: Nijo Castle is very impressive and definitely one of the highlights in Kyoto.

Unfortunately, there’s no direct connection from the Imperial Palace to Nijo Castle. But it’s only a 20-minute walk. You can also take the metro (closest stop: Nijojo-mae).

Day 4: The sights in the west of Kyoto

Day 4 of our itinerary takes you a bit further out from the center to the Arashiyama district in the west of the city, home to some of Kyoto’s most famous attractions.

Arashiyama is also a major destination for many travel groups, so brace yourself for masses of tourists, but there are also some great places off the beaten path where you can get away from them.

If you want to do everything on the itinerary, we recommend starting by 9 am at the latest, otherwise you’ll be cutting it very close.

How to get to Arashiyama: Take the JR Sagano Line from Kyoto Station to Saga-Arashiyama. The whole journey takes about 15 minutes. The trip’s free if you have a JR Pass, otherwise it costs 240 yen. There are buses going to Arashiyama too, but it takes a lot longer and is much less comfortable than by train.

The Kyoto Bus Pass isn’t worth it for day 4 of our itinerary. It doesn’t even cover the buses going to the more distant sights in Arashiyama, so you’d have pay anyway.

#1 Tenryu-ji

The most frequented tourist attractions in Arashiyama are all along the main street, which is lined with souvenir shops and leads to Togetsukyo Bridge (a).

Located along this road is Tenryu-ji, the main temple in Arashiyama. Its huge garden is particularly impressive. You have to buy separate tickets for the temple buildings and the garden, but it isn’t worth paying to see the buildings. The garden runs right past the buildings, so you can see everything from there.

Our verdict: The garden is definitely worth it, the temple itself less so.

8:30 am to 5:30 am

500 yen (garden), 300 yen (temple)

#2 Bamboo Forest

Next head through the Tenryu-ji Gardens straight to the famous Bamboo Forest of Arashiyama. There’s a relatively wide path leading through the huge bamboo grove.

Everyone wants to take a selfie among the huge bamboo trees. But you’ll need to bring a lot of patience to take pictures because masses of tourists push their way down this path too.

Our verdict: The bamboo forest is impressive, but the masses of people are just extremely distracting. If you want to take a selfie among bamboo plants, we’d recommend Kodai-ji (day 1) or Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple, which is also located in Arashiyama.

#3 Adashino Nenbutsu-ji

Up until this point, our visit to Arashiyama hadn’t really convinced us yet, and we wouldn’t recommend taking the trip to Arashiyama just for the Bamboo Forest and Tenryu-ji.

But for us, the real highlight of Arashiyama is the northwest. Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple is located in the extreme northwest and it was basically deserted during our visit.

There’s a cemetery in Adashino Nenbutsu-ji with more than 8,000 stone statues. Very impressive! There’s also a bamboo grove right next to the temple, and unlike the more famous Bamboo Forest of Arashiyama, there isn’t another soul to be seen.

Our verdict: Adashino Nenbutsu-ji was our absolute highlight in Arashiyama and the entire area in the northwest is simply beautiful.

It takes about three quarters of an hour to walk from Saga-Arashiyama Station to Adashino Nenbutsu-ji. Or you can take the bus number 91. The closest stop is called Toriimoto and the trip costs 230 yen.

#4 Stroll through the northwest of Arashiyama

The walk from the station to the northwest of Arashiyama is very idyllic and there are many beautiful temples along the side of the road. We’d definitely recommend walking one leg of the way there or back. We took the bus there and walked back.

Tourist groups don’t stray that far northwest and so suddenly you’ll find yourself alone in an idyllic suburb with traditional houses and lots of tiny temples.

It’s really worth spending some time exploring the area.

#5 Romantic Train in Arashiyama

A perfect end to a day out in Arashiyama is a ride with the so-called Romantic Train. The ancient train happily hurtles down the line on its 25-minute journey through a beautiful landscape from Torokko Saga Station to Torokko Kameoka Station about 7 kilometers to the west.

The trip goes down a gorge and past a wide river, through tunnels and over two slightly dubious looking bridges. In terms of scenery, it probably isn’t the most spectacular train ride there is, unlike the train ride from Kandy to Ella in Sri Lanka for example, but it’s worthwhile nonetheless.

And at the end of the trip, the conductor, who was almost as old as the train, even burst into song!

The trip is especially pretty in the fall when the leaves start to get some color. But it’s also really popular around that time, so make sure to book a few days in advance. The same goes for the cherry blossom season.

You can buy tickets at the JR counter at Kyoto Station, or right at the station if the train isn’t full. We were lucky and managed to get a ticket right on the spot.

The last train leaves Torokko Saga Station, which is right next to Saga Arashiyama Station, at 4:01 pm. The train’s destination, Torokko Kameoka, is about a 10-minute walk from Umahori Station, where you can catch a JR train back to Kyoto.

Instead of ending the day with the trip, it’s also a good way to start it. In that case, take the JR to Umahori from Kyoto and then take the first Romantic Train from there to Arashiyama at 9:29 am. It’s a single-track railway, so the journey is just as nice in both directions.

Our verdict: A nice end to a day in Arashiyama!

The train leaves Torokko Saga (Arashiyama) once every hour between 9:01 am and 4:01 pm. The return trip to Arashiyama leaves Torokko Kameoka Station every hour from 9:29 am to 4:29 pm.

Kyoto: Guided tours and special tours

Of course it’s fun exploring Kyoto on your own, but sometimes you might like to head out to discover the city with a local guide.

We’ve found you some special guided tours through Kyoto where you’ll get to know the city from a different perspective and are guaranteed to get some real insider tips.

The tours can all be booked online and are led by an English-speaking guide.

Kyoto Welcome Tour : This tour is perfect for your first day in Kyoto. Your local guide will accompany you on your first steps around Kyoto and give you lots of tips for your time there, which you can explore for yourself in the next few days.

Tea ceremony in Kyoto : A Japanese tea ceremony is a real experience and Kyoto is a perfect place to experience that kind of thing.

Cycling tour through Kyoto : You don’t always have to get around by bus or your own two feet. Why not explore Kyoto by bicycle for a change? You can do so on this tour.

Kyoto highlights with private guide : This tour is for great if you don’t have much time and want to see as much of Kyoto as possible. A private guide will take you to the most important sights of Kyoto in tour.

Food tour through Kyoto : This culinary tour through Kyoto is something for true connoisseurs. The guide will take you to a food market where you can try many local specialties.

Getting around in Kyoto: Buses and metro

The sights in Kyoto are relatively far apart and are sometimes they’re even all the way out in the suburbs. We planned the individual days of our 4-day itinerary for Kyoto so you can spend most of the time on foot. But that doesn’t always pan out and you can’t go completely without taking the bus or metro in Kyoto.

Buses in Kyoto

The most common means of transportation in Kyoto is the bus. Buses will take you to most distant corners of the city.

But bus travel isn’t all that comfortable because on the one hand, buses are usually packed with people and on the other hand, they stop every 2 minutes, so it takes forever to get from A to B. That’s why we tried to avoid buses and took the train whenever we could.

A bus ride costs 230 yen and the easiest way to pay is with an IC card. If you were in Tokyo before, you can also use your Suica card from there in Kyoto.

A Kyoto Bus Pass costs 500 yen and is valid for unlimited bus travel for one day, which is worth it if you plan to take three or more trips. The bus pass is available at Kyoto Station, tourist information offices, and other major stations in the city area.

We only used the bus pass on the third day when we visited the temples in the northwest. On the other days we only took the bus once or twice.

By the way, unlike in most of Europe, you enter the bus at the back and exit at the front. You pay for your trip when you get off, either in cash (have exact change ready!) or with the IC card. If you have a bus pass, then you only validate your ticket the first time you get off, and then just show it to the driver the next time.

Metro and local trains in Kyoto

The metro and local trains are generally a lot faster and more comfortable than buses in Kyoto. Metro lines mostly run in downtown Kyoto while local trains are most suitable for visiting the temples scattered outside the city center.

We’ve already told you which train goes to which attraction in our 4-day itinerary above.

Where’s the best place to stay in Kyoto? Our Kyoto hotel tips!

Unfortunately, staying in Kyoto doesn’t come cheap. Especially in the main travel period in spring and autumn, the already exorbitant prices go up even further.

We really recommend taking a hotel in downtown Kyoto because the distances are far enough as it is without having to commute into town first.

The area around Kyoto Station is a great location for exploring the Kyoto’s sights and attractions. So is everything north of the station to the left and right of the main shopping street Karasuma Dori.

Our hotel in Kyoto: Tabiya Hotel

Attention : The Tabiya Hotel is currently closed and we don’t know if it will open again.

Originally, we had booked an apartment in Kyoto via Airbnb, but that was a complete disaster. So we had to move into a hotel at the last minute and were lucky that the Tabiya Hotel still had a free room. After all, the city was already at 97 percent (!) occupancy.

The Tabiya Hotel is located in a quiet side street to the east of Karasuma Dori. Restaurants, stores, and the Shijo metro station are just around the corner. The temples in the east and the station aren’t far away either. The perfect location!

The rooms were really tiny and even more cramped than our hotel in Tokyo . But everything was very new and modern, the bed was comfortable, of course the toilet seat was heated, and the Internet connection was excellent. Weird how quickly you get used to things in Japan.

You just shouldn’t bring too large suitcases, otherwise things might get a little tight. The room was cleaned every day and you can take a small free breakfast (yogurt and pastry) from the fridge in the hallway.

Our tip : We stayed in the Tsuyukusa room and felt very comfortable there. We recommend asking for one of these rooms: Wakaba, Tsuyukusa, Kaki, and Matsuba. Because they all face the street and each have a large panoramic window. That made our room feel very homey and bright. The rooms facing the back, Koiai, Akane, and Sakura, only have small windows.

To the hotel: Tabiya Hotel

Other hotels in Kyoto

Our hotel only had 8 rooms and it isn’t unlikely that your preferred hotel in Kyoto might be fully booked. So we’ve found you a few other recommended places to stay in Kyoto.

Cheap hostels in Kyoto:

Fairfield House Backpackers Hostel Piece Hostel Mosaic Hostel

Mid-range hotels in Kyoto:

Len Kyoto Kawaramachi Sakura Terrace The Gallery Kyoto Itoya Hotel

Upscale hotels in Kyoto:

Aoi Hotel NAZUNA Kyoto Nijo-tei Hotel Kanra

Our favorite restaurants in Kyoto

We also discovered some great restaurants in Kyoto that we’d like to share with you.

Musashi: Running Sushi in Kyoto

Musashi is a running sushi restaurant in Kyoto and what a place it is! The plates are slightly more expensive than in other running sushi restaurants and cost 146 yen, or 346 yen for special dishes.

The selection and quality is really great, so we ate here three times. There are two Musashi branches in Kyoto: One is located at the back of the Kyoto Station in Hachijo Dori. The other is in the center on the corner of Sanjo Dori / Kawaramachi Dori. We like the restaurant in the train station a bit better, but both are good of course.

Both restaurants are very popular, so you may have to wait to be seated. We always got there before 6 pm and got a table right away.

Opening hours:  10:00 am to 10:30 pm (at the station); 11:00 am to 10:00 pm (in the city)

Tadka: Indian restaurant in Kyoto

Tadka in Oshikoji Dori is a super-delicious Indian restaurant in Kyoto. If you’re looking for an alternative to Japanese food, then Tadka is a great choice.

The menu isn’t very long, and many dishes are completely vegetarian or even vegan. Everything we tried was extremely tasty and authentic, so we came back here a second time.

It mainly attracts a younger crowd of eco-conscious Japanese hipsters. Something we only rarely got to see on our trip. Very pleasant!

Opening hours:  Noon to 3:00 pm and 6:00 pm to 10:30 pm. Closed on Sundays and Mondays.

Organic House Salute: Vegan restaurant in Kyoto

The Organic House Salute, five minutes from the station, is a cute, completely vegan restaurant. You take off your shoes at the entrance and sit at the small tables on the floor.

The menu is relatively short. The dishes are super-delicious and the different cakes top off a great dining experience!

Opening hours:  11:30 am to 2:30 pm, and also from 5:00 pm to 6:45 pm on weekdays, closed on Thursday.

Tenkaippin: Delicious ramen in Kyoto

Tenkaippin is a small chain of ramen restaurants in Kyoto. We were at the one in Imadegawa Dori, just around the corner from the Imperial Palace. They have very tasty ramen, the typical Japanese noodle soup, one of the best we ate on our trip.

Our tip : We took the ramen dish where it said in the menu that we could spice it to taste.

The opening hours vary depending on the restaurant. But most of them open every day and stay open well into the evening.

Day trips from Kyoto

Many travelers go on day trips from Kyoto to Nara and Osaka. Nara, like Kyoto, is a former capital with many impressive temples. You can take the JR Miyakoji Line to get from Kyoto to Nara in about 45 minutes.

Osaka is another popular destination for a day trip from Kyoto. Japan’s third largest city is also only a half hour away by train and has some great sights and attractions to offer.

Our tip: Since you’ll be going from temple to temple anyway when you’re in Kyoto, we’d recommend not going straight from Kyoto to Nara. The charm of Nara pales a bit when you come directly from Kyoto.

Therefore we’d recommend not just going on a day trip to Osaka from Kyoto, but staying there a few days instead. Then you can go on a day trip from Osaka to Nara, which will make it appear much more beautiful in contrast to the modern city rather than to the other historic city of Kyoto.

Another popular day trip destination from Kyoto is Amanohashidate, a more than three-kilometer-long sand bank along Miyazu Bay to the north of Kyoto. Getting there from Kyoto is a bit more complicated and not exactly cheap, so booking a private tour is a worthwhile option.

Kyoto travel guide

Lonely Planet has two English-language travel guides for Kyoto:

Kyoto City Guide   Pocket Guide for Kyoto and Osaka

More tips for your trip to Japan

We hope that our guide to Kyoto will help you plan your time in Kyoto and will also be useful when you get there. We’re really looking forward to your feedback and would be pleased to hear from you with more travel tips, ideas, and hints for Kyoto.

What did you think of the city? Was it your absolute highlight in Japan or did you grow a bit temple-weary? Please let us know in the comments below!

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Discover Another Kyoto

Experience tradition and culture amongst magnificent nature

The streets of Kyoto, which are deeply influenced by traditional Japanese culture. The seas, in which Japan's oldest legends are still alive, and the mountains that are the origins of the Japanese people. Beyond the city, Kyoto Prefecture stretches north through the forest to the sea. Come experience all the charms that Kyoto has to offer for yourself, and discover a Kyoto you never knew.

Sightseeing Spots

Explore Kyoto, from the tea fields to the seaside

We've divided the subtle charms of Kyoto Prefecture into four areas. From Kyoto by the Sea in the north to Kyoto Tea Country in the south, each area is unique and filled with different sights.

Things to do

Touch on authentic traditions and find your own adventure

Discover all the amazing things to do across the diverse landscapes of Kyoto Prefecture! See what's happening during the time of your visit by searching for festivals and local events, or get some inspiration on where to go with our Trip Ideas. Get deep into Kyoto by reserving something a little more hands-on, with wonderful experiences including everything from water and snow sports, to meditation in the forest, to working with local craftsmen to create your own little piece of tradition.

Plan Your Trip

All the tools to put your adventure together

We've put together a handy guide with all you need to find the perfect place to stay across Kyoto, be it modern or traditional, as well as restaurants to suit every palate, and a guide to local goods and souvenirs.

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Find your way from major cities to the depths of Kyoto.

Inside Kyoto

A Kyoto Travel Guide

Kyoto Itineraries

Make the most of your Kyoto trip with our Kyoto itineraries for visits lasting 1 day, 2 days, 3 days, 4 days and 5 days, plus tailored Kyoto itineraries for Shoppers, Temple Lovers, Hikers and Garden Lovers, as well as off-the-beaten track, foliage and cherry blossom itineraries.

Main Kyoto Itineraries (Time Based)

• Kyoto One-Day Itinerary If you’ve got only one full day in the city, you’ll want to see some of the most stunning and memorable spots. This itinerary includes the all-important Southern Higashiyama Sightseeing District, Downtown Kyoto, and the incredible Fushimi-Inari-Taisha Shrine, with it’s arcades of vermillion torii gates.
• Kyoto Two-Day Itinerary Two days is enough to get a good taste of what Kyoto has to offer (and to whet your appetite for more). This itinerary covers the same sights as our one-day itinerary (above) and then adds the western sightseeing district of Arashiyama, with its famous bamboo forest, and two other western Kyoto sights: Kinkaku-ji Temple and Daitoku-ji Temple.
• Kyoto Three-Day Itinerary Three days allows you to slow down and check out some off-the-beaten-track parts of Kyoto. The first two days of this itinerary are the same as our two-day itinerary (above) and then adds a half-day trip up to the mountain temple of Kurama-dera, and a few sights in the less visited Northern Higashiyama area.
• Kyoto Five-Day Itinerary Five days is the perfect amount of time to spend in Kyoto. The first three days of this itinerary are the same as our three-day itinerary (above) and then adds a daytrip to nearby Nara and a day for activities like Zen meditation or tea ceremony.
• Must See Kyoto – 1 Day Itinerary Want to visit all the must see Kyoto sights in one day? Here’s a step by step itinerary to help you get to all of Kyoto’s must see places in one day if you’re pressed for time. Iconic Kyoto sights in this itinerary include Kinkaku-ji Temple (the “Golden Pavilion”), Kiyomizu-dera Temple and the epic Fushimi-Inari-Taisha Shrine.

