travel 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.

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There are several must-see destinations in Japan within easy reach of Kyoto. They all make great additions to any Kyoto itinerary. These concise guides provide details about what to see and do.

Tokyo Travel Guide

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Kanazawa Travel Guide

Hiroshima And Miyajima

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Explore Kyoto On Your Laptop, Smartphone And Tablet

InsideKyoto.com is designed to read on all your devices

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

Kyoto Vacation Checklist

• For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Kyoto guide
• Check Kyoto accommodation availability on Booking.com and Agoda.com - often you can book with no upfront payment and free cancellation
• You can buy shinkansen (bullet train) tickets online from Klook - popular routes include Tokyo to Kyoto , Kyoto to Osaka and Kyoto to Tokyo
• Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Kyoto
• See my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
• 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 Welcome Suica card makes travelling around Kyoto easy – here's how
• World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world

Kyoto District Map

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

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

Top attractions in kyoto.

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Fushimi Inari Taisha

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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Kyoto Bucket List: 18 Amazing Things to Do in Kyoto, Japan

Julie Last updated: May 2, 2024 Japan 7 Comments

Kyoto is the cultural heart of Japan. Visiting the shrines and temples, with their perfectly landscaped gardens and views over the city, top the list for most visitors to Kyoto. But there are also bamboo groves and small neighborhoods to explore, food markets and shopping streets to visit, and some very cool day trips that you can take. The list of things to do in Kyoto is long. So long, in fact, that it would take you weeks to thoroughly explore this extraordinary city.

In this post, we narrow down the long list of things to do in Kyoto to 18 unforgettable experiences. If this is your first time in Kyoto, this is a great starting point for having the best holiday here.

Table of Contents

Interesting Facts about Kyoto

For over 1,000 years Kyoto was the capital city of Japan. Tokyo took over this title in 1868.

Kyoto is one of the best-preserved cities in Japan. In World War II, it escaped bombing at the intervention of Secretary of War Henry Stimson, and has remained Japan’s cultural center.

Kyoto has one of the world’s largest collections of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. There are 17 UNESCO Sites, several of which make our list of the best things to do in Kyoto.

Kyoto has a massive network of trains and subways. Trying to get from one place to another can be mind-boggling at first, as they are not all operated by the same company. Occasionally, you will have to purchase more than one ticket to travel from point A to point B.

Kyoto is unlike many other cities in the world, where the top sights are clustered in the historic city center. In Kyoto, the shrines and temples sit on the outskirts of the city, on the lush hillsides and mountains that surround the city. When you visit these temples, the experience is more than just visiting and photographing the main hall or pavilion. Strolling the paths and wandering through the tranquil gardens is the best part of the experience, in my opinion.

Temples vs. Shrines

Kyoto is filled with temples and shrines. So, how do you know the difference between the two?

Shinto and Buddhism are Japan’s two major religions. The temples are Buddhist and the shrines are Shinto.

There are over 1600 Buddhist temples in Kyoto. At the temples, you will see a Buddha statue, burning incense, and beautiful buildings surrounded by manicured gardens.

Shrines are characterized by bright red torii gates. You know you are entering a Shinto shrine when you enter through a bright red gate. There are over 400 Shinto shrines in Kyoto.

Map of Things to Do in Kyoto

How to Use This Map: Click the icons on the map to get more information about each point of interest. Click the star next to the title of the map to add this map to your Google Maps account. To view it on your phone or computer, open Google Maps, click the menu button, go to “Your Places,” click Maps, and you will see this map on your list.

Best Things to Do in Kyoto

1. fushimi inari taisha.

The Fushimi Inari Shrine is one of the most important and iconic shrines in Kyoto. Fushimi Inari honors the Shinto god of rice.

There are thousands of torii here, each donated by a company giving thanks for its prosperity and hopes for a prosperous future. The name of each company is labeled on the torii.

For us, it was magical, walking through these tunnels of torii. Walking through thousands of these gates, in the quiet forests on the outskirts of Kyoto, felt peaceful and even a little bit mysterious.

Fushimi Inari Taisha | Best Things to Do in Kyoto

Torri gates at Fushi Inari Taisha | Best Things to Do in Kyoto

As you climb up the hillside, you will see many sub-shrines. You will also frequently see the fox, the messenger of the Inari shrine.

The farther you walk up the hillside, the fewer people you will see. You can actually turn this walk into a short hike to the summit of Mt. Inari-san. This takes about 3 hours and you can learn more here.

