Sightseeing
Kyoto is Japan’s cultural heart and offers many incredible sightseeing opportunities. Here is a list of the top attractions around Kyoto that should not be missed:
- Many historical Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines to explore.
- Beautiful gardens and castles.
- Something for everyone in Kyoto, and the city will surely capture your heart.
Kinkaku-ji Temple
Kinkaku-ji Temple, located in Northern Kyoto, is an iconic symbol of Japanese culture. Often referred to as the Golden Pavilion, this Zen temple was built in 1397 to serve as a retirement villa for Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu. After his death, it was converted into a temple and was designated a Historic Monument of Ancient Kyoto in 1994.
Two stories of gleaming gold leaf cover the structure, creating a majestic impression from the adjacent Lake Nakanoshima. The lower level of the Golden Pavilion has a shinden (residence for nobility) style architecture, while two personal Buddhist altars adorn the top level.
Visitors to Kinkaku-ji can explore its ornate gardens, koi ponds, and cascades before admiring its breathtaking views over northern Kyoto city and Mount Hiei. Its impressive architecture and tranquil environment prevent this historic site from being missed on your visit to Japan.
Fushimi Inari Taisha
Fushimi Inari Taisha is an iconic, centuries-old Shinto shrine in Kyoto, Japan. This shrine is dedicated to the god of rice and sake, Inari, and consists of thousands of vermillion torii gates that line a trail into the sacred Mount Inari. This shrine is located just south of the center of Kyoto and is easily reachable by public transportation.
The striking red gates lining the pathway to Fushimi Inari Taisha are called torii gates, traditional Japanese gateways to sacred spiritual sites. Individuals or businesses have donated these torii gates to protect and bring fortune upon themselves in hopes of prosperity and success. Some parts of the trail have been said to be over 2,000 years old, making it an ancient destination revered throughout Japan’s history!
The grand sight before you of thousands of these vibrant red-orange gates creates a charming atmosphere that continually draws in huge crowds worldwide. Many people come here for their sightseeing trip or pilgrimage as they travel around Kyoto’s sacred sites. The four-kilometer hike up Mount Inari is a great chance to explore forests teaming with wildlife and experience various attractions like teahouses along your journey!
Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Kiyomizu-dera is one of the most visited temples in Kyoto, Japan. Perched on the side of the steep hillside of Higashiyama-yama Mountain and overlooking Kyoto city, Kiyomizu-dera was founded in 798 and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple’s central courtyard looks over Otowa Waterfall, and its steep stairs winding up to a pavilion offer spectacular views of Kyoto.
Kiyomizu-dera is famous for its architecture and breathtaking views. Its main hall, or “Main Hall,” where visitors pay homage to the 11-headed Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva, at 33 meters tall, is one of Japan’s oldest surviving wooden structures today. In addition, several other smaller buildings within the temple compound, such as Sangatsu Do (the Three-Month Hall), which offers sweet seasonal flowers year-round, plus an octagonal belfry built during the Edo period (1603-1867). Various stone objects have also been designated important cultural properties lined up nationwide: Sakubali copper pieces, Myoki metallic cylinders, Yoroi Bitsu armors from the Momoyama period (1573–1603), Nyoirin bronze sculptures from the Edo period, and so on. Throughout your visit to Kiyomizu-dera, you will come across these beautiful artifacts that show why many generations have loved it after generations.
Aside from being a fantastic sightseeing spot, Kiyomizu-dera also promotes Buddhism concepts such as cultivating immense courage for taking chances even though we do not know about the outcome yet; this concept is echoed in its iconic expression: “Jump off Kiyomizudera’s stage; even creatures without wings make it safely down.” In addition, shops selling souvenir items line along both sides of pathways leading to Koreiden Hall, where you can find religious objects available for purchase; restaurants offering traditional snacks such as sake accompanied with maple leaf pickles are within walking distance from the temple entranceway too! So whether you’re here for sightseeing or to experience ancient culture with modern eateries, Kiyomizu-dera Temple will make your day worthwhile!
Nijo Castle
Nijo Castle, also known as Nijo-jo, is a historic site in Kyoto, Japan, home to one of the country’s best-known examples of feudal-era architecture. The castle was constructed in 1603 by Tokugawa Ieyasu and served as the home and administrative center for the Tokugawa shogunate until 1867. The castle grounds feature gardens, pathways, and moats full of carp and are considered a masterpiece of Japanese landscape design.