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Special Interest Kyoto Itineraries

• Kyoto Itineraries For Families With Children Our itineraries for families traveling with children are designed to keep the children entertained while the adults get to enjoy some of the best sights in the city. They also take into account the challenges of getting around with children in tow.
• Kyoto Foodie Itinerary If you want to sample some incredible food, check out some brilliant markets and learn about Kyoto cuisine as you go, then this special one-day foodie itinerary is for you.
• 1-Day Kyoto Foodie Itinerary This one-day Kyoto foodie itinerary takes you through some of the highlights of Kyoto’s vast culinary scene. It includes a traditional Japanese-style breakfast, the famed Nishiki Market, a fabulous green tea parfait, and gorgeous Buddhist temple vegetarian cuisine.
• 1-Day Kyoto Vegetarian Foodie Itinerary This one-day vegetarian Kyoto foodie itinerary takes you through some of the highlights of Kyoto’s vast culinary scene. It includes incredible egg sandwiches, some of the best soy milk ramen in the city, fabulous Japanese sweets, and yuba kaiseki.
• Kyoto Shopper’s Itinerary This shopper’s itinerary lists the best and most interesting shops in the city. It’s divided by area so you can visit them efficiently and easily.
• Kyoto Temple Lover’s Itinerary This itinerary includes our favorite temples in the city, all divided by area so you can easily move from one to the next.
• Kyoto Garden Lover’s Itinerary Kyoto is a garden lover’s paradise. This itinerary lists the very best gardens in the city, conveniently divided by district, to make getting around easy.
• Kyoto Hiker’s Itinerary Kyoto is surrounded by mountains that are covered with hiking trails. Our Kyoto Hiker’s Itinerary page lists the five best hikes in or near Kyoto.
• Kyoto Walking Itineraries If you really want to explore the city on foot, without taking any form of transport, you’ll love the three itineraries listed on this page. They cover the main sightseeing districts of Southern Higashiyama, Northern Higashiyama and Arashiyama.

Fall Foliage and Spring Cherry Blossom Itineraries

• Kyoto Cherry Blossom Itinerary This two-day itinerary covers the very best cherry blossom spots in the city.
• Kyoto Fall Foliage Itinerary Kyoto’s best fall foliage spots are all covered in this two-day itinerary.

Kyoto Off-the-Beaten-Track Itineraries

• Kyoto Off-the-Beaten-Track Itineraries If you don’t like crowds, you’ll love the two walking itineraries on this page. They cover secret places in Northern and Southern Higashiyama.
• Kyoto Off-the-Beaten-Track Fall Foliage Itinerary Kyoto is crowded during fall foliage season. To enjoy the colors away from the crowds, check out this itinerary.
• Kyoto Off-the-Beaten-Track Cherry Blossom Itinerary Sure, the cherries are beautiful, but the crowds are not. If you want to enjoy the cherry blossoms without all the people, check out this itinerary.

All-Japan Itineraries

For itineraries that cover all of Japan, ranging from a few days to two weeks or more, visit our Japan Itineraries page.

Itineraries For Other Cities in Japan

For itineraries in other cities of Japan, visit the following pages:

• Tokyo Itineraries
• Osaka Itineraries
• Nara Itineraries
• Kanazawa Itineraries
• Takayama Itineraries
• Hiroshima/Miyajima Itineraries

Where to Stay in Kyoto

It’s important to think about your hotel location for making the most of your time in Kyoto. See Where To Stay In Kyoto for a rundown of the most convenient Kyoto districts for sightseeing.

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
• Buy a data-only SIM card online for collection when you arrive at Kansai International Airport (for Osaka and Kyoto) or Tokyo's Narita Airport . Or 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 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

Kyoto District Map

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

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• Travel Tips

Kyoto Travel Guide: Sightseeing, Food, Accommodation, and More in Japan’s Ancient Capital

• tsunagu Japan

Kyoto was the capital of Japan for more than 1,000 years, and is naturally full of historical attractions alongside a plethora of fantastic restaurants, shops, and nature. But with so much on offer, planning a Kyoto itinerary can be overwhelming, which is why it’s best to start at the basics. In this Kyoto guide, we’ll introduce everything you need to know about Kyoto’s history, climate, attractions, events, food, accommodation, transportation, and more. So, before you start writing up a list of places to visit in Kyoto, read this article to ensure yourself a smooth and stress-free Kyoto sightseeing experience!

This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

Introduction to Kyoto

Kyoto is located in the Kansai region of western Japan, around 2.5 hours from Tokyo , and about 30 minutes by train from Osaka . Around 2.5 million people live in Kyoto Prefecture. This area is a popular tourist destination thanks to its many sightseeing attractions that offer a sense of Japan's history and culture.

Kyoto was the previous capital city of Japan before it was relocated to Tokyo. Kyoto became the capital of Japan when Emperor Kanmu moved it from Nara to what is now the Kyoto city area in the year of 794. Named Heian-kyo, Kyoto flourished as Japan's capital city for over a thousand years.

With this historical background, Kyoto saw the development of shrines, temples, historical buildings, and unique traditional arts and crafts, all of which shaped Kyoto's elegant cityscape and culture.

Historical shrines, temples, and streetscapes lined with stores that have been in business for hundreds of years remain to this day in areas like Higashiyama, located in the east part of the Kyoto city center, and Arashiyama to the city's west.

Our Top Tips

JR Pass for Whole Japan

Explore Japan in the most convenient and economical way with a Japan Rail Pass! It is valid for the majority of railways and local buses operated by JR. 

Kyoto Prefecture has many other historical and natural sights to see, including Fushimi, one of Japan's three major sake brewing areas; Uji, which is famous for its high-quality Uji tea; Miyama, a village with historical thatched buildings; and Amanohashidate, a sand bridge known as one of Japan's three top views. You can also enjoy shopping and dining in the Kawaramachi area in the Kyoto city center, and Gion, Kyoto's geisha district.

・Where is Kyoto Located?

Kyoto Prefecture is located in an area called Kansai in western Japan, on the island of Honshu. The north area faces the Sea of Japan, and its capital is the city of Kyoto. Neighboring prefectures include Osaka and Nagoya, both of which can be visited in merely an hour by train.

The gateway to this splendidly gorgeous prefecture for most tourists is Kyoto Station, one of the largest train stations in Japan. To try to fit a guide for the station in this article would be doing the station a disservice. Instead, we've decided to make a separate article for it! Before you visit, check out our guide to this beautiful station here , so you can hit the ground running when you arrive.

Weather in Kyoto

・climate and rainfall.

Kyoto City, which is a particular hotspot for sightseeing, is located in a basin surrounded by the Hiyashiyama, Kitayama, and Nishiyama mountains. While Kyoto's rainy summer and dry winters are similar to the climate of the Setouchi Region, the mountains surrounding the city on three sides gives the city an inland climate with a wide variation in temperatures. The basin geography also means that the winds in Kyoto are typically mild.

This makes the seasons in Kyoto quite distinct. As summer approaches, Kyoto can see heat waves with extremely high humidity and temperatures of over 35℃. If you are visiting in summer, be sure to plan ahead for the heat. On the other hand, Kyoto's winters can be bone-chillingly cold. You may feel particularly cold when visiting Kyoto's shrines and temples as cold draughts can sometimes come through the wooden floors and sliding doors, so be sure to dress accordingly.

Main Sightseeing Areas in Kyoto

Kyoto is full of attractive spots that blend the old and new, including historical buildings and streetscapes, gorgeous natural scenery, and shops and buildings built in a modern Japanese style. Here are some of the popular spots you shouldn't miss while you're in Kyoto.

1. For a Sense of History: Higashiyama and Gion

Higashiyama, located in the east side of the Kyoto city center, is one of Kyoto's most popular areas. Here you'll find many notable shrines and temples, including Kiyomizu Temple with a stage that juts from the mountain; Kennin Temple, Japan's oldest Zen temple; and Yasaka Shrine, which annually holds the Gion Matsuri, one of Japan's three major festivals. Elegant stone-paved streets lined with souvenir stores and restaurants such as Ninen-zaka, Sannen-zaka, and Hanami-koji Street are also popular areas to experience Kyoto's unique atmosphere. One charm of the Higashiyama area is that, if you're lucky, you may catch sight of maiko, or apprentice geisha, in the area.

2. For Natural Beauty: Arashiyama

If you want to take in the seasons in a uniquely Japanese atmosphere, make sure to visit Arashiyama. Located to the west of Kyoto City, Arashiyama has been designated as a historical site and Place of Scenic Beauty by the Japanese government. Its spring cherry trees and autumn leaves beautifully color the mountain slopes here.

Togetsu Bridge over the Katsura River that runs through the center of Arashiyama and the 400-meter path through the bamboo forest here are symbols of Arashiyama, and draw many visitors.

There are plenty of other ways to enjoy Japan's natural beauty and culture in Arashiyama. Tenryu-ji Temple is known for its gardens designed to incorporate its large pond and the surrounding natural scenery. Other activities include the Sagano Scenic Railway, which runs from Torokko Saga Station to Torokko Kameoka Station, and the Hozugawa River Boat Ride, a thrilling 16km boat ride down the river that runs through the valley from Kameoka to Arashiyama.

3. For Shopping and Dining: Kawaramachi

Kyoto's main shopping area is known as Kawaramachi. Here you'll find a wide range of restaurants and places to shop.

Nishiki Market is an arcade with around 1300 years of history. Today, you'll find around 130 stores here. Known by locals and visitors alike as "Kyoto's kitchen", Nishiki Market is stocked with a wide range of groceries and street food including fish, local vegetables, tofu and yuba (tofu skin), and Kyoto-style pickles.

On the west bank of the Kamogawa River is Ponto-cho, a narrow stone-paved laneway lined with traditional townhouses, called machiya, and Japanese style restaurants. In the evenings, plover-patterned lanterns illuminate the street, lending it an even more elegant atmosphere.

The Kawaramachi area also has souvenir and fashion stores, restaurants, bars and gaming arcades, making this a modern area where you can enjoy shopping, dining, entertainment and more!

This, of course, is only the tip of the iceberg. Have a look at this list  if you need more inspiration for sightseeing spots around Kyoto on your trip.

Kyoto Gourmet Guide

Kyoto's food scene is full of restaurants that offer high-quality cuisine carefully made from seasonal ingredients. Unfortunately, this comes at a cost: long-running traditional Japanese restaurants often require advance reservations, and there are many restaurants, particularly in Gion, where dinners can cost 10,000 yen or more. However, if you visit for lunch, it's possible to experience Kyoto-style cuisine at one of these famous restaurants for around 3,000 - 7,000 yen.

Kyoto specialties you should make a point to try when you're visiting include yudofu (tofu hot pot), made with tofu simmered in a kelp broth and paired with soy sauce or other sauces, and yuba. Other famous dishes include mackerel sushi and obanzai, a type of traditional home-style cooking that is very familiar to Kyoto families.

Of course, you can't miss trying Kyoto's matcha (powdered green tea) during your visit! Matcha is delicious to drink with traditional Japanese sweets, and also goes great in parfaits, ice cream, and baked sweets.

Uji in Kyoto is famous for being the leading tea-producing area of Japan. There are many shops in Kyoto where you can try foods and drinks made with Uji matcha, so be sure to give it a try.

Yatsuhashi and its variation, nama-yatsuhashi, are famous local Kyoto sweets. Yatsuhashi is made from steamed rice flour blended with sugar and cinnamon, and is baked in the shape of a traditional Japanese instrument called a koto. Nama-yatsuhashi is made with the same dough, but instead of baking, it's filled with bean paste and folded in a triangle shape.

Kyoto's main dining areas are concentrated within the city, and highlights include Ponto-cho , which is located on the west bank of the Kamogawa River (from Sanjo Street to Shijo Street), and Nishiki Market, which sells fresh ingredients and prepared foods unique to Kyoto. Gion is known for its high-end Japanese restaurants and traditional sweet shops, while the Kyoto Station area has underground shopping areas with plenty of places to eat and drink.

While you'll find many restaurants within the city open until late night, please be aware that restaurants in sightseeing areas like Uji and Fushimi often close earlier in the evenings.

Kyoto Shopping Guide

There are some striking differences between the types of products sold in different areas of Kyoto. When shopping in Kyoto, it's best to decide what area to visit based on the type of products you're looking to buy. 

Kyoto's popular shopping areas like Kawaramachi and the Kyoto Station area have plenty of Kyoto souvenirs as well as fashion and department stores that stock the latest trends. Kyoto's big two sightseeing areas, Higashiyama and Arashiyama, have plenty of souvenir stores that sell traditional handicrafts, as well as items like Japanese-style accessories and sweets, so you can enjoy some shopping on your way to different sightseeing areas.

Gojo-zaka, nicknamed "Teacup Hill", is located close to Kiyomizu Temple. Here there are many potters that create Kyoto's unique Kiyomizu-yaki ceramics, and shops that sell their works.

The area at the east bank of the Kamogawa River between Sanjo and Shijo Streets is famous as a shopping area for antiques like ceramics and furniture. This area is not just famous within Japan! There are many antique lovers who come from overseas to shop here.

The Kyoto Museum of Traditional Arts Fureaikan, located near Heian Shrine, has a wide range of traditional Kyoto handicrafts that range from high-quality pieces to more affordable items. You're sure to have a wonderful time simply browsing these skillfully-crafted works.  

If you're looking to efficiently shop for famous Kyoto products, then the basement food floors at the department stores in the Shijo Kawaramachi and Kyoto Station areas are the perfect choice. These stores have everything from traditional, long-running stores to up-and-coming patisseries all grouped on one floor, so you can compare all their offerings as you make your selections.

But of course, if all you want is to find some of the best souvenirs here, we've got you covered !

Events in Kyoto

There are many traditional and historical events held in Kyoto, and it's a great idea to come along to some while you're visiting. You'll be sure to connect with Kyoto's history and the people who live here. Here are a selection of the most important events in each season.

・Spring (March, April, May)

Spring in Japan means one thing: cherry blossoms! Cherry blossom season typically falls from late March to mid-April, and during this time Kyoto welcomes visitors from within Japan and all over the world.

There are many cherry blossom spots in Kyoto. Highlights include the Keage Incline, where around 90 cherry blossom trees bloom along a disused railway track, and the Philosopher's Path, a tree-lined path that runs along the Lake Biwa canal. Maruyama Park has large weeping cherry trees that are illuminated at night, while Ninna-ji Temple is known for its late-blooming cherry blossoms. Another famous sight is the Sakura Tunnel, a 200m section on the Randen Kitano line where the train passes through dense cherry trees between Narutaki Station and Utano Station. If that wasn't enough, here is a whole slew of other places for admiring flowers!

One of Kyoto's three major festivals, the Ao Matsuri (Hollyhock Festival) is held on May 15th (or May 16th in the case of bad weather). In this festival, a procession of 500 people adorned with hollyhock flowers and dressed in reproductions of traditional clothing from the Heian era parade from the Kyoto Imperial Palace to the Shimogamo and Kamigamo Shrines. You'll also see horses, ox carriages, large shades decorated with irises and peonies, and a portable shrine which holds the Saiodai, a local Kyoto woman chosen each year for the festival. The colorful and elegant procession makes for a gorgeous sight.

・Summer (June, July, August)

Every year from May 1st to September 30th, you can see a Kyoto summer highlight called kawayuka or  (river floors). Kawayuka are terrace-like structures where meals are served. They often have straw mat flooring to sit on, and are built either over rivers or on the banks with views over the water. You can find kawayuka at a number of rivers in Kyoto, including the Kamogawa riverbanks and on the rivers of Kibune and Takao. The number of restaurants serving meals on kawayuka are increasing, so today you can enjoy not just kaiseki and Kyoto-style cuisine, but Italian, Chinese, and even yakiniku (Japanese BBQ) in this style. More and more restaurants are also offering kawayuka with table seating, too.

Of course, worthy of special mention is the Gion Matsuri, a festival considered not just one of the major three Kyoto festivals, but one of the major three in all of Japan. First held in the Heian era to pray for the end of a plague, this festival is run by Yasaka Shrine, and consists of a range of events through the month of July.

The Yamaboko Junko float parade held on the 17th and the 24th of July is also a must-see. A mikoshi (portable shrine) from Yasaka Shrine and 33 floats parade through the Shijo Karasuma, Shijo Kawaramachi, Kawaramachi Oike, and Karasuma Oike areas. Each float has their own characteristics, and the beauty of their embroidery and decorations has earned them the nickname of "portable art galleries". The Kyoto Gion Matsuri Yamaboko Junko parade has also been designated as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Property.

・Autumn (September, October, November)

In the Heian era, moon-viewing parties and boating were popular among the aristocracy during the mid-autumn harvest moon. The exact date of the harvest moon changes each year, but it falls around mid-September to early October. Even today, there are events that celebrate the harvest moon on autumn evenings all over Kyoto.

The most famous is the Kangetsu no Yube (Moon Viewing Evening) held at Daikaku-ji Temple in the Arashiyama area. On three mid-autumn evenings around the harvest moon, you can take in the beautiful sight of the autumn moon during a 15 to 20-minute boat ride on the large pond in the Daikaku-ji garden. There are two types of decorative boats used for this event: ryutosen, or dragon-head boats, and gekishusen, headed with a mythological Chinese waterbird. This elegant event allows participants to take in the sight of the moon and the natural beauty of the garden's pond.

The final of the three major Kyoto festivals is the Jidai Matsuri, or Festival of the Ages, held at the beginning of October. This festival, held by Heian Shrine, features a procession of 2,000 townspeople dressed in styles from different historical periods who parade from Kyoto's Imperial Palace to Heian Shrine. Clothing, hairstyle, and ritual goods from each period are recreated for the parade, and some participants will even dress as famous historical figures such as feudal lord Oda Nobunaga and Murasaki Shikibu, author of The Tale of Genji. This beautiful parade is sometimes called a "living picture scroll".

