Kyoto, the ancient capital of Japan, is a must for any tourist travelling to Japan. We’ve spent 3 amazing days here and found the city to be amazing and charming as described.

During our visit we even managed to play around with monkeys in their very own sanctuary on top of a mountain! Read more below.

Overview

Kyoto, once the capital of Japan, is a city that beautifully balances its rich history with modern-day charm. Fun fact, is that Japan used to change its capital based on the residence of the then Emperor.

After Nara was the first permanently chosen capital, officials feared the Buddhist monks and their implication in political affairs of the country and so chose Kyoto as the next capital to be further away from the Buddhist priests’ interfierences.

Kyoto has been the capital of Japan for almost a thousand years (794 to 1868) hence it’s nickname Thousand Year Capital.

As we stroll through its streets, the traditional teahouses and temples offer glimpses into a past that feels almost untouched by time.

This guide will help you navigate the must-see attractions, best places to stay, and local culinary experiences that make Kyoto a unique destination.

Travel to and Around Kyoto

Getting to Kyoto

Kyoto is well-connected and easily accessible from major cities in Japan, making it a convenient destination for travellers. If you’re flying into Japan, the closest international airport is Kansai International Airport (KIX) in Osaka.

If you are looking for suitable flight options, make sure to check out this article with top tips on how to find cheap flights.

From there, you can reach Kyoto by several means:

• By Train: The most efficient way to travel from Kansai International Airport to Kyoto is by taking the JR Haruka Express. The journey takes about 75 minutes, and the train is both comfortable and scenic.
  • Note: If you hold a Japan Rail Pass, this journey is covered, making it an economical option for those planning to travel around Japan by rail.
• By Bus: For those looking for a more budget-friendly option, airport buses operate regularly between Kansai Airport and Kyoto Station. The ride takes a bit longer, around 90 minutes, but it’s a straightforward and comfortable choice.
• By Taxi: While more expensive, a taxi or private car service offers the convenience of direct transport to your accommodation, particularly useful if you have a lot of luggage or are travelling with a group. The journey usually takes around 90 minutes, depending on traffic.

If you’re travelling from Tokyo, Kyoto is a mere 2.5 hours away by the Tokaido Shinkansen (bullet train). On a nice day, you can also see Mt. Fuji from the train.

Opt for the Nozomi service for the fastest route, or use the Hikari service if you’re using a Japan Rail Pass. The Shinkansen offers a comfortable and efficient way to travel, with frequent departures throughout the day.

We travelled with the shinkansen from Tokyo to Kyoto with a stop in the bautiful town of Hakone.

Getting Around Kyoto

Once in Kyoto, getting around the city is relatively easy. Unlike Tokyo’s very good metro system, Kyoto relies a lot on buses which can take a while to traverse the city. However, the best way to explore Kyoto often depends on the area you’re visiting and your personal preferences.

• By Train and Subway: Kyoto’s train and subway networks are excellent for covering longer distances and getting to key tourist spots. The city’s two main subway lines, the Karasuma Line (north-south) and the Tozai Line (east-west), intersect at Karasuma Oike Station, making it a central hub for getting around. For attractions like Fushimi Inari Taisha and Arashiyama, local JR lines are your best bet.
• By Bus: Kyoto’s extensive bus network is perhaps the most convenient way to access many of the city’s historic sites, especially those not directly served by the subway or train lines. We found that the buses are particularly useful for reaching places like Kinkaku-ji, Ryoan-ji, and the Gion District. The Kyoto City Bus & Subway Pass offers unlimited travel on both for a day or two, which can be cost-effective if you plan to visit multiple sites. Alternatively, you can get a Kyoto Hop-On Hop-Off bus to explore the main attractions.
• By Foot: Kyoto’s compact nature means that walking is often the best way to soak in the city’s atmosphere. The historic districts of Gion, Higashiyama, and the areas around Kiyomizu-dera and Ninenzaka/Sannenzaka are best explored on foot. We found that wandering through these areas allowed us to discover hidden gems, from small shrines to quaint tea houses, that we might have missed if we were rushing by on public transport.
• By Taxi: While generally more expensive, taxis are readily available and can be a convenient option, especially for short trips or if you’re carrying luggage. Kyoto’s taxis are known for their courteous drivers and clean vehicles; there are considerably more taxis here than in other parts where we’ve been. For travellers who might find public transport confusing or are travelling in a group, this can be a comfortable alternative.
• By Rickshaw: For a more unique experience, consider taking a rickshaw ride, particularly in the Arashiyama area. While it’s not the most practical mode of transport, it offers a leisurely way to enjoy the scenery and learn about the area from a knowledgeable local guide.