Getting Here: Inari Station on the JR Nara Line; Fushimi-Inari Station on the Keihan Line

2. Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Kiyomizu-dera Temple, the “Pure Water Temple,” is one of Kyoto’s most popular temples to visit. It feels more touristy and more commercial than many other shrines and temples in town, but even so, it’s worth a visit.

This huge complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

From the Kiyomizu stage of the Main Hall (a large, wooden balcony), enjoy gorgeous views over the city of Kyoto. In autumn, the view is spectacular when the maples turn brilliant shades of yellow, orange, and red.

Kiyomizu Stage | Best Things to Do in Kyoto

At the base of the main hall is the Otowa waterfall. Using ladles, visitors can drink water from the three streams. Each of these streams can help fulfill a wish: longevity, good luck in love, or success in school. Drinking from one or two of these streams is acceptable, but never drink from all three.

Other places to visit are the Jishu Shrine, Koyasu Pagoda, and Okunoin Hall. There are small shops selling good luck charms for love, wealth, happiness, and good health.

Koyasu Pagoda | Best Things to Do in Kyoto

Getting Here: Take the Keihan Railway Line to Kiyomizu-Gojo and it is a 20 minute walk to the temple. Or, take bus 100 or 206 to Gojo-zaka or Kiyomizu-michi stop and it is a 10-minute walk to the temple.

3. Stroll through the Higashiyama District

This historic district is a maze of narrow, paved streets and traditional wooden buildings. The Higashiyama District is the perfect place to visit if you like wandering picturesque streets, shopping, and hopping from café to café. This part of Kyoto feels more traditional than some of the other districts in the city.

Kiyomizu-dera Temple, the Yasaka Shrine, the Yasaka Pagoda, and Kodai-ji Temple are all found in the Higashiyama District. Strolling these narrow lanes is a great way to connect Kiyomizu-dera Temple with the Yasaka Shrine and Kodaiji Temple, if these are also on your list to visit. In our map above, we provide a walking route that connects Kiyomizu-dera Temple with the Yasaka Pagoda, Kodai-ji Temple, and the Yasaka Shrine, and ends in Gion.

Gion, which I talk about next, is also located in the Higashiyama District.

4. Wander through Gion

Gion is a small neighborhood in the Higashiyama District. These narrow lanes are lined with teahouses, as well as bars, clubs, and pachinko parlors. If you stroll the streets in the evening, there is a chance that you might spot a geisha as she enters one of the teahouses.

Gion | Best Things to Do in Kyoto

On your visit here, don’t miss Hanami-koji, one of the most famous streets in Gion.

Hanami-koji | Best Things to Do in Kyoto

Note: In response to the recent explosion in tourist levels in Kyoto, a new rule has been put into effect. Photography on the private streets in Gion is no longer allowed. Please be respectful of the geisha and do not act like a crazy paparazzi in order to photograph them.

5. Visit Kodai-ji Temple

Kodai-ji Temple is located in the Higashiyama district. This temple, which dates back to 1606, is a temple dedicated to Zen Buddhism. Walk the path through the rock garden, follow it up to the tea houses and mausoleum, and circle back to the main complex through the bamboo grove.

Our favorite experience was sitting on the tatami mats inside of the main temple and looking out over the gardens.

Bamboo grove at Todai-ji Temple | Best Things to Do in Kyoto

Getting Here: Gion-Shijo is the closest metro station to the temple (1 km walk, about 12 minutes). Many people visit Kodai-ji Temple when strolling through the Higashiyama district.

6. Photograph Yasaka Pagoda

Kyoto has a long list of stunning photography locations and the Yasaka Pagoda is one of our favorites. Located in southern Higashiyama, this pagoda towers over the twisting lanes and traditional wooden houses. We got extremely lucky with our timing, as there was a photography session with a young Japanese couple during our visit.

If you want this same photo, take a stroll down Yasaka Kamimachi. I took this photo here: 34°59’53.4″N 135°46’48.1″E

7. See the Cherry Blossoms at Maruyama Park

In April, Maruyama Park is the place to see the cherry blossoms. The centerpiece of the park is the large weeping cherry tree which is lit up at night. To get here, you will enter the park through the Yasaka Shrine.

8. Enjoy the Fall Colors at Eikan-do Temple

Eikan-do Temple, which was once called Zenrin-ji Temple, is known for being one of the best spots to see the fall colors in Kyoto.

This temple dates back to 853. Since that time, several halls and chambers have been added to the temple complex. Inside of Amida Hall you can see the unusual statue of the Amida Buddha, which looks over its shoulder rather than straight ahead.

