What to do in Kyoto?

What are the best activities to do in Kyoto? What are the most beautiful places to see? If you've chosen Kyoto as your vacation destination in Japan, then this guide is made for you

Kyoto is located in the heart of Japan's mountains, an ancient imperial capital, this city offers a deep immersion into Japanese heritage In addition to catching glimpses of geishas strolling through the streets of Gion and their cherry blossoms in bloom, you'll have the chance to discover many must-see attractions such as Kinkaku-ji, known as the Golden Pavilion, with its golden walls reflecting in the waters of the lake.

Fushimi Inari Taisha, a famous Shinto shrine, attracts tourists with its thousands of vermillion gates that snake through the forest, while Kiyomizu-dera temple provides a panoramic view of Kyoto and its various districts, notably the well-preserved Higashiyama district, which has a very traditional atmosphere!

Palaces, temples, and shrines are must-sees that are integral to the Japanese landscape. When visiting Kyoto, it is imperative to explore them, so here are a few that you shouldn't miss:

Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion, is one of Kyoto's iconic treasures! This Zen Buddhist temple, built in the 14th century, is famous for its walls covered in pure gold leaf that reflect in the waters of Lake Kyoko-chi. Surrounded by gardens, Kinkaku-ji is a very popular attraction

Each floor of the pavilion represents a distinct architectural style, ranging from shinden-zukuri at the top, samurai style in the middle, to Zen style on the ground floor. The current structure is a faithful reconstruction after a fire in 1950, but it has retained its sacred spirit and all its former splendor!

Another temple to explore is Ginkaku-ji, also known as the Silver Pavilion, which was built in the 15th century featuring subtle and refined architecture adorned with silver leaves. Unlike its counterpart, Ginkaku-ji is surrounded by peaceful Zen gardens where one can stroll, with sandy paths and mossy walls.

The pavilion enchants with its simplicity and clean aesthetic. Visitors can wander through the gardens, contemplate the lotus pond, and climb the hill for a panoramic view of Kyoto. Ginkaku-ji, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, is of timeless beauty, very typical of Japanese aesthetics

Are you heading to Japan soon but don't know what to do in Kyoto? Between visiting temples and shrines, strolling through parks and Zen gardens, shopping in the Gion district, or discovering Japanese culinary specialties at Nishiki Market, you will have plenty to fill your days! Since Kyoto is a city very popular with tourists, I highly recommend you book your activities as early as possible to make sure you don't miss anything!

Fushimi Inari Taisha is one of the most iconic Shinto shrines in Japan, dedicated to the kami Inari, famous for its thousands of vermillion torii gates that form tunnels through the forest of Mount Inari. Each torii was funded by individuals and businesses seeking prosperity, and you can hike the trails to the summit of the mountain for a stunning view of all of Kyoto!

The shrine also houses sacred buildings, stone lanterns, and stone foxes , considered to be the messengers of Inari. Frequent ceremonies and festivals take place here, although Fushimi Inari Taisha remains a must-see for those in search of spirituality looking to recharge

A Buddhist temple perched on the hills east of the city, the construction of Kiyomizu-dera is remarkable as it was built without the use of nails! Its impressive wooden terrace offers a panoramic view of Kyoto, with cherry blossoms in the spring and maple leaves in the fall as a backdrop. Founded in the 8th century, the temple takes its name from the Otowa waterfall that flows nearby, known for its sacred and virtuous waters.

The main building houses a deity associated with love and prosperous relationships. Visitors can participate in an ancient practice: jumping off the terrace. According to belief, surviving this fall of 15 meters would grant all wishes, as the fall is cushioned by vegetation. In fact, no fewer than 234 jumps have been recorded with a survival rate of 85%, so feel free to give it a try... or not!

If you're looking for things to do in Kyoto, why not visit Nijo Castle? Located in the heart of the city, this UNESCO World Heritage treasure was built in the early 17th century. It was the residence of the shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu and is renowned for its elaborate architecture and gardens.

The castle is distinguished by its "nightingale floors", designed to emit a melodic chirping sound when walked upon, serving as a security measure against intruders. The interior rooms reveal panels decorated with exquisite paintings reflecting the artistic aesthetics of the time.

The gardens surrounding the castle feature ponds, bridges, and floral arrangements. Visiting Nijo Castle not only offers a glimpse into Japan's feudal history but also a superb architectural journey that I strongly recommend during your visit!

