Things To Do
in Kyōto
Ky ōto, Japan, is a city that elegantly combines ancient tradition with modernity, renowned for its numerous classical Buddhist temples, as well as gardens, imperial palaces, Shinto shrines, and traditional wooden houses. It's celebrated for its formal traditions such as kaiseki dining, consisting of multiple courses of precise dishes, and a vibrant geisha district, Gion, where geiko (Kyoto dialect for geisha) and maiko (geiko apprentices) entertain.
As the former imperial capital of Japan for over a thousand years, Kyōto is also a hub of Japanese culture and history, making it a key destination for anyone interested in the richness of Japan's heritage.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $8 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting Kiyomizu-dera, a stunning temple with breathtaking views. Stroll through the charming streets of Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka filled with traditional houses and shops.
Head to the Gion district where you might catch a glimpse of Geisha. Enjoy a traditional lunch at a local restaurant and explore the Yasaka Shrine nearby.
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Gion as lanterns light up the streets. Consider attending a cultural performance to round off your day.
Visit the serene Ryoan-ji rock garden for a moment of reflection and tranquility. Then, stroll through the beautiful Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.
Explore the Iwatayama Monkey Park, where you can observe wild monkeys and enjoy fantastic views of Kyoto. Have lunch at a café near the lake.
Relax by the Katsura River as the sun sets, offering perfect photo opportunities. Dine at a riverside restaurant to enjoy local cuisine.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with numerous historical temples and shrines.
- Beautiful natural scenery including mountains and rivers.
- Delicious traditional Japanese cuisine, particularly kaiseki and yudofu.
- Vibrant arts and crafts scene, with many local artisans and workshops.
- A strong sense of community and preserved traditions.
- Heavy tourist traffic can lead to crowded attractions.
- High cost of living and accommodation compared to other cities in Japan.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities like Tokyo.
- Public transportation can be less extensive than in other major Japanese cities.
- Hot and humid summers may be uncomfortable for some visitors.
Best Activities in Kyōto
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful Bamboo Grove in Arashiyama, and enjoy the serene natural surroundings.
Embark on a hike through the iconic orange torii gates of Fushimi Inari-Taisha, offering stunning views and a unique outdoor experience.
Explore the city and its scenic outskirts by renting a bike and cycling through Kyoto's charming streets and picturesque landscapes.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kyōto with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kyōto
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning temple set in a beautiful garden with a reflecting pond, offering a breathtaking view of the golden pavilion.
An ethereal bamboo forest that provides a picturesque backdrop for photography and offers a serene, otherworldly experience.
A shrine famous for its thousands of vibrant torii gates, creating a mesmerizing and photogenic path for visitors to explore.
A historic temple featuring a wooden stage that offers panoramic views of Kyoto, especially beautiful during cherry blossom season.
Food in Kyōto
Kyōto Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional multi-course meal that showcases the essence of Japanese seasonal cuisine. It's artfully prepared and often served in ryokan (traditional inns) or high-end restaurants. Recommended places: Gion Karyo, Kikunoi.
Must-Try!
A simple yet elegant dish of tofu simmered in a flavorful kombu (kelp) broth. Try it at Ganko Nijo-en, a renowned restaurant serving this delicacy in a serene garden setting.
A style of home cooking native to Kyoto, characterized by its use of local, seasonal ingredients. Visit Izusen, a Zen temple eatery, to savor authentic Obanzai dishes.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kyōto better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Known as 'Kyoto's Kitchen', Nishiki Market is a narrow, bustling street lined with more than a hundred food vendors and shops offering a variety of fresh seafood, pickles, sweets, and other local delights. Must-try street food includes tsukemono (pickles), yuba (tofu skin) products, and matcha-flavored treats.