Getting Here: Eikan-do Temple is located in northeast Kyoto. Keage Station is the closest metro stop (1 km, 15 minute walk). Nanzenji-Eikando-michi is the closest bus stop (5 minute walk). Or, take a taxi.

9. Take a Stroll on the Philosopher’s Path

The Philosopher’s Path is stone path that follows beside a canal. It is lined with cherry trees and during the spring months, this is one of the most popular places to visit in Kyoto, in order to see the blooms.

The Philosopher’s Path starts near Ginkaku-ji Temple. It is about 2 kilometers long, ending in Nanzen-ji neighborhood.

You can walk part or all of the path. Crowds are at their largest midday, especially when the cherry trees are blooming.

10. Visit Ginkaku-ji Temple (Silver Pavilion)

Ginkaku-ji Temple is a Zen temple in northeast Kyoto. The main temple is an understated wooden building, but its setting amongst the trees and gardens is what makes this temple special.

Ginkaku-ji | Best Things to Do in Kyoto

In front of the pavilion is the “Sea of Silver Sand,” a large sand garden that features a giant cone of sand that resembles Mount Fuji. This is a beautiful place to go for a stroll, with paths that meander through the gardens, over small bridges, and up to a viewpoint over the pavilion.

There are several theories as to why it is called the Silver Pavilion. One theory is that it was to be covered in silver once construction was completed, but shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa died before the temple was constructed. On a clear night, the moonlight hitting the temple creates a silver reflection, so this another possible origin of the name.

Getting Here: Take a stroll on the Philosopher’s Path, starting in the Eikan-do Temple and ending at Ginkaku-ji Temple (2 km, 30 minute walk).

11. Feed the Monkeys at Iwatayama Monkey Park

There are several different reasons why you should visit Arashiyama Monkey Park. Sure, feeding the monkeys is fun, especially if you are visiting Kyoto with kids, but the views from the park are beautiful. Not only do you have great views over the city, but if you look to the northwest, all you see are green mountains stretching off in the distance.

View over Kyoto | Best Things to Do in Kyoto

Another view from the Monkey Park | Best Things to Do in Kyoto

To get to the Monkey Park, it is a 20 to 30 minute hike to the top of Mount Arashiyama. Over 120 Japanese macaque monkeys live here. They are wild but you can feed them, if you follow several rules. Don’t look the monkeys in the eye, do not touch them, and only feed them when you are inside of the building.

Once inside the building, purchase your monkey food and you can feed them once you are behind the metal grates.

We really enjoyed this experience, despite its rather remote location. But maybe that is exactly why we liked it so much. This is a nice break from visiting the temples and shrines, and this rural area of Kyoto is beautiful. Even if you have no plans to feed the monkeys, I still think it is worth it to journey out this way.

Plus, you can add this visit on to the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and Tenryu-ji Temple.

Getting Here: The closest metro stop is the Hankyu Arashiyama station (5 minute walk). It is a 15-minute walk from the JR Arashiyama station. This is a very nice walk, as you get to cross the Oi River to get to the park entrance.

Oi River | Best Things to Do in Kyoto

12. Visit Tenryu-ji Temple

This temple is located just a short walk from the Monkey Park (about 1 km, 10 to 15 minutes).

This temple was founded in 1339 by shogun Ashikaga Takauji to venerate Gautama Buddha. It was also dedicated to Emperor Go-Daigo, who had died the year after Ashikaga became shogun.

Most of the buildings and halls are relatively new. They date back to the late 1800’s and early 1900’s, having been destroyed by fires or wars. The centerpiece of this complex is the large pond that is surrounded by manicured gardens, with the Arashiyama Mountains forming the backdrop.

Getting Here: It is five minute walk from the JR Saga-Arashiyama station.

13. Visit the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

You have no doubt seen photos of the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove…a long, snaking pathway that is lined with hundreds of bamboo trees.

This is one of the most visited sights in Kyoto. So, expect to share it with many, many other people.

The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is often described as being a mystical, serene experience. Yes, that can be true, but you have to get your timing right. Midday this short path can be swarmed with visitors, which is hardly a Zen experience.

We planned our visit for the early morning and it paid off (we were here at 9 am in July). We were one of only a few groups of visitors. Even so, it lacked the mystical nature we read so much about before our visit.

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove | Best Things to Do in Kyoto

The pathway is relatively short, about 500 meters long, so it only takes a few minutes to walk the entire distance. However, it can take much longer, depending on how often you stop and take photos.

