how to travel to in kyoto

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The Complete Guide to Getting Around in Kyoto

Knowing how to get around in Kyoto is the key to making sure your trip to the ancient capital is as smooth as possible. The world famous attractions are spread across the city, and you don’t want to waste time trekking back and forth. So to save you the trouble, here’s everything you need to know about transport in Kyoto.

The basics of getting around in Kyoto

There are quite a few different transport options in Kyoto and a whole lot of things to do spread across the city.

Public transport options like trains, buses, and subways all accept IC transport cards. The local transport card is called the ICOCA but Tokyo’s SUICA and PASMO transport cards are also accepted. JR train lines stop at Kyoto Station , and so does the Shinkansen. If you’re traveling from Tokyo to Kyoto by Shinkansen, this is where you’ll get off. Some subway lines and bus routes also stop at Kyoto Station, but a number of other subway and private train lines do not.

Navigating Kyoto is easy as the city is laid-out in a grid with streets running north to south, and east to west. It’s also fairly flat so walking and cycling is certainly possible.

Need help navigating Kyoto Station? Then check out our Kyoto Station survival guide .

Kyoto Station

Take the train.

There are so many train lines in Kyoto that it can get a bit overwhelming. However, the key thing to understand is that there are JR train lines and private train company lines. Each train company has different fee systems, and might not accept certain passes. For example, you usually can’t use a JR Pass on a private train line. An IC card can be used on both private and JR lines. There are some trains and stations that don’t accept IC cards, but they are fairly out-of-the-way for most tourists. Also keep in mind that not all train lines pass through Kyoto Station.

In general, you will only take the train in Kyoto if you’re traveling further afield. For example, you could take a train for a day trip to Nara . Most major attractions in Kyoto don’t have train stations nearby, except for Fushimi Inari Shrine and Arashiyama .

Ride the subway

Kyoto has two subway lines which are part of the Kyoto Municipal Subway. The Karasuma Line runs north-south from Kokusaikaikan Station through Kyoto Station and on to Takeda Station. It can get you to places like Gosho Imperial Palace and Kyoto Botancial Gardens .

The other subway line is the Tōzai Line which runs east-west from Uzumasa Tenjingawa Station to Rokujizo Station. Attractions along the Tōzai Line include Nijō Castle and the Higashiyama district .

The two subway lines intersect at Karasuma Oike Station. There are also a few stations where you can transfer between the subway and trains, including Kyoto Station, Nijō Station, and Misasagi Station.

Catch a bus

Buses are a very convenient way to get around in Kyoto. In fact, there is at least one bus stop near most major attractions. However, keep in mind that recently overcrowding on buses has been causing problems for locals . If you’re traveling with large suitcases, we’d encourage you to use alternative methods of transport.

For all buses in Kyoto you enter from the back doors of the bus, and pay at the front as you exit. Bus fares within central Kyoto have a flat fare of ¥ 230 . You can pay either in cash (exact fare) or using an IC transport card. If you travel outside of central Kyoto, the bus may have a ticket system. Take a ticket from the machine by the door when you enter. At the front of the bus there will be a price board, that shows your ticket number and the fare owed. Pay your fare in cash as you exit the bus. Most, but not necessarily all, of these buses will also accept IC cards, but if they do make sure to tap them as you enter and exit the bus.

Cycle around

Kyoto is a relatively flat city, so it’s great for cycling. You can either join a bike tour , or rent a bike , the choice is yours. Just make sure you follow the local laws and road safety rules to avoid any trouble. You should ride on the left-hand side of the road and if a sidewalk has a bike lane, you can ride there too. We also recommend against parking anywhere that has a 駐輪禁止 sign — it means “no bicycle parking”. Of course, you’ll probably see plenty of local cyclists breaking these rules, but it’s best to play it safe.

Go for a walk

Walking is the ultimate Cheapo mode of transport and Kyoto is a very walkable city. The city is fairly flat and the roads use a grid system, so it’s comfortable for strolling and you don’t need to worry about getting lost. Major roads have clearly marked footpaths, but if you walk along residential streets you’ll be sharing the path with cars and cyclists. Don’t let that discourage you though, it’s quite safe as long as you keep an eye out for oncoming traffic.

Keep in mind that Kyoto’s attractions are quite spread out. We recommend picking a neighborhood to wander around, rather than trying to trek between attractions at different ends of the city. The Philosopher’s Path is ideal for a quiet stroll, or head to Gion for geisha spotting . Those who prefer walking with purpose to meandering, should consider joining a walking tour .

Travel passes and discounts for Kyoto

There is a huge variety of Kyoto travel passes available. We like the Skyhop: Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Bus because it has a multi-lingual audio guide and you can buy passes online . If you’re just planning a day trip from Osaka, the Kyoto-Osaka Sightseeing Pass or the Hankyu Tourist Pass are good options.

Frequently asked questions

Can you take a taxi in kyoto.

Yes, you definitely can. However, it’s usually an expensive option, unless you’re traveling in a group. There are taxi stands outside most stations, otherwise you can hail one in the street.

What’s the best way of getting around in Kyoto?

There’s no single answer to this because it really depends on where you’d like to go. You can take the train, subway, bus, or even walk or cycle to lots of attractions in Kyoto.

Can you catch an Uber in Kyoto?

You can catch an Uber or other ride-share service in Kyoto, but they’re not exactly the same as in other countries. Ride-shares in Japan are basically just taxi booking services. And they’re not necessarily cheaper than hailing a regular taxi.

While we do our best to ensure it’s correct, information is subject to change.

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Japan's ancient capital home to sacred shrines and Zen gardens

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Kiyomizu-dera Temple

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About Kyoto

Japan’s capital from AD 794 to 1868, the list of possible tourist destinations in Kyoto Prefecture (京都府, Kyōto -fu) is endless.

You can attempt to visit all of major sites, including but certainly not limited to: Fushimi Inari Shrine and its brilliant vermillion row of torii gates, its many temples (most notably Kiyomizu-dera , Sanjusangen-do , and Kinkaku-ji ), Nijo Castle , and Amanohashidate (one of the Three Views of Japan).

Or you can attempt to “experience” Kyoto and its rich culture: appreciate the traditional architecture and maiko of the Gion district , witness the Gion Festival (held every July), and indulge in the various delicacies Kyoto has to offer, such as Uji matcha green tea, tofu, and various Japanese confectioneries. Kyoto is on the bucket list of many a traveller, and for good reason. 

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Public Transportation

Getting Around Kyoto: Guide to Public Transportation

TripSavvy /  Ellen Lindner  

Despite being an ancient city—indeed, Japan’s ancient capital—Kyoto, like every other city in Japan, has been very much modernized with an easily navigable transport infrastructure. It's simple to get around Kyoto, with bus routes and the subway being your best and most efficient options. Learning to navigate Tokyo’s intense subway and train networks can take weeks of practice, but Kyoto can be easily navigated immediately. The subway is stripped down and clear to understand, and the bus network may look daunting but can get you wherever you want to go.

You can use Google Maps to help you get around in Kyoto or you can use the dedicated Arukumachi KYOTO App which provides routes, timetables, and fares for buses and rail.

Also, as Kyoto is a particularly walkable city, you’re rarely more than 20 minutes walk from a nearby station. It’s a beautiful city with interesting shops and restaurants tucked around every corner so walking around will reveal a lot. People love cycling in Kyoto so renting a bike is another great option. But for those times when you really need transport, here’s how to navigate Kyoto’s fantastic public transportation system.

How to Ride the Kyoto Subway

Catching the subway is the quickest way to get around the city but, as there are only two lines , people tend to use the buses more for the extended reach. You can catch the north-south Karasuma Line which goes through Kyoto Station or the east-west Tozai Line which can take you to the Higashiyama sightseeing district. The lines then meet in the middle. To get from Kyoto Station to downtown Kyoto the Karasuma line is the best option available.

Although not as cheap as the buses, taking the subway is a quick and definitely easier to navigate. It’s also much cheaper than catching a taxi in Kyoto (unless you’re in a large group and aren’t traveling far).

Fares: Depending on the length of your journey, fares range between 220-360 yen. You can get a 10 percent discount if you use a prepaid card.

How to Pay: You can use coins or cash in the tickets machines with the subway station or purchase a Kyoto City Subway One-Day Pass . You can buy these in the subway stations or from Kyoto Tourist Information Centers and they come with a range of discounts for local museums and attractions. Alternatively, you can purchase the Traffica Kyoto Prepaid Card from the subway stations (1,000 or 3,000 yen) which you can then top up and use on the buses and subway. If you have an IC card— one of the ten interchangeable subway cards that can be used all over Japan (such as Pasmo or Suica)—it can also be used and purchased here. They work the same way as the Traffica card. Picking up a card is by far the easiest way to navigate the public transport.

Routes and Hours: The subway runs between 5:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. daily, which can be awkward if you want to enjoy the Kyoto nightlife. For this reason, booking your hotel within walking distance of the center is a good idea or be prepared to take a cab.

Navigation: As there are only two lines, navigating the Kyoto subway is very simple. Stops are written in romaji or English (as well as kanji) and there are maps in each station you can look at. Station conductors are also very happy to help.

Service Alerts: The HyperDia app will keep you updated on any issues on public transport and you can also check out the JR West Japan Railway website for updates.

Accessibility: Many of the stations in Kyoto have lifts and a minimal gap between the train and the platform edge, you can check the accessibility of each station on the Japan Accessible Tourism website .

How to Ride the Kyoto Buses

The buses run all over Kyoto and cover many of the areas the trains don’t reach but they’re notoriously busy during commuting times and are best avoided during those times. Buses are boarded from the back and exited from the front. Once you’re onboard, all announcements are made in both Japanese and English. When you're ready to get off, just press the button before your stop.

Routes and Hours: Using a travel app is the easiest way to figure out the bus you need and you can get to most of the tourist sites by bus from Kyoto Station. The buses run from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily.

Fares: To pay your fare just place the change in a box next to the driver as you’re leaving the bus; there’s a flat fare within the city of 230 yen per ride. If you don’t have the exact change then you’ll find a machine under or next to the box which will provide you with the change, or you can tap your travel card which is much easier. If you’re taking a bus outside the city flat fare zone then you’ll need to take a ticket and wait for your fare to show up on the screen or just tap your travel card at the beginning and end.

Using Taxis in Kyoto

It’s really easy to catch a taxi in Kyoto and, although they’re not the cheapest option, they’re great if you need to get somewhere quickly or you miss the last train back. Also, if you’re traveling as a group, it can sometimes be cheaper or the same price to take a cab. You’ll always find taxis outside the subway and train stations, major tourist sites, or shopping centers. It’s also fine to hail a cab on the street by sticking out your hand.

You’ll be able to tell if they’re available if the light on the windshield is on and displays the 空車 sign. Alternatively, if it’s full, the cab will display 賃走中. You can also just check to see if there are people inside. There aren’t any rideshare apps or apps to help you call a cab in Kyoto so hailing is the easiest way to get going.

Kyoto taxi drivers always use the meter and are licensed, so you won’t have to worry about being ripped off. It’ll help to have your destination written in Japanese or have your map open just in case the driver doesn’t speak English. The ride will cost you 600 yen for the first 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) then 80 yen per 415 meters after that; you pay in cash, though some cabs will take a credit card.

Tip: During holidays like Golden Week and the cherry blossom season, the traffic in Kyoto can be exceptionally bad in the tourist areas so taking the subway will be much quicker in this case.

Getting to and From the Airport

Kyoto actually has three surrounding airports but thankfully they’ve all got great transport links so you won’t have any trouble getting to the center. The closest airport is Osaka Airport (a 50-minute drive from Kyoto) but this mainly serves domestic flights.

If you’re arriving internationally then you will very likely be arriving at Kansai Airport (a 90-minute drive from Kyoto). One of the best ways to travel from either airport is by using the Airport Transport coach service, you can purchase tickets at the airport or you can book online . Tickets range between 1,000-2,000 yen. The quickest way to get to the center from Kansai Airport is using the Limited Express Haruka train which costs 2,900 yen and takes just over an hour. You can access the train from terminal one, platform four and you buy tickets on the day from the ticket machine.

If you arrive at the third Central Japan International Airport, then your best option for getting into Kyoto will be by train, it takes around 90 minutes and costs 850 yen. Tickets can be purchased from the machine at the station.

Leaving the City

If you’re hoping to travel around Japan from Kyoto, it couldn’t be easier. The high-speed Shinkansen leaves from Kyoto Station and you can reach a number of exciting destinations within a couple of hours. Alternatively, you can reach Osaka and Nara using the local trains from Kyoto Station. You can take the 45-minute Miyakoji Rapid Service train to Nara and if you’re going to Osaka, take either the Hankyu Line or the Keihan Line. It’ll take around 45-minutes to get to Osaka or 15 minutes by high-speed train.

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15 best things to do in Kyoto

Jan 25, 2024 • 9 min read

Beautiful Kyoto offers tons of things to do and see - here are our favorites © Guitar Photographer / Shutterstock

Kyoto is on the travel list of most first-time visitors to Japan  for good reason. With its fleet of over 2000 temples, lush gardens and traditional tea houses, Kyoto is one of Japan’s major historical hubs – to say nothing of being easy on the eye (enjoy a sunset on the hill in Kiyomizu-dera to see what we mean).

It can be easy to get lost in the tangle of streets – Kyoto is one of those cities where it’s easy to just pick a walking direction and see what you find, whether it’s an unexpected shrine in the middle of a commercial street, sakura-lined canal or well-appointed park. But sometimes, it pays to prioritize. Plan a trip around the following can’t-miss sights and experiences to maximize your time in the city.

1. Stay golden at Kinkaku-ji

Kinkaku-ji is a tourist favorite – nicknamed Golden Pavilion for its gold-leaf gilded upper layers, this zen temple is a magnificent sight regardless of the time of year. One-way foot traffic flows fairly consistently but tends to bunch up directly in front of the temple, where visitors tend to pause to grab a show-stopping photo of the temple reflected in the pond (again, who can blame them?).

Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid the rush.

2. Walk through the iconic orange gates of Fushimi Inari Taisha

There’s a reason that Fushimi Inari-Taisha ranks high on every visitor’s list: the 10,000 vibrant orange torii (gates) snaking up the hill to create the ultimate photo op. The practice of donating a gate to the temple has been in place since the Edo Period and carries on today as businesses celebrate their successes with an act of gratitude. 

Start at the lower level to admire the skulk of fox statues – the manifestation of the Shintō god Inari, the protector of rice, tea, agriculture and industry.  The full loop takes two to three hours to complete, but it’s worth making the climb to avoid the throng of visitors that usually populate the lower levels (don’t worry, there are plenty of vending machines to keep you hydrated along the way). 

Alternatively, it’s worth considering a sunrise visit, when the local monks are making their way up the hill to work and the resident cat population is out to play.

3. Find fortune at Kiyomizu-dera

Located in Eastern Kyoto, Kiyomizu-dera  literally towers over the city with the help of 139 stilts. During the Edo period, seekers would jump from the temple's platform to the ground 43ft below in order to make their wishes come true. Today, you can instead find your fortune at the sacred Otowa Waterfall. Located on the temple’s lower level, the stream is divided into three sections, delivering longevity, academic success or luck in love depending on which one you drink from (take note that drinking from more than one stream is considered greedy). But you don’t need any luck to enjoy the temple’s panoramic views over the city, which are enhanced by spring sakura (cherry blossom) season, autumn foliage and stunning sunsets.

4. Time travel at Nijō-jo

Enter through Nijō-jō 's large eastern battlements to step back in time. The castle was the former home of Tokugawa shoguns, and its lavishly appointed gardens and opulent chambers filled with detailed murals and intricate carvings speak to the warlord collective’s extreme wealth. 

Keep an eye out for the painted lions (created by an artist who had yet to see the real thing in person), and experience the sensation of walking barefoot across the “nightingale floors,” which chirp like the birds they’re named after – a built-in sonic defense against intruders.

5. Enjoy a stroll at Koke-dera

Koke-dera (the nickname for  Saiho-ji ) is so stunning that the temple inspired “Moss Garden,” a track on David Bowie’s 1977 album Heroes . However, walking in Ziggy Stardust’s footsteps takes some advance planning. In order to preserve Koke-dera’s tranquility, visitors must register at least one day in advance (although up to two months earlier is advisable due to capacity restraints). 

Once inside, guests are asked to participate in an act of devotion, usually copying a series of Buddhist sutras. Consider it an appetizer for the main course: a half-hour stroll through the scenic garden blanketed in 120 different kinds of moss.