Kyoto is known for cherishing the natural beauty of each season, and there are also many famous spots where you can take in a view of the autumn foliage. Some highlights include the Jisou-in Temple with its "maple floor", where the vermilion leaves are mirrored on reflective polished flooring, and Eikando Temple, where leaves from over 3,000 autumn trees cover the gardens. Walking the grounds of Tofuku-ji Temple in the fall feels like strolling through a sea of autumn-colored clouds. There is also a 250m section of the Eizan Electric Railway line between Ichihara Station and Ninose Station where approximately 280 maple trees form what is called the "Maple Tunnel". The sightseeing train Kirara with seats that face its large windows offers an amazing view of these autumn colors.

While the exact dates the leaves change to red and yellow vary from year to year, typically the autumn leaf season in Kyoto is from early November to early December. If you're planning a trip to Kyoto around this time, make sure to include some autumn foliage spots in your trip.

・Winter (December, January, February)

From late November to early December, many temples hold an event called Daikon-daki, or Daikon Radish Cooking, to pray for health and prevention of illnesses. Each year on the 7th and 8th of December, Senbon Shakado (also known as Daihoon-ji Temple) serves flavored boiled daikon radish (1,000 yen). Origins of this custom vary from temple to temple, but at Senbon Shakado, Sanskrit characters were once written on sections of radish as a ward against evil spirits. Even today, these characters are written on the radish, which are prayed over before being sliced and cooked.

At Ryotoku-ji Temple, around 3,000 radishes are cooked and served to worshippers on the 9th and 10th of December. The radish served here is also known for the agedofu (deep-fried tofu slices) added to it.

Kyoto has some impressive New Year's events, too. Chion-in Temple's Joya no Kane ceremony, where the temple bell is rung 108 times to ring in the new year, takes a team of 17 monks working together to pull the ropes. The bell is rung 108 times because in Buddhism, this is said to be the number of kleshas, or emotional states that cause suffering. The striking of the bell is said to cast out the year's kleshas so that worshippers can start the new year with a pure mind. Many people gather each year to watch this show of strength. Gates open for worshippers at the shrine at 8:00 pm on New Year's Eve, but the bell ringing itself starts at 10:40 pm and goes until 12:20 am. People do start to line up to see this ceremony as early as around 7:00 pm, so it's best to come early.

Hatsumode is the name for the first shrine or temple visit of the new year, and it's a chance to offer thanks for the year that has passed and pray for safety and peace in the coming year. Countless people come to Kyoto each year for their hatsumode at the shrines and temples here. Popular locations are Heian Shrine and Fushimi Inari Shrine, which is famous for its thousand torii gates and its blessings for harvests and business. World Heritage sites Kamigamo and Shimogamo Shrines are also popular destinations. Many visitors also take this chance to buy a written fortune, called o-mikuji, which foretells their fortune for the coming year.

Have a look at some of the other big events in Kyoto and see if any of them intrigue you, as any one of these events would make for a memorable trip!

How to Get to Kyoto

Kyoto is located beside Osaka Prefecture, which has two airports: Kansai International Airport and Osaka International Airport (also known as Itami Airport). Limousine buses that go directly to Kyoto run from both of these airports, and bullet trains also stop at Kyoto Station, so Kyoto is easy to get to whether you're coming from inside Japan or from overseas.

Traveling Within Kyoto

Kyoto's subway network is underdeveloped in comparison to Tokyo or Osaka. This is because Kyoto's long history means that land must be surveyed for any buried cultural artefacts before any tunnels can be built. Large scale developments are also avoided in order to protect the town's scenery, which means many narrow streets and one-way lanes remain as they did in the past. While many of Kyoto's main sightseeing areas are concentrated within the city, these factors mean that you will likely need to use both trains and buses to get around. Make sure you plan the right transport so that your trip goes as smoothly as it can!

If there is a train station close to where you're going, this is usually the most convenient option. Trains aren't impacted by traffic conditions which can make for an easier trip. The main lines in Kyoto are the Kyoto Municipal Subway, JR, Keihan Electric Railway, Hankyu Railway, and Kintetsu Railway.

While the Kyoto Municipal Subway's standard fare of 210 yen is a little high in comparison to Tokyo or Osaka, you can take advantage of a number of discount passes. These include the Subway One-Day Pass (600 yen for adults, 300 yen for children) and the Bus & Subway One-Day Pass that includes the subway, City Bus, Kyoto Bus, and Keihan Bus.  

There are three particular routes that are recommended for being a sightseeing activity in and of themselves. The Eizan Railway, which covers the route from Demachiyanagi to Kurama and Mt Hiei, has become popular with tourists for their sightseeing trains that offer views of tunnels of autumn leaves and other beautiful scenery.  The Randen tram (Keifuku Electric Railroad) from Shijo Omiya to Arashiyama is loved by locals for being Kyoto's only tram line. The Sagano Scenic Railway that goes between Kameoka and Arashiyama gives a view of the changing seasonal landscape of the Hozugawa riverside and valley, and is particularly popular in the cherry blossom and autumn leaf seasons.

Kyoto City Official Travel Guide:  Subways and Trains

The Kyoto bus system is complicated, and many travelers find it hard to know what bus they should catch. We've put together a few links below that you can use to plan your route in advance.

Kyoto City Bus has a flat fee ticket system for all stops (with some exceptions). Tickets cost 230 yen for adults and 120 yen for children. To use a Kyoto City Bus, board the bus from the back door. Once your bus passes the stop before the one you want to get off at, press the buzzer, and then pay your fare with an IC card or cash at the box by the driver's seat, and get off the bus at the front door.   

Buses in Kyoto can fill up and have delays on the more popular sightseeing routes and during busy seasons, so if you're traveling by bus, be sure to factor in a little extra travel time just in case. 

City Bus & Subway Route Map 

• Simplified Chinese
• Traditional Chinese

Bus and Train Veteran (Route Planner)

* Child tickets are valid for children 6 to 11 years of age. (12 year olds will be counted as a child if still attending elementary school.)

Taxis are recommended if you're looking to easily navigate Kyoto's narrow and one-way streets. Many drivers are well versed in the area, so they can take both time and location into account to come up with the best route. The initial fare within Kyoto City is 450 yen. If you're traveling in a group, a taxi can sometimes work out to be more economical than a bus or train.

Foreign Friendly Taxis, which prioritize international tourists, are recommended if you're looking to get around Kyoto by taxi. They cost the same as regular taxis, but the drivers have undergone training in foreign languages and customer service. These taxis also accept credit cards and IC travel cards. Foreign Friendly Taxi stands are located at the taxi stands by JR Kyoto Station's Karasuma and Hachijo Exits.

Guide:  Foreign Friendly Taxi

・Car Rentals

If you have an international driving license, a rental car is a good option for times when you want to travel without worrying about set schedules or public transport coverage.

Public transport in Kyoto is affordable and convenient, but if you're traveling outside the city area or are in a group, a rental car can work out to be less expensive. However, when driving in Japan, please pay extra attention, especially at intersections where accidents often occur. 

It's a good idea to avoid driving in busy times like Golden Week (late April to early May), Obon (mid-August), and the year-end holidays, as traffic jams that can extend tens of kilometers are not uncommon.

・Bike Rentals

Bike rentals are the perfect way to go at your own pace while taking in the sights of the Kamogawa River or Kyoto's charming streetscapes, especially in the milder spring and autumn weather. Since you can stop to take in whatever sights catch your eye, you can enjoy your time in Kyoto just like a local. 

Do be aware that, as a general rule, street parking is banned and can result in your bike being seized. You can park your bike at store parking areas or public bike parking lots. Also keep in mind that Kyoto City slopes from north to south, so traveling long distances uphill from south to north by bike can be very tiring and is best avoided.

Kyoto City Cycle Site

• Other languages  (Road rules, parking information, bike shop directory)

Travel by rickshaw is a very Kyoto-style way of getting around while taking in the sights. These carriages are pulled by people with the riders sitting in the back. You'll find rickshaw drivers working in the Higashiyama and Arashiyama areas, so if you see one, why not say hello and take a ride? The fares vary from company to company, but as a guide, a 30-minute ride costs around 7,000 yen for a solo rider, 9,000 yen for two people, and 13,500 for three people (in two carriages).

Kyoto Accommodation Guide

The rush to build more accommodation in Kyoto is continuing as the numbers of tourists increase. While this construction is alleviating issues the city has had in past years with accommodation availability, popular hotels continue to quickly book out, so it's best to make reservations early. Many visitors choose to stay in the Kawaramachi and Kyoto Station areas for their convenient transport options, as well as in the Higashiyama area for its wealth of tourist attractions.

If you want to relax and enjoy a little peace and quiet away from the crowds, the popular tourist areas of Arashiyama, Kibune, and Kurama are also recommended. While these spots have less nightlife to enjoy, accommodations are more likely to have hot springs, and are a great place to unwind surrounded by natural beauty.  

You can look for accommodations by area or by your budget and requirements. As a major international tourist destination, you're bound to find accommodation that suits you in Kyoto.

Japanese hotels generally cost around 8,000 - 20,000 yen per person, per night. Most of them have concierges that can give you detailed local information about how to get around and where to eat. Recently, more of these concierge services are offered in different languages, so make a point to take advantage if you can. Another advantage to hotels is that there are a wide range of options that can meet your requirements and budget.

Stays at a ryokan (Japanese-style inns) typically fall in the 10,000 - 20,000 yen per person per night range. The exact range of services available will vary, but these are a good choice for anyone wanting to enjoy the local culture with tatami mats, yukata robes, hot springs, and Japanese gardens and architecture. The charm of a stay at a ryokan is that you can experience a sense of Japanese style in everything from the traditional in-room dining to seasonal Japanese decorations. If the ryokan has a public bath, you can unwind and relax while soaking in the bath during your stay as well. Here is a list of our favorites to get you started!

・Business Hotels

If you're looking to keep costs down, try staying at a business hotel. These hotels range from 6,000 - 10,000 yen per person per night, which works out to be a more affordable option than standard hotels or ryokan. The reason these hotels are cheaper is that they tend to provide more simple furniture, electronics, and amenities for your stay.

Since this type of hotel was originally developed for business travelers, they're often found in great locations close to train stations. The wealth of affordable, clean, and comfortable options has made this style of hotel more and more popular with international tourists in recent years, too.

・Capsule Hotels

A uniquely Japanese style of hotel worth experiencing is the capsule hotel, which range from 2,500 - 5,000 yen per person per night. These hotels provide just enough space for one person to sleep, and originally were developed as a place for office workers to stay if they missed the last train home.

Recently, they have become popular with tourists who are looking for affordable accommodation and a uniquely Japanese experience. Today, many "next generation" capsule hotels with stylish designs and plenty of amenities are being built. Once simple hotels that focused mainly on affordability, these new capsule hotels take pride in their style and comfort.

・Guest Houses

Guest houses are a popular choice among backpackers. Prices range from between 3,000 - 7,000 per person per night. They're not just affordable; they also offer communal spaces where you can get to know other travelers and locals. Guest houses with linked cafes and bars are becoming common, so you can experience real local hospitality while you chat with the owner or local customers.  

* Stated price estimates may vary in busy periods.

Kyoto Tourist Information Centers

If you've lost your way or need help finding your destination, tourist information centers can help. There are many tourist information centers around, but we recommend going to ones that have received JNTO authorization. JNTO stands for the Japanese National Tourist Bureau, who categorizes tourist information centers using factors like location or function.

Here are three selections among the tourist information centers in Kyoto. All of these can handle enquiries in English, and some also offer support in other languages too. On top of that, they are conveniently located in areas that see many international visitors.

Take advantage of the tourist information centers here and you're sure to have a pleasant trip!

・Kyoto Tourist Information Center (Kyoto Station)

This center is a joint tourist information center for both Kyoto City and the wider Kyoto Prefecture. It provides advice about sightseeing and accommodation in Kyoto Prefecture, and also offers a range of other services including ticket sales.

Kyoto Tourist Information Center

• Other languages

・Kawaramachi Sanjo Tourist Information Center (Kawaramachi)

This center offers English language advice and information about sightseeing in the area, and also sells tickets for sightseeing attractions. The linked Gurunavi Information Center not only provides information about dining options, but it also has multipurpose spaces that can be used for anything, including nursing babies and praying.

Kawaramachi Sanjo Tourist Information Center  (Multi-language webpage)

・Kokoka Kyoto International Community House (Keage)

Kokoka is located in the Okazaki area near attractions like Heian Shrine and Nanzen-ji Temple. With services that include a communal lobby, library, restaurant, and message corner (a space for distributing flyers), this center offers a wide range of information for not just tourists but the international community that live in Kyoto as well. Their official website provides information for help in emergencies or natural disasters, as well as guides for life in Japan, so this is a recommended page to bookmark just in case.  

Kokoka Kyoto International Community House

Kyoto Emergency Information

・doctors and hospitals.

If you fall sick or suffer an injury while in Kyoto, please consult the website below. On this site, you can search a database of over 900 medical facilities that accept international patients nationwide. The downloadable PDF guide to using medical facilities provides information on how to access medical help, a bilingual chart you can use to explain your symptoms, and a guide to help you in the case of earthquakes or other disasters.  

Japan Tourism Agency: Guide for When You Are Feeling Ill

・Police Stations

If you lose something, get lost, or are the victim of a crime, visit a nearby koban (police box) or police station. The below website has answers to common questions about lost property, as well as emergency numbers for police stations in Kyoto Prefecture. Giving this information a read beforehand means you can enjoy your travels in Kyoto with peace of mind.  

Kyoto Prefectural Police Information Guide

Downloadable PDF Guide:   Information for Foreign Tourists [Crime Prevention and Bicycle Rules]

・Information for Muslim Travelers

Please consult the below website for information about Muslim friendly restaurants. You can refine your search by keyword, area, and type of food, so you're sure to find just what you're looking for.  

Halal Gourmet Japan

Traveling from Kyoto

Whether by bullet train, plane, or bus, there are many ways to get to other major sightseeing areas in Japan including Hokkaido, Tokyo, Osaka, Fukuoka, and Okinawa. Research the best option for your budget and destination to travel efficiently and comfortably in Japan. 

・ Bullet Train (Shinkansen) The Japan Rail Pass offers unlimited use of the entire JR rail and bus network, including travel by bullet train, which makes it great value. This pass comes with either a 7 day (29,100 yen) or 14 day (46,390 yen) validity. You can find our guide here  to help you pick the right pass.

・ Airplane   Depending on where you're going, travel by plane can be a faster way to cover long distances.

It takes around an hour and a half from Kyoto Station to Kansai International Airport by train. These trains depart approximately every 30 minutes and cost 2,250 yen each way. Limousine buses to Osaka International Airport (Itami Airport) take around 50 minutes and cost 1,310 yen. These buses leave around every 20 minutes, so their price, speed, and frequency make them a very convenient option.

One appeal of Japanese airlines is that you can experience Japan's unique level of hospitality. There are a lot of low-cost airlines emerging recently which allow you to get to another city quickly and affordably. At certain times of the year, morning and late-night flights from airports in the nearby Osaka can be as low as 5,000 yen return to Tokyo and Hokkaido!

・ Express Bus   Express buses are a good option if you don't want to spend too much on travel. They take longer than bullet train or plane, but fares can cost less than half the price of a bullet train ticket, so it's possible to travel for only a few thousand yen. At the cheapest times, it's even possible to get from Kyoto to Tokyo for as low as 1,500 yen. Taking the night bus means you can sleep while you travel, so definitely consider this option if you're looking to save money and make efficient use of your time as well. Enjoying local foods during breaks at service areas during your trip are also a fun aspect of traveling by express bus.

* All prices shown above fluctuate depending on the time and date of actual purchase.

Japan Shinkansen, Narita Express (N'EX) & Express Train Tickets

Plan ahead by booking your shinkansen, airport train, and express train tickets online in English. Have the tickets sent to you by mail or collect them at the station once you're in Japan.

・Kyoto to Hokkaido (Hakodate Station)

Bullet train: Approximately 7 hours 20 minutes (Tokaido Shinkansen from Kyoto Station → Tokyo Station → Shin Hakodate Hokuto Station → Hakodate Station)  Plane: Approximately 3 hours 50 minutes (Kyoto Station → Osaka International Airport → Hakodate Airport → Hakodate Station)  

・Kyoto to Tokyo (Tokyo Station)

Bullet train: Approximately 2 hours 20 minutes (Kyoto Station → Tokyo Station)  Express bus: Approximately 7 hours (Kyoto Station Hachijo Exit → Tokyo bus terminals) 

・Kyoto to Osaka (Shin-Osaka Station)

Train: Approximately 25 minutes (Kyoto Station → Shin-Osaka Station) 

・Kyoto to Fukuoka (Hakata Station)

Bullet train: Approximately 2 hours 50 minutes (Kyoto Station → Hakata Station)   Plane: Approximately 3 hours 20 minutes (Kyoto Station → Osaka International Airport → Fukuoka Airport → Hakata Station) 

・Kyoto to Okinawa (Naha Airport)

Plane: Approximately 4 hours 20 minutes (Kyoto Station → Kansai International Airport → Naha Airport) 

* These estimates are minimum travel times. Actual times may vary depending on the time of day and traffic conditions.

Kyoto is welcoming more and more international tourists every year. Please refer to the information in this guide to help make your trip easier, more pleasant, and more affordable!

(Also, did you know that Kyoto is surrounded by other beautiful areas that you can easily reach by train? For instance, there's Osaka, a popular tourist destination with affordable dining options and a wealth of shopping areas. Nara offers abundant nature and historical streetscapes, and there's the sophisticated port town of Kobe in the neighboring Hyogo Prefecture. Consider adding them to your travel itinerary, too!)

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 !

Note: All information is accurate at the time of publishing.

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

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14 Unmissable Things to do in Kyoto, Japan

Beautiful Kyoto, once the capital of Japan , is still one of the most visited cities in the country. Known as the city of ten thousand shrines, Kyoto blends old and new; it’s a place where ancient Geisha districts are sandwiched by temple-dotted mountains on one side and towering steel towers on the other. Spend your days wandering among gold-leafed palaces, tranquil Japanese Gardens, and ancient bamboo groves, or immerse yourself in the creative culture at trendy art spaces, vintage shops, and kimono rental stores. There are so many incredible things to do in Kyoto — discover them all in this complete travel guide!