The most noted feature inside the palace walls is Ninomaru Palace, which consists of 33 rooms surrounded by a 2-meter high wall filled with defensive characteristics such as hidden passageways, watchtowers, and escape locks. Within the majestic palace walls are several classic interiors, including tatami-floored rooms with oversized silk coats decorated with different emblems and designs. The cultural importance reflected in these beautiful interiors demonstrates the critical role that Nijo Castle played within Edo period Japan (1603–1867).
For those interested in history or ancient architectural styles, visiting Nijo Castle will be a worthwhile experience.
Shopping
Kyoto is known for its diverse and bustling shopping scene, from traditional handicrafts to modern fashion. So whether you’re looking for souvenirs to take home or want to enjoy the sights and sounds of the local markets, you won’t be disappointed by the shopping in Kyoto.
Here are some of the best places to shop in Kyoto:
Nishiki Market
Nishiki Market is located in the center of Kyoto and is one of the most popular shopping areas in the city. It’s filled with over 100 tiny shops selling traditional local goods, from pickles to tea and rice crackers; this spot is sure to please. You’ll also find many small restaurants here, each offering its unique take on Japanese cuisine.
The market is divided into two streets – Nishikikoji Street and Tachiurinokado Street – and runs perpendicularly. Each street has its specialties ranging from fresh seafood to stylish Japanese accessories. As you explore the market, you’ll find everything from special kitchen knives to handcrafted wooden items and traditional arts and crafts like pottery, paper crafts, and calligraphy tools.
If you’re looking to pick up some souvenirs during your trip to Kyoto, Nishiki Market should be on your list of places to visit. From unique snacks to local products around Japan, this famous market is an excellent place for shopping and sightseeing!
Kyoto Handicraft Center
The Kyoto Handicraft Center is a great place to shop for traditional Japanese handicrafts and souvenirs. Located in the heart of Kyoto city near the Heian Shrine, this store offers everything from ceramic ware to bamboo crafts. Understanding Japanese culture and appreciating the effort that goes into these specially handmade items before purchasing them from this store is essential.
From delicate handmade paper umbrellas and sake cups to hand-woven silk fabrics and intricate carvings, you can find anything your heart desires here at reasonable prices.
The shop design itself is based on Japanese aesthetics, showcasing a variety of handicrafts from around the country in an elegant manner. So even if you’re not shopping, it’s worth taking some time out of your day to wander around the center and appreciate its beauty.
Furthermore, Kyoto Handicraft Center also organizes regular demonstrations by craftspeople so visitors can observe their skillful work first-hand – a truly fantastic experience!
Teramachi Shopping District
The Teramachi Shopping District in central Kyoto, Japan, is an ideal place to explore if you’re searching for a more traditional shopping experience. Located near the iconic Nijô Castle, this district comprises a series of interconnected alleyways and narrow lanes lined with hundreds of shops and restaurants catering to every taste.
Visitors will first notice the streams of pedestrians exiting from the nearby train station when they enter this bustling shopping district. Vendors on either side of the street advertise souvenirs and other trinkets unique to Japan. During weekdays, the district teems with office workers scurrying off for lunch or making their way home after a long day at work–creating a complementary hustle-and-bustle atmosphere to shop in a while surrounded by locals.
As shoppers explore the cobbled backstreets, they’ll find numerous stores selling everything from rare antiques to traditional artworks. The area is also filled with small boutiques that feature stylish clothing—especially kimonos—and various handcrafts made by local artisans. Other specialty shops offer all types of items for both men and women, from everyday items such as jewelry and stationery to unique pieces like handcrafted ceramics or vintage kimono fabric only found in this area. So whether you’re looking for something one-of-a-kind or just browsing around, you won’t be disappointed in the variety offered in Teramachi!
Kyoto Tower
Kyoto Tower is an iconic feature of the Kyoto landscape. It is located in the city’s center, stands 131 meters tall, and can be seen from most parts of town. The tower offers a 360-degree view of Kyoto and its many attractions, including its temples, shrines, and colorful gardens.
The tower’s base is a shopping complex with numerous stores selling unique souvenirs and restaurants serving delicious Japanese fare. From traditional handicrafts made in nearby workshops to high-end electronics and fashionable clothing, there is something to suit everyone’s tastes. Be sure also to check out some of Kyoto’s famous street food stalls near the shopping center – it’s a great way to get a taste of local cuisine without spending too much!
