Kyoto is a place where ancient customs meet endless beauty, offering an unforgettable experience. It is more than a city; it is a timeless poem etched in stone and spirit. Here, the echoes of a thousand years whisper through ancient temple bells, and the soul of Japan dances in the rustling of bamboo groves. When you arrive in Kyoto, you’ll discover a world of stunning gardens, brilliant red gates, and geishas moving gracefully along old stone streets. From the tranquil rhythm of a traditional tea ceremony to the awe-inspiring sight of golden pavilions shimmering in the sunlight, every moment in Kyoto is a poetic experience waiting to be discovered.
What to do in Kyoto? We’ve got you covered.
10 Best things to do in Kyoto
1. Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha:
A walk through a corridor of a thousand vibrant red gates awaits you at Fushimi Inari Taisha, one of Kyoto’s most captivating shrines. Each gate, known as a torii, is an offering from an individual or company, creating a mesmerizing path up the sacred Mount Inari. The best views are located at the beginning of the trail, so the full hike to the top isn’t necessary for a great photo. For a peaceful and more personal encounter, visit early in the morning or late at night. The shrine is always open, so you can visit at any time. When the sun goes down, the gates seem to glow, creating a magical atmosphere.
2. Explore the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove:
The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is a serene and beautiful place. Enter a peaceful grove of soaring bamboo that surrounds you in green. The sound of the bamboo leaves gently swaying in the breeze will soothe you as you stroll. If you’re looking for peace and quiet, bypass the main route for places like Jojakko-ji Temple. Its smaller, more secluded bamboo clusters offer a wonderfully intimate and serene moment. The unique, almost ethereal green light filtering through the dense canopy makes you feel as if you’ve entered another realm, a true urban oasis.
3. See the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji):
The peaceful pond acts like a mirror for the Golden Pavilion, perfectly reflecting its brilliant, gold-covered walls. Its two upper stories shimmer with pure gold leaf, a breathtaking sight that seems to defy the ordinary. The temple’s reflection in the water is a mesmerizing mirror image, a perfect double that doubles its splendor. This peaceful temple began its life as a shogun’s private retirement home, a testament to its lasting beauty and tranquility. Its radiant facade isn’t just gold; it’s a symbol of peace and stunning beauty.
4. Discover Kiyomizu-dera Temple:
Imagine being 13 meters above the earth on a massive wooden platform at Kiyomizu-dera Temple, with a stunning view of the city below. A masterpiece of carpentry, this structure stands over a green hillside with no nails used in its construction, providing breathtaking, sweeping views of Kyoto. It’s a beautiful temple, particularly during spring with its pink cherry blossoms or in autumn when the leaves are a fiery mix of red and gold. Below the stage flows the Otowa Waterfall, where three separate streams are said to grant wishes for longevity, success, and a good love life. It’s a truly breathtaking place. What to do in Kyoto is often about finding these iconic spots.
5. Wander through Gion:
Imagine walking the old, cobblestone streets of Gion, Kyoto’s famous geisha district. As evening falls, the charming, narrow streets, with their old wooden houses and soft lantern light, become a truly magical place. This isn’t just a place; it’s an enchanting glimpse into a hidden world. In this neighborhood, you might spot a maiko or geiko—an apprentice or a full geisha—as they elegantly make their way to evening engagements. The bright kimonos and detailed hair accessories they wear make a stunning contrast with the historic surroundings, making for an unforgettable experience.
6. Stroll the Philosopher’s Path:
Enjoy a quiet walk on the Philosopher’s Path, a beautiful trail that runs alongside a peaceful canal. Lined with hundreds of cherry trees, it’s a perfect spot for a stroll, particularly when the flowers are in full bloom. The path is a beautiful route for a peaceful walk, connecting the famous temples of Nanzen-ji and Ginkaku-ji. This trail, which bears the name of the renowned philosopher Nishida Kitaro, was his daily walking route. He would use it to meditate on his way to Kyoto University. The path offers a quiet escape and a truly breathtaking experience. If you are wondering what to do in Kyoto, this is a truly peaceful option.
7. Experience Nishiki Market:
Nishiki Market, known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” is a must-visit for anyone who loves food and wants to explore the city’s culinary heart. Take a walk down the bustling five-block street, where more than a hundred stalls are filled with delicious local food. It’s a vibrant sensory experience, filled with the sights and smells of everything from glistening fresh seafood and seasonal vegetables to handcrafted sweets and beautiful traditional cookware. Nishiki isn’t just a place to shop; it’s a living museum of Kyoto’s food, where you can taste local treats and watch artisans craft their goods. Every visit reveals something fresh. This is a must for anyone thinking what to do in Kyoto for an afternoon.
8. Step Back in Time at Nijo Castle:
Come explore Nijo Castle and learn why its beauty was a grand display of power and influence. Once home to the Tokugawa shoguns, this historic site invites you to step back in time. See for yourself the immense riches of Japan’s feudal lords by touring their ornate halls and magnificent gardens. The castle’s most intriguing feature is its “nightingale floors.” These brilliant wooden floors were ingeniously crafted to “sing” or chirp underfoot, serving as a clever and beautiful alarm system against potential intruders. It’s an amazing mix of beautiful design and smart security from long ago.
9. Participate in a Traditional Tea Ceremony:
Experience the rich culture of Kyoto by participating in a traditional tea ceremony. It’s a serene experience that goes beyond simply drinking tea. You can join a class or formal ceremony at a chashitsu, a traditional tea house, or a tranquil Zen temple. The ritual, called chanoyu, is a practice in mindfulness. Every single movement, from whisking the matcha to serving it gracefully, has a deep and special meaning. It’s a time-honored tradition that teaches you to find peace and beauty in the now, giving you a special, serene window into Japanese culture.
10. Explore Arashiyama’s Other Sights:
The allure of Arashiyama is not limited to its bamboo forest. The serene Zen garden at Tenryu-ji Temple reflects the brilliant hues of each season, creating a living canvas. For a playful adventure, make the short hike to the Iwatayama Monkey Park. Here, you can watch hundreds of wild monkeys roam freely and be rewarded with a spectacular, sweeping view of Kyoto. These spots offer a fresh look at Arashiyama, where you can enjoy its stunning nature, find peace in its spiritual sites, and get up close with its unique wildlife.
Feel the spirit of old Japan whispering from every street, inviting you to slow down and savor the moment. Kyoto is a city that appeals to all of the senses, from the dynamic energy of its bustling markets to the serene tranquilly of its temple gardens. It’s a place where history is felt rather than just seen. So, come. Let Kyoto’s timeless beauty and tranquil energy become a part of your own story. Welcome.