Things to do in Kyoto

Although Kyoto is a big city, it has a small-town feel. The harmony between contemporary high-rise buildings and traditional wooden teahouses makes it unique. Whether you want to explore the endless temples or surrounding mountains, there is something for every traveler. 

Because it offers so much diversity and history, Kyoto is one of the most popular places to visit in Japan. Although you can expect crowds and queues for the main things to do in Kyoto, it’s well worth it; it was one of the best and most beautiful place we visited on our trip! 

Here are all your hotel options in Kyoto.

1. Sannenzaka, Kyoto

Sannenzaka, meaning ‘Three-Year Hill’, is one of Kyoto’s most traditional Japanese streets, full of teahouses, sweet shops, and wooden houses. The pretty stone-paved road slopes upward towards the beautiful 3-tiered Hōkan-Ji Temple, where you’ll find impressive views of the city and cherry trees in Spring. 

Hotels in Kyoto 😴

In the morning these street feels like a time machine to a bygone Japan, with just the sounds of birds as you climb uphill. But during the day, Sannenzaka comes to life, with locals and tourists arriving to check out the craft shops and delicious restaurants. Nighttime is equally enjoyable when there are no crowds, and the street lanterns give it a charming, cozy ambiance. Please note that during the high seasons, these streets can be busy even in mornings.

This area is very popular for tea ceremonies, which take place in the ancient tea houses. Book a tour to learn about this time-honored tradition .

Hōkan-ji Temple

Hokan-ji Temple, popularly known as Yasaka Pagoda, stands as a symbol of Kyoto’s charm. Situated in the trendy Sannenzaka area, it’s highly favored on Instagram . The pagoda, soaring at 46 meters with five stories, dates back to 596 AD. However, due to wars and fires, it has undergone several reconstructions.

Walk to the top of the street in Sannenzaka to reach the beautiful temple, where you can admire its sloping tiled roof. You can also visit inside, where you’ll see some lovely paintings. Plus, if you’re brave, we recommend climbing to the top of the pagoda for incredible views over Kyoto. 

Please note that due to the temple’s internet fame, it’s busy all day – including sunrise! It’s completely understandable, though, as it’s one of the most beautiful spots in Kyoto.

Opening Times and Entrance Fee: 10 AM – 3 PM. 400 yen (3 USD)

Kiyomizu Temple, Kyoto

Don’t miss seeing the stunning Buddhist temple complex, Kiyomizu-Dera, which sits halfway up the slope of Mt. Otowa, looking down on Sannenzaka. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known as one of the holiest places in the city, with people coming here to worship the deity Kannon.

As you enter the beautiful red-painted gateways into the complex, you can feel the temple’s 1000+-year-old history. You might even be lucky enough to witness the ancient Buddhist ceremonies practiced here.

The Kiyomizu stage is the most famous part of the temple complex: a platform held up by mammoth wooden pillars that hang over the edge of the mountain slope. From the viewing platform, look out over stunning mountain scenery, with pink blossoms in spring, vibrant foliage in fall, and snow-covered trees in winter.

Book your tour of Kiyomizu Temple (including a tea ceremony)

How to Visit Kyomizu Temple, Kyoto

Kiyomizu Temple is just a 10-minute walk uphill from Hokan-Ji Temple; it’s one of the top things to do in Kyoto!

The temple is open every day from 6 AM (beautiful at sunrise) – 6 PM or 9.30 PM, depending on the season ( check all the opening hours here ). Tickets cost 500 yen (3.50 USD), or you can join a guided tour .

2. Nara Park

While planning your trip to Japan, you’ve probably seen the famous images of cute deer interacting with tourists: this is the iconic Nara Park ! Set in the city of Nara, discover expansive woodland where hundreds of friendly (and cheeky!) deer roam wild. It’s especially lovely to visit during fall when the leaves pop in warm reds, oranges, and yellows. ( Book one of the many incredible tours around Nara )

Note: Admission to Nara Park is free. However, on arrival, you may want to purchase some natural crackers (200 yen/1.50 USD) to feed the deer. Please only feed them the crackers provided.

Although seeing the deer is the main draw for visitors, there are also many other fantastic things to do in Nara Park , such as visiting the majestic Todaiji Temple or the stunning botanical gardens. Best of all, at each site, you’ll always be accompanied by large groups of deer!

Explore Nara with a local guide. See tickets and availability for a half-day tour.

Getting to Nara Park

From Kyoto Station, you can take a direct train to Nara in under one hour. The train arrives at Kintetsu Nara Station, and the JR Pass (JR Nara line) covers this route.

Buy your Japan Rail Pass in advance

Tip: If you arrive from Nara JR station in the morning, take advantage of the Mochi-making show at Nakatanidou. Mochi is a jelly dessert made with rice flour and packed with sweet black bean paste inside; it usually comes in various colors, and it’s fascinating to watch the creation process! 

3. Diago-Ji Temple (Top Thing to do in Kyoto!)

Diago-Ji Temple was maybe our favorite spot in Japan! This peaceful area is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and spans the whole mountainside, with the main temple sitting at the base and smaller temples along the path to the summit. 

The atmosphere of this place is incredible; the sounds, colors, and scenery are perfect – especially when visiting from late November to the first half of December, at which time it’s fall-colored heaven. It’s truly a photographer’s paradise!

Read: Best Things to do at Mount Fuji, Japan

Sanboin Temple

Alongside the main Diago-Ji Temple, you’ll find the sub-temple: Sanboin (former residence of the head priest). Inside, there are many historical and cultural relics, including a preserved drawing room (Omote Shoin) with traditional sliding screens, straw mats, and romantic murals. There is also a stunning Japanese garden to explore with waterfalls, ponds, and cherry trees.

Opening Times and Entry Fee: Buy a combined ticket to see all the main buildings at the lower level for 1500 yen (10 USD). Open 9 AM – 5 PM (4.30 PM in the winter months).  You can see the full price list here .

Getting to Diago-Ji Temple

The journey takes about 30 mins from the center of Kyoto. Head to Kyoto Shiyakusho-Mae Station and take the Tozai line to Daigo Station. It’s a 15-minute walk from there to the shrine.

We recommend allowing for 1 -2 hours to leisurely walk among the complex; you’ll find fewer crowds here than other popular things to do in Kyoto, mainly because it’s a bit out of town and less reachable by public transport.

4. Day Trip to Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Kyoto

Spend the day immersed in nature at the remarkable Arashiyama Bamboo Grove! Located in the cute town of Arashiyama (just a 20-minute train ride away from bustling Kyoto), discover a towering tunnel of bamboo trees that creates one of the most magical walkways. When the sun hits just right, it creates fractures of golden light through the trees — it’s the perfect place to snap some beautiful photos! ( Book your day trip here )

Did you know? The Airshiyama Bamboo Forest is a uniquely sensory experience; it was named one of the ‘100 soundscapes of Japan’ by the Japanese Ministry of Environment because of the sound of the bamboo blowing in the wind.

As you walk through the Arashiyama complex, you’ll find lots of other beautiful temples and gardens to visit: 

• Jōjakkō-ji Temple
• Hōkyō-in Temple
• Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple
• Okochi Sanso Garden

Entry Times and Opening Fee: General admission to Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is free! However, you may be required to pay admission fees for the smaller temples on-site. The grove is open 24 hours a day, so we recommend visiting at sunrise for the best light. It gets very busy after 9 AM, and taking photos with the crowds can be difficult.

Book this tour of Arashiyama’s top sites

Iwatayama Monkey Park

Although visiting the bamboo grove is one of the top things to do in Kyoto, the actual walk doesn’t take long and is just a small part of what this wonderful area offers.

In front of the entrance, you’ll also see the lovely Tsytenkyo Bridge, which crosses the river and takes you into the Iwatayama Monkey Park. Here, you can see the Japanese Macaque (the very same monkeys you’ll see in the Snow Monkey Park in Japan – just without the snow!). You can get fairly close to the cheeky primates. However, always remember to be respectful and only feed them peanuts and fruit in the designated feeding area.

Opening Times and Entrance Fee: 9 AM – 4 PM. Tickets cost 550 yen (4 USD)

Tip: As you cross the bridge into Monkey Park, take a moment to admire the stunning blue water, which looks especially magical in the fall against the fiery red and orange foliage of the overhanging trees. You can go for a pleasant stroll downriver or eat at one of the restaurants that overlooks the water. If it’s too busy, there are plenty of great places to dine in town too. 

Book this tour of Arashiyama’s top sites (including the Monkey Park!)

Join a Boat Tour

A boat tour along the river in Arashiyama is a great way to see more of the natural beauty of the area! You can hire a boat , either driving the boat yourself or hiring a captain for a few hours. Alternatively, for something really special, book the famous Hozugawa Cruise, a 2-hour boat ride that takes you from Kameoka to Arashiyama, hugging the winding ravine and offering spectacular views of the fall woodland in the cooler months. 

Ticket price: Hozugawa Cruise tickets cost 4500 yen. Reserve your trip in advance here .

Adashino Nenbutsuj

Located next to the Bamboo Forest is an equally beautiful bamboo grove that leads the way to a unique temple. As it’s lesser known, you can enjoy this tunneled stairway through the trees with almost no people! Once you’ve reached the temple, you’ll find 8000 statues dedicated to ‘lonely souls’ — a tranquil and sacred place to commemorate those who died without kin.  

Getting there: This hidden spot is at the back of the Arishiyama Bamboo Forest (a 15 – 20-minute walk from the entrance).

Somekobo Yumeyusai Art Gallery

Set on the banks of the Katsura River and conveniently located within Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, discover the fascinating Somekobo Yumeyusai Art Gallery. The gallery uses displays to teach visitors about an ancient Japanese dying technique — where the dye used causes the fabric to change color according to different lights. It is mainly known for its stunning views of the jade-colored river. Mirrors cleverly placed in the gallery make up for a great photo.  

Tip: Somekobo Yumeyusai Art Gallery is very popular, so we recommend booking in advance online or arriving early so you don’t have to queue. Opening times vary (the day we visited, it opened at 8:30 AM, even though their opening time seems to be 10 AM), so it’s a good idea to check Google Maps on the day. 

Entrance fee: 2,000 yen (13.50 USD). Reserve online here .

How to Visit Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Kyoto

There are multiple ways to reach the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest from Kyoto. However, we recommend taking the train, as it only takes 20 minutes. Jump on the train from Kyoto Station (JR San-in or Sagano Line) to Saga Arishiyama Station, which is located in the middle of town. From here, it’s just a 15-minute walk to the entrance of the Bamboo Forest. This route is covered by holders of the JR Pass.

Please note: During the day, you may need to hop on the Randen line (tram). You pay a flat fare of 500 yen on the train. 

5. Vintage Shopping

Vintage shopping is a religion in Japan. Every city has countless fantastic thrift stores, and Kyoto is no exception! Dedicate a morning or afternoon to perusing the colorful stores, searching for treasures to take home.

Some of our favorite vintage shops in Kyoto were:

• Three Star Kyoto
• Furugiya JAM Kyotoshijoten
• Little Trip to Heaven
• Big Time (Hannah’s favorite! Don’t forget to check out the 2 men’s floors)

Tip: Most vintage stores are located in Shijo Kawaramachi (Downtown Kyoto), a bustling shopping district for all general stores.

6. Gion, Kyoto

One of the top things to do in Kyoto is to visit the picturesque area of Gion. It gives a glimpse into traditional Japan at the heart of the bustling city. Originally, it was better known as a place of pilgrimage because of the sacred Gion Shrine. However, these days, locals and tourists alike come to admire the traditional architecture, iconic wooden townhouses named Machiya, pretty canals, and bridges. 

While in Gion, visit:

• Gion Shrine: Also known as Yasaka Shrine. This authentic red Japanese temple is lit by lanterns and is the perfect place to see cherry blossoms in spring.
• Shirakawa: an area that runs alongside the canal with traditional architecture.
• Gion Tatsumi Bridge: An iconic bridge, better known from one of the scenes in the film’ Memoirs of a Geisha’ that crosses the canal into Gion.
• Traditional Teahouse: Gion is full of teahouses, which are an essential part of Japanese culture. The most famous is Ichiriki Ochaya, known historically as the place where Samurai Soldiers would gather to discuss their plans.

The Geisha District

Most interestingly, Gion is known as the Geisha district of Kyoto, specifically Hanamikoji Street. Here, you can see traditionally dressed women with painted white faces, pretty kimonos, and a fierce red lip going about their daily lives.

What are Geishas?

Geisha , known as Geika in Kyoto, are women of the arts (and not prostitutes, as many movies have depicted). They are trained in conversation, music, and dance, and their role is to host and entertain customers at special events and teahouses. Training to be a Geisha is rigorous; girls typically move into a house where they live and train from age 15. They continue to live in this special accommodation within a Geisha district for the rest of their career.

You’ll see Geisha throughout the Gion district, as this is the main area where they live and work in the city, including Maiko (the younger trainees).

See tickets and availability for a nighttime Geisha Tour

Tip: These ladies are working, so please don’t disturb them by approaching them to take photos. Instead, book a theater performance at Gion Corner — specifically designed for tourists who wish to interact with Geishas. Tickets cost 5,500 yen (37 USD).

Rent a Kimono

Gion is the perfect place to try one of Kyoto’s cultural experiences, from flower arranging to enjoying a typical Japanese cooking class. It’s also the best place to rent a kimono , the traditional Japanese dress worn for special occasions.

Unlike in many places, this is not considered cultural appropriation. In fact, it’s quite the opposite; locals encourage visitors to dress in Kimonos and better understand the cultural practice. You can rent a kimono for the day in Gion (or another area of the city) and take some beautiful photos.

Reserve your Kimono online here

7. Fushimi Inari, Kyoto

Fushimi Inari is a remarkable Shinto shrine and the most sacred in Japan, dedicated to the God of Rice. The shrine is in the shadow of Mount Inari and marks the start of the pilgrim trail to the peak. 

It’s most famous, though, for its 10,000 red-painted tori gates, which create a beautiful tunnel you can walk through. During the day, sunlight filters through the archways, and at night, it’s bathed in a warm lantern-lit glow. 

Also read: Best Things To Do in Osaka, Japan

Once you’ve walked through the tori gates at Fushimi Inari Kyoto, you’ll reach the start of the mountain path. If you choose to embark to the top, it is a 2-3 hour hike. It’s a peaceful walk in nature that passes smaller shrines and teahouses.

Book this unique hidden hiking tour from Fushimi Inari

Opening Times and Entrance Fee

Fushimi Inari in Kyoto, Japan, is open 24 hours a day and free to visit. Sunset is a beautiful time to visit and a good option if you want to see the shrine change colors from day to night. However, it’s also the most popular, so expect crowds. The quietest time is at sunrise (anytime between 6 AM and 8 AM). After 10 AM, the site can become very crowded. 

Tip: Don’t miss out on having a cup of tea at Vermillion Cafe. It’s a charming cafe 5 minutes walk from the shrine with an open terrace with riverside views. Here is the exact location .

8. Pontocho

People watch to your heart’s content in the best nightlife spot in Kyoto: Pontocho! Located in downtown Kyoto, this traditional area has many upmarket restaurants and bars tucked down narrow alleys. ( Join this popular walking tour around Pontocho )

The atmosphere at night is especially fantastic when the streets are bathed in a lantern-lit glow and locals come to enjoy dinner together. It’s also one of the Geisha districts in the city, so you might be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of a Geisha. 

Tip: In the summer, the restaurants create temporary platforms that hang over the riverside, creating terraces for open-air dining. This is called Kawayuka, a dining experience designed to help customers feel cooler. Please note that Pontocho can get very busy, so it’s recommended to book a restaurant in advance. 

9. Nanzen-ji Temple

Nanzen-ji Temple is a must-see in Kyoto! The Zen Buddhist temple sits at the foot of the mountains on the city’s edge and is home to various sub-temples and gardens. Because of all the beautiful trees and foliage, it’s charming to visit during fall when the colors are at their most vibrant.

When you first arrive, you’ll pass through the huge entranceway known as the Sanmon Gate, which means ‘mountain gate’. Pay the entrance fee and climb to the top of the gate for great views! 

Among the grounds, you’ll also find a spectacular stone garden, which has been awarded status as a ‘national site of scenic beauty’. Nearby, you’ll also see an unusual feature for a temple — a large stone-arched aqueduct.

Visiting Information Nanzen-ji

The main temple grounds are open for free. However, you’ll have to pay different admission fees for all the smaller temples. You can see all the ticket prices per temple here .

Opening hours vary depending on the temple; the complex is open from 8.40 AM – 5 PM. Check all the times online before visiting.

Top Tip: Grab a drink afterward at a cute cafe near the temple, called Blue Bottle Coffee. Here is the exact location .

10. Nishiki Market

Get amongst the jostling crowds exploring Nishiki Market — one of the most popular things to do in Kyoto.

Known as ‘Kyoto’s Kitchen’, this market has a 400-year history and is home to 100+ food vendors. Each stall sells something unique, from seaweed and fresh sashimi to sake and piles of unusual spices. 

Tip: Join a food tour with a local who can point you toward the best food stalls and explain everything about all the weird and wonderful snacks.

Book this popular brunch food tour of Nishiki Market!

Opening Times: Hours vary depending on the stall, but most are generally open from 10 AM – 6 PM (closed Wednesday or Sunday, depending on the store). Please remember to bring cash, as some vendors don’t accept cards.

11. Visit Koyasan

One of the top things to do in Kyoto is to take a day trip to the sacred temple village of Koyosan, situated on the slopes of Mount Koya. This area is known as an important Buddhist pilgrimage site with over 100+ beautiful temples. Spend the day wandering among the temples, breathing in the cold mountain air, and visiting the snow-covered cemetery and gardens. 