Navigating Between Attractions

Kyoto’s layout makes it relatively easy to plan your day based on districts or clusters of attractions. For example, visiting the Arashiyama area in the morning allows you to cover the Bamboo Forest, Tenryu-ji Temple, and the Monkey Park before moving on to other areas.

We found that grouping nearby attractions not only saved time but also allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in each area without feeling rushed.

Using a combination of public transport and walking will give you the flexibility to see as much of Kyoto as possible while still allowing time to enjoy the sights without a strict schedule.

Nonetheless, we found Google Maps to offer a very good service, always indicating the best travel routes when in Japan. Make sure you get your Japan eSIM or a local SIM card so you get network coverage. It will go a long way!

Where to Stay in Kyoto

Kyoto offers a range of accommodation options, from traditional ryokan inns to modern hotels. We found that choosing where to stay depends largely on the type of experience you’re after—whether you want to be in the heart of the action or tucked away in a quieter neighbourhood.

If you prefer to stay in a hotel, we would recommend booking your accommodation through an aggregator such as Booking.com or Agoda or Trip.com (more popular in Asia) to get the best rates. Use the widget below to find the best accommodation in Kyoto for your specific dates.

For us, as we made use of our JR Pass quite a lot, it made sense to find a hotel not far from the JR Station in Kyoto. As a result, we stood at Ala Hotel in Kyoto, just minutes away from the main train station and next to Kyoto Tower.

Best Time to Visit Kyoto

Kyoto is a city for all seasons, but the experience can vary significantly depending on when you visit. Spring brings cherry blossoms, while autumn is known for its stunning foliage.

We’ll discuss what you can expect from each season, helping you plan the best time for your visit:

Spring (March to May): Spring is popular for cherry blossom season, typically from late March to early April. Iconic spots like the Philosopher’s Path and Maruyama Park become vibrant with blossoms, making it an ideal time for hanami (cherry blossom viewing). The mild weather is perfect for exploring, though expect crowds and higher prices.

Summer (June to August): Summer brings hot, humid weather, and the rainy season in June. Despite this, it’s a vibrant time with events like the Gion Matsuri in July, where parades and festivities showcase Kyoto’s cultural heritage. For a cooler escape, the shaded Arashiyama Bamboo Forest or a trip to nearby mountains offer relief from the heat.

Autumn (September to November): Autumn is another peak season, with stunning foliage from mid-November to early December. Temples like Tofuku-ji and Kiyomizu-dera are particularly breathtaking during this time. The cooler temperatures make it a pleasant season for sightseeing, though, like spring, it can be busy. This is when we visited Kyoto.

Winter (December to February):
Winter in Kyoto is quieter, with fewer tourists and a peaceful atmosphere. While cold, occasional snowfall adds a magical touch to temples like Kinkaku-ji. The New Year period offers a glimpse into traditional celebrations, and winter cuisine like yudofu (tofu hot pot) is perfect for warming up.

Our Thouhgts:
Spring and autumn are ideal for Kyoto’s natural beauty, while summer and winter offer quieter, more intimate experiences. We went during November and found it still fairly crowded so leaving early from the hotel especially for key attractions will be important if you want to get more privacy for your photos.

