Kyoto is a city that captures the heart of every traveller. It is a city where the old and the new converge, with its beautiful temples, peaceful gardens, and ancient traditions, and where it was the seat of the Imperial Court for over a thousand years. For many travellers, the modern cities of Japan attract them, but Kyoto is all about a different kind of attraction – a place to take a break and enjoy the country’s history.
From the cherry blossoms in spring, the vibrant colours of autumn or the tranquil charm of winter, Kyoto has plenty of memorable moments to offer at every turn. If you are planning a wider journey across the country, our Japan Travel Guide can help you discover even more incredible destinations.
Here are the top things to do in Kyoto for an unforgettable trip.
Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha
One of Kyoto’s most famous landmarks, Fushimi Inari Taisha is known for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that wind their way up Mount Inari. This is a landmark shrine of the Shinto god of rice, prosperity and business success named Inari.
Spending time in the seemingly endless tunnel of gates is one of the most memorable experiences in Japan. The gates have all been donated privately or by companies and each create a distinctive route as it winds its way through the forest mountainside.
The best time to go is early in the morning or late in the evening when there are fewer crowds. Its tranquil ambiance makes the shrine even more magical, and photographers will enjoy great chances to capture amazing photographs.
Fushimi Inari is one of Japan’s most photographed sights and should be part of any trip to Kyoto.
Visit Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
It is one of the most tranquil and scenic places in Kyoto, the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. As you go, you walk through these massive bamboo stems and see the sun shining through the top.
The subtle sound of bamboo swaying in the wind enhances the peaceful ambiance, making it a popular spot for people to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
Although the main bamboo pathway is what many visitors come to see, there are many other places to visit around it. There are small temples, scenic walking trails, traditional shops and quiet gardens to discover a more peaceful side to Arashiyama.
This is an ideal half-day trip to nearby places like Tenryu-ji Temple and Togetsukyo Bridge.
See the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji)
One of the most spectacular attractions in Kyoto is the Golden Pavilion, Kinkaku-ji. The temple is adorned with glittering gold leaf, and sits gracefully atop a tranquil pond that mirrors its splendor.
It was originally a villa for a great shogun when he retired, and then converted to a Zen temple. It is now one of Kyoto’s most popular tourist sights and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
While it’s a stunning place to visit all year round, autumn and winter are arguably the prettiest seasons to visit the temple. Around the pavilion are autumn leaves in colourful hues, and on rare occasions, winter brings a dusting of snow, making for a picturesque scene.
Discover Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Kiyomizu-dera is one of the most impressive and important temples in Kyoto. It is located on a hillside with its famous wooden stage 13 metres above the ground, enjoying a panoramic view of the city.
The most amazing aspect of the structure is that it was constructed without the use of nails, demonstrating the ingenuity of traditional Japanese architects.
The Otowa Waterfall, which cascades below the main hall, is a place where visitors can drink from three waterfalls, all thought to extend their lives, their success, or their good fortune. The surrounding landscape provides a fantastic display of natural beauty, turning into a sea of pink cherry blossoms in the spring and vibrant red maples in the autumn.
If you are visiting during spring, you may also enjoy reading our guide to Cherry Blossom Japan.
Wander Through Gion
A trip to Kyoto wouldn’t be complete without visiting the city’s renowned geisha district, Gion. The narrow streets seem to be a step back in time. The traditional wooden houses, the lantern lit alleys and the historic tea houses provide a distinctive feel of Kyoto’s cultural heritage.
Visitors may notice a glimpse of a maiko (apprentice geisha) or geiko (Kyoto’s geisha) on their way to meet with their clients as the night falls. When exploring and taking photographs, it is essential to be deeply respectful and mindful of the local customs and traditions. At night, the district is especially lovely with the beautiful lanterns lit up the historic streets.
Have a stroll along the Philosopher’s Path
The Philosopher’s Path is one of the most tranquil strolls of Kyoto. A picturesque canal through which one can walk is bordered by hundreds of cherry trees and leads to a number of significant temples such as Nanzen-ji and Ginkaku-ji.
The walk is named after the renowned Japanese philosopher Nishida Kitaro, who is said to have walked this path every day to meditate on his philosophy.
Now, it’s time to take a leisurely walk and visit some small cafes, art galleries, local shops and secret temples. In the springtime the path is among the most beautiful sights of Kyoto, when the cherry blossoms bloom.