If you have time on your Japan itinerary, stay overnight in one of the temples in Koyasan and live as the monks have for hundreds of years. The lodgings are simple and traditional in line with the Buddhist teachings, with basic futons, sliding doors, and shared bathrooms. You’ll also get to join the monks for a typical dinner, morning prayer, and meditation — this was one of our favorite adventures on our trip to Japan!  

Hotels in Koyasan 😴

Getting there: Take a rapid train from Kyoto Station to Osaka Namba Station (covered by your JR Pass) in under 30 minutes. From here, jump on another train to Gokurabashi (1.5 hours) before taking the cable car up the mountain to Koyosan.

12. Day Trip to Universal Studios !

Osaka is close to Kyoto and home to Universal Studios Japan! If you have time on your Japan Itinerary, spend a fun day out enjoying the theme park and the various rides. Get your adrenaline pumping on rapid rollercoasters, eat snacks in the shape of your favorite film characters, and visit a real-life Hogwarts castle.

Book your Universal Studio tickets in advance here

13. Golden Temple, Kyoto

The Golden Temple, also known as Kinkaku-Ji, is the most popular thing to do in Kyoto and the most-visited attraction in the city — for good reason! This majestic temple, balanced on the edge of a large pond, is covered in real gold leaf. It’s totally unique! On a clear day, when the light hits the gold just right, it’s truly magical. 

Note: You cannot visit inside the Golden Temple, Kyoto. However, you can view it from the water’s edge before passing through the extensive gardens.

Golden Temple, Kyoto, is open from 9 AM – 5 PM and costs 500 yen (3.50 USD) to enter. An hour’s visit is sufficient. Try to arrive before 9 AM to be first in line. Generally, it is always very busy because of its popularity.

See availability for a tour of Golden Temple (includes a visit to Imperial Palace!)

Getting there: Golden Temple is a little bit further out of the center, but you can easily take a bus or train in around 30- 45 minutes. Check Google Maps for directions, updated times, and information.

14. Imperial Palace

The Grand Imperial Palace is the former residence of the Emperor of Japan. Set in extensive parkland, it’s a place to escape the hustle and bustle of Kyoto and learn a bit more about the dynasties of Japan.

The facade of the palace itself is quite plain, and unfortunately, you can’t visit inside. It’s not as impressive as some other temples and parks in the city, so it’s an optional thing to do in Kyoto. Best of all, it’s free to visit! 

Learn more about Imperial Palace on this multi-stop tour (includes Golden Temple)

Best Restaurants & Cafes

Kyoto is one of the greatest cities to eat in on your trip to Japan. The city is home to a particular vegetarian Buddhist cuisine (no surprise, as ‘the city of ten thousand shrines’), so it’s great for veggies and vegans. Other specialties include Kyoto soba noodles and matcha tea! Here are some of our must-try restaurants:

• Vermillion Cafe
• Wife&Husband (reserve a picnic)
• Trattoria Casa Verde
• AIN SOPH. Journey KYOTO
• Kyoto Onimaru
• Fiveran (bakery
• Cafe Bibliotic Hello!

Note: Kyoto is a very busy place, and it’s commonplace to queue for a table in a restaurant. Book in advance where possible to avoid disappointment. 

Top Tip: It’s no secret that Japan is expensive, and Kyoto is no exception! If you want to keep costs lower, you can grab a quick snack or an affordable takeaway lunch at the supermarkets 7-Eleven, Family Mart, or Lawson. You can find delicious Onigiri (a rice ball with fish inside and packed in crunchy seaweed) or even mix a cup of frozen fruits into a smoothie.

Hotels in Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto is a sprawling city with many of the top things to do located both on the outskirts and in the center. Where you choose to stay depends on the type of trip you’re planning. For example, if you want to do some day trips out of the city, we recommend staying in Shimogyo , which surrounds Kyoto Station. Otherwise, choose a hotel in Kyoto located within Nakagyo (the central district) or Gion (the traditional Geisha district).

• Hotels in Shimogyo (near Kyoto Station)
• Nakagyo Hotels (Central)
• Hotels in Gion (Geisha District)

Tip: We stayed in Insomnia KYOTO OIKE , which was located in Nakagyo and close to all public transport. Book your stay here .

How Many Days in Kyoto?

With so much to see and do in Kyoto, it’s well worth taking a bit more time out of your Japan itinerary for this awesome city. A 2-3-day trip will allow you to see all the main sites in the city (including Arashiyama Bamboo Forest). Meanwhile, 4-6 days will allow you to visit Nara Park, Koyosan, and even Universal Studios.

Travel Insurance Don't forget a travel insurance for your Japan trip! Heymondo covers medical emergencies, theft, delays, cancellations, lost luggage, and more, with 24/7 worldwide assistance and medical chat. As a Salt in our Hair reader, we've got you 5% off! Check Heymondo here

How to Visit Kyoto

The nearest international airport to Kyoto is Osaka Itami, which is a 50-minute drive away using the airport shuttle bus. Alternatively, Kansai International Airport is located slightly further out at Osaka Bay (you can take the train from here to Kyoto in 70 minutes – covered by your JR pass. Book tickets here ).

Tip: It’s best to get an eSim in advance so you’re directly connected when you land in Japan. Buy your sim online here .

If you’re traveling from Tokyo, hop on the super speedy bullet train to Kyoto in around 130 minutes (also included with the JR Pass).

Book your train tickets from Tokyo in advance

Otherwise, if you’re hiring a car, you can drive from Tokyo to Kyoto in under 6 hours — or add Kyoto as a stop-off on your Japan itinerary!

We recommend to rent a car in Japan through Rentalcars.com with many rental locations and flexible cancellation. Book your rental car here .

Is the JR Pass worth it? ( Calculate it here ). The Japan Rail Pass gives you unlimited access to all public transport throughout Japan, so it’s a great option if you plan on taking the Shinkansen (bullet train) several times. It’s also multi-use for other trains, ferries, and buses throughout the country. 

Getting Around

Getting around Kyoto is super easy; the organized city is built in an easy-to-navigate grid system. Although there are only 2 subway lines, these connect you to most of the top things to do. However, the bus system is also incredibly efficient.  

Note: Japan’s travel network is so organized that you’ll never experience delays; trains and metros depart precisely at the specified minute.

The best way to discover Kyoto is by walking! The city is very flat and easy to explore using Google Maps. Plus, you’ll be able to take in the atmosphere and stop off for plenty of matcha refreshments on your way. 

Rent a Bike

We also recommend hiring a bike for the day to explore, as there are great paths throughout town and along the river. If you stray from the main roads, the streets are quiet, making for a tranquil and safe cycling experience. Hire your bike at The Good Day Velo Bikes & Coffee Kyoto . 

Tip: The city provides special bike parking; you can see all the locations here . Please note that a one-day parking pass, which costs 200 yen (1.50 USD), is required when parking in the city.

How Much Does Kyoto Cost?

Kyoto is one of the most expensive cities to visit in Japan. However, it’s considerably cheaper than Tokyo . You can find some great places to stay and eat without breaking the bank. Keep costs down by taking a picnic lunch with you on day trips out of the city and booking accommodation well in advance.

Make sure to bring your reusable water bottle with you; you can drink water from the taps in most places in Japan! This is a good way to save money and travel plastic-free .

Costs of Traveling in Kyoto

Travel on a budget in Kyoto, from $480 − $910 USD weekly per person, mid-range $1750 − $3730 USD, and high-end from $3400 − $5380 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $100 − $400 USD Check available hotels
• Hostels: $20 − $80 USD Check available hostels
• Transport: $5 − $40 USD Book public transport
• Car Rental: $35 − $150 USD Book a rental car
• Food: $30 − $150 USD
• Activities: $10 − $60 USD See tickets & tours
• Sim: $1 − $3 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

Best Time to Visit

October and November are some of the best months to visit Kyoto, as during this time, the woodland and parkland areas burst into warm fall colors. Although it’s a little colder, it does mean that you might be lucky enough to spot snow, particularly if you head up into the more mountainous areas like Koyasan.

Spring is also beautiful because of the cherry blossoms. However, hotels and tours can get booked quickly (and prices rise), so consider booking things well in advance.

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Snow Monkey Park: Japan’s Hot Spring Oasis

9 things to do in nara park (the deer of japan), 17 unmissable things to do in tokyo, japan.

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We got back from Kyoto a couple of months ago, it was great fun to relive some of those places we visited through your photos!

Thank you so much Ben, appreciate that a lot!

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Kyoto Starts Here

When I first decided to tackle a round-up of things to do in Kyoto , I felt intimidated. Japan’s ancient capital, after all, is home to literally thousands of years of history, to say nothing its limitless contemporary appeal.

Now, as I take a second (which is to say new-and-improved) stab at a Kyoto itinerary, I’m as attuned to the fine details that make every moment spent here indispensable as I am mindful of how important it is to keep things concise. The goal of your Kyoto trip should be illumination, not domination, regardless of how long you expect to stay here, or how deep you plan to dig.

In line with this, I’ll be expounding upon my thoughts about how many days in Kyoto you should spend after talking you through my favorite Kyoto attractions and activities. No matter when you end up visiting Japan, I hope my Kyoto travel guide inspires you.

Where to Stay in Kyoto

Before I introduce you to things to do in Kyoto in a more thorough way, it’s helpful to discuss where you should set up shop. In general, I am of two minds when it comes to addressing this matter. On one hand, there’s value to staying in the heart of Higashiyama, particularly if it’s your first trip to Kyoto, and especially if you can afford a luxurious ryokan such as Seikoro Ryokan , or even a modest one like Ryokan Uemura .

On the other hand, not all the best ryokans in Kyoto are in Higashiyama, nor are they expensive. Ryokan Kyoraku , which is just 15 minutes by foot from Kyoto Station, perfectly illustrates this. There’s also a case to be made for staying in city hotels along Karasuma-dori, such as Hotel Resol Kyoto Kawaramachi or Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Sanjo , whether to save money, avoid crowds or simply for the utility of public transportation in that area.

How to Divide Up Your Trip to Kyoto

Get lost in kyoto’s historic center.

Want to see the best temples in Kyoto ? While some lie outside of Higashiyama (namely the Golden Pavilion of Kinkaku-ji in Kita ward), the vast majority can be seen by following what I call the “temple trail.” After starting way up north at the Silver Pavilion of Ginkaku-ji , walk down the Philosopher’s Path to Nanzen-ji and Eikando , veering off slightly to visit Hei-an Shrine before continuing past Chion-in and Kodai-ji into Maruyama Park . This will allow you to walk up Ninenzaka slope to reach Kiyomizu-dera for sunset, and back down it to look for Geisha in Gion after nightfall.

Whatever you do, make sure not to skip the west side of the Kamo River , where you’ll find the Shimogyo and Nagakyo wards. These areas are home not only to well-known sites such as Nijo Castle and the Kyoto Imperial Palace, but also Nishiki Market , which is known as the “Kitchen of Kyoto.” Beyond these, plenty of small, historic streets to get lost within, whether you’re on the hunt for forlorn temples or just want to see beautiful examples of iconic Machiya houses.

Explore Arashiyama beyond the bamboo forest

Temples are among my favorite things to do in Kyoto, but they’re not the only game in town. On the other hand, while Sagano Bamboo Grove , Iwatayama Park and the lush banks of the Hozu River make Arashiyama a paradise for nature lovers, there’s plenty of culture here as well. Have a cup of matcha amid the well-manicured private garden of Okochi-sanso Villa , or enter the bamboo forest through Tenryu-ji , another example of a Kyoto temple outside of Higashiyama that it very much worth visiting. Remember the Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion? You can visit on on your way back to Kyoto, by stopping at Emmachi station.

Chase a Fushimi Inari hike with a sake tour

Searching for the famous Kyoto orange gates? You’ll find those at Fushimi Inari Shrine , a short walk from both JR Inari Station and Fushimi-Inari Station of the Keihan Railway . Fushimi is much more than its shrine, however, whether you tour its many picturesque sake breweries, or visit Fushimi Momoyama , and underrated and under-visited castle that is especially beautiful during cherry blossom season. In spite of the ubiquity of the taisha among foreign tourists, in fact, I think you’ll find that most of Fushimi-ku sits well off Kyoto’s beaten path!

See charming cherry blossoms or appreciate autumn colors

Literally all things to do in Kyoto are more beautiful in early April, when the sakura are blooming , and in late November as autumn’s colors reach their most brilliant blaze. In addition to spots I’ve mentioned so far, which are all gorgeous in their own ways at this time of year, I particularly love enjoy hanami on the banks of the Kamo River just west of Higashiyama , and relishing the abundant red maple leaves of temples like Daigo-ji and Tofuku-ji , which is just one stop south of Kyoto Station by train, or a 20-minute walk away if you’re up for it.

TIP: If you can’t come to Kyoto in spring or autumn but still want to enjoy a seasonal spectacular, come in July for the annual Gion Matsuri , one of the great summer festivals of Japan !

Get out of town—if you can pry yourself away

The topic of day trips from Kyoto is at once a popular and controversial one. On one hand, they are as large in number as they are high in quality, whether you traipse amid the tea fields of Uji , or eat world-class wagyu in underrated Kobe , on the “other side” of Osaka, and between Osaka and Himeji Castle . On the other hand, there’s so much to do in Kyoto (especially if it’s your first time), that even reaching relatively close destinations (I’m thinking Hikone Castle on the eastern shore of Lake Biwa , or even Kurama-dera , literally just north of Kyoto’s city limits) can be too much to ask.

How Many Days Should You Spend in Kyoto?

The topic of how many days in Kyoto is one I’ve breached many times, most notably in my popular 2 days in Kyoto post on this very website. However, as is the case for Tokyo , I don’t think the answer to this question is one-size-fits-all. How long you spend in Kyoto depends as much upon what you plan to accomplish in Japan’s former capital (and whether you’ve been here before) as it does how long you expect to spend in the rest of Japan, and in which places.

For example, if you’ve visited before and have knocked off most things to do in Kyoto and only have two weeks in Japan this time, you might just spend a night or two here, particularly if your itinerary includes other historical cities, such as Kanazawa . If, on the other hand, you’re spending a month in Japan (or longer) and it’s your maiden voyage to the country, four or five days in Kyoto (or longer) may very well be in order.

Other FAQ About Planning a Kyoto Itinerary

What should i not miss in kyoto.

When you come to Kyoto, make sure not to miss the diversity of sights and experience. Kyoto is as much about the lush forests of Arashiyama and mysterious shrines (and sake breweries !) of Fushimi as it is about the enchanting temples of Higashiyama. Likewise, if you visit Kyoto when the cherry blossoms or autumn colors are near their peak, you can’t miss hanami or koyo experiences.

Is 4 days in Kyoto enough?

4 days is an excellent amount of time to spend in Kyoto. This will give you a full day each in Higashiyama, Arashiyama and Fushimi, plus the opportunity to take at least one day trip, whether to deer-filled Nara , sacred Mt. Koya or magnificent Himeji Castle in Hyogo prefecture. Alternatively, if you’ve seen Kyoto’s main sights on a previous trip, spending four days here upon your return to Japan will empower you to dig deep.

Where should I stay in Kyoto for the first time?

I personally love staying right in the hear of Higashiyama, although other locations are more logistically advantageous. For example, staying along Karasuma-dori, Kyoto’s main north-south thoroughfare, centrally situates you for sightseeing, particularly if you’re anywhere near the intersections with Gojo, Shijo and Sanjo roads, which connect to Higashiyama and Gion via bus and rail.

The Bottom Line

My Kyoto travel guide is not exhaustive, but it is instructive. Rather than attempting to see “everything” in Kyoto in a single trip, whether it’s your first or 50th, focus instead of optimizing your enjoyment as much as the number of places you visit. Given Kyoto’s long history, the city will likely be with us for at least another few centuries—it’s not going anywhere. Use what you missed during a given trip to Kyoto as inspiration for your next one! Speaking of which, the time is drawing closer when it will be possible to enter Japan again, as the coronavirus pandemic recedes. Hire me to plan your trip to Japan , both in Kyoto (my current home) and elsewhere throughout the country.

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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 December 2021 and updated December 2023

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Girl Eat World

A girl's adventure in food and travel around the world, kyoto travel guide for first-time visitors: what to see and eat in kyoto.

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 and 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?
• What are the must-do things 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 into KIX, then take the Haruka Airport Express

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. From KIX to Osaka, it only takes about 50 minutes by Haruka airport express train and then another 15 minutes to Kyoto and slightly longer if you take the local train, perhaps 30 minutes.

(In fact, 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 )

You can purchase Haruka airport express train ticket here , or if you already have a JR pass, then you can use your JR pass (assuming you bought Unlimited JR Pass ).

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

The price of Unlimited JR Pass has increased by 70% since 1 Oct 2023 . Even though you’ll see many recommendations for buying a JR Pass to save some costs, it could be outdated. Since the price hike, it has become harder to justify the cost of the JR Pass, however regional passes like the JR West Kansai Pass might still be worth it. I am working on updating my blog post to reflect this change.

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. 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 .

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.

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 is good.

However, if you prefer to take things slow, you could allocate more days. 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 during Sakura time or Momiji time . You can click on the links to determine the best times as it varies every year.

Kyoto (and all of Japan) is just insanely beautiful during these two seasons. However, they 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 middle of August, as these two are big holidays in Japan. You’ll not only have to battle the international tourists that are coming to Japan, but domestic Japanese tourists too!

Where should I stay when visiting Kyoto?

As I said before, I believe that Osaka , not Kyoto, 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 .

This is my preference for many reasons:

• Accommodations in Osaka are 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!
• It only takes 15 minutes to Kyoto by Shinkansen (which you’d be using if you have a JR pass) or 30 minutes by local train.
• Kyoto gets pretty quiet (read: dead) by nighttime, whereas Osaka is the second largest city in Japan so you’ll still find plenty to do at night.
• Osaka is a great base if you’re exploring other areas in Kansai , since it’s located right in the middle of everything.