In my opinion, the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is worth visiting, just try to go early so you can avoid the crowds.

14. Kinkaku-ji Temple (the Golden Pavilion)

Without a doubt, a visit to Kinkaku-ji Temple is one of the best things to do in Kyoto.

Kinkaku-ji | Best Things to Do in Kyoto

This brilliant golden temple attracts huge numbers of tourists and photographers. The prime spot to take a photo is directly across the Kyoko-chi Pond from the pavilion, which will be one of the first places that you visit when touring the temple complex. This can be a very busy spot midday.

The top two levels of the pavilion are covered with pure gold leaf. Ginkaku-ji, the Silver Pavilion, was modeled after this temple.

Interesting Fact: The pavilion that you see today dates back to 1955. In 1950, a young monk set fire to the pavilion and then attempted suicide. The pavilion was rebuilt in 1955.

Getting Here: Kinkaku-ji is located in northern Kyoto. The closest metro stop is Kita-Oji (3 km, 35 minute walk). We got here by taxi and had no problems catching another taxi once we finished our visit.

15. Nijo Castle

Did you know that you can tour an actual castle in downtown Kyoto?

Nijo Castle is over 400 years old. With stone walls, a five story castle keep, and a moat, this castle seems almost out of place with its location near the city center.

Nijo Castle | Best Things to Do in Kyoto

It was built in 1603 as a residence for Tokugawa lesayu, the founder and first shogun of the Tokugawa shogunate of Japan. Later, it was used as a palace and then eventually it was turned over to the city and opened as a historic site. It became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994.

What is a Shogun? A shogun is a military dictator. The title of “shogun” was granted by the Emperor. The shogun was the ruler of the country and the Emperor was a figurehead. This period of military dictators spanned from 1185 to 1868. In 1868, power was returned to the Emperor.

On a visit to Nijo Castle, you can stroll through the gardens, rent an audio guide to learn more about the history of the castle, and, the best part, visit Ninomaru Palace. This is ancient Japan as I imagined it…large, open rooms, tatami mats covering the floors, and screens painted with dragons, Japanese maples, and evergreen trees.

Getting Here: Nijojo-mae station is the closest station to Nijo Castle.

16. Nishiki Market

Nishiki Market is a long, narrow shopping street that is lined with over 100 small shops and restaurants.

Nishiki Market | Best Things to Do in Kyoto

We loved our visit here. Some foods we recognized but many we didn’t. All the signs are in Japanese but we had a lot of fun purchasing “mystery foods” as we walked through the market.

We have never seen a market this clean. Fish, seafood, and meat make up the majority of what is for sale in Nishiki Market, but the floors were spotless and everything was very orderly.

Getting Here: Shijo station is the closest metro stop (about a 5 minute walk).

17. Participate in a Tea Ceremony

One of the best things to do in Kyoto is to participate in a traditional tea ceremony. This is a great cultural activity and a nice break from touring the temples.

A Japanese tea ceremony involves the ceremonial preparation and presentation of matcha, which is powdered green tea.

Numerous tea ceremonies are offered throughout Kyoto. In this experience, you sit on tatami mats while your host carries out the ceremonial preparation of the matcha green tea.

18. Eat Sushi

This may be a bit cliché, but you can’t visit Kyoto without eating sushi. 

There are hundreds of restaurants to choose from. One of the best places to go is Pontocho Alley. Not only is this sometimes called the most beautiful street in Kyoto, but this street is lined with restaurants, making this one of the best spots in Kyoto to grab a bite to eat (not just sushi but many different types of Japanese food). The restaurants on the east side of Pontocho Alley have outdoor decks where you can overlook the Kamogawa River.

Outdoor decks off the Pontocho Alley restaurants along the Kamogawa River

Restaurant on Pontocho Alley | Best Things to Do in Kyoto

Sashimi | Best Things to Do in Kyoto

We were HUGE fans of kaiten sushi (kaitenzushi). Kaiten sushi is one of the most innovative ways to have dinner. As plates of sushi drift by your table on a conveyor belt, you can pick and choose what looks good. If you want something special, place your order on the touch screen computer at your table.

Kaiten sushi is cheap, fast, and lots of fun. It’s great if you are new to eating sushi, because you can just pick out what looks good as it glides past your table. This type of sushi lacks the high quality of what you will get in other restaurants in Kyoto, but it is still absolutely delicious. If you are on a budget, this is a great option to dine on sushi without spending a lot of money.