6. Sip on some matcha

Matcha was originally drunk by Chinese Buddhist monks who believed the highly caffeinated beverage assisted in their quest for nirvana. When the religion spread to Japan, matcha came with it, particularly in the southern region of Kyoto Prefecture, which has an 800-year tradition of cultivation. To learn more about the beverage, start with a traditional tea ceremony at Camellia for an experience that will not only walk you through the elaborate steps of preparation but also explain the historical and practical reason behind each movement. 

For a more modern take, stop by Maccha House . Their flagship store on Shijō Kawaramachi serves a number of unique twists on the beverage, including a brown sugar matcha latte and their signature Uji Matcha Tiramisu. Tea shops like  Ippōdō and Marukyu Koyamaen (located in Kyoto Isetan department store adjacent to Kyoto Station) can help you bring the zen home with you. 

While you’re at it, be sure to grab some wagashi , a delicate red bean and sugar pastry that pairs perfectly with the matcha’s earthy essence.

7. Get your ramen fix

Kyoto’s food scene is often overlooked thanks to neighboring Osaka, aka “the nation’s kitchen.” However, the city has been teasing out different types of the famous noodle soup since the first ramen street stall was set up in 1961. 

Kyoto Gogyo is known for its high-end burnt ramen, with broth cooked at extremely high temperatures to create a smoky char and entertaining fiery show while you eat – so be sure to request a seat at the bar. Vegan Ramen UZU Kyoto ’s mushroom-based ramen is served in a darkened dining room, lit by TeamLab’s “Reversed Indiscretion,” a mesmerizing piece of digital art that creates calligraphy-like swoops across the walls and table. Engine Ramen has become a favorite due to its ability to make any item on the menu vegan or gluten-free. Just be sure to line up early as the restaurant regularly fills up after it opens for dinner at 4pm.   

8. Embrace all the options at Nishiki Market

If variety is your spice of life, then Nishiki Market is your place. Also known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” this five-block collection of over 100 restaurants and shops is the perfect place for snacking on local specialties. It also doesn’t hurt that many stalls give out free samples. Feeling brave? Try the shockingly photogenic t ako tamago ( a baby octopus with an egg in its head), or beef sushi. 

Other crowd-pleasers include soy milk donuts, rice crackers, and dashimaki – a Japanese rolled omelet that some stalls serve as tempura.

9. Bring home sustainable souvenirs

From bento boxes to  washi  (handmade paper) and porcelain, Kyoto is a great place to pick up souvenirs. You could easily spend the day browsing tourist-favorite department stores Takashimaya and Daimaru Kyoto. To bring home a piece of history, consider a stop at Vintage Kimono AN Gion , a cozy storefront crammed with vintage kimonos. Not only do they sell the historical robes at extremely reasonable prices (often as low as ¥1000), but they also offer obi belts and damaged kimonos for those looking to repurpose the silk.

10. Stay at a ryokan

Kyoto is considered one of the great historical epicenters of Japan, so there’s no better way to experience the region's essence than by staying in a ryokan. These traditional inns are generally smaller than their western counterparts and outfitted with woven tatami mats, futons that are rolled out every night and all matter of meaningful art. The intimate setting allows owners to provide guests with more personalized attention in addition to the kind of lavish meals you’re unlikely to find elsewhere. 

For the ultimate indulgence, consider a night in the Tawaraya Ryokan , where David Bowie and Iman stayed during their honeymoon. This historic ryokan is 300 years old and in its 12th generation of family ownership. It’s regularly considered one of the most exclusive hotels in the world.

11. Relax in an onsen

More than just a bath (although it certainly is that), onsen are a great way to connect with nature and friends while participating in an act of self-care, provided you’re comfortable with group nudity. Carefully wash yourself from head to toe before slipping into hot water with a mineral content that locals claim can cure a WebMD worth of ailments.

If you want to soak within the city limits, head to Fu-fu-no-yu , a facility with stunning rock-lined pools inches from the Katsura River.

12. Wander through Arashiyama

The sound of bamboo in the wind is part of Japan's national heritage. Located in the Western Kyoto district of Arashiyama, the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is one of the most famous places in the world to hear it. Just keep in mind that, while scenic, the 140m (459ft) walk isn’t as quiet as you might have been led to believe thanks to its popularity. If you’re in the market for the ultimate selfie, or just a more restful experience, visit at sunrise. 

Not an early riser? Opt to visit Shoden-ji , a temple in Northern Kyoto with an abundant bamboo groove that’s often overlooked by tourists.

13. Enjoy an urbane escape at Ōkōchi Sansō

Despite its proximity to Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, many tourists miss Ōkōchi Sansō in their rush to grab that perfect Instagram snap. This former home of 1920s samurai film actor Ōkōchi Denjirō is the perfect place to escape the crowds. Work up a thirst with a wander through the immaculate hillside gardens that offer panoramic views of the city from the top. Then retreat to the on-site tea house for a proper break with a side of complimentary matcha and Japanese sweets.

14. Embrace the seasons at Osawa Pond

Osawa Pond is a 15-minute walk from JR Saga-Arashiyama Station, but the garden feels plucked from an entirely different era. The human-made pond is the oldest known surviving Japanese garden and a peaceful refuge to enjoy fall colors and spring sakura season. Be sure to visit Daikaku-ji next door, a sprawling Shingon Buddhist temple with architecture so untouched by time it’s often used as a filming location for historical dramas.   

15. Explore Gion District

Geisha, or geiko as they’re called in Kyoto, are one of the icons of the city. These skilled hostesses and entertainers are usually employed at dinners and other high-end events at venues along the lantern-lined streets of the Gion neighborhood. Like the geiko themselves, the district is a living tribute to the Edo era, with its narrow wooden storefronts, teahouses, and stores dedicated to traditional handicrafts creating the perfect escape from the modern era.

This article was first published March 2020 and updated January 2024

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Mar 1, 2024 • 6 min read

14 Unmissable Things to do in Kyoto, Japan

Beautiful Kyoto, once the capital of Japan , is still one of the most visited cities in the country. Known as the city of ten thousand shrines, Kyoto blends old and new; it’s a place where ancient Geisha districts are sandwiched by temple-dotted mountains on one side and towering steel towers on the other. Spend your days wandering among gold-leafed palaces, tranquil Japanese Gardens, and ancient bamboo groves, or immerse yourself in the creative culture at trendy art spaces, vintage shops, and kimono rental stores. There are so many incredible things to do in Kyoto — discover them all in this complete travel guide!

Things to do in Kyoto

Although Kyoto is a big city, it has a small-town feel. The harmony between contemporary high-rise buildings and traditional wooden teahouses makes it unique. Whether you want to explore the endless temples or surrounding mountains, there is something for every traveler. 

Because it offers so much diversity and history, Kyoto is one of the most popular places to visit in Japan. Although you can expect crowds and queues for the main things to do in Kyoto, it’s well worth it; it was one of the best and most beautiful place we visited on our trip! 

Here are all your hotel options in Kyoto.

1. Sannenzaka, Kyoto

Sannenzaka, meaning ‘Three-Year Hill’, is one of Kyoto’s most traditional Japanese streets, full of teahouses, sweet shops, and wooden houses. The pretty stone-paved road slopes upward towards the beautiful 3-tiered Hōkan-Ji Temple, where you’ll find impressive views of the city and cherry trees in Spring. 

Hotels in Kyoto 😴

In the morning these street feels like a time machine to a bygone Japan, with just the sounds of birds as you climb uphill. But during the day, Sannenzaka comes to life, with locals and tourists arriving to check out the craft shops and delicious restaurants. Nighttime is equally enjoyable when there are no crowds, and the street lanterns give it a charming, cozy ambiance. Please note that during the high seasons, these streets can be busy even in mornings.

This area is very popular for tea ceremonies, which take place in the ancient tea houses. Book a tour to learn about this time-honored tradition .

Hōkan-ji Temple

Hokan-ji Temple, popularly known as Yasaka Pagoda, stands as a symbol of Kyoto’s charm. Situated in the trendy Sannenzaka area, it’s highly favored on Instagram . The pagoda, soaring at 46 meters with five stories, dates back to 596 AD. However, due to wars and fires, it has undergone several reconstructions.

Walk to the top of the street in Sannenzaka to reach the beautiful temple, where you can admire its sloping tiled roof. You can also visit inside, where you’ll see some lovely paintings. Plus, if you’re brave, we recommend climbing to the top of the pagoda for incredible views over Kyoto. 

Please note that due to the temple’s internet fame, it’s busy all day – including sunrise! It’s completely understandable, though, as it’s one of the most beautiful spots in Kyoto.

Opening Times and Entrance Fee: 10 AM – 3 PM. 400 yen (3 USD)

Kiyomizu Temple, Kyoto

Don’t miss seeing the stunning Buddhist temple complex, Kiyomizu-Dera, which sits halfway up the slope of Mt. Otowa, looking down on Sannenzaka. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known as one of the holiest places in the city, with people coming here to worship the deity Kannon.

As you enter the beautiful red-painted gateways into the complex, you can feel the temple’s 1000+-year-old history. You might even be lucky enough to witness the ancient Buddhist ceremonies practiced here.

The Kiyomizu stage is the most famous part of the temple complex: a platform held up by mammoth wooden pillars that hang over the edge of the mountain slope. From the viewing platform, look out over stunning mountain scenery, with pink blossoms in spring, vibrant foliage in fall, and snow-covered trees in winter.

Book your tour of Kiyomizu Temple (including a tea ceremony)

How to Visit Kyomizu Temple, Kyoto

Kiyomizu Temple is just a 10-minute walk uphill from Hokan-Ji Temple; it’s one of the top things to do in Kyoto!

The temple is open every day from 6 AM (beautiful at sunrise) – 6 PM or 9.30 PM, depending on the season ( check all the opening hours here ). Tickets cost 500 yen (3.50 USD), or you can join a guided tour .

2. Nara Park

While planning your trip to Japan, you’ve probably seen the famous images of cute deer interacting with tourists: this is the iconic Nara Park ! Set in the city of Nara, discover expansive woodland where hundreds of friendly (and cheeky!) deer roam wild. It’s especially lovely to visit during fall when the leaves pop in warm reds, oranges, and yellows. ( Book one of the many incredible tours around Nara )

Note: Admission to Nara Park is free. However, on arrival, you may want to purchase some natural crackers (200 yen/1.50 USD) to feed the deer. Please only feed them the crackers provided.

Although seeing the deer is the main draw for visitors, there are also many other fantastic things to do in Nara Park , such as visiting the majestic Todaiji Temple or the stunning botanical gardens. Best of all, at each site, you’ll always be accompanied by large groups of deer!

Explore Nara with a local guide. See tickets and availability for a half-day tour.

Getting to Nara Park

From Kyoto Station, you can take a direct train to Nara in under one hour. The train arrives at Kintetsu Nara Station, and the JR Pass (JR Nara line) covers this route.

Buy your Japan Rail Pass in advance

Tip: If you arrive from Nara JR station in the morning, take advantage of the Mochi-making show at Nakatanidou. Mochi is a jelly dessert made with rice flour and packed with sweet black bean paste inside; it usually comes in various colors, and it’s fascinating to watch the creation process! 

3. Diago-Ji Temple (Top Thing to do in Kyoto!)

Diago-Ji Temple was maybe our favorite spot in Japan! This peaceful area is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and spans the whole mountainside, with the main temple sitting at the base and smaller temples along the path to the summit. 

The atmosphere of this place is incredible; the sounds, colors, and scenery are perfect – especially when visiting from late November to the first half of December, at which time it’s fall-colored heaven. It’s truly a photographer’s paradise!

Read: Best Things to do at Mount Fuji, Japan

Sanboin Temple

Alongside the main Diago-Ji Temple, you’ll find the sub-temple: Sanboin (former residence of the head priest). Inside, there are many historical and cultural relics, including a preserved drawing room (Omote Shoin) with traditional sliding screens, straw mats, and romantic murals. There is also a stunning Japanese garden to explore with waterfalls, ponds, and cherry trees.

Opening Times and Entry Fee: Buy a combined ticket to see all the main buildings at the lower level for 1500 yen (10 USD). Open 9 AM – 5 PM (4.30 PM in the winter months).  You can see the full price list here .

Getting to Diago-Ji Temple

The journey takes about 30 mins from the center of Kyoto. Head to Kyoto Shiyakusho-Mae Station and take the Tozai line to Daigo Station. It’s a 15-minute walk from there to the shrine.

We recommend allowing for 1 -2 hours to leisurely walk among the complex; you’ll find fewer crowds here than other popular things to do in Kyoto, mainly because it’s a bit out of town and less reachable by public transport.

4. Day Trip to Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Kyoto

Spend the day immersed in nature at the remarkable Arashiyama Bamboo Grove! Located in the cute town of Arashiyama (just a 20-minute train ride away from bustling Kyoto), discover a towering tunnel of bamboo trees that creates one of the most magical walkways. When the sun hits just right, it creates fractures of golden light through the trees — it’s the perfect place to snap some beautiful photos! ( Book your day trip here )

Did you know? The Airshiyama Bamboo Forest is a uniquely sensory experience; it was named one of the ‘100 soundscapes of Japan’ by the Japanese Ministry of Environment because of the sound of the bamboo blowing in the wind.

As you walk through the Arashiyama complex, you’ll find lots of other beautiful temples and gardens to visit: 

• Jōjakkō-ji Temple
• Hōkyō-in Temple
• Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple
• Okochi Sanso Garden

Entry Times and Opening Fee: General admission to Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is free! However, you may be required to pay admission fees for the smaller temples on-site. The grove is open 24 hours a day, so we recommend visiting at sunrise for the best light. It gets very busy after 9 AM, and taking photos with the crowds can be difficult.

Book this tour of Arashiyama’s top sites

Iwatayama Monkey Park

Although visiting the bamboo grove is one of the top things to do in Kyoto, the actual walk doesn’t take long and is just a small part of what this wonderful area offers.

In front of the entrance, you’ll also see the lovely Tsytenkyo Bridge, which crosses the river and takes you into the Iwatayama Monkey Park. Here, you can see the Japanese Macaque (the very same monkeys you’ll see in the Snow Monkey Park in Japan – just without the snow!). You can get fairly close to the cheeky primates. However, always remember to be respectful and only feed them peanuts and fruit in the designated feeding area.

Opening Times and Entrance Fee: 9 AM – 4 PM. Tickets cost 550 yen (4 USD)

Tip: As you cross the bridge into Monkey Park, take a moment to admire the stunning blue water, which looks especially magical in the fall against the fiery red and orange foliage of the overhanging trees. You can go for a pleasant stroll downriver or eat at one of the restaurants that overlooks the water. If it’s too busy, there are plenty of great places to dine in town too. 

Book this tour of Arashiyama’s top sites (including the Monkey Park!)

Join a Boat Tour

A boat tour along the river in Arashiyama is a great way to see more of the natural beauty of the area! You can hire a boat , either driving the boat yourself or hiring a captain for a few hours. Alternatively, for something really special, book the famous Hozugawa Cruise, a 2-hour boat ride that takes you from Kameoka to Arashiyama, hugging the winding ravine and offering spectacular views of the fall woodland in the cooler months. 

Ticket price: Hozugawa Cruise tickets cost 4500 yen. Reserve your trip in advance here .

Adashino Nenbutsuj

Located next to the Bamboo Forest is an equally beautiful bamboo grove that leads the way to a unique temple. As it’s lesser known, you can enjoy this tunneled stairway through the trees with almost no people! Once you’ve reached the temple, you’ll find 8000 statues dedicated to ‘lonely souls’ — a tranquil and sacred place to commemorate those who died without kin.  

Getting there: This hidden spot is at the back of the Arishiyama Bamboo Forest (a 15 – 20-minute walk from the entrance).

Somekobo Yumeyusai Art Gallery

Set on the banks of the Katsura River and conveniently located within Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, discover the fascinating Somekobo Yumeyusai Art Gallery. The gallery uses displays to teach visitors about an ancient Japanese dying technique — where the dye used causes the fabric to change color according to different lights. It is mainly known for its stunning views of the jade-colored river. Mirrors cleverly placed in the gallery make up for a great photo.

Visiting the Arashiyama area was one of our favorite things to do in Japan!

Tip: Somekobo Yumeyusai Art Gallery is very popular, so we recommend booking in advance online or arriving early so you don’t have to queue. Opening times vary (the day we visited, it opened at 8:30 AM, even though their opening time seems to be 10 AM), so it’s a good idea to check Google Maps on the day. 

Entrance fee: 2,000 yen (13.50 USD). Reserve online here .