➡️ 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 here are some good places you can consider. Just be mindful that they would be on the more expensive side!

• 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 many might not know 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. The tourist area in Kyoto is not actually that big, so this is a very feasible option. We biked from Kyoto station to Arashiyama , and it only took about an hour with some detours.

You can rent two types of bikes:

• Regular Bikes at High Class City Bike Rental
• Electric Assist Bike Rental – If you think you’ll need some assistance from the motor so you don’t have to pedal so hard all the time!

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.

But the biggest issue is that parking can get really expensive in Japan. We paid 1,000 – 1,500 yen each time we parked our car, which really adds up quickly if you’re visiting multiple places in Kyoto. However, it was certainly the most convenient way when traveling with a toddler.

You can rent a car from near Kyoto station here .

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 definitely 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.

Things to do in Kyoto

Now that you know how to travel around Kyoto – you might be wondering “What are the must-do things in Kyoto?”. Well, you’ve come to the right place!

Here are some of the must-do in Kyoto:

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

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 far to 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 totally 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

Kiyomizu-dera is undoubtedly one of the most famous temples in Japan. There is a public area 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 as it was quite crowded and there was a line for entering. But I finally went in on my latest visit, and I can honestly say it is 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 any nails (common 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 (東山) and Gion district

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 apparels.

Near Higashiyama is Gion – 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.

4. Take a walk at 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. It is lined with beautiful cherry blossom trees, so you definitely want to be here during Sakura season! However, it is also 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 philosopher path before ending up at Ginkaku-ji.

5. 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 is a unique-looking temple, with pure gold-leaf coating covering the top two levels the temple. Ginkaku-ji, on the other hand, 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.

6. 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. The bamboo forest path is not very long (probably will take you 15-30 minutes max to walk) but there are plenty to do and more temples to visit around Arashiyama too!

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!

Or you can visit some temples in Arashiyama. Tenryu-ji and Seiryo-ji is the big temples nearby. Each visit would set you back 400 yen per person.

7. Take the Sagano Romantic Train (in Arashiyama)

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 if you are not interested in exploring Kameoka.

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

8. 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.

And, 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!

9. 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.

10. 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:

• Higashiyama Hanatouro (in March for 10 days)
• Hikari no Kyoto (November)
• Arashihyama Hanatouro (December)

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 anything is on 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

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.

Kichi Kichi Omurice ( map – near Nishiki Market) – 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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The Ultimate Guide to Kyoto

Updated September 2023

Even after a second time in this city, Kyoto never loses its magic. Writing this ultimate guide to Kyoto, I was reminded why it is so special — every one of its 1,600 temples, its small izakayas and cafes, and those forest-lined hills.

Kyoto , unlike its larger counterpart Tokyo , feels like a small city. The Gion District lights up at night and visitors post out to catch a glimpse of a Geiko or Meiko (geishas) crossing through to an appointment. The city is surrounded by dense, lush mountains where many flock to see the sights, like Arashiyama or Fushimi Inari Shrine.

It’s a city built on tradition. With a longstanding history as Japan’s former capital, it still holds the arts to a high degree. From kaiseki dinners to tea ceremonies, those looking to taste and see Japan’s traditions should look no further. With an admiration for things created well and a life lived with passion and dedication, Kyoto exudes an energy unlike most cities in the world.

Short on Time? Here Are My Top Picks for the Best Hotels in Kyoto:

• The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto , for the best downtown Kyoto hotel
• The Junei Hotel Kyoto Imperial Palace West , for the best central Kyoto hotel
• Four Seasons Kyoto , for the best Southern Higashiyama hotel
• Ryokan Inn Yoshida-sanso , for the best Northern Higashiyama hotel
• Hotel Kanra , for the best Kyoto Station hotel
• Suiran , for the best Arashiyama hotel

Travel Tip: Be sure to get your JR Rail Pass prior to arrival in Japan!

If you’re planning a trip to Kyoto , don’t miss my guides to the best hotels , restaurants , coffee shops , and things to do !

What to Know Before Visiting Kyoto

Transportation.

The city does not require a car. Everything is easily reached by foot, train, or bus. The bus network is incredibly reliable, so don’t be afraid to take a local bus.

The Suica card is helpful for using the bus and local train. You can get one at the main stations and, with a small deposit, have access to reload this card. If you have a JR Rail Pass , this is also applicable for certain lines in Kyoto.

Travel Tip: Be sure to apply and purchase your JR Rail Pass prior to arrival in Japan!

Japan, even though it is incredibly modern, is still a primarily cash-only country. Carry Yen on you at all times to cover meals, shopping, and transportation. The best place to withdraw cash is at Seven Eleven.

Arrive Early to Beat the Crowds

For all sights, if you’re looking for those “no crowd” photos, be sure to arrive no later than 7:30/8 am. The top attractions will get incredibly busy and it is worth it to get up a bit earlier.

Reserve Restaurants in Advance

The best way to handle any restaurant reservation is to have your hotel concierge call and reserve. Most restaurants need reservations far in advance. There were quite a few where we couldn’t get one almost two weeks in advance.

Where to Stay in Kyoto

Whether you’re looking for luxurious resorts or quaint bed and breakfasts, Kyoto has it all. To make the most of your trip, my primary recommendation is to pick a neighborhood first, then choose a hotel.

Below, I’ve listed a few of my favorite hotels in Kyoto that span a range of locations, styles, and budgets. Read my guide to Kyoto’s neighborhoods and best hotels , for a more comprehensive overview of where to stay.

The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto (Downtown)

Perfectly located along the banks of the Yamo River, the Ritz-Carlton Kyoto sits within footsteps of the heart of the city. The quiet neighborhood makes for a peaceful stay. Be sure to book a river-facing room for a stunning view. This is the place to book if you’re looking to experience luxury service and comfortable rooms with modern amenities.  Book the best rates here .

The Junei Hotel Kyoto Imperial Palace West (Central Kyoto)

The Junei Hotel Kyoto Imperial Palace West is a great centrally-located option for those looking for an elevated boutique stay. With only 8 rooms, the intimate vibe and clean and minimal design make it a neighborhood favorite. Book the best rates here .

Four Seasons Kyoto (Southern Higashiyama)

Located on the east side of the river, Four Seasons Kyoto is without a doubt one of the best stays in town. The hotel and surrounding gardens and koi pond are beautiful and paired with exceptional service and dining. Book the best rates here .

Ryokan Inn Yoshida-sanso (Northern Higashiyama, Adults-Only)

If you’re looking for a traditional Japanese experience, Ryokan Inn Yoshida-sanso is the top ryokan in this entire area. The rooms feature classic Japanese design, tatami mats, and separate dining areas. A range of room categories from house rooms with shared bathrooms to a fully-private cottage make this a great option. Book the best rates here .

Hotel Kanra (Kyoto Station)

Located a few blocks from Kyoto Station, Hotel Kanra is an elevated boutique hotel with Western amenities and Japanese minimalist design. The hotel and rooms are beautiful, and the location makes it a good option for those training to Kyoto for a night or two. Book the best rates here .

Suiran (Arashiyama)

One of the newer luxury hotels to open in the Arashiyama neighborhood, Suiran is a quiet retreat from the city. Well known for its location along the banks of the Katsura River, the Japanese modern design paired with the beautiful surroundings make this standout stay. Book the best rates here .

Where to Eat in Kyoto

Kyoto boasts a diverse array of dining options. The restaurants listed below are just a glimpse of what the city offers. Japanese food’s vast variety means there’s always something new to try and Kyoto’s restaurants beautifully elevate Japanese cuisine. Hidden gems are scattered across the city, even near Kyoto Station. Our fondest memories of Kyoto often revolve around the food. So, whether you’re drawn to Kyoto for its sights or arts, the food will undoubtedly captivate you.

For a more expansive guide to where to eat in Kyoto, read my rundown of the best restaurants in Kyoto !

A simple, 12-seat restaurant serving an incredible menu. A top five in the city. Be sure to book in advance.

Honke Daiichi-Asahi

If you want hole-in-the-wall ramen, this is the spot where you will be the only tourist.

Kaiseki Mizuki

For an upscale kaiseki meal, the restaurant at the Ritz-Carlton is the perfect spot. Fresh ingredients and beautiful plating make this a meal to remember in Kyoto.

A vegan cafe that serves lunch. Reservations required.

Beer Komachi

Nestled in an alley, this joint serves craft local beers with small bites.

Vermillion Café

A great spot for coffee and pastries.

Ichiran Ramen

The iconic vending machine ramen, where individual stalls serve up steaming noodle soup.

Saryo Tsujiri

Come here for matcha everything. Their soft serve is to die for.

Chao Chao Sanjo Kiyamachi

The best gyoza in town where the lines may seem endless, but it’s completely worth it. Try the chicken cheese and their house pork gyoza.

Manmaru no Tsuki

The spot to go to for okonomiyaki.

Omen Noodle House

If you want to try udon, look no further than here.

Wife & Husband

A quaint spot where you can enjoy toast and coffee or take a picnic down to the river.

Coffee Shops

Get caffeinated at:

• %Arabica (multiple locations)
• Drip & Drop Coffee (multiple locations)
• Weekenders Coffee (multiple locations)
• Cafe Bibliotic Hello!
• Clamp Coffee

What to Do in Kyoto

Walk the gion historic district.

Explore the traditional architecture. Be sure to come around 4:30/5 pm for your best chance to see a geisha.

Eat Your Way Through Nishiki Market

If you want to buy a traditional Japanese knife, head to Aritsuga where you can have it engraved.

See Kiyomizu-dera Temple

One of the best views over the city and beautiful gardens.

Grab a Bite in Pontocho Alley

There are plenty of restaurants, just pop your head into one and see if you like the menu!

Walk around in Higashiyama (The Historic District)

A beautiful neighborhood to visit – be sure to stop by Yasaka Shrine.

Stroll the Philosopher’s Path

There are tons of shops, like pottery and paper boutiques, perfect for gift shopping.

Walk Through the Gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine

Visit a historic bamboo grove at arashiyama, meditate in honen-in temple.

Near Philosopher’s Walk, this was our favorite temple as it was the most serene.

Explore Ishibe Alley

A great alley with old wooden houses and tons of shopping.

Sit and Stare at the Zen Gardens at Tofuku-ji Temple

See the iconic kinkaku-ji (golden temple).

Grab soft serve ice cream here with gold flakes!

Save This Post for Later on Pinterest

Ps — are you booking a trip soon use my booking checklist.

These are the sites I use most to book my own trips. Using the links below is a great way to support Bon Traveler’s travel journalism at no extra cost to you . If you need help organizing your itinerary, get my free travel itinerary template here .

1. Book Your Flights

Use Skyscanner to find the best flights. It searches 100s of airlines and websites across the globe to ensure you’re not missing out on any route options or deals.

2. Book Your Accommodations

Use Booking.com for hotels and guest houses. They have the biggest inventory and consistently offer the best rates.

3. Book Your Tours & Experiences

Use Viator or Get Your Guide to find the best tours and experiences. They are my favorite tour search engines. I always check both as their inventory varies depending on the destination.

4. Book Your Car

Use Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com to find the best car rental deals. I recommend comparing rental agency reviews on Google to ensure you are booking with the best company in that destination, as the reviews are often more accurate than the car rental search engines.

5. Don’t Forget Airport Lounge Access

Get a Priority Pass membership to gain access to 1,400+ VIP lounges and airport experiences worldwide. The Priority Pass app is the first thing I check when I have a layover. I’ve been a member for over a decade, and having a comfortable place to relax before and between flights makes air travel so much more enjoyable.

6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

I never leave the country without travel insurance. It provides comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong (ie. illness, injury, theft, and cancelations, etc.). I use it frequently for my travels to stay protected.

My favorite companies that offer the best coverage and rates are:

• World Nomads (best for all-around)
• Safety Wing (best for frequent travelers)

Xx, Jessica

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Kyoto is a true embodiment of Old Japan awash with beautiful vestiges of its past glory. Beyond the futuristic Kyoto Station, modern shopping complexes, and sleek luxury hotels, lies a city with celebrated centuries-old wonders, breathtaking temples, serene Zen gardens, narrow cobbled alleyways, bustling markets and a vibrant nightlife. By effortlessly blending the past and present, Kyoto is poised to be an alluring destination for history buffs and art lovers, gourmands, and outdoor enthusiasts. — Nano Betts

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A Local’s Guide to Kyoto, Japan

By Erin Florio

Masataka Hosoo is the 12th-generation head of his family’s bespoke textile-and-kimono house, HOSOO . His home is the traditional artisanal capital of Japan, Kyoto, and as a local whose family goes back hundreds of years in the city, he knows it maybe better than anyone else on the ground.

This interview is part of The World Made Local , a global collaboration between the seven international editions of Condé Nast Traveler in which 100 people in 100 countries tell us why their home turf should be your next destination.

Tell us about your connection to Kyoto and Japan.

My connection to Kyoto stretches back to the 17th century. As the 12th generation and current CEO of my family business with our roots in traditional kimono and obi weavers in the Nishijin area of Kyoto, I am a part of one of the many cultural traditions that can be found in Kyoto and Japan, such as the Japanese tea ceremony and Japanese art of flower arrangement. As the old capital of Japan, Kyoto was the center of the arts and commerce, where the latest trends and innovations came into bloom. As we continue through the 21st century, I would like to lead HOSOO in the continual pursuit of the answer to the question “What is beauty?” by combining traditional dyeing and weaving Nishijin techniques with the latest technologies.

We’re in Kyoto. Plan our day of eating.

For breakfast, a great place to start the day is Tan , located on a stream side in the Higashiyama district, which serves seasonal Japanese cuisine. For lunch, restaurant Itsutsu serves soba and other Japanese dishes. Before heading to dinner, why not visit the rooftop bar K36 , at the Hotel Seiryu, located near Kiyomizu shrine? You can have a drink with 360-degree views of Kyoto during twilight. Dinner is a culinary experience at Tempura Matsu, located in the Arashiyama district in west Kyoto. It serves traditional Japanese cuisine in courses with the ultimate dish of tempura. A true example of Kyoto culture at its finest, which is why it is a popular place to dine with local chefs.

Masataka Hosoo

What should we buy and where should we shop?

Rokuroku Dou Art & Crafts gallery is a place to appreciate the craftsmanship of contemporary arts and crafts with a main focus on ceramic works. And Gallery Yamahon is a place to go for contemporary arts and crafts of Japan.

Where do we go for art?

Founded in 1984, Dumb Type is an artist collective out of Kyoto. Members are multi-disciplined and blend classic art forms with modern technology.

Any happening neighborhoods to check out?

The Okazaki district is centered on the recently reopened Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art , and its surrounding public spaces have been holding performing-arts shows and weekend markets.

What excites you about Kyoto right now?

Kyoto has a history of more than 1,200 years. It is filled with World Heritage Sites , traditions and customs, cuisine, and craftsmanship that have influenced all corners of Japan. In contrast to its historical past, it continues to be a creative city in the present day, working toward bringing such traditions and craftsmanship to the rest of the world.

And what is your all-time favorite spot that you return to again and again?

Hotel the-Mitsui Kyoto . If you are staying at Hotel the-Mitsui, located on the west side of Nijo Castle, please take full advantage of the thermal-spring spa, which is only open to staying guests.

When you travel, what do you miss most about your home country?

Kelp and bonito dashi.

Follow Masataka Hosoo on Instagram @masataka_hosoo

Recommended

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Suiran, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Kyoto

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3 Days in Kyoto—Here’s Where to Eat, Stay, and Shop

Old-meets-new Japan.

As the bullet train began to slow, the automated voice over the speaker announced (first in Japanese and then in English) that we should be ready to deboard—the train would be stopped for 1 minute, and only 1 minute. We quickly gathered our things, scurried out of the train station and stepped into Kyoto, a city that’s been on my bucket list for a decade. As expected, it turned out to be an experience unlike any other.

Kyoto’s character is impossible to sum up in a paragraph, but here are a few things that make it such a special place. First, as the old capital of Japan, Kyoto was the center of arts, so today it’s brimming with the country’s richest cultural traditions, from the Japanese tea ceremony to the art of flower arranging. The city’s history spans more than 1,200 years, and its cuisine, craftsmanship, and many UNESCO World Heritage Sites have greatly influenced the country as a whole.

Yet this feeling of ancient history is balanced by a modernity—not only is Kyoto an incredibly creative city, it possesses an orderliness that feels light years ahead of the US. Exhibit A: the train station toilets’ high-tech functionality that kept them sparkling clean—and even played nature sound effects if I so desired.

I’ve only scratched the surface of experiencing Kyoto’s many layers, and I have no doubt that each time I return, I’ll understand it in a deeper way. But through the months of planning our trip, I dove headfirst into research and came away with so many recommendations from trusted friends, I wanted to share the travel guide that I created for our group to experience Kyoto for the first time. Read on for what to do to experience Kyoto to its fullest.

What to know about Kyoto

If you’re dreaming of a journey to Japan that’s steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty, then Kyoto should be at the top of your list. Think ancient temples, stunning gardens, and rich traditions around every corner. Here are a few basics you should know if you’re planning a trip:

• Respect Local Customs: Kyoto is deeply rooted in tradition, so it’s essential to be respectful. Bowing is a common greeting, and remember to take off your shoes before entering someone’s home or a temple.
• Dress Modestly: When visiting temples and shrines, dress modestly by covering your shoulders and knees. This shows respect for the sacred places you’re exploring.
• Cash is King: While credit cards are accepted at major hotels and some restaurants, it’s wise to carry cash, as many smaller shops and traditional establishments prefer it.
• Plan in Advance: Kyoto has incredible restaurants and great hotels, from traditional ryokans to modern hotels. However, especially during peak season, it’s essential to make reservations well in advance. There were a handful of restaurants I wanted to try that we weren’t able to get into due to limited seating.
• Don’t Rush: Take your time to soak in the culture and tranquility of Kyoto. Rushing from one attraction to another can lead to missing the true essence of this captivating city, and many of our best experiences came from just wandering around and discovering shops and cafés as we explored.