Our favorite kaiten sushi restaurant in Kyoto was Sushiro. Yum!

If you want to see more, check out our video from our first visit to Sushiro, when we were newbs at kaiten sushi restaurants. But by the end of our visit we were pros.

List of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kyoto

Here is the list of the 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kyoto.

• Kinkaku-ji Temple
• Ginkaku-ji Temple
• Kiyomizu-dera Temple
• Tenryu-ji Temple
• Ninna-ji Temple
• Nijo Castle
• Nishi-Hongan-ji Temple
• Ryoan-ji Temple
• To-ji Temple
• Daigo-ji Temple
• Saiho-ji Temple
• Enryaku-ji Temple
• Byodo-in Temple
• Kozan-ji Temple
• Shimogamo-jinja Shrine
• Kamigamo-jinja Shrine
• Ujigami-jinja Shrine

Day Trip Ideas from Kyoto

Nara makes an excellent day trip destination from Kyoto. Feed the deer, visit Kasuga-taisha, and tour Todai-ji Temple. Until 1998, the main hall of Todai-ji Temple was the world’s largest wooden building, having been bumped from the top of the list by a baseball stadium in Japan as well as other buildings.

LEARN MORE: Feeding the Deer in Nara, Japan

Todai-ji Temple

Hiroshima is the site where the first of two atomic bombs were dropped on Japan during World War II.

A day trip to Hiroshima is very easy to do from Kyoto. By Shinkansen, it takes just over two hours to travel from Kyoto to Hiroshima. Spend the day at Hiroshima, visiting the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, the Cenotaph, and the Atomic Bomb Dome, and more. You also have the option to add on Miyajima to this day trip.

LEARN MORE: How to Plan Your Day Trip to Hiroshima

Hiroshima Victims Memorial Cenotaph

Himeji Castle

Himeji Castle is the largest and most visited castle in Japan. It is called Hakuro-jo or Shirasagi-jo (“White Egret Castle” or “White Heron Castle”) for its white exterior and appearance of a bird taking flight. It takes about an hour to get here from Kyoto.

LEARN MORE: How to Plan a Day Trip to Himeji Castle

How Many Days Do You Need in Kyoto?

To visit the highlights in Kyoto, you will need a minimum of 3 days. This gives you just enough time to visit most of the temples and sites listed in this post. More time is better, because it allows you to slow down, spend more time exploring the neighborhoods and temples, and soak up the culture.

For each day trip we list, you will need an additional day.

On our visit, we had 7 days. That gave us three days for day trips and four days to explore Kyoto. That was the perfect amount of time for our first visit but I can’t wait to come back and explore some more.

If you have any questions about the best things to do in Kyoto, let us know in the comment section below:

More Information about Japan

TOKYO: Journey through Tokyo in photos and learn how to plan a day trip to Kamakura.

KYOTO: Travel through Kyoto in Photos  and read about our first impressions of Osaka and Kyoto.

SUMO WRESTLING: Watching Sumo wrestling is one of the best things to do in Japan. We write about our experience and get tips on how you can do the same in our article How to Watch Sumo Wrestling in Japan.

TRAVEL INSPIRATION: For more travel ideas, here are 10 unique destinations to put on your travel wish list and 10 bucket list destinations from around the world.

TRAVEL ADVICE: Here is our list of tips to help you maximize your time while traveling. We also have tips on traveling with kids plus a massive list of 101 travel tips we learned while traveling around the world.

Read all of our articles about Japan in our Japan Travel Guide.

All rights reserved © Earth Trekkers. Republishing this article and/or any of its contents (text, photography, etc.), in whole or in part, is strictly prohibited.

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Thank you, Julie and Tim! We’re in Japan and following your guidance, especially in Kyoto.

You’re welcome!!

Thank you for the great information! My son is in Kyoto for 8 weeks and has been using your information to check out all the city has to offer!

You’re welcome! What a great opportunity for your son! Cheers, Julie

Thank you for providing this treasure trove of places to visit in Kyoto. You have laid out the information beautifully. We will likely follow it to the tea!

You’re welcome!

Thank you very much. I miss Japan.

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Kansai Kyoto A New Guide to Traveling Around Kyoto

• Destinations

Experience the essence of Japanese culture, constantly evolving throughout history

When visiting Kyoto, it's best to keep in mind that many local residents call this ancient city home. To enjoy your trip to the fullest, please show consideration to local communities and mind your manners to help preserve Kyoto's culture and keep tourism sustainable moving forward.