How to Visit Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Kyoto

There are multiple ways to reach the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest from Kyoto. However, we recommend taking the train, as it only takes 20 minutes. Jump on the train from Kyoto Station (JR San-in or Sagano Line) to Saga Arishiyama Station, which is located in the middle of town. From here, it’s just a 15-minute walk to the entrance of the Bamboo Forest. This route is covered by holders of the JR Pass.

Please note: During the day, you may need to hop on the Randen line (tram). You pay a flat fare of 500 yen on the train. 

5. Vintage Shopping

Vintage shopping is a religion in Japan. Every city has countless fantastic thrift stores, and Kyoto is no exception! Dedicate a morning or afternoon to perusing the colorful stores, searching for treasures to take home.

Some of our favorite vintage shops in Kyoto were:

• Three Star Kyoto
• Furugiya JAM Kyotoshijoten
• Little Trip to Heaven
• Big Time (Hannah’s favorite! Don’t forget to check out the 2 men’s floors)

Tip: Most vintage stores are located in Shijo Kawaramachi (Downtown Kyoto), a bustling shopping district for all general stores.

6. Gion, Kyoto

One of the top things to do in Kyoto is to visit the picturesque area of Gion. It gives a glimpse into traditional Japan at the heart of the bustling city. Originally, it was better known as a place of pilgrimage because of the sacred Gion Shrine. However, these days, locals and tourists alike come to admire the traditional architecture, iconic wooden townhouses named Machiya, pretty canals, and bridges. 

While in Gion, visit:

• Gion Shrine: Also known as Yasaka Shrine. This authentic red Japanese temple is lit by lanterns and is the perfect place to see cherry blossoms in spring.
• Shirakawa: an area that runs alongside the canal with traditional architecture.
• Gion Tatsumi Bridge: An iconic bridge, better known from one of the scenes in the film’ Memoirs of a Geisha’ that crosses the canal into Gion.
• Traditional Teahouse: Gion is full of teahouses, which are an essential part of Japanese culture. The most famous is Ichiriki Ochaya, known historically as the place where Samurai Soldiers would gather to discuss their plans.

The Geisha District

Most interestingly, Gion is known as the Geisha district of Kyoto, specifically Hanamikoji Street. Here, you can see traditionally dressed women with painted white faces, pretty kimonos, and a fierce red lip going about their daily lives.

What are Geishas?

Geisha , known as Geika in Kyoto, are women of the arts (and not prostitutes, as many movies have depicted). They are trained in conversation, music, and dance, and their role is to host and entertain customers at special events and teahouses. Training to be a Geisha is rigorous; girls typically move into a house where they live and train from age 15. They continue to live in this special accommodation within a Geisha district for the rest of their career.

You’ll see Geisha throughout the Gion district, as this is the main area where they live and work in the city, including Maiko (the younger trainees).

See tickets and availability for a nighttime Geisha Tour

Tip: These ladies are working, so please don’t disturb them by approaching them to take photos. Instead, book a theater performance at Gion Corner — specifically designed for tourists who wish to interact with Geishas. Tickets cost 5,500 yen (37 USD).

Rent a Kimono

Gion is the perfect place to try one of Kyoto’s cultural experiences, from flower arranging to enjoying a typical Japanese cooking class. It’s also the best place to rent a kimono , the traditional Japanese dress worn for special occasions.

Unlike in many places, this is not considered cultural appropriation. In fact, it’s quite the opposite; locals encourage visitors to dress in Kimonos and better understand the cultural practice. You can rent a kimono for the day in Gion (or another area of the city) and take some beautiful photos.

Reserve your Kimono online here

7. Fushimi Inari, Kyoto

Fushimi Inari is a remarkable Shinto shrine and the most sacred in Japan, dedicated to the God of Rice. The shrine is in the shadow of Mount Inari and marks the start of the pilgrim trail to the peak. 

It’s most famous, though, for its 10,000 red-painted tori gates, which create a beautiful tunnel you can walk through. During the day, sunlight filters through the archways, and at night, it’s bathed in a warm lantern-lit glow. 

Also read: Best Things To Do in Osaka, Japan

Once you’ve walked through the tori gates at Fushimi Inari Kyoto, you’ll reach the start of the mountain path. If you choose to embark to the top, it is a 2-3 hour hike. It’s a peaceful walk in nature that passes smaller shrines and teahouses.

Book this unique hidden hiking tour from Fushimi Inari

Opening Times and Entrance Fee

Fushimi Inari in Kyoto, Japan, is open 24 hours a day and free to visit. Sunset is a beautiful time to visit and a good option if you want to see the shrine change colors from day to night. However, it’s also the most popular, so expect crowds. The quietest time is at sunrise (anytime between 6 AM and 8 AM). After 10 AM, the site can become very crowded. 

Tip: Don’t miss out on having a cup of tea at Vermillion Cafe. It’s a charming cafe 5 minutes walk from the shrine with an open terrace with riverside views. Here is the exact location .

8. Pontocho

People watch to your heart’s content in the best nightlife spot in Kyoto: Pontocho! Located in downtown Kyoto, this traditional area has many upmarket restaurants and bars tucked down narrow alleys. ( Join this popular walking tour around Pontocho )

The atmosphere at night is especially fantastic when the streets are bathed in a lantern-lit glow and locals come to enjoy dinner together. It’s also one of the Geisha districts in the city, so you might be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of a Geisha. 

Tip: In the summer, the restaurants create temporary platforms that hang over the riverside, creating terraces for open-air dining. This is called Kawayuka, a dining experience designed to help customers feel cooler. Please note that Pontocho can get very busy, so it’s recommended to book a restaurant in advance. 

9. Nanzen-ji Temple

Nanzen-ji Temple is a must-see in Kyoto! The Zen Buddhist temple sits at the foot of the mountains on the city’s edge and is home to various sub-temples and gardens. Because of all the beautiful trees and foliage, it’s charming to visit during fall when the colors are at their most vibrant.

When you first arrive, you’ll pass through the huge entranceway known as the Sanmon Gate, which means ‘mountain gate’. Pay the entrance fee and climb to the top of the gate for great views! 

Among the grounds, you’ll also find a spectacular stone garden, which has been awarded status as a ‘national site of scenic beauty’. Nearby, you’ll also see an unusual feature for a temple — a large stone-arched aqueduct.

Visiting Information Nanzen-ji

The main temple grounds are open for free. However, you’ll have to pay different admission fees for all the smaller temples. You can see all the ticket prices per temple here .

Opening hours vary depending on the temple; the complex is open from 8.40 AM – 5 PM. Check all the times online before visiting.

Top Tip: Grab a drink afterward at a cute cafe near the temple, called Blue Bottle Coffee. Here is the exact location .

10. Nishiki Market

Get amongst the jostling crowds exploring Nishiki Market — one of the most popular things to do in Kyoto.

Known as ‘Kyoto’s Kitchen’, this market has a 400-year history and is home to 100+ food vendors. Each stall sells something unique, from seaweed and fresh sashimi to sake and piles of unusual spices. 

Tip: Join a food tour with a local who can point you toward the best food stalls and explain everything about all the weird and wonderful snacks.

Book this popular brunch food tour of Nishiki Market!

Opening Times: Hours vary depending on the stall, but most are generally open from 10 AM – 6 PM (closed Wednesday or Sunday, depending on the store). Please remember to bring cash, as some vendors don’t accept cards.

11. Visit Koyasan

One of the top things to do in Kyoto is to take a day trip to the sacred temple village of Koyosan, situated on the slopes of Mount Koya. This area is known as an important Buddhist pilgrimage site with over 100+ beautiful temples. Spend the day wandering among the temples, breathing in the cold mountain air, and visiting the snow-covered cemetery and gardens. 

Read everything about a temple stay in Koyasan, Japan.

If you have time on your Japan itinerary, stay overnight in one of the temples in Koyasan and live as the monks have for hundreds of years. The lodgings are simple and traditional in line with the Buddhist teachings, with basic futons, sliding doors, and shared bathrooms. You’ll also get to join the monks for a typical dinner, morning prayer, and meditation — this was one of our favorite adventures on our trip to Japan!  

Hotels in Koyasan 😴

Getting there: Take a rapid train from Kyoto Station to Osaka Namba Station (covered by your JR Pass) in under 30 minutes. From here, jump on another train to Gokurabashi (1.5 hours) before taking the cable car up the mountain to Koyosan.

12. Day Trip to Universal Studios !

Osaka is close to Kyoto and home to Universal Studios Japan! If you have time on your Japan Itinerary, spend a fun day out enjoying the theme park and the various rides. Get your adrenaline pumping on rapid rollercoasters, eat snacks in the shape of your favorite film characters, and visit a real-life Hogwarts castle.

Book your Universal Studio tickets in advance here

13. Golden Temple, Kyoto

The Golden Temple, also known as Kinkaku-Ji, is the most popular thing to do in Kyoto and the most-visited attraction in the city — for good reason! This majestic temple, balanced on the edge of a large pond, is covered in real gold leaf. It’s totally unique! On a clear day, when the light hits the gold just right, it’s truly magical. 

Note: You cannot visit inside the Golden Temple, Kyoto. However, you can view it from the water’s edge before passing through the extensive gardens.

Golden Temple, Kyoto, is open from 9 AM – 5 PM and costs 500 yen (3.50 USD) to enter. An hour’s visit is sufficient. Try to arrive before 9 AM to be first in line. Generally, it is always very busy because of its popularity.

See availability for a tour of Golden Temple (includes a visit to Imperial Palace!)

Getting there: Golden Temple is a little bit further out of the center, but you can easily take a bus or train in around 30- 45 minutes. Check Google Maps for directions, updated times, and information.

14. Imperial Palace

The Grand Imperial Palace is the former residence of the Emperor of Japan. Set in extensive parkland, it’s a place to escape the hustle and bustle of Kyoto and learn a bit more about the dynasties of Japan.

The facade of the palace itself is quite plain, and unfortunately, you can’t visit inside. It’s not as impressive as some other temples and parks in the city, so it’s an optional thing to do in Kyoto. Best of all, it’s free to visit! 

Learn more about Imperial Palace on this multi-stop tour (includes Golden Temple)

Best Restaurants & Cafes

Kyoto is one of the greatest cities to eat in on your trip to Japan. The city is home to a particular vegetarian Buddhist cuisine (no surprise, as ‘the city of ten thousand shrines’), so it’s great for veggies and vegans. Other specialties include Kyoto soba noodles and matcha tea! Here are some of our must-try restaurants:

• Vermillion Cafe
• Wife&Husband (reserve a picnic)
• Trattoria Casa Verde
• AIN SOPH. Journey KYOTO
• Kyoto Onimaru
• Fiveran (bakery
• Cafe Bibliotic Hello!

Note: Kyoto is a very busy place, and it’s commonplace to queue for a table in a restaurant. Book in advance where possible to avoid disappointment. 

Top Tip: It’s no secret that Japan is expensive, and Kyoto is no exception! If you want to keep costs lower, you can grab a quick snack or an affordable takeaway lunch at the supermarkets 7-Eleven, Family Mart, or Lawson. You can find delicious Onigiri (a rice ball with fish inside and packed in crunchy seaweed) or even mix a cup of frozen fruits into a smoothie.

Hotels in Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto is a sprawling city with many of the top things to do located both on the outskirts and in the center. Where you choose to stay depends on the type of trip you’re planning. For example, if you want to do some day trips out of the city, we recommend staying in Shimogyo , which surrounds Kyoto Station. Otherwise, choose a hotel in Kyoto located within Nakagyo (the central district) or Gion (the traditional Geisha district).

• Hotels in Shimogyo (near Kyoto Station)
• Nakagyo Hotels (Central)
• Hotels in Gion (Geisha District)

Tip: We stayed in Insomnia KYOTO OIKE , which was located in Nakagyo and close to all public transport. Book your stay here .

How Many Days in Kyoto?

With so much to see and do in Kyoto, it’s well worth taking a bit more time out of your Japan itinerary for this awesome city. A 2-3-day trip will allow you to see all the main sites in the city (including Arashiyama Bamboo Forest). Meanwhile, 4-6 days will allow you to visit Nara Park, Koyosan, and even Universal Studios.

Travel Insurance Don't forget a travel insurance for your Japan trip! Heymondo covers medical emergencies, theft, delays, cancellations, lost luggage, and more, with 24/7 worldwide assistance and medical chat. As a Salt in our Hair reader, we've got you 5% off! Check Heymondo here

How to Visit Kyoto

The nearest international airport to Kyoto is Osaka Itami, which is a 50-minute drive away using the airport shuttle bus. Alternatively, Kansai International Airport is located slightly further out at Osaka Bay (you can take the train from here to Kyoto in 70 minutes – covered by your JR pass. Book tickets here ).

Tip: It’s best to get an eSim in advance so you’re directly connected when you land in Japan. Buy your sim online here .

If you’re traveling from Tokyo, hop on the super speedy bullet train to Kyoto in around 130 minutes (also included with the JR Pass).

Book your train tickets from Tokyo in advance

Otherwise, if you’re hiring a car, you can drive from Tokyo to Kyoto in under 6 hours — or add Kyoto as a stop-off on your Japan itinerary!

We recommend to rent a car in Japan through Rentalcars.com with many rental locations and flexible cancellation. Book your rental car here .

Is the JR Pass worth it? ( Calculate it here ). The Japan Rail Pass gives you unlimited access to all public transport throughout Japan, so it’s a great option if you plan on taking the Shinkansen (bullet train) several times. It’s also multi-use for other trains, ferries, and buses throughout the country. 

Getting Around

Getting around Kyoto is super easy; the organized city is built in an easy-to-navigate grid system. Although there are only 2 subway lines, these connect you to most of the top things to do. However, the bus system is also incredibly efficient.  

Note: Japan’s travel network is so organized that you’ll never experience delays; trains and metros depart precisely at the specified minute.

The best way to discover Kyoto is by walking! The city is very flat and easy to explore using Google Maps. Plus, you’ll be able to take in the atmosphere and stop off for plenty of matcha refreshments on your way. 

Rent a Bike

We also recommend hiring a bike for the day to explore, as there are great paths throughout town and along the river. If you stray from the main roads, the streets are quiet, making for a tranquil and safe cycling experience. Hire your bike at The Good Day Velo Bikes & Coffee Kyoto . 

Tip: The city provides special bike parking; you can see all the locations here . Please note that a one-day parking pass, which costs 200 yen (1.50 USD), is required when parking in the city.

How Much Does Kyoto Cost?

Kyoto is one of the most expensive cities to visit in Japan. However, it’s considerably cheaper than Tokyo . You can find some great places to stay and eat without breaking the bank. Keep costs down by taking a picnic lunch with you on day trips out of the city and booking accommodation well in advance.

Make sure to bring your reusable water bottle with you; you can drink water from the taps in most places in Japan! This is a good way to save money and travel plastic-free .

Costs of Traveling in Kyoto

Travel on a budget in Kyoto, from $480 − $910 USD weekly per person, mid-range $1750 − $3730 USD, and high-end from $3400 − $5380 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $100 − $400 USD Check available hotels
• Hostels: $20 − $80 USD Check available hostels
• Transport: $5 − $40 USD Book public transport
• Car Rental: $35 − $150 USD Book a rental car
• Food: $30 − $150 USD
• Activities: $10 − $60 USD See tickets & tours
• Sim: $1 − $3 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

Best Time to Visit

October and November are some of the best months to visit Kyoto, as during this time, the woodland and parkland areas burst into warm fall colors. Although it’s a little colder, it does mean that you might be lucky enough to spot snow, particularly if you head up into the more mountainous areas like Koyasan.

Spring is also beautiful because of the cherry blossoms. However, hotels and tours can get booked quickly (and prices rise), so consider booking things well in advance.

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17 unmissable things to do in tokyo, japan, snow monkey park: japan’s hot spring oasis.

Looking for more travel information? Plan a chat with us for personalised travel advice or get an answer from the Salt in our Hair Travel Community on Facebook.

We got back from Kyoto a couple of months ago, it was great fun to relive some of those places we visited through your photos!

Thank you so much Ben, appreciate that a lot!

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Inside Kyoto

A Kyoto Travel Guide

First Time In Kyoto

When you close your eyes and think of Japan, you’re probably picturing Kyoto: sublime Zen gardens, mysterious Buddhist temples, colorful Shinto shrines, graceful geisha. The fact is, Kyoto is the most rewarding city in Japan and a place all travelers should visit at least once in their lives.

Why Kyoto? What Is So Special About Kyoto?