Tip: To save time and see as many temples as possible during your trip to Kyoto, I suggest booking a one-day combined tour to visit Kyoto's iconic sites. For example, this tour includes visits to places mentioned in this section: Fushimi Inari-Taisha, Kiyomizu Temple, Kinkaku-ji, and Arashiyama.

If you're looking for a more complete experience, this guided bus tour of the best historical sites and UNESCO World Heritage Sites is, in my opinion, even more interesting. The price is higher since tickets start at 105 € per person, but it includes the discovery of 7 iconic places, with a stop at Nijo Castle, the Sagano Bamboo Grove, and Tenryū-ji Temple

Shugaku-in Imperial Villa, located in the northeast outskirts of Kyoto, is nestled amidst natural landscapes. Built in the 17th century at the request of Emperor Go-Mizunoo, this villa is an example of Edo period architecture, with its gardens and pavilions integrated into the hilly topography.

The gardens are composed with artistic precision, showcasing the changing seasons with blooming cherry trees , vibrant maple trees , and serene ponds. The villa is divided into three sections, each offering a perspective on the surrounding nature. Visitors can explore lawns, bridges crossing streams, and pavilions that once served as retreats for the imperial family.

Kyoto Imperial Palace, also known as Kyoto Gosho, embodies Japan's imperial history and grandeur. It was the residence of Japanese emperors until 1868, at the beginning of the Meiji era. The current palace, reconstructed after fires, remains an example of traditional Japanese architecture. The vast gardens, such as Sento Gosho with its cherry trees, bridges, and water features, are must-sees during your visit

Although access to the interior buildings is limited, the majesty of the palace is revealed through its impressive gates, white walls, and tiled roofs. By booking your ticket online, you can explore the palace on a guided walking tour, also including the Nijo Castle exploration, for about 47 € per person.

The Gion district is renowned for being the heart of geisha culture in Japan, with its cobbled streets lined with traditional wooden houses known as machiya. Gion is famous for its geishas, also called geikos in Kyoto, and their apprentices, the maikos. You can catch glimpses of these exquisite artists in elaborate kimonos early in the evening, gracefully heading to tea houses

Visitors can explore the district, discover artisanal shops, savor local delicacies in traditional restaurants, and visit iconic temples like Yasaka Shrine. Gion remains a living testament to the grace and sophistication of Japanese culture I especially recommend a night guided tour of this district during which you can explore a Shinto shrine and stroll through the grounds of a Zen temple in the calm of the night and under the light of lanterns hanging from the buildings

Higashiyama, located in the east of Kyoto, is a well-preserved traditional district. Characterized by its wooden houses with traditional architecture and small artisanal shops, one can stroll there, discovering temples such as Yasaka Koshin-do and Kennin-ji, the oldest Zen temple in the city.

The district is also filled with shops offering artisanal souvenirs, traditional objects, and local specialties. The Yasaka pagoda, dominating the skyline, offers a panoramic view of the district.

Arashiyama is located in the west of Kyoto; it is a district famous for its picturesque ambiance and the iconic Togetsukyo bridge crossing the Hozu River, leading to a multitude of treasures. The UNESCO-listed Tenryu-ji temple features immaculate Zen gardens and a deep spiritual history. The Silver Pavilion, also located in Arashiyama, is one of the must-sees. Between charming alleys, artisanal shops, and nature, Arashiyama embodies a retreat to recharge!

The Philosopher's Path, or Tetsugaku no Michi in Japanese, is an iconic walk in Kyoto that meanders along the Biwa Lake canal. Lined with cherry trees, this path shares a magical atmosphere during the cherry blossom season in spring. Along the path, one finds picturesque temples such as Ginkaku-ji and Honen-in, creating a meditative experience in the heart of nature.

The stones of the Philosopher's Path carry the memory of great reflections by philosopher Nishida Kitaro, who reportedly frequented this path for meditation. This place is imbued with the beauty of landscapes, small bridges, and traditional cafes scattered along the route.

Kyoto Tower, or Kyoto Tower, stands in the heart of the city and offers a panoramic view of the city and its surroundings. Rising to 131 meters, this iconic tower stands out for its modern design amidst the city's rich historical heritage. Featuring observatories, the monument is particularly magical at sunset when the city's lights gradually illuminate!

Inside, visitors can enjoy restaurants, souvenir shops, and even a hotel. Kyoto Tower is of course a must-see landmark if you don't want to get lost in the city!

