things-to-do-in-Kyoto

Kyoto: A City Steeped in History and Culture

Located on the island of Honshu, Kyoto is Japan’s eighth-largest city and is known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, Kyoto offers countless things to do, see, and experience. Here are some top attractions and activities to consider:

Temples and Shrines

Kyoto is home to over 1,000 temples and shrines, each with its own unique history and architecture.

  • Fushimi Inari Shrine: Famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that form a tunnel up the mountain. A must-visit, especially during sunrise or sunset when the gates are bathed in golden light.
  • Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion): A stunning temple covered in gold leaf and surrounded by beautiful gardens.
  • Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: Walk through a serene bamboo forest that will leave you feeling peaceful and connected to nature.

Gardens and Parks

Kyoto’s gardens are a tranquil oasis from the hustle and bustle of city life.

  • Imperial Palace East Garden: A beautiful traditional Japanese garden with a pond, walking paths, and stunning views.
  • Kiyomizu-dera Temple Garden: Explore the serene grounds of this UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring beautiful gardens, ponds, and walking trails.
  • Nijo Castle Gardens: Stroll through the peaceful gardens surrounding this historic castle.

Traditional Crafts and Shopping

Immerse yourself in Kyoto’s traditional crafts and shopping experiences.

  • Gion District: Visit the traditional Japanese quarter of Gion to see geisha and maiko (apprentice geishas) walking down the streets. Browse the shops, cafes, and restaurants that line the district.
  • Nishiki Market: Explore this narrow street lined with over 100 shops selling local delicacies, crafts, and souvenirs.
  • Handmade crafts: Visit a traditional craft workshop to see artisans at work, creating beautiful pottery, woodcarvings, or textiles.

Cuisine

Indulge in Kyoto’s unique and delicious cuisine, which reflects the city’s rich cultural heritage.

  • Kaiseki restaurants: Enjoy a multi-course kaiseki meal that showcases the freshest seasonal ingredients.
  • Shojin-ryori: Savor traditional Buddhist vegetarian dishes at a shojin-ryori restaurant.
  • Local sweets and snacks: Try some of Kyoto’s famous sweets, such as matcha ice cream or traditional wagashi candies.

Seasonal Events

Experience the unique seasonal events that take place in Kyoto throughout the year.

  • Cherry blossom season (March-April): Witness the stunning beauty of Japan’s iconic cherry blossoms.
  • Golden Week (late April-early May): Join the festive atmosphere during this week-long holiday period, which marks the start of spring and summer.
  • Moon viewing (September-October): Enjoy the full moon as it rises over Kyoto’s temples and gardens.

Day Trips

Consider taking a day trip from Kyoto to explore nearby attractions.

  • Nara: Visit this ancient city famous for its friendly deer, Todai-ji Temple, and Kasuga-taisha Shrine.
  • Osaka: Head to Osaka Castle, Dotonbori, and try some delicious street food in the city.
  • Kanazawa: Explore this charming coastal city known for its beautiful gardens, traditional crafts, and stunning beaches.

Getting Around Kyoto

Kyoto is relatively small and easy to navigate. Here are some ways to get around:

  • Public transportation: Use buses or subways to travel within the city.
  • Walking and cycling: Explore Kyoto’s scenic streets on foot or by bike.
  • Taxis: Take a taxi for a convenient ride, especially at night.

Accommodation

Find the perfect place to stay in Kyoto, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels.

  • Guesthouses and hostels: Stay at a local guesthouse or hostel for a more authentic experience.
  • Hotels: Choose from various hotel chains or boutique hotels that cater to different budgets.
  • Traditional ryokans: Experience the unique charm of a traditional Japanese inn.