Dining
Kyoto, Japan, is a foodies’ paradise. From traditional Japanese cuisine to contemporary French, there is something for everyone to enjoy. But you will be spoiled for choice when it comes to dining options. Take a look at some of the dining experiences you can enjoy in Kyoto:
- Traditional Japanese cuisine
- Contemporary French
Gion District
The Gion District in Kyoto, Japan, is known as a place where people come to enjoy traditional dining and observe the Geisha culture. Located just south of the Kamo River and only steps from the Yasaka Shrine, Gion District is one of Japan’s most influential entertainment centers for Geishas and Maikos (apprentice Geishas).
Gion District has many well-loved restaurants that specialize in Japanese cuisine. The restaurants here feature dishes such as soba (Japanese buckwheat noodles), tempura (battered vegetables or seafood), udon (thick Japanese wheat noodles), sushi, kaiseki ryori (traditional multi-course meal with small bite-sized dishes), and more. With its range of different styles, restaurants in Gion offer something for every palate.
When visiting Gion District, you can also find traditional tea houses serving authentic matcha green tea and sweet treats like mochi ice cream. In addition to its traditional eateries, Gion has a wide selection of bars and izakaya (Japanese pubs) serving beers and sake. Of course, there are plenty of tourist-friendly establishments, too; these usually offer English menus, so it’s easy to order what you need.
Whether you’re looking for a unique dining experience or an evening out on the town, visiting Gion District will surely be an unforgettable experience!
Kyo-machiya
Kyo-machiya is a traditional Kyoto-style wooden home dating back to the Edo period. These houses served as residences and business places, often featuring earthen walls, palatial facades, and a small garden. Many of these buildings have been preserved today and still contain many traditional features that make them iconic. For example, you can find sliding screens in the bathrooms made from Japanese Washi paper and built-in cupboards and closets called Kuribu.
Today these homes have been leveraging their unique location in the city’s cultural heart to offer a sublime dining experience. An understanding of Kyoto’s culture and history is essential to appreciate Kyo-machiya dining – it is here where you can sample traditional local dishes such as machiya-soba noodles or machiya Gohan rice cooked in an earthenware pot. Enjoy these dishes alongside exquisite views out into the gardens from inside your majestic machiya house – there is no better way to experience Kyoto than a local!
Arashiyama District
When you want to experience the beauty of nature within the city limits, Arashiyama District is a prime choice. Located on the western outskirts of Kyoto, this traditional mountain district is full of lush greenery and natural beauty. It’s also known for its ancient temples, shrines, and zen gardens. While there are plenty of cultural attractions in Arashiyama, there are also some delicious places to dine there. Here’s a list of exciting restaurants in Arashiyama that you won’t want to miss:
- Ryu Shigure: This restaurant has been around since 1891 and serves Kaiseki cuisine, a traditional meal made of numerous small dishes prepared with seasonal ingredients.
- Togeten Vida: This specialty restaurant serves American-style barbeque made with Japanese-style ingredients like pork, beef, and chicken, topped with unique sauces created from Japanese flavors.
- Mori Tofu Shop: Mori Tofu Shop is one of the oldest shops in Kyoto, and you can enjoy freshly fried tofu with flavorful sauces served over rice or noodles for a light lunch or dinner.
- Kouro Gyozaya: If you love dumplings, this restaurant definitely should not be missed! Its famous yakimochi gyoza (grilled pork obtained) is one not-to-miss menu item here that comes highly recommended by locals and tourists alike!
- Enzai: Enzai, meaning’ domestic restaurant,’ offers customers local cuisine using fresh ingredients and experienced staff, making each meal an extraordinary experience! From tempura dishes to sukiyaki hot pots, they have various choices on their menu packed with flavor!
Kyoto Ramen Street
Kyoto is known for its wide variety of culinary experiences, from traditional teahouses serving matcha and other authentic teas to upscale restaurants specializing in kaiseki course meals. But one local favorite rarely found outside of Kyoto is its ramen.
The Kyoto Ramen Street offers casual, down-to-earth eats in a memorable atmosphere. At the top of the street entrance is Shiawase no Mon (Gate of Happiness) – a five-story building covered in neon lights and lined with shops selling delicious Japanese dishes like ramen, takoyaki (octopus balls), tempura, and more. Here you can find an endless variety of ramen stalls. The Ramen covers a broad spectrum ranging from light Tantanmen to Kibi Tsukemen – dipping noodles served with a thicker broth for dipping – or Mazesoba – burrito style bowl filled with your choice of protein and fresh ingredients like avocado or boiled egg.