The Kyoto International Manga Museum is a must-visit destination for fans of Japanese comics! This interactive museum showcases exhibitions highlighting the history, evolution, and cultural impact of manga. Visitors can explore themed galleries, discover iconic works, and even participate in creative workshops to experience the manga creation process.

Accessible via a panoramic trail through a bamboo forest, the monkey park is home to free-roaming Japanese macaques These primates, also known as Japanese macaques, thrive peacefully in their natural environment. It will cost around 78 € per person for a walking guided tour of Arashiyama, the bamboo forest, and the monkey park!

Visitors can observe the monkeys closely from secure viewing platforms. The park also encourages interaction with the monkeys by providing special food that visitors can purchase to feed the animals under the supervision of the park staff.

For a more immersive and local experience, you can participate in a tea ceremony , a tradition deeply rooted in Japanese culture.

This ceremony, called chanoyu >> or sadō >>, is much more than just drinking tea; it's an artistic, spiritual, and social expression. Conducted in specially arranged rooms, the tea ceremony aims to create an atmosphere of peace and serenity

Starting at 20 € per person, participants are guided through each meticulous gesture, from preparing the matcha tea to its delicate tasting. Elements such as the utensils, calligraphy, and room decoration are chosen to create an aesthetic harmony. It's an opportunity to understand the philosophy of wabi-sabi, which celebrates beauty in simplicity and the ephemeral, and to appreciate the refined ritual of tea in its authentic context

Nishiki Market, known as the stomach of Kyoto, has over 100 stalls and shops offering a delicious variety of local products, regional specialties, and traditional Japanese dishes

What to do there? You can try fresh sushi, tempura skewers, dried fish, pickles, and many other local delicacies. Beyond food, Nishiki Market also offers shops for crafts and kitchen utensils for a true immersion in local culinary culture!

If you want to discover the culture and culinary specialties of Kyoto, I recommend a gastronomic tour of Nishiki Market! You will explore over 130 stands of traditional food and have the chance to taste many local culinary specialties before immersing yourself in the shops of the shopping street. It's an excellent activity to do with friends or family and the best way to savor Kyoto's cuisine! During your visit, you will also have the opportunity to discover the small Takoyakushido Eifukuji temple and learn more about the history of this lively neighborhood through stories shared by your guide

Built in the 17th century, Nijo-Jinya clearly evokes the ingenuity of the time as the secret residence of shogun Tokugawa. It is distinguished by its safety features, including traps and "nightingale floors" that emit a sound when walked upon, alerting to any unwanted approach.

In addition to its defensive function, Nijo-Jinya houses beautifully preserved gardens, reception rooms, and living quarters. Visitors can discover details such as secret hideouts, hidden corridors, and removable partitions. This historical residence offers a dive into the past of feudal Japan, providing a unique experience that combines the beauty of architecture with ingenuity in security

In Kyoto, Nō and Kabuki theater performances will allow you to immerse yourself in traditional Japanese arts. Nō, characterized by its simplicity and elegance, is a dramatic theater with ancient roots. Actors, donning expressive masks, deliver emotional performances accompanied by music and dance, often inspired by spiritual themes.

In parallel, Kabuki, which is more extravagant, attracts with its elaborate costumes, distinctive makeup, and highly stylized actors. Kabuki plays, blending drama, comedy, and action, captivate the audience with their dynamism and visual intensity.

In Kyoto, these performances take place in historical theaters such as Minami-za for Kabuki, while Nō is often presented in sacred places like Kennin-ji.

If you're looking for a place to stay in Kyoto, know that the city offers a variety of districts, each with its own atmosphere and unique attractions. To give you a general overview, here are the places to prioritize:

The Gion Ryokan Q-beh, located in a central district, will be perfect for immersing yourself in the local culture! With traditional rooms accessible from 54 € per night, you will also be close to Kiyomizu Temple and Maruyama Park, and can enjoy an on-site garden and shared kitchen

Another alternative is to stay at The Machiya Kamiumeya, in the Higashiyama district. You will stay in typical and very comfortable rooms, and will enjoy peace in a quiet little alley. Expect a minimum of 83 € for one night.

If you don't know when to go to Kyoto, know that the best time to discover the city is in spring or autumn, generally considered pleasant seasons

If you want to avoid the crowds, winter can be an interesting time to visit Kyoto. The snow-covered temples create a magical ambiance for exploring the city in a calmer and more intimate setting.

We have reached the end of this article! I hope you enjoyed it and found inspiration on what to do in Kyoto for your next trip to Japan. By the way, if you have already visited Kyoto, what is your favorite spot? Let me know in the comments