Planning a trip to Kyoto and wondering how to make the most of your time? Over five incredible days in Kyoto, we discovered countless unforgettable experiences that highlight the city’s charm. From exploring iconic temples and serene gardens to indulging in Kyoto’s delicious cuisine and vibrant traditions, there’s so much to see and do. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the top things to do in Kyoto, share tips for making your trip smoother, and uncover hidden gems to add to your itinerary.
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Without further ado, here’s the ultimate guide to the best things to do in Kyoto!
Why is Kyoto So Famous?
Kyoto’s fame is mainly due to its rich cultural heritage, which includes numerous world-renowned temples and shrines, a vibrant food scene, and attractions that look like they’re straight out of a fairytale. The city is also well-known for its well-preserved architecture, beautiful gardens, and parks.
Is Kyoto a Walkable City?
Yes, Kyoto is a very walkable city. Many of the best attractions in Kyoto, such as the Gion district and Arashiyama, are easily accessible on foot. However, for longer distances, Kyoto has an efficient bus and train system. Taxis are also a good option if your time is limited, but they’re not the most cost-effective way to get around. We explored Kyoto mainly on foot, and when we needed to get to attractions that were further away then we’d opt for trains and buses.
How Many Days to Spend in Kyoto?
While three days in Kyoto will let you experience the city’s main attractions, spending more time gives you the chance to discover its hidden gems and fully experience the local culture. We recommend that you plan for at least five days to experience the full depth of Kyoto. We spent five days in Kyoto, and it was just enough time to explore everything on our itinerary.
Best Things to Do in Kyoto
1. Fushimi Inari Shrine
Fushimi Inari Taisha is one of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks, famous for its seemingly endless rows of bright red torii gates winding up the mountain. For me, it had been a bucket-list destination ever since I saw it in Memoirs of a Geisha, and I was brimming with excitement when we finally arrived. We visited around noon, and while the scenery was breathtaking, it was quite crowded, especially near the main entrance. We recommend arriving earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon as it might offer a more serene experience with fewer crowds. It took us about two hours to explore the grounds and the various trails without hiking all the way to the peak, and we noticed that some sections were closed off due to religious events. If you brave the hike to the mountain peak, plan to set aside at least 2-3 hours.
How to get to Fushimi Inari Shrine
Getting to Fushimi Inari is easy and convenient by train. From Kyoto Station, take the JR Nara Line to Inari Station—it’s just a quick five-minute ride. The shrine is directly across from the station, making it very accessible. Despite the crowds, this spot is a must-see and truly one of the best things to do in Kyoto, thanks to its stunning natural beauty and cultural significance.
2. Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion):
Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion, is an unmissable spot in Kyoto. Its golden exterior, surrounded by a reflective pond and beautiful gardens, creates a serene and unique setting. We visited in the morning and were pleasantly surprised to find it not too crowded, which made it easy to enjoy. It took us about an hour to explore the grounds at a relaxed pace, and the entrance fee was 500 Yen.
How to get to Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
To get to Kinkaku-ji, you can take Kyoto City Bus 205 from Kyoto Station, which will drop you off near the temple in about 40 minutes. During our trip, the buses were very crowded in both directions, so if you’re visiting during peak season, you might end up standing for the entire ride.
3. Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
The Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is a picturesque place with towering bamboo groves that create an incredibly photogenic setting. While the Bamboo Forest is a popular attraction in Kyoto and a nice place to visit, we found ourselves enjoying the surrounding area even more. More specifically, the nearby temples and more specifically, the Tenryu-ji Temple. This is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Kyoto’s most significant temples. The temple is adjacent to the Bamboo Forest, and the designated paths naturally lead you through it to reach the forest.
The entrance fee is 500 Yen for the gardens and an additional 300 Yen if you want to access the temple. The walk along the river was another highlight—peaceful and scenic, with people relaxing at roadside cafes, taking boat rides, or simply soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.
How to get to Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
The easiest way to get to Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is by the JR Sagano Line to Saga-Arashiyama Station. From there, follow the signs to the Bamboo Forest, which is about a 15-minute walk away. Alternatively, you can take a Kyoto City Bus to the Arashiyama area.
On your way back, we recommend heading to Arashiyama Station, where you can walk through the colorful Kimono Forest—a vibrant display of fabric-covered poles that’s especially beautiful when lit up in the evening.
4. Nijo Castle
Nijo Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage site, popular not only for its architecture but also for its ‘nightingale floors’ that chirp when walked upon, making it one of the best things to do in Kyoto. While early morning is a good time to visit, we highly recommend visiting it about an hour before sunset. When we went, it wasn’t very crowded, and the golden light reflecting off the castle created an almost magical atmosphere.
The entrance fee was 1,300 Yen, and we spent about an hour exploring the grounds. Since we wanted to see as much of the gardens and surroundings as possible, we didn’t have time to visit the castle itself, but the experience was still well worth it.
How to get to Nijo Castle
Getting to Nijo Castle is pretty simple. If you’re taking the train, you can catch the JR Sagano Line and get off at Nijo Station, which is about a 10-minute walk from the castle. Alternatively, you can use the Kyoto City Subway Tozai Line and get off at Nijojo-mae Station, just a 2-minute walk away. Buses are another good option, with several routes like 9, 50, and 101 stopping close to the castle.