Kyoto is Japan in a nutshell. It’s the cultural and historical heart of the country. It’s the best place in all Japan to experience traditional temples , shrines , gardens , geisha , shops , restaurants and festivals. In short, Kyoto is the most rewarding destination in all of Japan and it should be at the top of any Japan travel itinerary. Indeed, I may be biased, but I’d go so far as to say that Kyoto is the most rewarding single city in all of Asia.

How Much Time Should I Spend In Kyoto?

The simple answer is: As much time as possible. Indeed, I know of many people who visit only Kyoto when they come to Japan – and they never regret the decision. But, most people will want to see other parts of Japan. If you’ve got about a week in Japan, I’d consider spending three days in Tokyo and four in Kyoto. If you’ve got a few more days, consider adding a third destination to the Kyoto-Tokyo combo. Good options include Takayama, Hiroshima/Miyajima or Nara. No matter how much time you have in the city, my Kyoto itineraries are designed to help you make the best of your time.

What Should I See In Kyoto? What Are Kyoto’s Must-See Attractions?

I’m personally not a big fan of travel checklists and “must-see” tourism. Still, there’s no denying that Kyoto has a bunch of attractions that every visitor to the city should check out. Here are some things I consider must-see attractions and activities in Kyoto: Buddhist temples , Shinto shrines , Japanese gardens , a night in a ryokan , Japan’s exquisite traditional accommodation, a meal in a Japanese restaurant , whether gourmet or hole in the wall, an evening stroll through the Gion entertainment district , a traditional festival, and some great old Kyoto shops . If you have limited time, check out my 1 Day Must-See Kyoto Itinerary .

Is Kyoto Expensive? What Is A Reasonable Kyoto Budget?

Japan suffers from a reputation as an expensive country. The surprising fact is, Japan is the cheapest country in the developed world, especially now that the yen has plummeted in value against almost every other world currency. You probably think I’m making this up in hopes of luring you to Japan, but I’ve done some real research to back this up. Check out my article Japan: It’s Cheaper Than You Think on my ChrisRowthornTours.com company site to see some actual figures and cost comparisons.

Sample Daily Kyoto Budgets (Per Person)

Budget Kyoto Trip Pricing

• Guesthouse accommodation (per person): Y3000
• Two simple restaurant meals: Y1800
• Public transport: Y1500
• One average temple admission: Y500
• Sundry purchases: Y1000
• Total: Y7800 (about US$75, €54)

Mid-Range Kyoto Trip Pricing

• Moderate hotel accommodation (per person/twin occupancy): Y7000
• Two moderate restaurant meals: Y4000
• Public transport plus one taxi ride: Y2500
• Two average temple admissions: Y1000
• Sundry purchases: Y2000
• Total: Y16,500 (about US$157, €114)

Where Should I Stay In Kyoto?

Kyoto is home to some of the country’s best Ryokan (traditional Japanese inns). I often recommend that people spend their first night in a good ryokan: it’s the quintessential Japanese experience. In addition to ryokan, Kyoto has a wide range of excellent hotels, from international brands like the Hyatt to beautiful boutique hotels like Mume . Renting a lovingly restored machiya (traditional Kyoto townhouse) is a great way to experience traditional Kyoto living. Another good option for families and those who want their own, self-catering space is a Kyoto vacation rental , especially the exquisitely refurbished townhouses known as machiya , giving you the feel of living in your own apartment. There are also numerous backpacker hostels and guesthouses for the budget conscious – plus of course the famous capsule hotels .

Check Hotel Availability

Destination, check-in date, check-out date.

When’s The Best Time Of Year To Visit Kyoto?

You can visit Kyoto at any time of year – it’s never too hot, too rainy or too cold to visit. The summers (from late June to early September) can be hot and humid, but not impossibly so. The winters (from early December to late March) can be cold, but not freezing. Spring and fall are obviously the ideal times to visit, with warm to cool temps and generally sunny skies.

The late March/early April cherry blossom season is very popular, for obvious reasons, but it’s also very crowded. The November and early December fall foliage season is also great and not quite as crowded as the cherry blossom season. For more details on the best seasons to visit, check out my When’s The Best Time to Visit Kyoto page and my Kyoto Annual Events page.

Is It Easy To Get Around Kyoto?

Kyoto is a relatively small city with an excellent public transport system. It’s VERY easy to get around. Indeed, unless you come from a city with a freakishly good public transport system, I bet it’s easier to get around Kyoto than it is to get around your hometown. For information on Kyoto’s public transport, check out my Kyoto Buses , Kyoto Taxis , and Special Kyoto Bus, Train and Subway Passes pages. Kyoto is also a great city to explore by bicycle. For details, check out my Kyoto by Bicycle page.

Is It Easy To Travel Around Kyoto With Kids?

I have two small children, so I know what it’s like getting around Kyoto with children and keeping them entertained. Thus, I can say with authority that Kyoto is a GREAT place to travel with children. First, you don’t have to worry about food safety or crime. More importantly, there are plenty of green spaces , family-friendly hotels and child-friendly attractions . For more tips on traveling in Kyoto with your kids, check out my Kyoto With Children page. And for some advice about what to see and do, see my Kyoto Itinerary for Travelers with Children .

What Should I Pack For A Trip To Kyoto?

For a comprehensive rundown of suggestions about what to bring on a trip to Kyoto – and indeed Japan in general – see our Packing List For Japan page.

Is It Easy To Get Money Out Of ATMs In Kyoto?

ATMs that work with international bank and credit cards are not as common in Japan as they are in many other countries. But, you can get money out of postal ATMs and ATMs at convenience stores like 7-11. For more on getting money in Kyoto, see my Getting Money in Kyoto Page.

Should I Have A Tour Guide For Kyoto?

You don’t need a guide to enjoy Kyoto, but having a guide will add a lot of depth to your understanding of the city. A guide will also free you from having to think about the logistics of getting around and making the most efficient use of your time. Finally, a guide can help you enjoy local restaurants without any communication difficulties.

Hiring a guide for a six-hour tour on your first day will give you the confidence to explore on following days on your own and a guide can give you some advice about what to see later in your trip. If you’d like to hire a guide, please visit my guided tours site ChrisRowthorn.com

How Do I Meet A Geisha In Kyoto?

While you might be lucky enough to spot a geisha scurrying to or from an appointment somewhere in Gion , if you really want to experience the world of the geisha, it’s best to arrange for private geisha entertainment. It’s almost impossible to arrange private geisha entertainment on your own. Indeed, it would be impossible for most Japanese people. Luckily, private geisha entertainment can be arranged by private tour companies like my own .

Can I See Sumo Wrestling In Kyoto?

Sumo tournaments are not held in Kyoto, but they are held in cities that can easily be visited as daytrips from Kyoto. For details, see Sumo in Kyoto .

Is Kyoto Safe For Travellers?

Japan is well known as a safe place. The crime rate is absurdly low. People are honest. And, there is no political instability. Of course, you should use normal common sense and female travelers should take the usual precautions (ie, don’t hitchhike alone and don’t walk alone at night in an area that seems dodgy). One thing all travellers should have wherever they go, and Kyoto is no exception, is travel insurance. It’s important to protect yourself against accidents and losing vital items like passports etc. It’s quick and easy to book travel insurance online. See Why You Need Travel Insurance For Japan for more info.

Can I Visit Kyoto By Myself?

Kyoto is a great place for solo travelers. It’s safe, easy and fun to visit by yourself. You’ll have no problem meeting other travelers and local Japanese people. For more information on solo travel in Kyoto, visit our Solo Travel in Kyoto page. For information on traveling as a solo woman in Kyoto, visit our Solo Female Travel in Kyoto page.

OK, I Want To Visit! So How Do I Get To Kyoto?

Kyoto doesn’t have a major international airport, but it’s very close to Osaka’s Kansai International Airport (KIX), Nagoya’s Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO), and it’s 3.5 hours by fast express trains from Tokyo’s Narita International Airport (NRT). If you’re coming from other parts of Japan, Kyoto is very close to Osaka’s domestic Itami Airport (ITM) and it’s well served by the bullet train (shinkansen).

You can check Kyoto flight prices and times on Skyscanner , which lets you quickly compare prices and flight timings across multiple airlines.

For more details on getting to Kyoto, see How To Get To Kyoto . Most countries can get a visa on arrival – see Do I Need A Visa For Japan? for more info.

If you are going to be travelling through Japan rather than just visiting Kyoto, you will want to invest in a Japan Rail Pass. It will save you a LOT of money. See my page Japan Rail Pass: Is It Worth It? for the full details or buy it directly online .

Visiting Tokyo?

If you’re visiting Tokyo as well as Kyoto, be sure to check out my First Time In Tokyo guide on Inside Kyoto’s companion website, TrulyTokyo.com

Visiting Osaka?

I’ve written a First Time In Osaka guide on Inside Kyoto’s companion website InsideOsaka.com .

Books, Movies And Videos To Get You Ready For Japan

There’s nothing like a good book or movie to get you in the mood for Japan. And a good book to read on the road will really deepen your experience of the country. For some book recommendations, visit our Chris Rowthorn’s Favorite Books on Japan page. For some movie and video recommendations, visit our Chris Rowthorn’s Favorite Movies, TV Shows and Documentaries on Japan page.

Kyoto Vacation Checklist

• For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Kyoto guide
• Check Kyoto accommodation availability on Booking.com and Agoda.com - often you can book with no upfront payment and free cancellation
• You can buy shinkansen (bullet train) tickets online from Klook - popular routes include Tokyo to Kyoto , Kyoto to Osaka and Kyoto to Tokyo
• Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Kyoto
• See my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
• Buy a data-only SIM card online for collection when you arrive at Kansai International Airport (for Osaka and Kyoto) or Tokyo's Narita Airport . Or rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
• Compare Japan flight prices and timings to find the best deals
• If you're making frequent train journeys during your visit, you might save money with Japan Rail Pass – see if it's worth it for you
• A prepaid Welcome Suica card makes travelling around Kyoto easy – here's how
• World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world

Kyoto District Map

• Central Kyoto
• Northwest Kyoto
• Northern Higashiyama
• Southern Higashiyama
• Downtown Kyoto
• Kyoto Station Area
• South East Kyoto

Disclosure: InsideKyoto.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com and amazon.co.uk. World Nomads provides travel insurance for travellers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

Vegetarian's Japan Guide

The Ultimate Guide of How to Get Around in Kyoto

Although Kyoto is one of the top destinations in Japan, the transportation system in the city, however, can be quite confusing to firstcomers. As in any city worldwide, you can choose from buses, trains, or subways to get to the popular attractions in Kyoto. But with so many transportation companies operating in this ancient city, which company’s service should you go with?

Whether it is buses or trains/subways, the transportation companies can be largely divided into two groups, private or publicly owned. If you find it daunting when you see the map of train and bus routes, let us help you so that when you get to Kyoto, you can travel between the attractions just like a local!

Kyoto City Bus (市バス)

Raku bus (洛バス), 100 yen loop bus, kyoto bus (京都バス).

• Discount Bus/Subway Tickets

Attractions Better Accessed by Bus in Kyoto

Kyoto municipal subway (京都市地下鉄), hankyū railway (阪急電鐵), keihan railway (京阪電鐵), keifuku railway (京福電鐵)/randen (嵐電), sagano scenic railway (嵯峨野観光鉄道), eiden railway (叡山電鐵), kintetsu railway (近鐵), bus companies operating in kyoto.

The two main bus companies operating in Kyoto are “Kyoto City Bus” and “Kyoto Bus”.

Kyoto City Bus is operated by the city, mainly running in the city center. On the other hand, Kyoto Bus is a private company serving remote areas in Kyoto Prefecture .

Most buses in Japan have two doors. Please board the bus from the back door and alight from the front door.

The majority of famous attractions in Kyoto can be reached by Kyoto City Bus. It is easily recognizable by its characteristic green color. Most of the Kyoto City Buses depart from Kyoto Station.

The bus stops of Kyoto City Bus are clearly labeled with ‘City Bus’ (市バス).

If you are heading to popular destinations in Kyoto City, such as Kinkaku-ji Temple or Kiyomizu-dera, taking Kyoto City Bus is a better choice, as long as you avoid traveling during the peak hours in the morning and evening .

For a lookup table of which bus to take, please refer to HERE .

Two Different Types of Kyoto City Bus

The buses operating by Kyoto City Bus are further subdivided into two different kinds of buses. Those running in the flat-rate zone and those operating in the non-flat-rate zone.

• No matter how far you travel, the bus fare is fixed at 230 yen.
• If the bus you are boarding doesn’t have a ticket dispensing machine at the back door, it is a flat-rate zone bus.
• The flat-rate zone bus differs from the 100 Yen Loop Bus.
• Similar to other buses running across the country, the bus fare is calculated based on how far you travel.

Refer to HERE for Kyoto City Bus and Subway Map.

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How to Pay on Kyoto City Bus

• You can pay the exact amount in cash or by tapping your prepaid IC cards, such as ICOCA or SUICA , at the front door.
• If you have a Kansai Thru Pass , insert the card into the ticket machine.
• If you have bought the One-Day Pass, insert the bus pass when you first use it. From the second time onwards, just show the date printed on the card to the bus driver.
• To read the board, find your number on the board. The bus fare is displayed below the number.
• When you get off the bus, you just need to put the exact bus fare and the ticket you drew into the money box.
• For those paying by prepaid IC card, tap your card once when you get on the bus and another time at the front gate before you get off.
• If you are holding one of the bus passes, there is no need to get a number when you get on the bus. Instead, please insert your card into the machine when you get on and get off the bus.

Raku Bus is the Kyoto City Bus’s sightseeing bus. It stops at the major attractions in the city center.

As a bus created for tourists, the announcements introducing the next attraction that the bus will make a stop at are made in different languages, including English.

There are currently 3 different routes.

• Raku Bus No. 100 connects Kyoto Station with Kiyomizu-dera (清水寺), Gion (祇園), Heian Jingū Shine (平安神宮), and Ginkaku-ji Temple (銀閣寺) also known as the Silver Pavilion.
• Raku Bus No. 101 connects Kyoto station with Kinkaku-ji Temple (金閣寺), also known as the Golden Pavilion, Nijō Castle (二条城), and Kitano Tanmangū Shine (北野天満宮).
• Raku Bus No. 102 is the only one that doesn’t depart from Kyoto Station. Instead, it runs between Ginkaku-ji Temple (銀閣寺) Kitano Tanmangū Shine (北野天満宮) and then to Kinkaku-ji Temple (金閣寺)

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Between the bus’s operation hours, Raku Bus departs from the terminal stop at 10 to 20-minute intervals.

The bus fare for Raku Bus is 220 yen for adults and 110 yen for children.

For more information on Raku Bus Ruites’ main stops, please refer to the official website HERE and translate the webpage to English with Google Chrome’s translation function at the right of the address bar.

The 100 Yen Loop Bus is also operated by Kyoto City Bus. You can easily recognize it by the distinctive “100 yen” sign on the side of the bus. As its name suggests, the loop bus only charges its customers 100 yen.

For more information on 100 Yen Loop Bus, please refer to the official website HERE and translate the webpage to English with Google Chrome’s translation function at the right of the address bar.

In Kyoto, if the bus in front of you is colored red/dark purple, it is one of Kyoto Bus Company’s buses.

These buses will bring you away from the city center to more rural areas such as Mt. Hiei , Mt. Kurama, and Kibune . Many of them go outside of the flat-rate zone.

One thing to be aware of is that not all buses operated by Kyoto Bus depart from Kyoto Station.

Discount Bus Tickets

As you will most likely visit several attractions in Kyoto City Center in one day, getting one of the bus passes can dramatically reduce your transportation costs! Apart from the prepaid IC card such as ICOCA , consider getting one of the below passes when you come to Kyoto.

These discounted tickets can be purchased at the “Kyoto Bus Information Center”, outside the north exit of Kyoto Station.

Kansai Thru Pass

This is a special ticket that overseas tourists can purchase.

The ticket gives you unlimited bus rides to all Kyoto City Bus and most Kyoto Bus and most private train lines in the Kansai region on a given day. It also comes with special benefits and discounts.

For more information, please refer to the official website HERE . You can purchase Kansai Thru Pass via Klook in advance.

Important: This ticket does not give you access to JR Railways.

Kyoto One-Day Bus Pass

The ticket gives you unlimited bus rides to all Kyoto City Bus and most of Kyoto Bus in a given day. It also comes with special benefits and discounts.

The ticket cost is currently 700 yen for adults and 350 yen for children.