Due to Kyoto's increasing popularity, the city sometimes has an excessive concentration of tourists during particular times and seasons, or in certain areas – making life difficult for locals, and potentially damaging to natural environments.

How to Get There

• Kyoto’s grand shrines, ancient castles and historical streets
• Ohara’s crisp mountain air, stunning autumn foliage and symbolic gardens
• Kyoto’s traditional Japanese inns, an essential convergence of Japanese tradition and culture
• Kyoto cuisine, which perfectly encapsulates the Japanese spirit and art of food preparation
• The four alternative views of Kyoto: Kyoto by the Sea, Woodland Kyoto, Tea Country Kyoto and Kyoto Otokuni Bamboo Groves

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Explore Kyoto by Area

Trending Attractions in Kyoto

Local Specialties

Yudofu, literally "hot-water tofu", is arguably the best way to enjoy high-quality, freshly made tofu. Tofu is warmed through in a simple broth made of water and kombu, and simple condiments are served alongside. Kyoto is the place to enjoy this, as it is the epicenter of Buddhist cuisine, in which yudofu features heavily.

Kyo-gashi are a type of wagashi, or traditional Japanese sweet. Kyo-gashi are beautiful, colorful and symbolic confections, custom-made for different occasions, so no Kyo-gashi will ever be exactly the same as another.

Before modern transportation was available, farmers grew only the vegetables most suited to the regions they farmed in. Kyo-yasai are vegetables traditionally grown in Kyoto for centuries, and they play an important role in modern Kyoto cuisine.

Green tea from Uji is among the oldest and most highly regarded teas in Japan. You'll find it in tiny soba restaurants and temple gardens and many places in between. There are a variety of ways to enjoy green tea while in Uji.

Kyoto Kiyomizu Ware

Handmade ceramics and porcelain made in Kyoto are known as kyo yaki or Kiyomizu yaki and are characterized by their gorgeous elegance made with advanced pottery techniques. This craft evolved alongside other sophisticated pastimes in Kyoto, including the tea ceremony and flower arranging.

Kyoto Dyed Silk

Invented in the late 17th century, kyo yuzen is a dyeing technique distinguished by vivid colors, subtle gradations, complex patterns and precision linework. Traditional Japanese painting-like patterns are expressed in the textile design.

Nishijin Textiles

Nishijin ori silk textiles originate in Nishijin, the garment district of Kyoto. Exquisitely decorated brocades have been handwoven here for centuries, and feature gorgeous patterns utilizing multi-colored yarn-dyed threads. Treated with care, these garments can last a lifetime.

Kyoto Folding Fans

Fashioned out of bamboo, the kyo sensu is a folding fan decorated with handmade Japanese paper or silk on thin wooden strips, traditionally cypress. These artful accessories are used at ceremonies, festivals and Noh performances.

Seasonal Highlights

Late April to May is the time to view late-blooming cherry blossoms, yaezakura (double-flowered cherry blossoms) and the fresh green maple leaves in shrine and temple gardens.

Highlights of the hottest season include riverside dining, cormorant fishing performances, beach excursions, the month-long Gion Festival, and fire displays to honor the spirits of ancestors.

Kyoto’s autumn foliage attracts visitors from the world over. Harvest moon festivals are another autumn highlight. The cool temperatures are perfect for hiking at Mt. Ponpon and Mt. Atago.

Kabuki’s biggest stars come to perform, plum blossoms emerge after the snows, and countryside onsen offer plenty of warmth.

Related Links

Discover what to do and where to go in Kyoto—Japan’s culture capital

Delve deeper into Kyoto culture by taking part in a free craft workshop

Explore Nearby Prefectures

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15 best things to do in Kyoto

Jan 25, 2024 • 9 min read

Beautiful Kyoto offers tons of things to do and see - here are our favorites © Guitar Photographer / Shutterstock

Kyoto is on the travel list of most first-time visitors to Japan  for good reason. With its fleet of over 2000 temples, lush gardens and traditional tea houses, Kyoto is one of Japan’s major historical hubs – to say nothing of being easy on the eye (enjoy a sunset on the hill in Kiyomizu-dera to see what we mean).

It can be easy to get lost in the tangle of streets – Kyoto is one of those cities where it’s easy to just pick a walking direction and see what you find, whether it’s an unexpected shrine in the middle of a commercial street, sakura-lined canal or well-appointed park. But sometimes, it pays to prioritize. Plan a trip around the following can’t-miss sights and experiences to maximize your time in the city.