Whether you’re looking for a delicious noodle dish or an opportunity to experience traditional Japanese food in an informal setting, Kyoto Ramen Street has something for everyone. With its quirky atmosphere and delicious eats at affordable prices, this street should be on your list if you’re visiting Japan!
Activities
Kyoto is the ancient capital of Japan and is packed with things to do! Kyoto has no shortage of activities, from visiting temples to soaking in an onsen, experiencing the culture, or just taking in stunning views.
Here, we will look at some of the best things to do in Kyoto while on your trip:
Bamboo Forest
Kyoto’s Bamboo Forest stretches about 10 kilometers and is one of Japan’s most beautiful attractions. A visit to the forest is a tranquil experience and can be easily combined with other activities in the city.
The forest has numerous groves that span from east to west, making it easy to get lost among its towering, verdant stalks. Walking through the woods is akin to a journey back in time, as this path was a spiritual refuge during ancient times. Eventually, the sightseers reached Tenryuji Temple, once one of Japan’s earliest zen temples.
The area surrounding Bamboo Forest is known for its open-air markets filled with colorful souvenirs waiting to be explored. Meandering further in, you will find traditional farmhouses, lush tea fields, and ponds that were made for replenishing kitchen stores hundreds of years ago. The picturesque pastoral setting provides more than worthy photo ops.
Finally, from July until September, festivals are hosted during full moon nights – allowing visitors to descend into an entirely different atmosphere among fireflies and lantern swirls accompanied by traditional music – creating an unforgettable moment to top off a memorable day.
Arashiyama Monkey Park
Arashiyama Monkey Park (Sagano) in Kyoto, Japan, is one of the unique attractions in the city. Situated on a mountain alongside the Hozu river, it’s home to nearly 120 Japanese macaques which roam freely through its forested grounds. Visitors can observe monkeys up close and even feed them fruits or nuts.
The park offers spectacular views of Arashiyama and its surroundings as far as Osaka Bay on clear days. A path from the monkey park winds through some stunning landscapes, including a bamboo grove, moss gardens, and enchanting forests of maple and cherry trees.
The park also has an observation pavilion that allows visitors to view free-roaming monkeys in the wild up close while remaining at a safe distance. In addition, you’ll find information about the monkeys in this area and displays detailing their behaviors and habitats. Entrance to Arashiyama Monkey Park costs 600 JPY, making it an affordable way to experience this one-of-a-kind attraction in Kyoto, Japan!
Kyoto Imperial Palace
The Kyoto Imperial Palace is the former residence of the Imperial Family of Japan. This iconic Japanese landmark stands in the heart of Kyoto, known as the Imperial Palace Park. A tour of the palace grounds will give you an up-close view of Japan’s history and culture.
Within walking distance from two major JR lines, visitors can explore each corner of the complex while learning about its illustrious past as a seat of power since 794 AD. Here, you will find many gates and buildings, such as Seishoken, Sjuutando, and Shishin-den, where Emperors used to hold court ceremonies. Tourists visiting these important spots are welcome to take pictures and enjoy their experience along centuries-old pathways once used by the royals during their activities inside the palace walls!
Newcomers to this impressive ancient monument should consider taking advantage of a guided tour – in both Japanese and English – that makes it much easier to understand each part’s deep history associated with this critical part of Kyoto’s culture. However, suppose individual exploration is more your preference. In that case, many information boards in multiple languages are on site so guests can ensure they don’t miss any important details about this symbolic place!
Gion Corner
Located in the heart of Gion, Gion Corner is a cultural center that offers visitors a unique way to experience Kyoto’s traditional arts and entertainment. The center has six different performance halls, which host seven performances hourly. Here, you can watch outstanding performances of traditional performing arts such as kyokugadan (drums), gidayu-bushi (story-ballad), kyogen comedy, and puppet plays.
Gion Corner also features a variety of other concerts, demonstrations, and workshops throughout the day, including flower arrangements, tea ceremonies, Shigin (chanting), and Koto music (traditional Japanese strings). In addition, shops sell traditional crafts and souvenirs like kimono fabric-dyeing kits, Japanese dolls, and folding fans.
If you want an immersive experience with all things Japanese culture, there’s no better place than Gion Corner in Kyoto. Don’t miss out on this chance to take part in various activities like learning about tea time etiquette or making beautiful handicrafts during your time in this beautiful city!