Whilst the ticket can be bought on the bus, it is better to purchase it in advance in case the bus driver runs out of bus passes. You don’t need to use it on the same day of purchase. The ticket’s activation date will appear on the back of the ticket the first time you put it through the ticket machine.

For more information about the bus pass, please refer to the official website HERE . You can also refer to HERE for the bus stops that are covered by this bus pass (they are marked by a circle).

Important: Kyoto One-Day Bus Pass is only on sale until the end of September 2023. The already purchased ticket can be used until March 2024.

Kyoto Subway and Bus One-Day Pass

To broaden your transportation options, you can get the Subway + Bus One-Day Pass. The current cost is 1,100 yen for adults and 550 yen for children.

Taking the subway is especially recommended when you travel during peak hours if you don’t want to be stuck in traffic jams. For more information, please refer to the official website HERE .

Please note: Up until September 2021, there was a Two-Day Pass for Kyoto Subway and Bus. This deal has since been terminated.

The Bus Pass and Bus + Subway Pass can be purchased from the City Bus and Subway Information Center at Kyoto Subway Station. The Bus Pass can also be purchased from the vending machines near the bus stops in front of Kyoto Station. Similarly, the subway pass can be purchased from the ticket machines at all Kyoto Subway stations.

Whilst taking a train or subway can avoid traffic jams, many of the attractions in Kyoto are better accessed by a bus. After all, building another train station close to all the temples and shrines closely packed in the city center is impossible.

North West Kyoto – Kinkakuji/Kitano Area

The main attractions in the area are mostly within a 15-minute walk from the Kinkakuji-michi (金閣寺道) bus stop.

After you visit the famous Kinkakuji Temple (金閣寺), you can take a short stroll to Ryōanji Temple (龍安寺) for its gorgeous garden and Kitano Tanmangū Shrine (北野天満宮) for the splendid worship halls. If you visit Kyoto in autumn, the autumn foliage there is just stunning.

North East Kyoto – Ginkakuji/Okazaki Area

Most people know about Kinakuji Temple. Contrasting the Golden Pavilion, there is a Silver Pavilion on the other side of the city.

From Ginkakuji Temple (銀閣寺), the Philosopher’s Walk (Tetsugaku no Michi, 哲学の道) is a small 2 km road along a cherry-tree-lined canal that continues all the way to Nanzenji Temple (南禅寺). At this end of the Philosopher’s walk, it is just a 5-minute walk away from the famous autumn foliage destination Eikan-dō (永観堂).

To get to Gingakuji Temple, you can take bus route no. 32 or no. 100 and get off at Ginkakuji-mae (銀閣寺前).

To expand the number of bus routes you can take, you can also take no. 5, no. 17, no. 102, no. 203, and no. 204 and get off at Ginakakuji-michi (銀閣寺道). It will just be less than a 10-minute walk from this bus stop to the Silver Pavilion.

Kiyomizu-dera Temple/Gion Area

South of the Ginkkakuji/Okazaki Area is the famous Kiyomizu-dera Temple (清水寺) and Gion (祇園).

There are more bus routes that stop at Gion (祇園), which is around a 20-minute walk to Kiyomizu-dera. However, just be aware it will be an uphill hike to the temple.

So if you want to take it easy, it is probably better to take a short bus trip to Kiyomizu-michi (清水道). You will still need to climb up the hill, but there will be less walking.

Bus routes that stop by both Gion and Kiyomizu-michi are no. 58, no. 86, no. 100, no. 106, no. 202, no. 206, and no. 207. Bus routes no. 12, no. 46, no. 201, and no. 203 only stop at Gion.

If you have extra time, it is worth visiting the picturesque rural village of Ōhara , north of the Ginkakuji Area. To get there, take bus routes no. 16, no. 17, or no. 19 operating by Kyoto Bus from Kyoto Station and get off at Ōhara (大原).

The bus trip will take about an hour. If you would like to reduce the time, you can also board the bus from Keihan Trian’s Demachiyanagi Station (出町柳駅). From there, it will be around a 40-minute bus ride.

In the quiet village that is situated at the mountainside, you can stroll around the boutique shops for some local specialists and craftworks.

What amazes most people are the historic temples, such as the Sanzenin Temple (三千院) , renowned for its magnificent gardens.

Subway and Train Lines in Kyoto

Similar to buses running in Kyoto, subways, and trains are operated by more than one company. Besides the JR trains, there is also the Kyoto Municipal Subway and trains run by other private train companies.

HERE is a train route map with most of the train lines in Kyoto mapped out.

Just like Kyoto City Bus, the Kyoto Municipal Subway is owned by Kyoto City.

Compared to the complex bus routes, there are only two subway lines in the city center.

•  The Subway Karasuma Line (地下鉄烏丸線) connects you between Kyoto Station to Shijō (四条) and Karasuma Oike (烏丸御池), which is located in the busiest commercial district in Kyoto for shopping and dining.
• The Nijo Castle is just next to the Nijojo-mae Station (二条城前駅)
• From Higashiyama Station (東山駅), the famous Heian Jingū Shrine (平安神宮) is within walking distance

Please refer to the Kyoto Municipal Subway map HERE .

Tip: If most of the attractions you want to visit are on the subway line, get the Subway One-Day Pass to save! For more information, please refer to the official website HERE .

To be honest, most of the attractions in Kyoto are better accessed by buses, subways, and/or other trains operating by private companies. Most of the time, the only reason that you would want to hop onto a JR train is to:

• Get to other cities in Kyoto Prefecture, such as Uji.
• Come from or go to other prefectures such as Osaka , Nara , and Kobe .

One of the few attractions in Kyoto that can be easily accessed by a JR train is Arashiyama (嵐山). Fushimi Inari Taisha (伏見稻荷大社) is another place in Kyoto that you might want to visit by taking a JR train (Keihan trains also have a train station close to it, but JR’s station is closer).

HERE is the train map with JR lines marked in blue.

• To get to Arashiyama, get off at Saga-Arashiyama Station (嵯峨嵐山駅)
• To get to Fushimi Inari Taisha for the endless torii gates, get off at Inari Station (稲荷駅)
• Note: Keihan’s Tobakaido Station (鳥羽街道駅) is slightly closer to the temple

Tip: Below is a JR Pass list covering Kyoto . Most of the below passes allow you to take the Kansai Airport Express Haruka from Kansai International Airport, and you will be in Kyoto in 75 minutes. Purchase your pass in advance to save on tax! ☛ JR West Kansai Pass (1, 2, 3 or 4 Days) ☛ JR Kansai WIDE Area Pass (5 Days) ☛ 7-Day Setouchi Area Pass ☛ 5-Day JR Kansai-Hiroshima Area Pass ☛ 7-Day JR Sanyo-San’in Area Pass ☛ 7-Day JR-WEST All-Area Pass ☛ 7-Day JR Sanyo-San in-Northern Kyushu Area Pass ☛ JR Whole Japan Rail Pass (Consecutive 7, 14, or 21 Days)

Hankyū Railway operates mainly in Osaka, Kobe, and Kyoto.

Its Kyoto Line departs from Umeda in Osaka and arrives at Kyoto’s Karasuma area. If you are heading to Arashiyama, you can also change to its Arashiyama Line at Katsura Station (桂駅).

Refer to HERE for Hankyu’s route map.

With the company based in Osaka , Hankyū also provides easy access from Kyoto through Osaka to Kobe ‘s Mt. Rokkō for a magnificent view of Osaka Bay and all the interesting attractions up in the mountain.

Tip: If you don’t plan to spend a whole day in Kyoto but would like to visit the main attractions in Kyoto, Osaka, and Kobe in one or two days, consider getting the Hankyu Tourist Pass to save.

For more information about Hankyu Tourist Pass, refer to Hankyu’s website HERE .

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Just like its name, Keihan Railway serves both Kyoto and Osaka Prefecture . One thing to be aware of is it doesn’t have a station in Umeda. Instead, you can transfer to a Keihan train from JR train lines or Osaka Metro at Kyobashi Station (京橋駅).

There are three main lines of this railway, the Keihan Main Line (京阪本線) from Yodoyabashi to Sanjō, the Ōtō Line (鴨東線) from Sanjō to Demachiyanagi, and the Uji Line from Chūshojima Station (中書島駅) to Uji.

Apart from that, Keihan trains are a great choice to get to many popular attractions, including:

• Fushimi Inari Taisha (伏見稲荷大社)
• Shimogamo Shrine: Getting off at Demachiyanagi Station (出町柳駅)
• Uji for Byōdō-in Temple (平等院) and Ujigami Shrine (宇治上神社)

It also connects with Eizan Railway to Kurama/Kibune area and stretches as far as Lake Biwa in Shiga Prefecture .

Tip: Depending on your itinerary, getting one of Keihan’s train passes can help you save on transportation costs. For example, Kyoto-Osaka Sightseeing Pass 1 or 2-Day is a handy pass to get. For other Keihan’s passes, please refer to their website HERE .

There are several famous tourist attractions along the mainline, such as Tōfuku-Ji Temple, famous for its fall leaves, and Fushimi Inari Shrine. Shimogamo-Jinja Shrine is located on the Ōtō Line, while the Byodo-in Temple and Ujigami-jinja Temple are found on the Uji Line.

The Keifuku Randen Tram Line, often known as the Randen, transports passengers from Shijō in Kyoto to Arashiyama and other northern tourism destinations.

The one-carriage tram that has been operating for more than 100 years is the only tram left in Kyoto.

Randen travels away from Shijō in the city center at a leisurely pace for you to enjoy the scenery along the way. Some of the best attractions that the tram will stop by are:

• Kōryuji Temple (広隆寺): the oldest temple in Kyoto
• Toei Kyoto Studio Park: a samurai themed park

Randen has a flat rate system. So no matter the distance you travel, it will only cost you 250 yen for adults and 120 yen for children (aged between 6 and 12 years old).

HERE is the route map for Randen that also maps out the attractions along its train lines. As it is only in Japanese, you can match the station number with the ROUTE MAP .

For sightseeing and romantic getaways, the Sagano Scenic Railway won’t disappoint!

From Arashiyama’s Saga Torokko Station, the scenic train will head towards Kameoka . The 25-minute journey along the Hozukyō Valley has some of the most amazing views in Kyoto.

The railway is particularly well-known for its cherry blossoms and autumn foliage sceneries, but the lush green in summer and the white snow in winter are just as astonishing.

For more information about this train line, please refer to our article on Sagano Scenic Railway !

Eiden Railway Line provides access to Kibune and Mt. Kurama in northern Kyoto City.

It has two lines. The first departs from Demachiyanagi Station near the Kyoto Imperial Palace and the other from Shimogamo Shrine. They both go north, but upon reaching Takaragaike Station, the two lines split into two directions. The eastbound line heads to Yase-Hieizanguchi Station, and the westbound line takes you to Kurama and Kibuneguchi Stations.

The westbound train leads you to Mt. Kurama, and the Kibune area, which houses several shrines and temples that date back thousands of years, including the  Kurama-dera Temple and Kifune Shrine , which are great destinations to visit all year round.

As you trek between the temples and shrines, you can also enjoy the green leaves in spring, the waterside dining experience in summer, stunning foliage in autumn, and the snowy landscapes in winter.

If you take the eastbound train, you will be at the foot of the picturesque Mt. Hiei when you get off at Yase-Hieizanguchi Station.

For more information about the railway, please refer to the official website HERE .

The Kintetsu Railway Line is another railway line connecting Kyoto with other prefectures nearby. Different from Keihan, it goes as far as Nagoya.

It operates between the Kyoto Station and Yamato-Saidaiji, then Kintetsu Nara Station, which is close to Tōdaiji Temple and Nara Park. It is worth mentioning that its Tōji Station is adjacent to the famous Tōji Temple’s Five Storied Pagoda.

Also, from Momoyama Goryo-mae Station, you can walk along the canals and sake breweries of southern Fushimi. In the vicinity, there are tombs in which two emperors lie. There is also a building that resembles the Fushimi Momoyama Castle.

Nara, one of the previous capitals of Japan, is known for numerous shrines and temples, some dating back to the eighth century. The prefecture is filled with astounding scenery and has quite a few sites, such as Mt. Yoshino , designated as World Heritage .

HERE is Kintetsu Railway’s route map.

Tip: Consider purchasing a Kintetsu Rail Pass to explore the beautiful Nara Prefecture !

For more information about Kintetsu Rail Pass, please refer to the official website HERE .

Other Transporation Passes to Consider

Apart from the transportation deals in Kyoto that we have mentioned, here are a few that covers the wider Kansai area .

• For more information, please refer to the official website HERE .
• The Kyoto Tango Railway is the train line you will want to take if you are heading to Amanohashidate , one of the Three Views of Japan.
• For more information about the train pass that covers Kyoto, please refer to JR West’s website HERE .

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Kyoto travel tips — 12+ Kyoto insider tips & things to know before going to Kyoto

Kyoto was the capital of Japan back in the day with many historical structures such as the Kiyomizu-dera Buddhist Temple or Nijo Castle. It is one of the major cities in the world and a destination that everyone should visit at least once during their travels. Let’s plan your ideal vacation to Japan’s cultural capital and the second most popular destination in the country after Tokyo. So, what you need to know before going to Kyoto? Let’s check out our compiled list of Kyoto travel tips (Kyoto tips), Kyoto insider tips with 12+ things to know before going to Kyoto as detailed below!

• When is the best time to visit Kyoto? — The best, worst, affordable & best season to visit Kyoto
• When is the best time to visit Japan? — The best, worst, cheapest, affordable & best season to travel to Japan
• Kyoto cherry blossom 2024 forecast — The dates & 9+ best place to see cherry blossoms in Kyoto
• Kyoto top restaurants — 25+ top & best restaurants in Kyoto
• Kyoto best eats — 8 best food & must eat food in Kyoto

Here are some helpful Kyoto travel tips to help you build your trip to the ancient capital of Kyoto.

Use public transportation and Google Maps (# kyoto travel tips)

Kyoto is a rather small city with an excellent and efficient public transportation system that makes it easy to get around and explore all of its amazing places. The most convenient means to travel around Kyoto is the city bus. Taking the one-day bus ride in Kyoto City, you can get to almost anywhere in the city. It has a reasonable fare, very convenient for getting on and off the bus with a single swipe of the card. You can purchase bus passes at subway station ticket counters, city bus counters, city bus information counters, on the subways, and even on the buses themselves.

Kyoto’s subway system is also great for downtown city travel with more than two dozen train stations, making commuting between districts less time-consuming than taking a bus. However, subway passes are quite expensive compared to bus fares.

Google Maps is a great tool for you to plan your routes and know which bus to take. Carefully plan your itinerary and the places you want to visit before your trip. And then sit back, relax and reap the benefits of this amazing app.

Free things in Kyoto (# kyoto travel tips)

Do you know there are a couple of fun and free things to do in Kyoto City? Not all attractions are free, but the majority of shrines and even some temples and gardens in Kyoto are free of charge for entrance and visit. Some great free places to check out include Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, Yasaka Shrine, Heian Jingu Shrine, Kyoto Imperial Palace, Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Ninna-ji Temple, and Nishiki Market.

Bring some coins in your pocket when going to temples and pagodas

When visiting temples and pagodas, remember to bring those coins that have a hole. Small round coins with a hole in the middle are considered auspicious and said to be the best for bringing good luck to you when praying. The five-yen coin is the best choice to put into the prayer box when praying at a shrine or temple in Japan.

Five yen is called “go-en” in Japanese, which means good luck, so people use it in the hope of bringing good luck to business, love, or relationships. It’s a good idea to take a few coins with you as Kyoto has thousands of shrines, and you’re supposed to visit at least a few of them on your trip.

Get yourself a pair of comfortable shoes to prepare for the hike (# kyoto travel tips)

With all its historic shrines, colorful temples, well-preserved ancient streets, and traditional gardens, Kyoto is a place where you have to walk most of your trip to explore the city. Part of the fun while exploring the attractions is experiencing the walk there. Sometimes you have to walk down small roads, cross pedestrian bridges over canals, and even have to go down small alleys.

And to make your trip even more special, visit the Philosopher’s Path. This historic stone path runs along the banks of a small part of the Lake Biwa Canal, beneath the hills to the east of Kyoto. This pedestrian path is a cherry blossom viewing spot, but it’s a pretty quiet place during all other seasons. As you stroll along this path, there are plenty of restaurants, shops, cafes, and temples to explore.

