About Kyoto
Japan's ancient capital is a living museum of 1,600 temples, imperial gardens and geisha districts. Slow mornings among moss and lantern-lit evenings in Gion make Kyoto the soul of traditional Japan.
Best time
Late March–April & November for foliage
Weather
Hot humid summers, cold crisp winters
Airport
Kansai (KIX), ~75 min away
Getting around
Buses and bikes beat the limited subway for temples
Experiences
Things to do in Kyoto
1
Fushimi Inari Shrine (thousands of torii)
2
Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
3
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
4
Kiyomizu-dera Temple
5
Gion district and geisha streets
6
Philosopher's Path
7
Nijo Castle
8
Traditional tea ceremony
Budget travel
Free things to do in Kyoto
Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine (free entry)
Fushimi Inari Shrine (thousands of torii)
Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Gion district and geisha streets
Kurama-dera mountain temple
Mostly free or pay-what-you-like — always double-check opening times and any seasonal fees before you go.
Plan your trip
Suggested itinerary
- 1
Day 1
Eastern temples
- Fushimi Inari
- Kiyomizu-dera
- Gion evening walk
- 2
Day 2
West & north
- Arashiyama bamboo grove
- Kinkaku-ji
- Ryoan-ji rock garden
Where to eat
Local favourites
- $
Nishiki Market stalls
Street food · Kyoto's kitchen — pickles, grilled skewers, matcha
- $$$
Gion Karyo
Kaiseki · Approachable kaiseki beloved by locals
- $
Menya Inoichi
Ramen · Clear-broth ramen locals queue for
- $$$$
Kikunoi Honten
Kaiseki · Three-Michelin-star seasonal dining
Where to stay
Tourist favourites & top-rated
- $$$$
The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto
Kamogawa · Riverside luxury with traditional touches
- $$$$
Hoshinoya Kyoto
Arashiyama · Boat-access ryokan on the Oi River
- $$$$
Tawaraya Ryokan
Downtown · Kyoto's oldest and most storied ryokan
- $$$
Hotel Kanra Kyoto
Shijo · Design hotel with tatami rooms
Shopping
- Nishiki Market
- Teramachi
- Gion boutiques
Nightlife
- Pontocho Alley
- Kiyamachi riverside bars
Museums & culture
- Kyoto National Museum
- Samurai & Ninja Museum
Local foods to try
- Kaiseki
- Yudofu
- Matcha sweets
- Yatsuhashi
Hidden gems
- Philosopher's Path
- Okochi Sanso villa
- Kurama-dera mountain temple
Travel tips
- Visit temples at opening time to beat crowds
- Respect geiko — never chase them for photos
Nearby
Attractions in the city
In pictures
Kyoto gallery
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
Keep exploring