Things to do in Kyoto

Kyoto is a city steeped in history and culture, where ancient temples, serene gardens, and traditional districts coexist with modern life. Whether you’re wandering through bamboo groves, exploring historic castles, or experiencing the vibrant geisha culture, there’s no shortage of things to do.

As with most of the attraction in Japan, you will have to take off your shoes and walk in your socks in most indoors museum or palaces. So make sure you have your socks in good condition.

Card payments are widely accepted, but not at museums or temples. We used our 0% fee cards throughout this trip to make sure we always got the better rates. Read more here about managing your finances when travelling.

Below is a guide to some of the must-see attractions that capture the essence of Kyoto.

1. Visit the Kyoto Imperial Palace

The Kyoto Imperial Palace offers a glimpse into the life of Japan’s imperial family. You might remember from our Tokyo guide that we couldn’t visit the Tokyo Imperial Palace however, here in Kyoto, you absolutely can.

The palace is made in accordance wtih Chinese architecture in mind and offers and interesting perspective into the Imperial Family’s legacy.

You are free to choose a free guided tour which comes with your tickets. The guided tour was ok, and offered a good understanding of the estate however, the guide did struggle to maintain a rapport with the group and the experience felt very detached. To the point where the guide read her good-byes from the script already prepared.

Alternatively, you can choose to do this Kyoto Imperial Palace & Nijo Castle Small Group Guided Walking Tour.

2. Explore Nijo Castle

Visiting Nijo Castle feels like stepping back into the Edo period. The intricate woodwork and beautiful gardens made this one of our favourite stops in Kyoto.

Here you also have some light shows depending on the period you come where in the evening you will see some projections. This will require an additional ticket to be purchased.

The castle offers very good explanations around Japanese woodwork and the mechanism to building wooden structures without metal nails or the suspended floors. Here they will also explain the various rooms the Shoguns had at their disposal and the customary seating according to rank.

You can also choose to do this Kyoto Imperial Palace & Nijo Castle Small Group Guided Walking Tour.

Don’t miss the views from above, we stood at least 30 minutes just admiring the views towards Nijo Castle.

3. Pay your respects at Yasaka Shrine

Yasaka Shrine, with its vibrant lanterns and lively festivals, is a hub of activity. We enjoyed wandering through the grounds, soaking in the atmosphere that blends spirituality with daily life and made a donation to the shrine as is customary.

4. Walk amongst Geishas at Gion District (Geisha District)

Gion is one of Kyoto’s most famous districts, known for its well-preserved architecture and as a centre of geisha culture. We recommend taking a stroll here in the evening when the lantern-lit streets have an almost magical quality.

You might think that you will see a lot of geishas however, in reality many of the dressed up women will be tourists who rent out geisha costumes. Even so, perhaps ask for their permission before taking a photo.

In this district we found that all the good, fine dining restaurants will be at your disposal. We suggest having a look and perhaps indulging yourself with a good dinner after a long day’s walk.

5. Enjoy the Wildlife of Arashiyama District

The Arashiyama District, located on the western outskirts of Kyoto, is one of the city’s most picturesque and historically rich areas. A visit to Arashiyama offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and serene experiences that capture the essence of Kyoto’s timeless charm.

We suggest when visiting here, to bring some comfortable hiking shoes or sneakers as there is a bit of hiking to be done.

Here’s a closer look at the highlights of this district:

5.1. Explore Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

One of Arashiyama’s most iconic sights is the Bamboo Forest, or Sagano Bamboo Grove. Walking through this towering grove of bamboo is like stepping into another world, where the rustling leaves and filtered sunlight create an almost otherworldly atmosphere.

The path through the forest is well-trodden, but the sheer height and density of the bamboo make it feel secluded and peaceful. There are several paths through the forrest which are forbidden for tourists. Those paths are the more picturesque parts of the forest and are only accessible if you rent a rickshaw.

We recommend visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and fully appreciate the tranquillity of this natural wonder.