For more inspiration on Japan’s famous spring season, see our UK Guide to Japan’s Cherry Blossoms.
Experience Nishiki Market
Known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen”, Nishiki Market is a paradise for food lovers. It spans five vibrant blocks, featuring over 100 vendors hawking local delicacies, fresh seafood, seasonal fruits and vegetables, sweets and traditional Japanese snacks.
This is one of the best places to discover Kyoto’s unique food culture.
The visitors can enjoy regional cuisines, get knowledge about the local ingredients, and see the craftsmanship of the skilled vendors in making the regional cuisine that has been passed down through generations.
The market is also a great place to buy souvenirs, such as handmade kitchenware and locally produced items.
Nijo Castle, Step Back in Time
Nijo Castle is an interesting site of the feudal period in Japan. The castle was constructed in 1603 as the residence of the Tokugawa shoguns in Kyoto, and is considered one of the city’s most important historical sites.
The well-done rooms, the splendid gardens, and majestic architecture all offer visitors glimpses into the wealth and power of the ruling class.
The “nightingale floors” of the castle are one of the most renowned aspects. The specially-designed wooden floors emit a chirping noise when walked on, making them an early warning system of any intruder.
Overall, Nijo Castle is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in Japanese culture, thanks to its history, architecture, and beautiful gardens.
Take Part in a Traditional Tea Ceremony
It is one of the best ways to immerse in Japanese culture by experiencing a traditional tea ceremony.
The tea ceremony is more than just the drinking of tea, and is known by the Japanese as chanoyu. It is a ritual that has been carefully performed and involves harmony, respect, purity and tranquillity.
From the preparation of the matcha through to the presentation of the tea, everything is done with purpose and precision. Visitors can gain a better understanding of Japanese tradition and values by participating in a ceremony.
Tea houses and cultural centres are present all over Kyoto, offering visitors an English-language experience for those beginning their training.
Discover More of Arashiyama
The world-famous Bamboo Grove is the highlight of Arashiyama, but the district has plenty of other highlights to make it a worthwhile half-day excursion. Walking through the grove, there are immense bamboo trunks with the sun casting its light through the top and the quiet rustling of bamboo leaves in the wind adds to the tranquil atmosphere.
Just a short distance away from the central bamboo trail, it is possible to explore the area’s local walking trails, traditional shops and historic temples, and discover a quieter side of the region. The beautiful Zen garden of Tenryu-ji Temple and the famous Togetsukyo Bridge are just a short stroll away and display spectacular seasonal colours throughout the year.
If you want an unusual experience, you can climb up the trail to the Iwatayama Monkey Park. Along the way, you will enjoy a great panoramic view of Kyoto on a short hike up the mountain slope, and will also have the opportunity to observe free roaming Japanese macaques in their natural habitat.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Kyoto?
The city of Kyoto is a year-round destination, and each season has its own special appeal.
World-renowned cherry blossoms bloom in the spring, and surrounded by traditional music and culture, summer hosts festivals. The city’s vibrant red, orange, and gold hues make for some of Japan’s most stunning autumn scenery. There are fewer crowds and more tranquility and peace during the winter season.
If you are planning your visit, our guides to Autumn in Japan, Snow in Japan, Festivals in Japan, Japan Golden Week and Best Time to Visit Japan can help you choose the perfect season.
Final Thoughts
The city of Kyoto offers more than just a place of sightseeing—it is a place of experience and memory. The red gates of Fushimi Inari, the golden Kinkaku-ji, the traditional tea-ceremony and the serene temple gardens, all have stories to tell in this city.
Kyoto is a city of wonders, whether you’re planning a trip to Japan as a whole or just visiting the country’s cultural hub.
For more travel inspiration, destination guides, and holiday ideas, visit World Holiday Vibes. You can also explore more Japan content, including Best Things to Do in Japan, Best Things to Do in Tokyo Japan, and Best Places to Visit in Japan. For travel videos and destination inspiration, visit the World Holiday Vibes YouTube channel.
FAQ
Cherry blossoms in the spring are best and autumn for the colourful leaves, but it’s a great year-round destination!
Early morning or late evening is best, as the shrine is much quieter.
It is located on a hillside and has a notable wooden stage, which was built without any nails.
It’s a vibrant 5 block market, dubbed “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” that is renowned for local delicacies, fresh seafood and traditional snacks.
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