1. Stay golden at Kinkaku-ji

Kinkaku-ji is a tourist favorite – nicknamed Golden Pavilion for its gold-leaf gilded upper layers, this zen temple is a magnificent sight regardless of the time of year. One-way foot traffic flows fairly consistently but tends to bunch up directly in front of the temple, where visitors tend to pause to grab a show-stopping photo of the temple reflected in the pond (again, who can blame them?).

Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid the rush.

2. Walk through the iconic orange gates of Fushimi Inari Taisha

There’s a reason that Fushimi Inari-Taisha ranks high on every visitor’s list: the 10,000 vibrant orange torii (gates) snaking up the hill to create the ultimate photo op. The practice of donating a gate to the temple has been in place since the Edo Period and carries on today as businesses celebrate their successes with an act of gratitude. 

Start at the lower level to admire the skulk of fox statues – the manifestation of the Shintō god Inari, the protector of rice, tea, agriculture and industry.  The full loop takes two to three hours to complete, but it’s worth making the climb to avoid the throng of visitors that usually populate the lower levels (don’t worry, there are plenty of vending machines to keep you hydrated along the way). 

Alternatively, it’s worth considering a sunrise visit, when the local monks are making their way up the hill to work and the resident cat population is out to play.

3. Find fortune at Kiyomizu-dera

Located in Eastern Kyoto, Kiyomizu-dera  literally towers over the city with the help of 139 stilts. During the Edo period, seekers would jump from the temple's platform to the ground 43ft below in order to make their wishes come true. Today, you can instead find your fortune at the sacred Otowa Waterfall. Located on the temple’s lower level, the stream is divided into three sections, delivering longevity, academic success or luck in love depending on which one you drink from (take note that drinking from more than one stream is considered greedy). But you don’t need any luck to enjoy the temple’s panoramic views over the city, which are enhanced by spring sakura (cherry blossom) season, autumn foliage and stunning sunsets.

4. Time travel at Nijō-jo

Enter through Nijō-jō 's large eastern battlements to step back in time. The castle was the former home of Tokugawa shoguns, and its lavishly appointed gardens and opulent chambers filled with detailed murals and intricate carvings speak to the warlord collective’s extreme wealth. 

Keep an eye out for the painted lions (created by an artist who had yet to see the real thing in person), and experience the sensation of walking barefoot across the “nightingale floors,” which chirp like the birds they’re named after – a built-in sonic defense against intruders.

5. Enjoy a stroll at Koke-dera

Koke-dera (the nickname for  Saiho-ji ) is so stunning that the temple inspired “Moss Garden,” a track on David Bowie’s 1977 album Heroes . However, walking in Ziggy Stardust’s footsteps takes some advance planning. In order to preserve Koke-dera’s tranquility, visitors must register at least one day in advance (although up to two months earlier is advisable due to capacity restraints). 

Once inside, guests are asked to participate in an act of devotion, usually copying a series of Buddhist sutras. Consider it an appetizer for the main course: a half-hour stroll through the scenic garden blanketed in 120 different kinds of moss.

6. Sip on some matcha

Matcha was originally drunk by Chinese Buddhist monks who believed the highly caffeinated beverage assisted in their quest for nirvana. When the religion spread to Japan, matcha came with it, particularly in the southern region of Kyoto Prefecture, which has an 800-year tradition of cultivation. To learn more about the beverage, start with a traditional tea ceremony at Camellia for an experience that will not only walk you through the elaborate steps of preparation but also explain the historical and practical reason behind each movement. 

For a more modern take, stop by Maccha House . Their flagship store on Shijō Kawaramachi serves a number of unique twists on the beverage, including a brown sugar matcha latte and their signature Uji Matcha Tiramisu. Tea shops like  Ippōdō and Marukyu Koyamaen (located in Kyoto Isetan department store adjacent to Kyoto Station) can help you bring the zen home with you. 

While you’re at it, be sure to grab some wagashi , a delicate red bean and sugar pastry that pairs perfectly with the matcha’s earthy essence.

7. Get your ramen fix

Kyoto’s food scene is often overlooked thanks to neighboring Osaka, aka “the nation’s kitchen.” However, the city has been teasing out different types of the famous noodle soup since the first ramen street stall was set up in 1961. 