Learn about Kyoto cuisine (# kyoto insider tips)

Kyoto has been the center of culture for a long time. Kyo-ryori or Kyoto Cuisine is one of the many must-try experiences in Kyoto. Exquisite multi-course meals are served in traditional dining rooms with Tatami mats. Together with the hosts dressed in typical Japanese Kimono costumes, the dining experience creates one of the unforgettable moments when coming to Kyoto.

Head to Minoko Restaurant in the famous Gion District for a wonderful eleven-course Kyo-ryori dinner. Another option is the popular “Kitcho” Restaurant, known as one of the oldest restaurants for Kaiseki cuisine. In Kyoto, there are many places where you can enjoy traditional authentic Japanese food.

You may eat for less than $20 per day with Udon noodles and Okonomiyaki pancakes, or be willing to spend up to $1,000 for a Kaiseki meal. In both cases, you will absolutely enjoy amazing and remarkable meals. This is an opportunity to learn about the core of Japanese food culture, so if you have enough time, give it a try.

Learn about the seasonal weather in Kyoto

The weather in the ancient capital of Kyoto is divided into 4 distinct seasons. Winter from December to February is the coldest time, sometimes dropping to 0°C, hence very few tourists visit here at this time. The weather begins to warm up in spring from March to May. This is also the ideal time to visit Kyoto and see the cherry blossoms. Summer spans from June to August when it rains in Kyoto. Thus, the streets are always wet, and you need to bring with you umbrellas or raincoats. In fall from September to November, the weather becomes milder and warmer.

In particular, the bright yellow autumn colors always make a strong impression on visitors. A lot of people coming here want to walk under the yellow leaf forest, immersed in the enchanting natural scenery. In addition to temples, shrines and palaces, this is a truly recognizable sightseeing spot of the city. The people of Kyoto are known for their appreciation of the passing of the seasons, and everything about the city changes as the seasons go by.

Most notably, the four-season weather in Kyoto is quite unpredictable. It is typically cold in the winter with the possibility of snow, and hot in the summer with the possibility of heavy rain. Therefore, take an umbrella with you when traveling to Kyoto. Whether you use it to cover yourself from the rain or just to protect your skin from the summer sun, you’ll be glad you have a small umbrella by your side when walking around Kyoto.

November and April are the best time to go to Kyoto

Kyoto is a city of beauty all year round. This place is always full of fascination; however, if you are an international tourist, you should come here during the cherry blossom season or snowy days to get the best views.

Most days in April are warm. The beginning of April is also the best time to watch the cherry blossoms bloom, so there will be a lot of visitors coming here, and it will be very busy for sure.

November is toward the end of fall, from now on the temperature will continue to drop, so you may need really thick jackets. This is also the best time to watch autumn leaves. Why don’t we admire the scenery and enjoy a shot of shinshu (a Japanese wine), a type of alcohol always available at all times of the year?

Similar to April, the city welcomes a lot of tourists who travel here for the view of the golden autumn leaves! In terms of scenic beauty and weather, both months are ideal times to visit Kyoto. Unfortunately, for those who prefer tranquility, it is one of the most crowded tourist times of the year to travel.

Kyoto is very crowded (# kyoto insider tips)

In recent years, Kyoto has received record numbers of foreign tourists. The main reason for this is a change in Japan’s visa requirements for nearby Asian countries such as China. Currently, Kyoto is flooded with Chinese tourist groups (along with South Korean, Taiwanese, Thai, and many others).

Western tourists are also arriving in record numbers, attracted by Japan’s landscape, culture and reasonable prices. Cherry blossom season (late March ~ early April) is the most busy time. Golden Week (early May) and leaf season (November) are also very busy, but not overcrowded to travel.

I would recommend visiting popular spots on weekdays, right after opening or just before closing. If you want to avoid big crowds, it’s better for you to know where people are going. Below is a list of some busiest places in Kyoto.

• Kiyomizu-dera Temple
• The streets leading to Kiyomizu-dera Temple (especially Matsubara-dori)
• Fushimi Inari-Taisha Shrine
• Nishiki Market
• Ginkaku-ji Temple
• Kinkaku-ji Temple
• Ryoan-ji Temple Rock Garden
• Tofuku-ji Temple
• Eikan-do Temple
• Nijo-jo Castle

Plan your budget and spending (# kyoto tips)

The cost of accommodation in Kyoto, for example, a hostel characterized by a bunk bed similar to a bed in a student dormitory will cost you from JPY 2,000 – 4,000 per night for one room. Many hostels are within a ten-minute walk from Kyoto Station, featuring free Wi-Fi, a kitchenette, and some even have a private patio. If you want privacy, reserving a hotel is a better option.

With regular hotel rates at around JPY 8,500 or a little less, you can get a room of free Wi-Fi and all other usual amenities a hotel offers. Use Booking.com because they consistently return the cheapest rates.

For the average cost of food, eating out can cost you a lot of money if you’re not careful. But not all restaurants are expensive and there are many budget-friendly ramen, tempura and sushi restaurants in Kyoto. A curry bowl costs as low as JPY 340 per order. Donburi, a meat and white rice bowl, is around JPY 500-620.

Plus, ramen never costs more than JPY 865. The aren grocery store is as cheap as you’d expect, which costs you around JPY 8,700 for a meal. Most restaurants here charge between JPY 1,240 – 2,480. If you plan on traveling with a tight budget, get your food from convenience stores. Rice balls, ramen, and other prepackaged foods cost only about JPY 200.

In terms of transportation, the easiest way to get around the city is by bus. It starts at 230 JPY for a single trip or 500 JPY for one day. You can take the subway, there are two main trains – Karasuma and Tozai lines – and the fares are from around JPY 210. Kyoto is also a great city to explore by bike, with a full-day bike rental price of around JPY 1,500.

Is Kyoto safe for travelers? (# kyoto tips)

Kyoto is a true ancient city because it has no skyscrapers or modern structures. In return, the ancient capital also preserves many historical and cultural relics both materially and spiritually of the Japanese people.

Kyoto is the embodiment of ancient, legendary Japan with a slow, charismatic, peaceful pace of life. It is estimated that more than half of Japan’s ancient temples, shrines, and mansions gather around Kyoto. Low houses are hidden and intertwined with fruit trees, narrow streets, many bicycles, and few cars. People are liberal and tend to be fond of walking. Japan has a reputation for being a safe place.

Low crime rate. People are honest. And, there is no political turmoil. However, female travelers should pay attention in situations that may be dangerous to themselves (e.g., do not hitchhike alone and do not walk alone at night). One thing all travelers should have when going anywhere, and Kyoto is no exception, is travel insurance. It is very important to protect you from accidents and loss of important items such as passports.

Travel to Kyoto (# kyoto tips)

Not bustling or full of giant skyscrapers like Tokyo, Osaka, or Yokohama, Kyoto exudes the vibe of ancient beauty. The old capital retains many ancient historical relics, ancient pagodas, shrines, and temples, making the scenery here peaceful and intimate. That’s why Kyoto is more and more attractive to international tourists coming to Japan.

There are many famous tourist attractions in Kyoto. Moreover, it’s not easy for those who are first-time travelers to a foreign country, so you need to get some advice and guidance on how to travel to the most beautiful places in Kyoto. For instance, you can find helpful info on the nearest roads, convenient public transport and travel expenses. If you travel to Kyoto on an international flight, you will arrive in Kyoto at Kansai International Airport. It is one of the most important Japanese airports in Osaka, about 100 km from the city.

If you fly to Tokyo, you can take the high-speed train or shinkansen that can take you to Kyoto in about 2 hours and 20 minutes. Most visitors heading to Kyoto take the JR train thanks to its accessible and economic options. You can also refer to the Japanese Travel Experience by JR Pass to make travel simpler and more convenient.

Gion Festival

Gion Festival is Kyoto’s largest festival that takes place throughout July next to the Yasaka Temple. Despite being named after the district of Gion, the main events take place on the opposite bank of the Kamo River. There are two main parades called Yamaboko Junko, which take place on the 17th and 24th. On the nights before the parade (yoiyama), the downtown area of Kyoto would be reserved for pedestrians. The streets are busy with food stalls, drinks, and festive games.

On July 17 and 24, the parade processions (Hoko and Yama) occur between 9:00 to 11:30. Together, many groups of people would hold heavy parades with sharp carvings along with beautiful carpets from Nishijin. Yama parades weighing up to 1,600 kg and Hoko parades weighing up to 12,000 kg start from Shijo-Karasuma or Karasuma-Oike. If you attend the festival, make sure you wear yukata!

Kyoto is a city of traditional wooden houses, Buddhist temples, gardens, Shinto shrines, and official traditions such as kaiseki cuisine and geisha. This is home to the world-famous Inari-taisha Fushimi shrine.

We hope our list of things to know before traveling to Kyoto will help you prepare for your trip to Kyoto, making it more interesting and remarkable. By sharing our full and detailed Kyoto travel experience, we wish you a happy and meaningful trip.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, to and from Kyoto you can refer to

• Private Kansai International Airport Transfers (KIX) for Kyoto
• Limousine Bus Transfers between Kansai International Airport (KIX) and Osaka or Kyoto
• Shared Night Bus Transfers from Kyoto to Tokyo
• Private Kansai Airport (KIX) Transfers to Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Uji, Kobe, or Arima
• Kyoto-Osaka Sightseeing Pass (1 Day/2 Days, Kyoto Pick Up)
• Kyoto-Osaka Sightseeing Pass 1 Day/2 Days (Pick up at Osaka)
• Randen + Subway 1 Day Pass
• Kyoto Temples & Shrines Day Tour from Osaka: Fushimi Inari-taisha, Arashiyama, Kiyomizu-dera & More
• Kyoto Perfect Day Tour from Osaka or Kyoto: Kiyomizu-dera, Fushimi Inari-taisha, Arashiyama & More
• Kyoto and Nara Day Tour from Osaka/Kyoto
• Kyoto Afternoon Tour from Osaka
• Hankyu Tourist Pass
• Sagano Romantic Train One-Way Ticket (Saga or Kameoka Departure)
• Kimono Rental and Photoshoot in Kyoto by Ouka Kimono
• Kyoto Sagano Romantic Train Day Tour
• Kyoto Temples & Shrines Day Tour from Kyoto: Fushimi Inari-taisha, Arashiyama, Kiyomizu-dera & More
• Amanohashidate & Miyama One Day Tour from Osaka/Kyoto
• JR Kansai-Hiroshima Area Pass
• Kimono Rental in Kyoto Kiyomizu Temple
• One Day Kimono Rental
• Kyoto Temples & Shrines Day Tour from Osaka
• Kimono and Yukata Rental at Kimono Miyabi Kyoto
• 4G Prepaid Sim Card (JP Airports Pick Up) for Japan
• 4G WiFi (Japan Pick Up) for Japan
• JR Pass for Whole Japan (7, 14, or 21 Days)

Are you finding more top things to do in Kyoto: Tours, activities, attractions and other things?  Let’s check it out at here . And read more:  Kyoto blog (Kyoto travel blog) — The fullest Kyoto travel guide blog for a budget trip to Kyoto, Japan for the first-timers.  And  Kyoto 3 day itinerary — How to visit Kyoto in 3 days & what to do in Kyoto in 3 days perfectly?

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Girl Eat World

A girl's adventure in food and travel around the world, kyoto travel guide for first-time visitors: what to see and eat in kyoto.

Recently, I had the opportunity to revisit Kyoto again, for the third time. I visited Kyoto for the first time during Sakura (Spring) season, then again in Momiji (Fall) season, before coming back during the pandemic when there weren’t any international tourists in Japan .

Needless to say, I feel like I’ve seen Kyoto at its best times and I can’t wait to share everything I know about Kyoto with you!

• How to get to Kyoto

How many days should I spend in Kyoto?

When is the best time to visit kyoto.

• Where should I stay in Kyoto?

How can I get around Kyoto?

• Can I store my luggage in Kyoto?
• What are the must-do things in Kyoto?
• What and where to eat in Kyoto

How can I get to Kyoto?

First things first, let’s cover the ways you can get to Kyoto. Kyoto is located in Kansai, south of Honshu, Japan’s main region. It is around 500km south of Tokyo . Here is how you can get to Kyoto:

1. Fly into KIX, then take the Haruka Airport Express

As a foreign visitor, the best and fastest way to get to Kyoto is to fly into Kansai International Airport (KIX) and take the train to Kyoto, going through Osaka. From KIX to Osaka, it only takes about 50 minutes by Haruka airport express train and then another 15 minutes to Kyoto and slightly longer if you take the local train, perhaps 30 minutes.

(In fact, Osaka is a great base for your trip if you’re interested in exploring other things in Kansai aside from Kyoto, as I have outlined here )

You can purchase Haruka airport express train ticket here , or if you already have a JR pass, then you can use your JR pass (assuming you bought Unlimited JR Pass ).

2. Take the Shinkansen, Japan’s ultra-fast bullet train

The price of Unlimited JR Pass has increased by 70% since 1 Oct 2023 . Even though you’ll see many recommendations for buying a JR Pass to save some costs, it could be outdated. Since the price hike, it has become harder to justify the cost of the JR Pass, however regional passes like the JR West Kansai Pass might still be worth it. I am working on updating my blog post to reflect this change.

If you’re thinking of making Kyoto one of your stops on a long trip to Japan, it’s very possible to take Shinkansen. From Tokyo, it will take only 2.5 hours to reach Kyoto by Shinkansen. Just make sure you’ve purchased a JR Pass that covers both areas, in this case, if you’re traveling from Tokyo to Osaka / Kyoto then you’d probably want the Unlimited JR Pass .

The Shinkansen conveniently drops you off at the main Kyoto / Osaka station (depending on where you’ve decided to base yourself – I’ve written about that here ), and from there you’ll be able to take local trains to wherever you need to go.

You should be able to see most things you want to see in Kyoto in 2 days , but it really depends on your travel style. If you wake up early and are okay with going around the entire day til night time, then 2 days is good.

However, if you prefer to take things slow, you could allocate more days. You can see the list of things to do in Kyoto below, where I outline my recommended places to visit and decide for yourself!

Without a doubt, the best time to visit Kyoto (and many other parts of Japan) is during Sakura time or Momiji time . You can click on the links to determine the best times as it varies every year.

Kyoto (and all of Japan) is just insanely beautiful during these two seasons. However, they are also probably the most popular time to visit Kyoto, so expect a lot of crowds.

Avoid golden week which is the first week of May and Obon in middle of August, as these two are big holidays in Japan. You’ll not only have to battle the international tourists that are coming to Japan, but domestic Japanese tourists too!

Where should I stay when visiting Kyoto?

As I said before, I believe that Osaka , not Kyoto, is a better place to base yourself especially if you’re interested in exploring other things in Kansai, as I have outlined in my Kansai itinerary post .

This is my preference for many reasons:

• Accommodations in Osaka are more diverse and affordable. Kyoto on the other hand is seen as a luxury place to stay. You’ll be expected to pay a luxury price too!
• It only takes 15 minutes to Kyoto by Shinkansen (which you’d be using if you have a JR pass) or 30 minutes by local train.
• Kyoto gets pretty quiet (read: dead) by nighttime, whereas Osaka is the second largest city in Japan so you’ll still find plenty to do at night.
• Osaka is a great base if you’re exploring other areas in Kansai , since it’s located right in the middle of everything.

➡️ If you want to know where you can stay in Osaka, click on my Osaka travel guide .

Accommodations in Kyoto

That said, I understand that some people prefer the quaintness and quiet of Kyoto, so here are some good places you can consider. Just be mindful that they would be on the more expensive side!

• Yadoya Manjiro – If you want the true Japanese experience, you’d want to stay in a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn). Yadoya Manjiro is located a stone-throw away from Kiyomizu-dera, making it extremely convenient to explore the quiet old streets of Kyoto at night, once other tourists have left Kyoto.
• Kyoto Higashiyamaso – Another ryokan in the same area as Yadoya Manjiro. You really can’t beat the location!
• Kyoto River-view House Kyoraku – with rooms starting from US$70 a night, this is probably one of the most affordable options in Kyoto. It is located in the more modern part of Kyoto closer to the main station, but still within walking distance of the old Kyoto part.

Okay, now that we’ve covered the basics. How can we get around Kyoto? There are a few ways:

1. Using local train and bus

As with most cities in Japan, Kyoto’s public transport is top-notch. You can easily use Google Maps to chart out how to get from point A to point B with public transport in Kyoto.

I highly suggest getting a train card (IC card) if you plan to use public transport. It just makes everything so much easier, since you don’t need to buy a ticket for every journey – you just have to tap the card in and out of the station. The local train card is called ICOCA in Kansai, but if you have Suica or Pasmo from Kanto / Tokyo (or IC card from other regions), those should work here too.