When to visit Kyoto

• Spring (March to May): This is the iconic cherry blossom season in Kyoto. Just be aware that this is a busy time for tourists, so book your accommodation well in advance.
• Summer (June to August): Summers in Kyoto are can be hot and humid. While it’s the off-peak season for tourists, there is a higher possibility of rain during this time.
• Autumn (September to November): Arguably the most beautiful time to visit Kyoto, autumn brings breathtaking foliage that creates a stunning backdrop for photos.
• Winter (December to February): Winters in Kyoto are relatively mild, and you can enjoy fewer crowds and lower prices. I would love to experience the light displays during the holiday season!

How to get to Kyoto

To get to Kyoto, the closest airport to fly into is Kansai International Airport (KIX). KIX is well-connected to major international destinations and is just a train ride away from Kyoto. Another option is Osaka International Airport (ITM), which is closer to Kyoto but serves mostly domestic flights.

Since we were flying in from the US, we decided to take a direct flight from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Haneda International Airport in Tokyo (HND), then we hopped on the bullet train and went straight to Kyoto.

Once you land, the Haruka Express from KIX, the Limited Express from ITM or the Bullet Train from Tokyo will conveniently transport you to Kyoto Station. The train ride is an amazing part of the journey, offering scenic views of Japan’s countryside.

Where to stay: Best Kyoto Hotels

Kyoto has great options when it comes to hotels, from traditional ryokans to modern hotels. However, especially during peak season, it’s essential to make reservations well in advance as they get booked up quickly.

Four Seasons Kyoto

This was our home base for the first leg of our stay, and I can’t imagine a more warm and welcoming place to experience Kyoto for the first time. Its sleek and modern interior is juxtaposed by the beautiful nature surrounding you, thanks to the floor to ceiling windows that bring the outdoors in. The 800-year-old Shakusui-en pond garden is arguably the focal point of the hotel—walking across it surrounded by cherry blossoms, Japanese maples, and weeping willows was the cortisol-lowering experience I needed to sink into the Kyoto experience. Don’t miss the incredible breakfast served in the restaurant each morning. The only hard part is deciding between the Japanese breakfast or the incredibly delicious pastries.

Hoshinoya Kyoto

For the final two days of our trip, we relocated to Hoshinoya, in Arashiyama which is on the western outskirts of Kyoto. You access the hotel via a boat that takes you along the Oi River—and the 15-minute ride truly transports you to another, more soothing and peaceful world. Surrounded by forest-covered hills, you’re taken to a wood guest pavilions designed in an elegant and traditional Japanese style. Fresh slippers and a linen lounge set await you, and as you step onto the freshly laid tatami matting, you know you’re in for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. During our two days at Hoshinoya, we participated in the most inspiring incense ceremony, dined on traditional Japanese cuisine, relaxed and ate breakfast overlooking the river, and explored the nearby temple and bamboo forests. The entire experience reawakened my senses to the beauty of nature and slowing down.

Ace Hotel Kyoto

On the complete other end of the spectrum is the new Ace Hotel. It’s buzzy, it’s modern, and it’s a good value in a city where it’s a little more challenging to find a decently priced room that still boasts comfort and luxury. It also offers a break from Japanese food, in case taco cravings strike (guilty!) With 3 restaurants, a rooftop bar, and a Stumptown coffee, the Ace feels like a taste of Brooklyn set right in the center of Kyoto.

Where to eat: Best Kyoto Restaurants

Kyoto is widely known to be an incredibly food city. However, I didn’t fully understand the food scene until I experienced it firsthand, so I think that on a return trip, I’ll feel much more confident in knowing where to go. My biggest tip is to book reservations as far in advance as possible! Many of the restaurants are small, and they book up well in advance. Below are the best restaurants where we ate in Kyoto, plus a few that came highly recommended that I didn’t get to experience on this trip.

Tempura Matsu : This celebrated tempura restaurant is located in the Arashiyama district in west Kyoto. It serves traditional Japanese cuisine in courses and is widely thought to serve the best tempura in Kyoto.

OMEN : Our first stop when we got to Kyoto, OMEN is a tiny spot with the best udon noodles of my life.

Monk : My biggest regret was not scoring a reservation at Monk, which is incredibly popular ever since the chef, Yoshihiro Imai’s appearance on Chef’s Table . Monk is a fourteen-seat, omakase-style menu restaurant set on the Philosopher’s Path that focuses on pizza. Next time.

Hitomi : a popular yakitori spot with delicious food and fun vibes—book ahead.

Sushi Matsumoto : We wanted to experience a traditional omakase sushi meal on our first night, and Sushi Matsumoto certainly delivered. Every bite was delicious, and I actually lost track of how many courses had been served. Next time, I might schedule this when we weren’t hit so hard by jetlag to fully appreciate the beauty of each course.

Ce nsi : A Japanese menu with Italian influence, this is a warm and welcoming spot that made it on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list.

Mama Arashiyama: Adam and I spent our last night in Kyoto at this beautiful Italian restaurant in Arashiyama. We loved the way they blended a Japanese approach into our pasta and pizza-filled dinner. A great spot to go if you want elevated food in relaxed, casual surroundings.

Stardust : a vegan café that I heard SO many raves about, but that happened to be closed while we were there.

Tan : I really wanted to go to this farm-to-table restaurant, but sadly they were booked up. Highly recommended from trusted friends.

Cafés and coffeeshops

Bread & Espresso & Arashiyama : the perfect spot to stop for coffee and a pastry or sandwich if you’re in Arashiyama.

Tsujiri Tea House : a green tea store that’s also famous for their matcha ice cream and desserts.

Kishin Kissa – the most aesthetic coffee shop with a small but delicious menu of snacks, sweets, and matcha.

Me Me Me Coffee House : Go for breakfast, try the donuts.

What to do in Kyoto: the sights

Explore historic kyoto.

Ninnenzaka and Sannenzaka Streets are full of quaint shops to explore. Put on your most comfortable shoes and go up the hills of the Higashiyama District. Along the way, see the Kiyomizu Temple at top of hill, and the Kodaiji Temple with beautiful architecture and zen gardens

Visit the temples

Rokuon-Ji Temple (Golden Pavillion) : This breathtaking golden pavilion is a must see.

Daitokuji Temple : There are 22 sub-temples within this monastery complex but only 4 sub-temples are visible to the public.

Ryoanji Temple: This temple has the most famous rock garden in Kyoto.

Our time in Arashiyama was definitely one of my favorite parts of our entire trip. If you’re not staying here, dedicate a full day to see some amazing fall foliage (or cherry blossoming) and see the following:

• Aras hiyama Bamboo Grove
• The  Iwatayama Monkey Park  on the slopes of Arashiyama. Over 170 monkeys live at the park. While the monkeys are wild, they have become accustomed to humans. The park is on a small mountain not far from the Saga-Arashiyama rail station. Visitors can approach and photograph the monkeys. At the summit is a fenced enclosure where visitors can feed the monkeys.
• The “ Moon Crossing Bridge ” (Togetsukyo, notable for its views of cherry blossoms and autumn colors on the slopes of Arashiyama.

Shopping in Kyoto

Kyoto is famous for its craftsmanship, so take some time to peruse Chawanzaka Street (aka teapot lane) full of traditional pottery shops sloping down from the Kiyomizu-dera Temple.

POJ Studio is my favorite shop in Kyoto. From the ceramics to the incense to the DIY Kintsugi kits, I wanted to bring everything home with me. Thankfully, they ship to the US (and I ordered one of their woven tapestries for our living room wall.)

Go to Nishiki Market

The most famous food market in Kyoto, Nishiki Market is definitely worth a visit. Stroll through the seemingly endless stalls to see and taste things you’ve never seen before. Look for Green tea mochi, sashimi skewers, and a few things that might make your stomach turn (ie the grilled sparrow.) We loved the soft serve with manuka honey.

Stroll down Philosopher’s Path

This is a gorgeous stone path along a canal, lined with trees and cute shops and restaurants. The path takes its name from the 20th century philosophy professor Nishida Kitaro, who walked along the path daily while meditating on the problems involved in reconciling Japanese and Western schools of thought. On a future trip, I would spend even more time strolling here, soaking up the beauty and visiting spots along the way.

Get dinner or drinks in Pontocho Alley

Historic and lively at night, lined with great hole-in-the-wall bars. Take a stroll across the banks of Kamogawa River around sunset on your way.

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In Kyoto, Five Hotels to Add to Your Travel Wish List

The city’s newest crop of hotels — from a luxury retreat on a historic estate to a 10-room inn surrounded by forested mountains — were worth the wait.

By John Wogan

The pandemic lockdown in Japan coincided with a flurry of new hotels, especially in Kyoto, where the Park Hyatt, Aman and Four Seasons were joined by a group of independent properties and the first Ace hotel in the archipelago. When the country finally reopened to foreign visitors in October 2022, tourists came flooding back to the city of 800-year-old temples and bamboo forests spoiled for choice of accommodations, at a range of prices. The number continues to grow: Next month, the wellness-focused Six Senses brand will open its first Japanese outpost in the city’s Higashiyama district, home to many of the main tourist sites. Here, a look at five of Kyoto’s newer hotels that are redefining the city’s hospitality scene.

Hotel the Mitsui Kyoto

Andre Fu, the interior designer behind hotels like the Upper House in Hong Kong and Villa La Coste in Aix-en-Provence, France, has infused his signature aesthetic (extravagantly refined, with warm woods and luxurious textures) within the confines of a particularly historic area of Kyoto. The 161-room Mitsui, opened in late 2020, sits across from Nijo Castle, an enormous 17th-century compound and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s in stark contrast to the hotel, whose only timeworn element is an imposing entrance gate — a traditional wood structure over 300 years old and a remnant of the days when the Mitsui family lived on the grounds. Once past the gate, you’ll find a glass-and-steel building, designed by the Japanese architect Akira Kuryu, and landscaping that’s meant to echo the original garden pathways of the Mitsui residence, planted with cherry trees and steppingstones that meander above a glassy pond. The four food and drink venues include the French-Japanese Toki, overseen by the chef Tetsuya Asano (previously of the Ritz Paris), and the Garden Bar, strategically positioned to capture seasonal views, like the spring cherry blossoms and blazing autumnal foliage, out of massive double windows. Rooms from about $1,360 a night.

Ace Hotel Kyoto

The youthful Ace hotel brand might seem like an odd fit in staid Kyoto. But this 213-room property, which opened in 2020, fits seamlessly into the city center thanks to a collaboration between the Japanese architect Kengo Kuma and the California-based design firm Commune. Kuma, who designed the Japan National Stadium (the centerpiece of the 2021 Tokyo Olympics), renovated the imposing 1920s-era, red brick Kyoto Central Telephone Office, while adding an industrial-looking building — sheathed in copper sulfide plating, cedar, glass and concrete — next door. Commune infused the guest rooms with Ace’s signature mix of bright colors and patterns: original dyed prints from the Japanese folk artist Samuro Yunoki sit alongside Tivoli radios, turntables and vintage records. The most popular part of the hotel, though, might be the street-level branch of Stumptown Coffee Roasters — the first in Japan. From about $300 a night.

Arashiyama House Mama

Like Kyoto’s dozens of temple gardens, this 10-room property offers an immediate sense of calm. Its entrance is so discreet, you could easily miss it. (Look for the flowing white cloth curtain with simple black signage, behind which is a garden path leading to a minimalist building made of wood, concrete and glass.) The hotel’s location informs the interior design: Thirty minutes west of central Kyoto, the Arashiyama district is defined by nature, with the Katsura River at its center, and filled with bamboo groves and surrounded by forested mountains. Guest rooms are simply furnished with beds, chairs and tables handmade by both Kyoto artisans and the Danish furniture maker Carl Hansen & Son, and each one has a soaking tub. Rooms from about $540 a night.

The Shinmonzen

The Gion district epitomizes Kyoto for many visitors, with its maze of narrow alleys and ryokans, traditional Japanese inns. It’s here, on a quiet side street among artists’ studios, antique shops and galleries, that the Shinmonzen opened in December 2021. Although it’s a new build, the aim was for the hotel to blend in with the surrounding structures. To accomplish this, the famed Japanese architect Tadao Ando created a wooden facade that replicates a machiya , one of the venerable townhouses found throughout Kyoto. There are only nine guest rooms, but they’re unusually spacious, and all have balconies with views of the Shirakawa River. Each one is an ode to Japanese interior elements, furnished with tatami mats, shoji (panels lined with rice paper) and cypress soaking tubs. And for dining, the chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, whose restaurant empire spans the world, devised a menu blending French, American and Asian influences, sourcing much of the produce from local farms. Rooms from about $1,500 a night.

Maana Kiyomizu

A three-suite hotel near the 16th-century Toyokuni Shrine, Maana Kiyomizu is the latest offering from Maana Homes, the small local hospitality group, which operates two other properties in the city. This one, opened in the winter of 2022, is located in Higashiyama, and is a complex of four machiya that also houses POJ Studio — a boutique that sells artisanal Japanese crafts and home goods. There’s also Kissa Kishin, the second branch of a popular Gion cafe, which serves coffee, matcha and pastries and acts as the unofficial social center for the property. The Japanese architects Uoya Shigenori and Takeshi Ikei renovated the suites to create a minimalist wabi-sabi ideal of city living, where handmade pottery from Shigaraki (a town famous for its ceramics) are the only decorative flourishes to be found. Rooms from about $560 a night.

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A Foodie’s Guide to Kyoto, Japan

I f you’re a true food-lover, you likely have Japan pinned to the top of your travel wish list. Foodies flock to Japan, known as one of the top culinary destinations in the world, to taste the freshest and highest-quality ingredients, sushi and diverse regional cuisines. And while the first Japanese city that usually comes to mind is Tokyo, there’s another spot that’s just a quick bullet train ride away that shouldn’t be missed: Kyoto. 

What makes it so enticing? Kyoto’s food scene places a huge emphasis on seasonality, unique regional specialties, rich culinary traditions and even the opportunity to experience traditional Japanese dining called kaiseki, which consists of multiple courses of precise dishes. Better yet, the city doesn’t just consist of eating: there are temples, lantern-lit alleys, markets, bamboo forests and monkeys to add to your itinerary, too. 

Whether you’re interested in upscale Michelin-starred dining or exploring Kyoto’s street food and local delicacies, this city is guaranteed to take your taste buds on a trip. Keep reading for the ultimate guide on where to eat, drink, sleep and explore while in Kyoto. 

How to Get There 

To get to Kyoto from the United States, you’ll need to fly into one of Japan’s major international airports, such as Narita International Airport (NRT) or Haneda Airport (HND). Several U.S. airports — like Newark (EWR), Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) — fly directly into Tokyo. From there, you can either travel to Kyoto by domestic flight or train. From Tokyo Station, you can transfer to a shinkansen (bullet train) bound for Kyoto. The entire journey takes approximately three hours.

Pro tip: for the true foodie experience, fly with United and upgrade to Polaris Business Class for in-flight sundae carts and free-flowing Champagne. Being that the flight is around 14 hours nonstop, sitting in Polaris is a game-changer, allowing you to rest peacefully and be ready to explore as soon as you hop off the plane. 

Where to Eat and Drink 

Local Delicacies: Nishiki Market

No trip to Kyoto is complete without wandering through the bustling Nishiki Market . The open-air market opened 400 years ago, but today it continues to thrive for locals and visitors seeking a taste of the community’s authentic food culture. Being that there are hundreds of stalls and shops, I spent hours at this market, trying everything from Japanese sweets, to Kobe beef skewers, to noodles. Some of the best foods to try at Nishiki Market include tako tamago (small baby octopus), mochi, goma dango (sesame dumplings), satsuma age (fish cakes), senbei (seasoned rice crackers) and tamagoyaki (Japanese omelette). 

Omakase : Sushi Gion Matsudaya

My favorite dining experience during my entire trip to Japan was at Sushi Gion Matsudaya , a six-seat, reservation-only sushi restaurant tucked in a quiet alley in Gion. While it’s on the expensive side (around $200 per person), it’s a Michelin-star establishment where Chef Matsudaya personally handpicks fresh and seasonal ingredients to create that day’s menu. The intimate and exclusive atmosphere, mixed with melt-in-your-mouth sushi and sake pairings, is well worth the splurge.

Tempura: Komefuku Shijo Karasuma

Fresh tempura in Japan is an absolute must. For the best in town, grab a seat at Komefuku Shijo Karasuma (walk-ins or reservations welcome) where you can feast on tempura and seafood dishes in a cozy, wood-lined izakaya with both counter and table seating. Once you’ve sipped on some sake, order the assortment of tempura, which includes shrimp, crab, sweet potato and more. Make sure to order a few pieces of the sushi, too. 

Ramen: Kyo Tsukemen Tsurukame

Right around the corner from the Nishiki Market, we stumbled upon Kyo Tsuke-men Tsurukame , a tiny hole-in-the-wall ramen shop with only eight seats and happy customers walking out, so naturally we waited in line. I ordered the tanten miso and chili oil ramen dish and it was, for lack of a less dramatic term, life-changing. The flavors were rich and the broth was thick. The chef adds ingredients and toppings you won’t find in typical noodle dishes, making it a unique ramen experience. It’s a hidden gem that will leave you full and wanting more.

Gyoza: MOTOÏ

Every culture has their own version of a dumpling, and in Japan it’s the gyoza. If you’re craving them, MOTOÏ is a restaurant that should be on your list. Run by a French-trained chef, MOTOÏ infuses French and Kyoto cuisine in a trendy setting. We walked in without a reservation and sat right at the bar. The restaurant is known for its signature papa gyoza, made with shrimp, ginger and coriander. 