5. Gion District (Best Things to Do in Kyoto)
The historic Gion District is Kyoto’s crown jewel, making this famous geisha quarter one of the best things to do in Kyoto. Walking through this area feels like stepping back in time, with the highlights being charming spots like the Ninenzaka pedestrian alley and the Sannen-Zaka Path. We first visited in the early afternoon, and the crowds were overwhelming, which took away from the experience. So, we decided to return the next day right before sunrise, and it was a whole different experience! There were no crowds at all, allowing us to explore at our own pace, and take photos. We highly recommend beating the crowds by visiting as early as possible. It took us around two hours to explore the area, and after walking through the picturesque streets, we made our way to Kiyomizu-dera Temple for a breathtaking view of Kyoto.
How to get to Gion District
To get to Gion, you can take Kyoto City Bus 100 or 206 from Kyoto Station, which takes about 15 minutes. If you’re visiting at sunrise and are short on time, it might be worth considering an Uber. This is what we did on our second visit, and it was money well spent. The ride took less than 10 minutes, and we didn’t have to wait for the bus in the crisp early morning hours.
6. Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Kiyomizu-dera Temple is one of Kyoto’s must-visit landmarks, offering incredible views of the city. There several spots were you can enjoy the view from, but our favorite was from the Kiyomizu-dera Koyasunoto Pagoda, located at the very end of the main temple.
The temple grounds are spacious, with smaller shrines, pagodas, and picturesque pathways to explore along the way, so set aside about 1 to 1.5 hours for your visit. For the best experience, we recommend visiting around sunset, when the views of the city bathed in golden light are absolutely breathtaking. The entrance fee is 500 Yen.
7. Philosopher’s Path
The Philosopher’s Path in Kyoto is a peaceful walking trail that stretches about two kilometers along a cherry-tree-lined canal. During our visit, we loved the fact that it wasn’t very crowded, offering a nice break from the bustle of the city. There are plenty of spots to pause, enjoy the scenery, or check out small shops and cafes along the way. If you’re looking for a relaxing way to spend a morning or afternoon, this is the perfect place for you.
Depending on your pace and how often you stop, exploring the entire path can take around 1 to 2 hours. We only walked a portion of it, then headed to the nearby Tetsugaku No Michi temple before sitting down for lunch. The Philosopher’s Path is one of the most relaxing things to do in Kyoto, especially during cherry blossom season when the trees are in full bloom, or in autumn when the leaves transform into vibrant shades of red and orange.
Kyoto Cultural Experiences
8. Traditional Tea Ceremony
If you’re looking for a cultural experience, attending a traditional tea ceremony is one of the best things to do in Kyoto. This timeless ritual offers a glimpse into Japan’s rich history and culture. Kyoto is home to many tea houses, especially in historic districts like Gion and Higashiyama, where you can take part in this unique Japanese tradition.
9. Kimono Wearing
If you find geisha culture fascinating, you’ll enjoy the unique experience of renting a kimono in Kyoto. Walking through areas like Gion, Ninenzaka, and Sannen-Zaka while wearing a kimono adds a special touch to your visit, and it’s perfect for capturing memorable photos. Many rental shops offer a wide range of styles, and the staff can help you get dressed properly, making it a fun and unique experience.
10. Stay at a Ryokan
Staying at a ryokan is one of the top things to do in Kyoto, especially if you’re seeking an authentic cultural experience. A ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn that offers a unique glimpse into the country’s hospitality and lifestyle. With its simple, minimalist interior featuring tatami floors and futon beds, it’s the perfect place to relax. Be sure to enjoy a kaiseki meal during your stay to fully immerse yourself in Japanese customs. It’s a wonderful way to unwind after exploring Kyoto’s temples and gardens, adding a special touch to your trip that will make your visit even more memorable.
Best Day Trips from Kyoto
Nara
A day trip to Nara Park from Kyoto is a great addition to your list of things to do in Kyoto. It’s just a 45-minute train ride from Kyoto Station, making it easy to reach. Nara Park is a must-see destination in Japan, famous for its roaming deer and picturesque landscape. The deer are regarded as sacred and wander freely around the park, offering you the chance to interact with them.
While wandering through the park is free, many of the nearby temples, like Todai-ji and Kasuga Taisha, have entrance fees ranging from 500 to 600 Yen. It typically takes around 4 to 5 hours to explore Nara, including visiting the temples and enjoying the peaceful surroundings of the park. If you have time on your Japan itinerary, we highly recommend a visit to Nara Park!
Be sure to buy “shika senbei” (deer crackers) from the vendors at the park entrances to feed the deer—these crackers are safe for them to eat.
Best Time to Visit Kyoto
The best time to visit Kyoto is from March to May when cherry blossoms are in full bloom, or from September to November when the vibrant autumn foliage takes center stage. Both seasons offer pleasant weather, but since they’re also the most popular times to visit, be prepared for larger crowds throughout and at the main attractions.
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