Good news for iPhone users – the IC cards have gone virtual and you can use your phone as an IC card! This makes everything even more convenient, as you can refill the balance via your phone without having to go to the station. Note that you  do not need to buy a physical IC card to do this , just start the process straight from your phone!

Virtual IC Card: Read up on how to travel in Japan without a physical IC Card here !

2. Renting a Bicycle

One option many might not know is renting a bike. This is what I did on my first visit to Kyoto and it allowed me to see more of the city. The tourist area in Kyoto is not actually that big, so this is a very feasible option. We biked from Kyoto station to Arashiyama , and it only took about an hour with some detours.

You can rent two types of bikes:

• Regular Bikes at High Class City Bike Rental
• Electric Assist Bike Rental – If you think you’ll need some assistance from the motor so you don’t have to pedal so hard all the time!

On my latest visit, we rented a car as we were traveling with a toddler. But I would say exploring Kyoto by car is not the most ideal, as the streets are quite narrow in the areas that you would want to visit as a tourist.

But the biggest issue is that parking can get really expensive in Japan. We paid 1,000 – 1,500 yen each time we parked our car, which really adds up quickly if you’re visiting multiple places in Kyoto. However, it was certainly the most convenient way when traveling with a toddler.

You can rent a car from near Kyoto station here .

Can I store my luggage at Kyoto station?

Yes!! There are plenty of coin lockers to store your luggage at the train stations in Kyoto, or any other major train stations in Japan. You can choose the size of the lockers, ranging from 300 – 700 yen. Here is a photo of what it might look like:

You can’t really see from the photo above, but the locker is very deep. The 300 yen option is good for backpacks (the kind you take for backpacking trips), while the 700 yen option would fit very large luggage. The 300 yen one looks small but you can definitely fit a 10kg backpack laying flat with plenty more room, so I think bigger backpacks would fit too.

Take note that the locker fee is only good to open the locker once, so if you forget something and need to take your luggage out, you’ll need to pay another set of fees. And don’t forget where your locker is located! You might want to take a photo of it just so you don’t have a hard time locating it later.

Things to do in Kyoto

Now that you know how to travel around Kyoto – you might be wondering “What are the must-do things in Kyoto?”. Well, you’ve come to the right place!

Here are some of the must-do in Kyoto:

1. See Senbon Torii (“thousands of gates”) at Fushimi Inari Taisha

When you think of Kyoto, I’m willing to bet the first thing that comes to mind is the rows upon rows of vermilion-colored torii that are so symbolic of Japan. Well, these rows of torii can be found at Fushimi Inari Taisha !

Enter the temple area and go past the shrine, then continue your hike up and you’ll see the torii soon. The rows of torii actually double up as a 5km trail up to Mount Inari. If that sounds far to you, you don’t actually have to go all the way up, you could just do a little bit of the walk and circle back.

In the three times I’ve been to Kyoto, I’ve never made it up to the top of the mountain due to time constraints, but I’ve been told the further away you go, the lesser the crowd! I would totally do it if I had the time.

The main temple area is also worth a visit. I got this super cute Ema (wooden plaque for prayers) shaped like a torii for 800 yen. You’re supposed to write your wishes on an ema and leave it at the temple, but you could also take it home as a souvenir like I did.

Another thing you might want to do while at the temple (or any other temple in Japan) is purchase an Omamori , a small amulet containing a blessed piece of wood meant to protect you or you can gift it to your loved ones for their protection. They cost about 500-800 yen and there are different types of Omamori for different purposes – for health, giving birth, for students, etc. Most temples in Kyoto will have signs in English explaining what they are!

There is also a great lunch option nearby, at a restaurant called Kanoko . Scroll down for more info and my food recommendations in Kyoto!

2. Visit Kiyomizu-dera

Kiyomizu-dera is undoubtedly one of the most famous temples in Japan. There is a public area which you can explore for free, and then there is a ticketed area which costs 400 yen. I skipped the ticketed area on my first two visits as it was quite crowded and there was a line for entering. But I finally went in on my latest visit, and I can honestly say it is worth it.

Kiyomizu-dera means “Pure water temple”. If you decide to enter the ticketed area, you can see the actual Kiyomizu-dera main hall. Take a moment to marvel at the ancient Japanese architecture, which is built on a cliff and without any nails (common for Japanese temples).

Past the main hall, you’ll be taken on a path to walk around the garden which will be so beautiful, especially during Sakura and Momiji time! There is another smaller temple for safe delivery (a common pattern with many other places in Kyoto, I noticed) where you can see the main hall from afar.

Then, at the base of the temple is Otowa waterfall , where you can take some water for drinking. The water here, as the name Kiyomizu suggests, is considered to have many fortune benefits. Next to it is a small teahouse where you can have snacks and a light lunch.

3. Stroll around Kyoto’s Higashiyama (東山) and Gion district

Kyoto is charming for its quaint old Japan look. Well, the old Japan area is mostly located in the Higashiyama district.

Higashiyama means “eastern mountain” and that’s exactly where the district is located – along the slope of the eastern mountain of Kyoto. Kiyomizu-dera is actually located in Higashiyama district, so you can combine this activity with visiting the temple.

You can expect to see quaint traditional buildings, unique souvenir shops (this is a great place to pick up something to bring back home), small ryokan (Japanese-style inn) and street food vendors. It’s a very nice area to stroll around.

Aside from the obvious Kiyomizu-dera , there are a few places you won’t want to miss in this district:

• Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka (literally translated two year hill and three year hill) – the slopes near Kiyomizu-dera that are symbolic of Kyoto. You can find souvenir shops and street vendors in this area.
• Hidden Starbucks ( map ) – There is a Starbucks at Ninenzaka, but it’s not obvious as it does not have any of the iconic green Starbucks color. The facade of the store has been designed to fit the aesthetic of the rest of the neighborhood. Inside, you’ll find a garden on the first floor and traditional tatami seats (straw mats) on the second floor.
• Studio Ghibli store ( map ) – if you are a fan of Ghibli, and who isn’t, make sure to stop by here for a chance to bring back some souvenirs home. They have all kinds of things – from cups and utensils to stuffed toys and apparels.

Near Higashiyama is Gion – also known as the Geisha district. Gion is not technically part of higashiyama, but it’s very close by. The district is filled with tea houses where a geisha and a maiko might be doing their job as entertainers. There are also some high-end restaurants in this area.

4. Take a walk at the philosopher’s path

Tetsugaku no Michi, aka Philosopher’s path is a beautiful serene path along the canal that takes you from near the old streets of Kyoto to Ginkaku-ji. The path gained its name from Kitaro Nishida, a famous philosopher from Kyoto, who would take this path as a way to meditate. It is lined with beautiful cherry blossom trees, so you definitely want to be here during Sakura season! However, it is also still a good place to visit even if it’s not Sakura season.

You can start the walk from Keiage incline, to Nanzenji, then taking your way up philosopher path before ending up at Ginkaku-ji.

5. See Ginkaku-ji and Kinkaku-ji

Yes, the names are very similar but these are two different temples, located quite a distance apart from each other! Kinkaku-ji is Temple of the Golden Pavilion, while Ginkaku-ji is Temple of the Silver Pavilion.

Kinkaku-ji is a unique-looking temple, with pure gold-leaf coating covering the top two levels the temple. Ginkaku-ji, on the other hand, was meant to be the silver version of Kinkaku-ji as the name might have indicated. However, the temple has remained “unfinished” and to this date no silver foil has been used to coat the exterior of the temple.

6. Visit Arashiyama

Another famous visual from Kyoto is the serene Arashiyama bamboo forest . There are a few entry points to get to the bamboo forest, but I usually start from this point at Google maps , and end at Kameyama Park. The bamboo forest path is not very long (probably will take you 15-30 minutes max to walk) but there are plenty to do and more temples to visit around Arashiyama too!

Once you’re done with the bamboo forest, take some time to explore the area too! Kameyama Park offers a tranquil walk around, and there is a trail that takes you down to Katsura River.

Once you’re done exploring, you could walk down the river to a nearby park along Katsura River, called Arashiyama Park . During Sakura time, this park is filled with cherry blossom as well as snacks you can buy. I bought a sakura ice cream here!

Or you can visit some temples in Arashiyama. Tenryu-ji and Seiryo-ji is the big temples nearby. Each visit would set you back 400 yen per person.

7. Take the Sagano Romantic Train (in Arashiyama)

The Sagano romantic train, aka Sagano Torokko scenic railway, starts from near Arashiyama bamboo forest and takes you to JR Kameoka station. It takes 25 minutes to complete this journey, or 50-60 minutes to do a round trip if you are not interested in exploring Kameoka.

To make things simpler, you can pre-book a ticket for Sagano Romantic Train and pick it up at the Kyoto station.

8. Dress up in traditional Japanese clothing

If you want to fully immerse yourself in the Japanese atmosphere, you might want to rent a Kimono (or Yukata if it’s summer) while you’re walking around Kyoto. I saw plenty of tourists who did this and it definitely makes for a good photo. Here is where you can rent a kimono / yukata in Kyoto near Kiyomizu-dera.

Or, if you want to take it a step further, you can take a peek into the life of a maiko and dress up as a maiko (complete with the makeup). It also comes with a photoshoot so you can remember the experience.

And, if you’re wondering if it’s considered offensive to wear Japanese traditional clothing – the short answer is no . Japanese culture does not consider it cultural appropriation when a foreigner wears traditional Japanese clothing, especially when you’re wearing it properly!

9. Iwatama Monkey Park in Arashiyama

Iwatama Monkey Park is an open-air park where you can see and feed Japanese Macaque. The monkeys here are not confined in a cage, because they are wild and are free to come and go as they please. Personally, I have never been because I am scared of wild monkeys, and they could be quite territorial.

10. See Kyoto at night / after dark

Temples and shrines in Kyoto close as early as 5 pm. But if you’re lucky, during certain times of the year, you can come back at night to certain temples to see them illuminated with lanterns and lights. These events are:

• Higashiyama Hanatouro (in March for 10 days)
• Hikari no Kyoto (November)
• Arashihyama Hanatouro (December)

Some events are one-off and don’t repeat every year, so be sure to pay attention to posters when you are visiting during the daytime. They might tell you if anything is on for nighttime.

What and Where to Eat in Kyoto

The name of this dish tells you a lot about the dish itself. “Yu” means hot water, and “Dofu” means… well, tofu. Quite literally, the translation for this dish is boiling tofu. If you don’t like tofu, you probably won’t enjoy it but I am a tofu lover and I thought it was great! Yudofu is usually served as kaiseki, a Japanese multi-course meal, and it does come at a price.

Where you can have Yudofu in Kyoto:

• Shoraian – By Katsura River near Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. It is a little difficult to find and might require a reservation as the place is small. We were turned away when we tried to walk in.
• Yudofu Sagano – We went to Yudofu Sagano near Arashiyama and had a 10-course kaiseki for 4,000 yen. It was an expensive lunch, but worth it because the food was so good and even being in the restaurant itself was really nice experience. They have a zen garden in the middle!
• Okutan – a 350 years old restaurant near Nanzen-ji temple.

2. Uji Matcha

If you enjoy matcha (fine green tea powder), you’ll want to try matcha from Uji, a city in Kyoto. Uji is blessed with soil that is favorable for growing tea leaves. Matcha from Uji is considered one of the best in Japan, as it is rich in taste and very fragrant.

That’s why you’ll see matcha nearly everywhere in Kyoto – in the form of a tea drink, mochi, green tea ice cream topped with matcha powder, or even chasoba , noodles that are green in color from green tea ingredients.

Where you can try Uji Matcha in Kyoto:

To try Uji Matcha without visiting Uji itself, look out for these names while you are in Kyoto:

• Tsujiri – One of the most famous tea houses originated from Uji in Kyoto. They also have a small ice cream shop at Kyoto station, and their green tea soft serve is one of the best I’ve had.
• Itoh-kyuemon – another famous tea house from Uji. They also have a shop close to Kyoto station, selling dessert and their tea leaves.

3. Shojin Ryori

Shojin Ryori is a traditional Buddhist cooking, usually served as a multi-course meal. There is no animal product used, making it suitable for vegans, vegetarians, and those who need a halal option.

Shojin Ryori is made using the five basic concepts: five flavors (sweet, sour, spicy, bitter, and savory) five cooking styles (steamed, boiled, roasted, stewed, and raw), and five colors (white, black, red, green and yellow).

Shojin Ryori does come at a price – and it could be over 10,000 yen per person!

Where you can have Shojin Ryory in Kyoto:

Here are places where you can try Shojin Ryori:

• Shigetsu at Tenryu-ji ( map ) – near Arashiyama Bamboo forest
• Ajiro ( map ) – Michelin-starred vegetarian restaurant
• Hyotei ( map ) – A 400-year-old restaurant that is also a 3-star Michelin, located conveniently near the Higashiyama district

Other notable places to eat in Kyoto

Kinkaku soft ice cream ( map – near Kinkaku-ji) – This place serves gold-leaf softserves. It might be gimmicky, as it is obviously playing on the fact that Kinkaku-ji is covered in gold-leaf coating, but it does look special doesn’t it? Each ice cream will set you back 950 yen.

Nishiki Market ( map ) – Amazing food market that has been around for 400 years. It spans over 400m long and contains 100 stalls. You can find basically every Japanese food here. I’ve had sushi, sakura mochi, ichigo daifuku, just to name a few.

Kichi Kichi Omurice ( map – near Nishiki Market) – Have you seen the viral video of a guy serving the perfect Omurice a few years back? that restaurant is Kichi Kichi, and it is in Kyoto! I would highly recommend making a reservation if you intend to go, as the restaurant does not do walk-ins due to its popularity.

Gion Yata ( map )- Great restaurant for traditional kaiseki (multi-course) meals.

Ogawa Soba ( map – near Kinkaku-ji) – Great soba near Kinkaku-ji. It’s a little out of the way from most other places you’d want to see in Kyoto, but it might be worth it if you’re already in the area for Kinkaku-ji.

Kanoko ( map – near Fushimi Inari Taisha) – A simple restaurant right off the exit of Fushimi Inari Taisha. It looked unassuming from the outside, but they have a zen garden in the restaurant. They serve the usual suspect of Japanese cuisine fare like soba, tempura and set meals. Such a nice atmosphere and great food!

Bread & Espresso & Arashiyama ( map ) – Unique coffee shop near Arashiyama bamboo forest. It’s pretty popular so you might have to wait for a table.

Okay, folks, that’s all I have on Kyoto. If you end up making it to Kyoto, please comment below and let me know how your experiences are. And if my guide has helped you, please let me know too! I love reading and responding to your comments.

Until next time 🥰

Japan is one of my most-written topics in this blog and I go to Japan quite often. If you’re looking for more posts about Japan, please click here !

18 Comments

• February 22, 2024

Hi Melissa,

I will be travelling to Kansai area in March 8-16. 8-10 Mar – staying in Kyoto 10-16 Mar – staying in Osaka, day trip to Kobe & day trip to Nara

Do you think I can just buy the Kansai pass thru and use it from Kansai airport to the rest of the places? What other passes to you recommend.

Thank you for your time!

• February 17, 2024

Thank you for your site. It’s super helpful.

I am wondering what kind of pass I should be getting when in Japan.

We plan to to fly to KIX on March 10

Here is our itinerary March 10 Osaka March 11 leaving Osaka and spent the day in Nara. After visiting Nara, we will be leaving Nara for Kyoto, and stay in Kyoto March 11 to March 14 4 nights in Kyoto March 15 leaving Kyoto, and arriving in Hakone March 15 and March 16 2 nights in Hakone March 17 leaving Hakone and arriving in Fuji 5 lake March 17 and 18 both nights in Fuji 5 lake March 19 leaving Fuji 5 lake and heading to Tokyo March 19 – March 22 – 3 nights in Tokyo

In the Kensai area, should I get JR west Kensai pass, or should I get Kintensu 1 day pass, and purchase Haruka airport express to Osaka separately?

What would you recommend to go from Kyoto to Hakone?

Thank you so much.

• February 20, 2024

Your itinerary used to be covered by the unlimited JR, but since the price increase it is no longer worth it.

For Hakone and Fuji Five Lakes, I recommend looking into the Fuji-Hakone pass. This include the one way back from Fuji five lakes to Shinjuku. However it is only valid for 4 days, so you might want to activate it on your second day in Fuji five lakes.

For the Kyoto to Hakone portion, you’ll have to buy the tickets a la carte.