Wagyu Sandwich: Hafuu

You’ll be eating a lot of seafood and sushi while in Kyoto, so a much-needed break for meat may be desired. Gyukatsusando is a Wagyu katsu sandwich that’s popular in the region, and the best place to get it with the highest-quality meat is Hafuu . Hafuu has plenty of ways to indulge in their infamous beef, but the most popular is the sandwiches, which come with a special sauce and cabbage. Visitors can even take them to-go and eat outside overlooking the Imperial Palace. For more affordable options, enjoy Hafuu lunch time.

Okonomiyaki: Yasubei

In Pontocho district, you’ll find Yasubei , a family-run restaurant serving okonomiyaki, a traditional teppanyaki dish; it’s essentially a savory pancake cooked on a teppan grill in front of you. We were able to add ingredients like cabbage, meat or seafood, and garnishes like okonomiyaki sauce, aonori seaweed flakes, katsuobushi bonito flakes, Japanese-style mayonnaise and pickled ginger. You’ll likely have to wait in line, so prepare for that.

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Plus, where to go.

Soba Noodles: Arashiyama Yoshimura

For stunning riverside views combined with fresh noodle dishes, Arashiyama Yoshimura is a must-try traditional soba house. I was fortunate enough to score a seat directly next to the window, so I slurped down noodles while overlooking the river and mountains. The restaurant serves fresh hand-made buckwheat soba noodles (both hot and cold) and seasonal dishes with simple and quick service. Be ready to wait outside, as they do not take reservations. 

Fluffy Souffle Pancakes: A Happy Pancake 

Stop by A Happy Pancake for an over-the-top brunch filled with the fluffiest pancakes you’ll ever eat. The menu is filled with both sweet and savory pancake options, including strawberry shortcake, matcha, tea milk and hojicha tiramisu. They taste like light clouds and were the perfect start to the day.

Pro tip: The earlier you get there (like before they open), the less likely you’ll have to wait in like. 

Drinks: Bees Knees 

Consistently named as one of Asia’s 50 Best Bars, Bee’s Knees in the Kiyamachi district gives prohibition-era speakeasy vibes. It’s hard to spot, as you have to find the yellow door with a sign for “The Book Store.” But as soon as you step inside, ‘90s hip-hop music is bumping and the drinks are flowing. There’s a solid list of cocktails to choose from, including Negronis with hoji tea and coffee bitters, and the Ninja Smashes with yuzu, passion fruit, lemon, shiso leaf and sparkling sake. 

Where to Stay

For Authentic Japanese Hospitality: HOSHINOYA Kyoto 

Located in Arashiyama, HOSHINOYA Kyoto is a remote, modern, ryokan-style retreat along the Katsura River that delivers pure serenity. The luxury five-star property is completely secluded from the hustle and bustle of the city, so much so that you take a boat to get there. Traditional rooms are designed with tatami floors, futons and chabudai dining tables, some with lounges and balconies. The best part? It’s perfect for foodies because of the chef’s high-end cuisine and unique floating tea room. The highlights of my stay at HOSHINOYA Kyoto were the romantic Hisui boat ride where we drank tea while taking in the mesmerizing views, and waking up to a hearty hot-pot in-room breakfast with fresh, seasonal vegetables cooked in hot broth. 

For Wellness-Focused Luxury: Garrya Nijo Castle Kyoto

Garrya Nijo Castle Kyoto embodies a fresh approach to wellbeing through simplistic design and amenities that recharge. The 25-room boutique hotel opened in June 2022 and is located right in front of Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site first built in 1603 during the Tokugawa Shogunate. The hotel’s restaurant, Singular, blends an innovative approach with gastronomy inspired by classic French techniques. The chef personally sources ingredients directly from producers in Kyoto and all over Japan. The hotel offers personalized experiences like Ayurvedic menus, forest meditation, in-room sound baths, self-training fitness and yoga programs through in-room digital tablets, and a unique pillow menu with health benefits. 

All of that eating must be balanced out with experiencing the city’s best sites and neighborhoods. Visiting Kyoto’s Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is an otherworldly experience, where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of towering bamboo groves. A few steps away from the forest, visitors love the Monkey Park Iwatayama where you can interact, feed and observe monkeys in their natural habitat.

You can’t miss the temples scattered around the entire city, but especially the five-story Yasaka Pagoda, Hokan-Ji , Adashino Nenbutsuji and Kiyomizu-dera . Spend a few hours walking through the Fushimi Inari Shrine , which is a popular photo op with thousands of vermilion torii gates. After walking through the entire trail, you will find yourself in the forest of the sacred Mount Inari. 

Lastly, two districts you’ll want to visit are the Pontocho Alley at night, filled with restaurants in the lantern-lit Gion alleys (you may even pass a Geisha) and the Gion Higashiyama ward during the day, home to two of Kyoto’s most attractive streets. Sannen-zaka and Ninen-zaka are a pair of gently sloping lanes with classic architecture, shops and temples. 

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Near Osaka and Kyoto! 15 Hidden Gems to Visit during Golden Week

Many people in Japan will enjoy a 10-day vacation during Golden Week 2024, from late April to early May. This article introduces 15 lesser-known locations in the Kansai area (Osaka, Kyoto, Hyogo, and Shiga) that should not be very crowded during the holiday!

ISHIGAKI KUMIKO

A Vacation Away from Urban Areas

Golden Week is a string of public holidays at the beginning of May when many people in Japan travel. This often leads to traffic jams and overcrowding of famous destinations.

The April 27 - May 6 interval in 2024 is considered Golden Week. We introduce hidden gems near Osaka and Kyoto that are less likely to become overcrowded.

15 Hidden Gems in the Kansai Region

1. Osaka: Expo ’70 Commemorative Park 2. Osaka: Nakanoshima and Kitahama 3. Osaka: Settsukyo Gorge 4. Osaka: Tondabayashi Jinaimachi 5. Kyoto: Saihoji Temple 6. Kyoto City Kyocera Museum of Art 7. Kyoto: Murin-an Garden and the Keage Incline 8. Nara Palace Site Historical Park 9. Hyogo: Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum 10. Hyogo: Takeno Beach 11. Hyogo: Fukuchiyama Line Haisenjiki Walking Route 12. Hyogo: The Fukusumi District in Tamba-Sasayama 13. Hyogo: Himeji and Mt. Shosha 14. Hyogo: Wind Museum 15. Shiga: Mt. Ibuki (Motoring Route)

1. Osaka: Expo ’70 Commemorative Park

Photo by Pixta

The Expo ’70 Commemorative Park was built on the site of the Osaka Expo held in 1970.

While the park is known for the Tower of the Sun , a monument created by artist Taro Okamoto, it is located in Suita City, which neighbors Osaka City and is less crowded.

Visitors can enter the tower (*) starting in 2018. Taro Okamoto's works are displayed inside and should not be missed.

The National Museum of Ethnology, also on the grounds, is another facility worth visiting. The museum has a collection of over 345,000 items, including native dresses from all over the world. Expo City, located next to the park, also offers shopping and entertainment.

*A reservation must be made to enter the tower one day before your visit.

Tower of the Sun Address: Osaka, Suita, Senri Banpaku Koen 1-1 Admission: 930 yen (Adults) Official Website: https://taiyounotou-expo70.jp/en/

National Museum of Ethnology Address: Osaka, Suita, Senri Banpaku Koen 10-1 Admission: 580 yen (Adults) Official Website: https://www.minpaku.ac.jp/en

2. Osaka: Nakanoshima and Kitahama

Nakanoshima and Kitahama , districts located on both sides of the Tosabori River, are known as quiet, elegant areas.

Nakanoshima Children's Forest (*1) is a library designed by Tadao Ando. The facility has a collection of about 20,000 volumes, suitable for people of all ages.

Nakanoshima Museum of Art, Osaka (*2), which opened in 2022, is a newcomer to the Osaka art scene. Their collection, a total of over 6,000 items, includes domestic and international modern artwork, furniture, and posters.

*1: As admission is limited, it would be wise to make an online reservation. *2: Tickets can be purchased online.

Nakanoshima Children'sForest Address: Osaka, Osaka, Kita, Nakanoshima 1‐1‐28 Admission: Free Official Website: https://kodomohonnomori.osaka/en/

Umeda / Shinsaibashi / Namba

3. Osaka: Settsukyo Gorge

Settsukyo Gorge is a scenic spot in Takatsuki City, which borders Osaka City. It is located at the upper reaches of the Akuta River, which runs through Takatsuki from north to south. The spot is a part of Settsukyo Park, which is 42.65 hectares in size.

Visitors can have fun in the shallows or stroll the trekking route, enjoying views of boulders called Gyoja-iwa and Hachijo-iwa, along with a waterfall.

It is a 15-minute drive from Takatsuki-shi Station to the park. The area, which is easily accessible from Osaka City, is an oasis.

Settsukyo Park Address: Osaka, Takatsuki, Hara Admission: Free Official Website: https://www.takatsuki-kankou.org/settsukyo/en/ (Takatsuki City Tourist Association)

4. Tondabayashi Jinaimachi

The Jinaimachi area in Tondabayashi City is designated as the only traditional building preservation district in Osaka Prefecture. This area, including Koshoji Betsuin Temple, is an important cultural property that dates back to the Sengoku Period.

The remaining buildings were mostly constructed from the Edo to early Showa periods. Additionally, the Japanese government has designated the former Sugiyama residence as an important cultural property.

Visitors will feel as if they have slipped back in time. Some buildings have even been renovated into cafes, restaurants, and general shops.

Tondabayashi Jinaimachi Address: Osaka, Tondabayashi, Tondabayashi Official Website: https://jinaimachi.net/

5. Kyoto: Saihoji Temple

Kyoto's Saihoji Temple was founded during the Nara Period. With about 120 moss varieties covering the premises, it is also known as Koke-dera, a moss temple.

The best season to view the natural green carpet is early summer. Saihoji Temple is also designated as a World Heritage site.

To preserve the grounds, a visit reservation (*) is required. Participants can view the garden after offering prayers and hand-copying sutras.

*: Reservations can be made online or by using a double postcard. Please note that all participants must be at least 13 years old during the visit.

Saihoji Temple Address: Kyoto, Kyoto, Nishikyo, Matsuo-Jingatani 56 Admission: 4,000 yen and up Official Website: https://saihoji-kokedera.com/en/

6. Kyoto City Kyocera Museum of Art

Kyoto City Kyocera Museum of Art , which re-opened after renovations in 2020, is one of the famous art facilities in Kyoto. Along with Heian Jingu Shrine and Kyoto City Zoo, it is located inside Okazaki Park.

The museum has become a popular photo spot with a mix of retro and modern styles. The central hall is also open to the public.

A museum shop, which handles items related to exhibitions and Kyoto, is located inside, along with a stylish cafe.

*Tickets can be purchased online.

Kyoto City Kyocera Museum of Art Address: Kyoto, Kyoto, Sakyo, Okazaki-Enshoji 124 Admission: The fee varies according to each exhibition. There is no admission for the non-exhibition spaces. Official Website: https://kyotocity-kyocera.museum/

7. Kyoto: Murin-an Garden and the Keage Incline

From Nanzenji Temple, it is a 10-minute walk to Murin-an (*), built in 1894 as a villa for Yamagata Aritomo, a politician at the time. It consists of a main house, a Western-style house, a tearoom, and a garden. The Japanese-style garden, regarded as a masterpiece, should not be missed. The view of the garden from the cafe is truly breathtaking.

Keage Incline, known as a spot to view cherry blossoms, is located nearby. The remains of an incline railway, which was used to transport vessels, have an elegant ambiance. It should be less crowded during Golden Week than cherry blossom season.

*A reservation is required for a visit. It can be made online 30 days before your preferred date.

Murin-an Garden Address: Kyoto, Kyoto, Sakyo, Nanzenji-Kusagawa 31 Admission is 900 yen during Golden Week. There is a discount for Kyoto citizens over 70 years old. Official Website: https://murin-an.jp/en/

Keage Incline Address: Kyoto, Kyoto, Higashiyama, Higashi-Komonoza 339 Admission: Free Official Website: https://biwakososui.city.kyoto.lg.jp/en/place/detail/23

8. Nara Palace Site Historical Park

The Nara Palace Site Historical Park was built on the site of Heijo-kyo, the Japanese capital in the Nara Period (710-784).

The size of the park, which is also a World Heritage site, is about 132 hectares or equal to 28 Tokyo Domes. Visitors should feel that the premises are less crowded, even during peak season.

A project to reconstruct the buildings from 1,300 years ago is underway, and visitors can view the interior of Daigoku-den and Suzaku-mon.

The grounds also include the Heijokyu Izanaikan Museum, which displays artifacts excavated at the site, and sightseeing facilities, where a gift shop is housed.

Nara Palace Site Historical Park Address: Nara, Nara, Nijo-Oji, Minami 3‐5‐1 Admission: Free Official Website: https://www.heijo-park.jp/en/

9. Hyogo: Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum

10. Hyogo: Takeno Beach

Takeno Beach , located in the northern area of Hyogo Prefecture, is famous for its stunning kilometer-long white sands and emerald-green waters.

While sea bathers flock to the beach in summer, it should not be so packed with people during Golden Week. That's because this public holiday does not coincide with the opening of the swimming season.

Visitors can enjoy marine activities such as sea kayaking, canoeing, or a pleasure boat cruise while enjoying the magnificent scenery.

It is a two-hour drive to this beach from Kobe or Osaka. While the access may not be easy, it will be worth visiting!

Takeno Beach Address: Hyogo, Toyo-oka, Takeno, Takeno Official Website: http://www.takeno-kanko.com/en/ (Takeno Tourism Association)

11. Hyogo: Fukuchiyama Line Haisenjiki Walking Route

The Fukuchiyama Line Haisenjiki Walking Route is a trekking route along the discontinued area of the JR Fukuchiyama Line, which used to be serviced by steam locomotives.

The route follows the ravine of the Muko River. It is about 4.7 kilometers and mostly flat, making it fit for first-time hikers.

Tunnels and bridges used in the old days remain along the route.

JR Namaze Station, the nearest station, is located next to Takarazuka Station. Takedao Onsen (hot spring) is also located nearby, so it might be fun to bathe after the trek.

Since there are few parking lots in this area, hikers are encouraged to use public transportation. A visit in the early hours is recommended for those who wish to avoid crowds.

Fukuchiyama Line Haisenjiki Walking Route Address: Hyogo, Nishinomiya, Shiose Admission: Free Official Website: https://nishinomiya-kanko.jp/fukuchiyamasen_haisenjiki2019/ (Nishinomiya Tourism Association)

12. Hyogo: Fukusumi in Tamba-Sasayama

Tamba-Sasayama , a city located along the border of Hyogo and Kyoto, prospered as a transportation hub in the old days.

While Sasayama Castle is a popular sightseeing spot, our recommendation is the Fukusumi District, which is about 20 minutes away by car from the castle.

In 2012, the Japanese government designated the area as a traditional buildings preservation district. The number of cafes and inns renovated from old buildings is steadily growing.

The townscape and the idyllic fields offer a glimpse of days past. Visitors will feel like they have come home.

Fukusumi District in Tamba-Sasayama Address: Hyogo, Tamba-Sasayama, Fukusumi Admission: Free Official Website: https://www.city.tambasasayama.lg.jp/soshikikarasagasu/bunkazaika/denken/5798.html

13. Hyogo: Himeji and Mt. Shosha

Although Himeji may be known for Himeji Castle , its World Heritage castle, it is also home to Mt. Shosha, a spot to fully enjoy nature.

Engyoji, a temple of the Tendai sect, is located on the mountain, which has been revered as a holy place for a long time. It is also a popular spot to enjoy the autumn foliage. Compared to autumn, the area does not attract a crowd in May. Therefore, visitors should enjoy hiking in a relatively quiet environment.

The Nozato District in Himeji, with its nostalgic townscape, is a sightseeing spot that is not yet well-known. There are some eateries in the area, so it might be fun to visit.

At the Shinki Bus Information Center, near Himeji Station, visitors can purchase a special ticket for a bus ticket (round-trip) to Mt. Shosha and a Mt. Shosha Ropeway ticket (round-trip).

Himeji / Kanzaki

14. Hyogo: Wind Museum

The Wind Museum is a facility where you can enjoy artwork in the open air. The museum displays the works of Susumu Shingu, an artist creating kinetic sculptures.

It is located in Arima-Fuji Park in Sanda City, Hyogo, and the lawn-covered ground is perfect for a picnic. Visitors can enjoy cycling and hiking at the park, surrounded by woodlands and a lake.

From Kobe City, it takes an hour by car to the park, so the facility should not be bustling with tourists.

Wind Museum Address: Hyogo, Sanda, Ninji 968 Admission: Free Official Website: http://windmuseum.jp/

15. Shiga: Mt. Ibuki (Motoring Route)

Motoring enthusiasts should visit Mt. Ibuki , one of the 100 Famous Japanese Mountains. From Ibukiyama Driveway, a motoring route that reaches the 9th station of Mt. Ibuki, visitors can enjoy the view of Lake Biwa and the northern Alps.

During Golden Week, the route spanning 17 kilometers will be decorated with lush green leaves.

Travelers can take a break at Sky Terrace Ibukiyama, located 1,260 meters above sea level.

Mt. Ibuki Address: Shiga, Maibara, Ueno Admission: 3,140 yen (Ibukiyama Driveway toll for regular-sized cars) Official Website: https://www.ibukiyama-driveway.jp/

Enjoy Your Leisurely Break

While some of the places mentioned above are located far from urban areas or cannot be easily accessed by train, Golden Week might be an ideal time to visit.

Lives in Tokyo. My hobbies are traveling and appreciating art. I have an eye for delicious food, and after living in Beijing, China for five years, I discovered the deliciousness of hot pot.

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