5.2. See the Wonderful Gardens at Tenryu-ji Temple

A short walk from the Bamboo Forest is Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Kyoto’s most important Zen temples. Founded in the 14th century, Tenryu-ji is renowned for its beautiful gardens, which were designed by the famous garden designer Muso Soseki.

The gardens, with their meticulously arranged rocks, ponds, and plants, are a masterpiece of Japanese landscape design, reflecting the Zen principles of simplicity and harmony.

The temple’s main hall offers stunning views of the garden, particularly in autumn when the foliage turns vibrant shades of red and orange.

5.3. Admire the Scenery from Togetsukyo Bridge

Spanning the Katsura River, the Togetsukyo Bridge is one of Arashiyama’s most recognisable landmarks. The name “Togetsukyo” translates to “Moon Crossing Bridge,” inspired by the poetic image of the moon seemingly crossing the bridge’s arc.

The views from the bridge are especially scenic during the cherry blossom season in spring and the autumn foliage in late November. We found the best way to enjoy the bridge was by taking a leisurely stroll across it, stopping to take in the surrounding mountains and river.

The area around the bridge is bustling with activity, including boat rentals for those who wish to see the scenery from the water.

5.4. Feed the Monkeys at Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama

For a unique and slightly adventurous experience, head to Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama, located on a hill just a short hike from the bridge. The park is home to a troop of wild Japanese macaques, which roam freely around the park’s summit.

After a 20-minute hike through a wooded trail, you’ll be rewarded with not only close encounters with the monkeys but also panoramic views of Kyoto from the top. We suggest you take a few minutes and enjoy the views as they are quite stunning and you can see the whole valley.

The monkeys in the park are accustomed to visitors, and it’s possible to feed them (with food provided by the park), be careful though some can be quite impatient!

The hike itself is moderate but enjoyable, and the view from the top is well worth the effort.

6. Find your Inner Centre at Ryōan-ji Temple

Though technically located slightly outside the main Arashiyama area, Ryōan-ji Temple is often included in itineraries for this district due to its proximity and significance. Ryōan-ji is famous for its rock garden, one of the finest examples of Zen garden design in Japan.

The garden consists of fifteen rocks arranged on white gravel, with the layout intended to inspire contemplation. Interestingly, no matter where you stand, only fourteen rocks are visible at any given time—legend has it that only those who achieve enlightenment can see all fifteen.

We found sitting quietly by the garden to be a meditative experience, offering a moment of calm amidst a busy day of sightseeing.

7. Take a Photo at Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion)

Also known as the Golden Pavilion, Kinkaku-ji is another must-visit site near Arashiyama. The temple’s top two floors are covered in gold leaf, creating a stunning reflection on the pond that surrounds it.

Kinkaku-ji is one of Kyoto’s most famous landmarks, and its beauty is undeniable, especially when viewed against the backdrop of the changing seasons.

We recommend visiting early in the day to avoid the crowds, allowing you to fully appreciate the serenity of the temple and its gardens. There is a one way path which visitors are encouraged to take so to see the pavilion from all angles.

The contrast between the golden structure and the natural surroundings left a lasting impression on us.

8. Higashiyama Jisho-ji (Silver Pavilion)

We haven’t been to the Silver Pavilion although we did intend to but due to the long travel time between Arashiyama and the stop for the Silver Pavilion we arrived 5 minutes before closing.

Having said this, The Silver Pavilion offers a quieter, more subdued contrast to Kinkaku-ji, we are told. Perhaps another reason to revisit Kyoto.

9. Have a Sake at the Sake District

Kyoto’s Sake District is a must-visit for those interested in Japan’s traditional brewing culture. We enjoyed sampling different types of sake while learning about the brewing process.

What we found interesting is that this is one of the 3 valleys in all of Japan where they make the finest sake as the water is seen to be more pure. The district itself boasts many maccha houses (traditional wooden houses) which transport you back in time.

Here you will find a few restaurants all offering local Kansai foods and plenty of sake options.