Kyoto Gogyo is known for its high-end burnt ramen, with broth cooked at extremely high temperatures to create a smoky char and entertaining fiery show while you eat – so be sure to request a seat at the bar. Vegan Ramen UZU Kyoto ’s mushroom-based ramen is served in a darkened dining room, lit by TeamLab’s “Reversed Indiscretion,” a mesmerizing piece of digital art that creates calligraphy-like swoops across the walls and table. Engine Ramen has become a favorite due to its ability to make any item on the menu vegan or gluten-free. Just be sure to line up early as the restaurant regularly fills up after it opens for dinner at 4pm.   

8. Embrace all the options at Nishiki Market

If variety is your spice of life, then Nishiki Market is your place. Also known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” this five-block collection of over 100 restaurants and shops is the perfect place for snacking on local specialties. It also doesn’t hurt that many stalls give out free samples. Feeling brave? Try the shockingly photogenic t ako tamago ( a baby octopus with an egg in its head), or beef sushi. 

Other crowd-pleasers include soy milk donuts, rice crackers, and dashimaki – a Japanese rolled omelet that some stalls serve as tempura.

9. Bring home sustainable souvenirs

From bento boxes to  washi  (handmade paper) and porcelain, Kyoto is a great place to pick up souvenirs. You could easily spend the day browsing tourist-favorite department stores Takashimaya and Daimaru Kyoto. To bring home a piece of history, consider a stop at Vintage Kimono AN Gion , a cozy storefront crammed with vintage kimonos. Not only do they sell the historical robes at extremely reasonable prices (often as low as ¥1000), but they also offer obi belts and damaged kimonos for those looking to repurpose the silk.

10. Stay at a ryokan

Kyoto is considered one of the great historical epicenters of Japan, so there’s no better way to experience the region's essence than by staying in a ryokan. These traditional inns are generally smaller than their western counterparts and outfitted with woven tatami mats, futons that are rolled out every night and all matter of meaningful art. The intimate setting allows owners to provide guests with more personalized attention in addition to the kind of lavish meals you’re unlikely to find elsewhere. 

For the ultimate indulgence, consider a night in the Tawaraya Ryokan , where David Bowie and Iman stayed during their honeymoon. This historic ryokan is 300 years old and in its 12th generation of family ownership. It’s regularly considered one of the most exclusive hotels in the world.

11. Relax in an onsen

More than just a bath (although it certainly is that), onsen are a great way to connect with nature and friends while participating in an act of self-care, provided you’re comfortable with group nudity. Carefully wash yourself from head to toe before slipping into hot water with a mineral content that locals claim can cure a WebMD worth of ailments.

If you want to soak within the city limits, head to Fu-fu-no-yu , a facility with stunning rock-lined pools inches from the Katsura River.

12. Wander through Arashiyama

The sound of bamboo in the wind is part of Japan's national heritage. Located in the Western Kyoto district of Arashiyama, the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is one of the most famous places in the world to hear it. Just keep in mind that, while scenic, the 140m (459ft) walk isn’t as quiet as you might have been led to believe thanks to its popularity. If you’re in the market for the ultimate selfie, or just a more restful experience, visit at sunrise. 

Not an early riser? Opt to visit Shoden-ji , a temple in Northern Kyoto with an abundant bamboo groove that’s often overlooked by tourists.

13. Enjoy an urbane escape at Ōkōchi Sansō

Despite its proximity to Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, many tourists miss Ōkōchi Sansō in their rush to grab that perfect Instagram snap. This former home of 1920s samurai film actor Ōkōchi Denjirō is the perfect place to escape the crowds. Work up a thirst with a wander through the immaculate hillside gardens that offer panoramic views of the city from the top. Then retreat to the on-site tea house for a proper break with a side of complimentary matcha and Japanese sweets.

14. Embrace the seasons at Osawa Pond

Osawa Pond is a 15-minute walk from JR Saga-Arashiyama Station, but the garden feels plucked from an entirely different era. The human-made pond is the oldest known surviving Japanese garden and a peaceful refuge to enjoy fall colors and spring sakura season. Be sure to visit Daikaku-ji next door, a sprawling Shingon Buddhist temple with architecture so untouched by time it’s often used as a filming location for historical dramas.   

15. Explore Gion District

Geisha, or geiko as they’re called in Kyoto, are one of the icons of the city. These skilled hostesses and entertainers are usually employed at dinners and other high-end events at venues along the lantern-lined streets of the Gion neighborhood. Like the geiko themselves, the district is a living tribute to the Edo era, with its narrow wooden storefronts, teahouses, and stores dedicated to traditional handicrafts creating the perfect escape from the modern era.

This article was first published Mar 10, 2020 and updated Jan 25, 2024.

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