While exploring the iconic Arashiyama district, be sure to sample yuba manju (tofu skin buns) and grilled river fish from the street food stalls nestled amidst the breathtaking bamboo grove.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In many traditional Japanese settings, including ryokan (inns) and some restaurants, it is customary to remove your shoes before entering. Be sure to follow this practice to show respect for the local culture.
Kyōto is home to many serene and sacred sites, such as temples and gardens. Visitors should observe silence and avoid loud or disruptive behavior when exploring these peaceful locations to show consideration for others and the cultural significance of these places.
Bowing is an important form of greeting and showing respect in Japanese culture. When interacting with locals, a slight bow is often appreciated, especially in formal situations or when expressing gratitude.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kyōto with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Kyōto
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is generally not expected or practiced in Japan, including in Kyōto. It is considered polite to offer a gesture of thanks or a bow instead of tipping.
In Kyōto, as in the rest of Japan, cash is the predominant form of payment. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in major establishments, but it's a good idea to carry cash for smaller businesses or traditional establishments.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Kyōto.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for cherry blossoms and pleasant weather.
Expect hot and humid weather, with summer festivals and lush greenery.
Ideal for autumn foliage, with comfortable temperatures and breathtaking colors.
May experience cold temperatures, but have the opportunity to enjoy beautiful snowy landscapes and winter illuminations.
Kyōto at Night
Hiking in Kyōto
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail that connects Kurama and Kibune, featuring lush forests and beautiful mountain views.
A prominent mountain near Kyoto, perfect for hiking with rich biodiversity and historical temples along the way.
A picturesque walk through towering bamboo stalks, with nearby hiking trails leading up to the Iwatayama Monkey Park.
A rural area with trails that take you through serene countryside and to the famous Sanzen-in Temple.
Famous for its thousands of vermillion torii gates, offering various hikes up the sacred Mt. Inari.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Kyōto through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Kyōto by plane.
Located in Osaka, approximately 75 kilometers from Kyoto, Kansai International Airport is one of the main international airports serving the Kansai region of Japan.
Also known as Itami Airport, located about 50 kilometers from Kyoto, it primarily handles domestic flights but has some international flights.
Located in Aichi Prefecture, approximately 150 kilometers from Kyoto, this airport serves the Nagoya area and international flights.
Located in Kōbe, approximately 70 kilometers from Kyoto, this airport caters mainly to domestic flights but also has a few international services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Kyōto, making up a significant portion of the population. This group includes both native-born residents and those from other regions of Japan.
Includes a variety of nationalities living in Kyōto, such as Chinese, Korean, American, Brazilian, and others. This group has been increasing in recent years.
Kyōto is home to many universities and colleges, attracting a student population that contributes to the demographic diversity, including both domestic and international students.
A significant segment of the population as in many Japanese cities, with an increasing elderly demographic due to higher life expectancy and declining birth rates.
While not a permanent demographic group, the influx of tourists—both domestic and international—can greatly affect the city's demographics, particularly in popular areas.
The Soul of Kyōto
Discover the essence of Kyōto through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Traditional Japanese archery that emphasizes precision and mental focus, often practiced in dojo settings.
A widely popular sport in Japan, with many local teams and youth leagues; Kyoto has its own teams and fan following.
Growing in popularity, with various local clubs and youth academies; the city promotes many soccer events.
Includes various forms such as Judo, Kendo, and Karate; these are taught at many dojos throughout Kyoto.
While not as prevalent as in other regions, sumo has a rich cultural significance, with occasional tournaments and events.
A popular choice among high schools and universities, with events held throughout the year in the city.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kyōto.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Kyoto is known for its Buddhist culinary traditions, which has led to the proliferation of vegetarian and vegan dining options. Look for shojin ryori (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine) at temples like Shigetsu within Tenryu-ji Temple.
While gluten-free options are still limited, some restaurants, particularly those offering traditional Japanese cuisine, may be able to accommodate dietary restrictions. It's recommended to communicate your dietary needs clearly to the staff.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Kyōto with these cultural adventures.