Sake isn’t a particularly strong drink, it ranges from 15% to 22%, and is typically enjoyed in shots in between sampling various foods.

We really enjoyed our time here and we are still puzzled how few tourists there were in the Sake district. Perhaps one of Kyoto’s best kept secrets?

10. Pay your Respects at Tō-ji Temple

Tō-ji Temple is home to Kyoto’s tallest pagoda and offers a fascinating glimpse into Buddhist architecture. The monthly flea market here is a great place to pick up unique souvenirs.

Just wander around and admire the beautiful gardens, the pagoda and the visit to the temple.

11. Walk Amongst the 1000 Torii Gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha

Fushimi Inari Taisha is the head shrine of the Inari deity, with over 30,000 smaller Inari shrines spread across Japan. The shrine dates back to 711 AD, making it one of Kyoto’s oldest and most important religious sites.

Our advice is to wear comfortable shoes, as the hike involves a significant number of steps and uneven terrain.

The main shrine buildings are located at the base of the mountain, featuring traditional architecture that is both elegant and spiritually significant. The shrine’s most recognisable feature is the sea of vermillion torii gates, known as the Senbon Torii, which create a tunnel-like effect as they wind up the mountain.

• Senbon Torii (Thousand Torii Gates): The highlight of any visit to Mt. Inari is the journey through the torii gates. Donated by individuals and businesses in hopes of receiving good fortune, each gate is inscribed with the name of its donor. The path begins behind the main shrine and leads up the mountain in a series of trails. As you ascend, the gates become more spaced out, and the crowds thin, offering a more serene experience. We found the early morning or late afternoon to be the best times to walk the path, as the soft light filtering through the trees and gates creates a mystical atmosphere.
• Shrines and Sub-Shrines: Along the trail, you’ll encounter numerous smaller shrines and statues dedicated to Inari. The fox, or kitsune, is believed to be the messenger of Inari, and you’ll see many fox statues with different offerings in their mouths, such as keys or scrolls, which represent their role as protectors and guides. These shrines often have small altars where visitors can leave offerings, pray, or purchase omamori (protective charms). We found these quiet spots to be perfect for a moment of reflection and appreciation of the spiritual significance of the mountain.

12. See the 1001 Statues at Sanjūsangen-dō Temple

Sanjūsangen-dō Temple is renowned for its 1,001 statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy.

The pagoda itself is also impressive, however, as you enter the hall with the statues you will simply be amazed. The sheer scale and detail of these statues left a lasting impression on us.

We found many of these statues to be very expressive and there we say it, quite scary, which is what the intention is. Apparently, there is a specific way to pray for some of the gods here, as to make the impression of the statue even stronger.

Photos and videos can’t be taken inside the main hall, unfortunately, so we took a photo of a leaflet to show you what to expect inside.

13. Have a treat at Nishiki Market

Nishiki Market is the place to go for a taste of Kyoto’s culinary delights. From fresh seafood to local sweets, there’s something here for every palate.

Although a more tourist geared market, this place offers a great selection of local cuisine but also interesting things to try out. We were fascinated by the fruit sandwiches 🙂

14. Walk on Ninenzaka & Sannenzaka

These historic lanes are perfect for a leisurely stroll. The traditional shops and tea houses give you a feel for Kyoto’s old-world charm.

It was great being here and we made lots of photos and videos at these picturesque streets. It was full of tourists though, so get ready for the crowds.

15. Take a Sunset Photo at Kiyomizu-dera

Kiyomizu-dera offers breathtaking views of Kyoto, especially during cherry blossom season or Autumn foliage. The temple’s main hall, perched on a hillside, is an architectural marvel.

We really enjoyed the temple ground and found the building but more importantly the views to be breathtaking. As you buy your tickets head up to the main hall of the temple.

Once you visit the temple, head over to the shrines in red just next to it. From there you will see the temples and Kyoto in the background. A view to remember!

