Things to do in Kyoto
Discover the best attractions and experiences Kyoto has to offer
Historic Monuments
Kyoto's historic monuments span centuries of imperial and religious life, crafted with enduring elegance.
Kiyomizu-dera
A UNESCO-listed temple perched on a hillside, famous for its wooden stage that overhangs the valley.
Fushimi Inari Taisha
A Shinto shrine famed for thousands of vermilion torii gates forming a sunlit mountain path.
Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
Zen temple whose top two floors shimmer in gold leaf, reflected in a tranquil pond.
Nijo Castle
A former shogunate residence with ornate interiors and famous nightingale floors.
Museums
Kyoto's museums blend ancient art with modern storytelling and culture.
Kyoto National Museum
One of Japan’s premier museums, presenting classic Japanese art and artifacts.
Kyoto International Manga Museum
A large collection celebrating manga with exhibits and reading spaces.
The Museum of Kyoto
A city-run museum exploring Kyoto’s daily life and culture through rotating exhibits.
Religious Monuments
Kyoto's sacred sites reveal Buddhist and Shinto traditions that shaped the city.
Ryoan-ji
Zen temple renowned for its minimalist rock garden and contemplative grounds.
Toji Temple
Home to Kyoto’s tallest pagoda and a historic temple complex.
Nanzen-ji
A sprawling Zen temple complex with gates, gardens and sub-temples.
National & Theme Parks
National parks near Kyoto offer nature escapes, while theme parks provide family-friendly fun.
Coming Soon!
We're currently working on adding national & theme parks recommendations for Kyoto. Check back soon for curated suggestions in this category.
Neighborhoods
Vibrant districts where tradition, shopping and food come alive.
Gion
Historic geisha district with traditional teahouses and lantern-lit streets.
Arashiyama
Picturesque riverside district known for the bamboo grove and scenic river views.
Pontocho
Narrow alley along the river famous for dining and nightlife.
Free Things to Do
Many of Kyoto's charms are free to enjoy, from scenic walks to riverside strolls.
Philosopher's Path
A tranquil stone path along a canal, perfect for a reflective stroll.
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Walk among towering bamboo stalks in a serene forest setting.
Kamogawa River Walk
Stroll along Kyoto's Kamogawa River and watch locals and boats go by.
Gastronomy
Kyoto's cuisine highlights seasonal, refined flavors.
Nishiki Market tasting stroll
A bustling market where you can sample Kyoto snacks and regional specialties.
Kyo-kaiseki dining
Experience Kyoto's refined multi-course cuisine in a traditional setting.
Yudofu near Nanzen-ji
Savor tofu hot pot served with seasonal vegetables in temple precincts.
Nightlife
Evenings offer atmospheric bars, riverside scenes and cultural ambiance.
Pontocho Alley
Lantern-lit lanes by the river, filled with intimate bars and eateries.
Kiyamachi-dori
Bustling nightlife street with izakayas and cafés along the canal.
Gion by night
Evening strolls through a historic district where geisha culture lingers.
Entertainment
Cultural performances and show venues bring Kyoto's arts to life.
Minami-za Kabuki
Kyoto's main Kabuki theater offering traditional performances.
Gion Kobu Kabuki
Intimate Kabuki performances in the historic Gion district.
Gion Corner
Short cultural performances featuring tea ceremony, music and traditional arts.
Sports
Active ways to experience Kyoto's outdoors.
Cycling along the Kamo River
A flat, scenic route along Kyoto’s river ideal for a casual ride.
Kurama–Kibune hike
Forest trail between two mountain villages offering seasonal scenery.
Off the Track
Hidden gems and unusual experiences that go beyond the typical itinerary.
Sagano Scenic Railway
A picturesque train ride through the Hozu River gorge in Arashiyama.
Saiho-ji Moss Temple
A moss garden temple known for tranquil grounds and greenery.
Tea ceremony in a machiya
Participate in a traditional tea ceremony inside a Kyoto townhouse.