We went also during the evening when the temple lights up. Overseeing Kyoto and the temple all lighten up is a sheer spectacle in itself. We did find it very crowded and with that in mind, many people seem to push themselves against you.

I guess this is one of those things where you just have to accept it.

16. Enjoy the Views from Kyoto Tower

Kyoto Tower, standing at 131 meters, is a modern landmark in Kyoto that offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. From its observation deck, you can enjoy a breathtaking 360-degree view of Kyoto’s historical landscape, including the distant peaks of the Higashiyama range and the sprawling urban area.

Our hotel was a few minutes away from Kyoto tower. We decided not to visit this as we already enjoyed views of Kyoto from above from the places mentioned above.

Other things to Do in Kyoto

Top Restaurants in Kyoto

Kyoto’s culinary scene is a rich tapestry of tradition and innovation, deeply rooted in the city’s history as Japan’s cultural capital. Known for its refined and delicate cuisine, Kyoto offers everything from elegant kaiseki (multi-course meals) to humble yet exquisite tofu dishes.

The city is also famous for its seasonal ingredients, with each dish crafted to reflect the changing seasons. Beyond traditional fare, Kyoto’s markets and eateries serve a variety of street food, sushi, and matcha-infused delights, providing a diverse culinary experience that satisfies both the palate and the soul.

1. Try some good Tempura and Noodles at Menkui Kinya

Menkui Kinya is a ramen shop that stands out for its rich broth and perfectly cooked tempura & udon noodles. We found it to be a great spot for a casual meal.

We had the seafood, veggie and meats tempura and found the batter to be light, cripsy and tasty. You get seated at the chef’s table where you get to see your food beeing prepared, all in a comfy atmosphere where the next guest is 10 cm apart. Combined with the warmth of the udon noodles this was a perfect match considering the cold November weather outside.

2. Try Melt in the Mouth Katsu at Katsurai – Kinkaku-ji Temple

Located near Kinkaku-ji, Katsurai is an excellent choice for a meal after visiting the Golden Pavilion. The menu focuses on local ingredients, prepared with care.

We also found it very interesting how you get to prepare your own sesame sauce for the katsu pork. It felt engaging and enjoyable.

I went for the pork katsu whilst Hristina had the seafood and pork katsu mix. Both were good, but I definetely liked the pork katsu more. It was tender, moist and cripsy. Overall, a melt in the mouth experience.

Just to add to this, the service was simply impecable. The staff gave us their undivided attention and it felt like we were the guests of honour. We absolutely recommend this place.

3. Sample some Sake and Kansai Food at Kizakurashoten

Within the Fushimi Sake Village, Kizakurashoten, offers a unique dining experience where you can sample different sakes alongside a variety of small dishes. It’s a great way to dive into Kyoto’s sake culture.

We opted for the obanzai menu as it is a more informal kaiseki (fine dining) but offers at least 50% of the produce from the local Kansai region. The food was good, not amazing but many items where presented very nice and paired with the sake tasting it was an amazing experience.

One the way out we even got some of our favourite sake which we uncovered during the tasting.

4. Try a Michelin Guide featured Ramen at Men-ya Inoichi

Men-ya Inoichi offers a refined take on ramen, with a focus on quality ingredients and balanced flavours. Whilst not a Michelin Starred Restaurant they still feature on their guide and for good reason!

Staying true to their Kyoto heritage, they craft a ramen deeply infused with the rich flavour of dashi. The broth is made from Rausu kombu, a kelp known for its umami, along with a variety of dried seafood.

They were kind enough to let us in although the restaurant was closing and served us one of the most amazing umami ramen we’ve ever had in our lives. A must if you are near Nishiki market.

Final Thoughts

Kyoto is a city that offers something for everyone, whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie. We really enjoyed our time there and found our experience to be full of excitement and enjoyment.

Whilst the public transport in Kyoto is a bit on the rough side of navigation, we can easily forgive it considering the many splendours the city had offered us during our stay. We hope this guide helps you plan your trip and make the most of your time in this beautiful city.

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