For Kansai, both of the options you mentioned are good, it just depends on your preference – do you like taking JR trains more or are you ok with the Kintetsu trains?

• January 18, 2024

Melissa, your blog is super helpful with planning of my Japan trip itinerary in late April/early May. I have prepared the draft of the plan as follows – however i stil cannot determine whether i am not spending too much time in Tokio, yet adding Nikko as day trip would mean i would spend most of that day travelling 🙂 Is the below reasonable or should i play with dates?

Date Activity 2024-04-20 arrival at KIX Osaka, checkin in hotel – dinner Dotonbori 2024-04-21 Osaka – day trip to Nara 2024-04-22 Koyasan – arrival ca noon, sighseeing of temples, evening cementary visit. 2024-04-23 Koyasan – early morning sightseeing return to Osaka (Osaka Castle and temples) 2024-04-24 Trip to Hiroshima with stop over in Himeji 2024-04-25 daytrip Mijaima, evening departure to Kyoto 2024-04-26 Kyoto – Fusimi Inaria Taisha, Nishiki market, Gion 2024-04-27 Kyoto – Arashima Bamboo Grove, Kinkaku-ji, Kiyomizu Dera. Pontocho 2024-04-28 Kyoto – Hokanji Temple, departure to Tokio 2024-04-29 Tokio – Shinjuku, Shibuya (Gotokuji Temple, Meiji Shrine, Park Yoyogi, Harajuku,Roppongi Hills ) 2024-04-30 Tokio – Toyosu Market, Tsukiji Market, Ginza and Tokyo Station, TeamLabs (?), Imperial palace gardens 2024-05-01 Tokio – Asakusa (Imado. Senso-ji Temple, Akihabara, Park Ueno, Akihabara i Ikebukuro, 2024-05-02 Tokio – Hakone day trip 2024-05-03 Tokio – day trip Kamakura – 2024-05-04 Tokio – souvenir shooping,evening Departure from Narita

Hey Krysztof, I think your itinerary looks very reasonable! You can save Nikko for later since you’re already heading to Hakone (the vibe is somewhat similar). I myself didnt go to Nikko until my 3rd visit to Japan. Just be mindful of the first few days of May being Golden Week. It is one of Japan’s largest holiday and there will be more domestic tourism on those days. However tourist attractions should still be open.

• July 5, 2023

Hi Melissa, So basically i can just rent a bicycle and cycle around Kyoto the whole day before i head back to Osaka? Was thinking if i should stay in Kyoto because I plan this way: Day 1-2 : Osaka Day 3 : Kyoto Day 4-6 : Tokyo Day 7-8 : Hakone

Hey Mandy, that sounds good to me! I highly recommend biking around Kyoto if the weather is good. Since you plan to head out to Tokyo, it could be good to stay in Kyoto if you want. I would try to stay near the JR station.

• May 30, 2023

Thanks for such a helpful writeup.

I clicked on the recommended accomodations and it seems like none are taking reservations. Are they perhaps alr closed due to the pandemic? Would you have other recommendations for accom?

Thanks alot! <3

• May 31, 2023

Hey Claire, they are still operational, but popular so they may be sold out on the days you are looking at

• May 8, 2023

I plan to travel to Kyoto Osaka in mid November this year. May I know when you travelled to Kyoto Osaka? I meant in fall foliage or before that? I would like to ask, is it worth to reschedule my plane to late Nov when fall foliage? because i need to pay penalty fee to airlines. Is mid of Nov worth or not? Thanks

Hey Ellen, I can’t say because it’s different every year, but generally for Osaka and Kyoto the peak is at the end of November. You can refer to this map: https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2014.html

• May 2, 2023

Thanks for the comprehensive write-up. We are making a trip to Kyoto, Hiroshima and Osaka (10 days in total….taking it slow as we have some senior citizens with us). Am wondering if I should get the 5 days JR West pass and activate it only when in Kyoto to Hiroshima and return to Osaka, as we plan to stay in Hiroshima for 3 days, or should I get the 7 days pass? And would it be different compared to JR All Pass or should I stick to JR West Pass? Thanks

Hey Dave, by JR West, do you mean the JR Kansai-Hiroshima pass with 5-day validity? As far as I know, the JR West Kansai only has a 1-4 day validity and doesn’t cover Hiroshima. and by JR All do you mean the JR Whole Japan one?

In any case, the bulk of the train price would be the train going from Kyoto to Hiroshima and back to Osaka, like you mentioned so I would make sure to activate the JR validity to cover those days. So for example it sounds like your itinerary might look like this:

Day 1-2: Kyoto Day 3-6: Hiroshima Day 7-10: Osaka

I would then activate the JR Pass on day 3 when traveling to Kyoto-Hiroshima, and make sure it is still valid on Day 7 when traveling to Hiroshima. Given the trains are already 12,000 yen one way without JR Pass, It sounds like the JR Kansai-HIroshima is what you want.

• April 7, 2023

Hi Do I need the Kansai JR pass if I stay in Osaka and travel to Kyoto for 3 days?

• April 10, 2023

If you’re only traveling to Kyoto, I would just take the local train and not buy JR pass. Unless you want to take the shinkansen from Osaka to Kyoto. But the time difference isn’t much (15 mins by shinkansen vs 25-30 mins by local train from Osaka)

• January 2, 2023

Hai Melissa,

Thank you for the travel info provided. It help me a lot on my journey this month. But, may you help me to explain regarding Kansai Area Pass? I still don’t understand the use of trains in Kansai. Do I need to buy a Kansai Area Pass ticket to visit places around Kyoto, Osaka and Nara? and is the Kansai Area Pass a JR pass? and can I use it to take the train from the airport to Kyoto? Sorry for so many questions. I have read a lot of information, but regarding the train I still confuse, either the train is local train or the JR train.

• December 28, 2022

Thanks this was so helpful!!

• December 18, 2022

I really love your sharing on Kansai area. Thanks!

Do you find Osaka and Kyoto is pram accessible? I am bringing my 3 years old kid there.

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KYOTO TRAVEL GUIDE: Budget Itinerary, Things to Do

It was mid-summer when I set foot in Kyoto for the first time. The deciduous forest of the Arashiyama district was very lush and green, awfully green. Green is great; I love green. But as a guy who hailed from a tropical island carpeted in evergreen rainforests, it was not really the color I was excited to feast my eyes on. The longer I walked, the more I realized that it was a mistake booking June tickets to Japan. What was I thinking? Was I even thinking when I booked it? But kicking myself in the butt lasted for only a minute. Summer may not be the best time to be here, but the proverbial silver lining appeared amidst the greenery. There were fewer tourists, and the weather was pleasant, perfect for a long afternoon walk.

That or I was just mastering the art of sweet lemoning.

Before that trip ended, I did what every other typical travel blogger does when writing about a place they enjoyed tremendously: make a solemn pledge to return. And return I did. Multiple times. Because I’m typical like that. LOL.

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

Understanding Kyoto

Kyoto is the capital of Kyoto Prefecture, which is part of Japan’s Kansai Region (along with Osaka, Nara, Hyogo and a few others).

Today, Japan’s seat of power is Tokyo. Yet, Kyoto is still the cultural core of the archipelago. Kyoto remains home to impressively maintained and restored ancient temples and shrines. When most major cities in Japan have shifted to highlighting its modern and futuristic attractions, Kyoto remains steady in its dwelling in the past and flaunting its cultural heritage. Kyoto pulsates at its own pace, a bit slower but curiously mesmerizing.

Other info you need to know:

• Language: Japanese (Nihongo). The majority of the locals seldom speak English, but most of the signs and other tourist promotional materials have English translations.
• Currency: Japanese Yen (JPY, ¥). JPY 1000 is around USD 9.36, EUR 7.60, PHP 484 (as of February 2018).
• Money Exchange. There are a lot of money changers throughout Osaka and Kyoto, but save yourself the trouble and just exchange currencies before your trip. SANRY’S has good rates. You can also withdraw from ATMs when you’re there, but they’re pretty hard to find. Most of the ATMs we saw didn’t accept international cards.
• Modes of payment: Most establishments prefer cash payment, but many of them also accept credit card transactions.
• Electricity Info : 100V, 50/60 Hz. Type A sockets. Plugs have two flat pins. Type B is sometimes used but not that common.

When is the Best Time to Visit Kyoto?

Every season highlights a different side of Kyoto: clad in the fiery colors of autumn, dressed in white snow in winter, adorned with the pink glow of cherry blossoms in spring, and, finally, drowned in a sea of verdancy in summer. Each has its own pros and cons, but if you’re after visual spectacle, these two will be your best bets:

• Late March to early April for the cherry blossoms
• Mid- to late November for the colors of fall

Spring is also the beginning of peak season, when cost of flights and hotel rooms begin to rise. Yes, the sakura experience is magical, but prepare to shell out more dough and share the place with a bigger crowd.

Summer is also part of the peak season. If you’re from the tropics like me and you want to explore in an atmosphere different from what you’re used to, stay away from the summer months. Not only are these months crowded, they can also be too hot. Longer days also mean you have more hours of daylight, more time to explore, and more opportunities to take wonderful photos.

Autumn is a great time to be in Kyoto because this is when the prices drop, crowds thin, and foliage turns fiery orange and red. Temperature is also pleasant and comfortable for sightseeing.

Winter is great for budget travelers because airfares are lowest at this time. However, establishments tend to open later and close earlier.

You might also want to avoid these dates:

• Golden Week (April 29 – May 5)
• Obon Festival (August 13–15)
• Cherry Blossoms Season (Late March-Early April)

These dates bring the biggest crowds and steepest prices.

How to Get a Japan Visa

If you’re from the Philippines, the posts below will help you get through the application process.

• How to Apply for TOURIST Japan Visa
• How to Apply for a Visa for VISITING FRIENDS or RELATIVES
• How to Apply for a MULTIPLE Entry Japan Visa
• Japan Visa Frequently Asked Questions

How to Get to Kyoto

Manila to kyoto.

Kyoto Prefecture doesn’t have its own airport, but the regions’s primary gateway, the Kansai International Airport (KIX), is just 1.5 hours away.

A lot of airlines fly from Manila to Kansai Airport. If you book way in advance, you’ll get the best deals from Cebu Pacific Air. Cebu Pacific flies to Osaka five times a week. Their lowest year-round fare is at P6399, which is a great deal already.

You can also wait for a SEAT SALE! For one of our trips, I was able to score a roundtrip Cebu Pacific ticket from their P20 SALE. The base fare per leg was only P20, but including all the taxes, I only paid PHP 5984 for the roundtrip ticket (PHP 2992 per way). That includes a prepaid baggage allowance of 20 Kg. Not bad. Not bad at all.

Search for cheap flights here

Kansai airport to kyoto.

Kyoto is only 1.5 hours from Kansai Airport by train, longer by bus.

There are many routes you can take to get to Kyoto from Kansai airport, but many of them entail multiple transfers. What I recommend is taking the Limited Express Haruka Train that will take you straight to Kyoto from the airport.

Limited Express Haruka Travel time: 80 minutes Regular Fare: ¥1880 + ¥970 (seat fee)

You can save a lot of money in two ways:

• JR West Kansai Pass . If you’re planning on visiting multiple cities within Kansai Region in a few days, this is great for you because you can enjoy unlimited rides to most JR lines including the Haruka train to Kyoto . More info about the Kansai Pass here .

If you decide to purchase either the West Kansai or ICOCA via Klook, here’s how to use them.

• Book a ticket with Klook.
• When the transaction is complete, you will be emailed a mobile voucher. Print it out or save it on your phone.
• On the day of your trip, upon arrival at Kansai Airport, find the HIS Counter at the Arrival Hall. There is usually a small KLOOK logo displayed in front of the counter. Show your mobile voucher to the staff. – If you booked an ICOCA Card, you will be given the actual ICOCA card. – If you booked a JR Kansai Pass, you will be given a physical voucher.
• Proceed to the Train Station on the second floor of the building opposite the Arrival Hall. Find the JR Ticket Counters. – If you booked an ICOCA Card, tell the staff you’re booking a Haruka Train and show your ICOCA card to avail of the discount. Prepare to pay ¥1600. – If you booked the JR Kansai Pass, exchange the voucher given to you for the ACTUAL JR KANSAI PASS.
• Enter through the JR Gates of the Station.
• Check your platform on the screens around the station. Go to the designated platform and board the right train.

Klook also offers the cheapest bus tickets to Kyoto from Kansai Airport.

KIX Airport Limousine Bus Operating hours: 6:05am-11:40pm Travel time: 90 minutes Fare: ¥1098

Make sure you read the instructions after booking. But right now, this is how to claim this ticket:

• When the transaction is complete, you will be emailed a mobile voucher. You can print it out or save it on your phone.
• On the day of your trip, upon arrival at Kansai Airport, find the EASYGO or HIS Counter near the North Exit at the Arrival Hall of Terminal 1. There is usually a small KLOOK logo displayed in front of the counter. Show your mobile voucher to the staff. You will be asked for your passport. Then, you will be given the bus ticket.
• The staff will tell you the platform where you can board the bus. Just follow them and board the bus to Kyoto.

That’s it! Welcome to Kyoto!

Where to Stay in Kyoto

Which part of the city is best for travelers? Definitely, the area surrounding Kyoto Station.

Kyoto Station is the heart of the city. It is impossible to explore Kyoto without setting foot in its vicinity. One way or another, you’ll find yourself here, whether you’re catching a train or bus or looking for a place to eat. Hence, the closer you are to the central station, the more convenient and hassle-free your trip will be.

Here are some of the best hostels and guesthouses near Kyoto Station, as ranked by Agoda users (as of March 2018). I was able to try K’s House myself, and it was a delightful experience.

• K’s Guesthouse Kyoto . CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY .
• Tomato Kyoto Station . CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY .
• Daiya Ryokan . CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY .

Search for more Kyoto Hotels!

Internet connection in kyoto, pocket wifi rental.

You will find wi-fi rental booths at the Arrival Area of Kansai Airport. Rates are usually between JPY 800-900 per day. However, they are very in demand so there might not be any more available if you arrive in the late afternoon or evening. Some establishments accept only credit card transactions.

If you really want to make sure you get a mobile wifi, you can reserve one in advance via Klook for only PhP 389 per day for unlimited 4G access. That’s a lot cheaper than those you will find at Kansai airport. The best part, if you’re a group, you can connect multiple devices hassle-free. You can then split the cost with your friends. You can pick up the device at the airport. No deposit is required .

If you opt with a 4G Data SIM, you can choose between two packages: unlimited 4G data for 8 days (around ¥3360) and 3GB data for 8 days (around ¥2160). If you’re a heavy data user, best to go with the Unlimited Plan. You can pick up the SIM card at Kansai Airport.

How to Get Around Kyoto

Almost every key tourist attraction in Kyoto is accessible by train. Hence, if you become familiar with the train system, you’re good to go. But it’s not that easy.

Kyoto Station alone is massive. It is a behemoth of a terminal. Train and subway lines operating to, from and around the city converge here. You have to make sure you’re on the right platform and you’re boarding the right car of the right train. A few trains split into two at one point and part ways. You don’t want to be on the wrong car.

One thing that has proven helpful to me again and again is Hyperdia. It’s a web-based search engine that would tell you train schedules and routes instantly. Just make sure you know the closest train station to your destination and let Hyperdia do the rest. Here’s more info : HOW TO USE HYPERDIA .

There are also train passes that will make your journey more hassle-free.

Below is a quick overview of these passes. We have a more detailed post here: KANSAI PASSES: WHICH IS BEST FOR YOU?

JR Pass is a good option if you’re on a multi-city journey across Japan. But here’s the caveat: It only makes sense for multiple long-distance travels. If that’s not clear enough, let me stress that even more. MULTIPLE LONG-DISTANCE travels. For example: Osaka-Tokyo-Sapporo or Tokyo-Osaka-Hiroshima-Fukuoka.

If that sounds like the trip you want to take, then go ahead. Get a JR Pass. Note, though, that you can’t purchase a JR Pass in Japan because it’s offered only to foreign tourists. Thankfully, you can book via Klook. If you live in the Philippines, the pass will be delivered to you in 7 days.

Klook offers the cheapest JR Passes available.

JR West Kansai Rail Pass

If you’re planning to visit places that are relatively close to each other — like Osaka-Nara-Kyoto — this is what you need, not a (nationwide) JR PASS.

This pass offers unlimited rail and bus rides to and in many cities in Kansai Region including Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe, and Nara. You can also use this to travel from Kansai Airport to Osaka and back. Available in 1-, 2-, 3- and 4-day validity variants.

Note that this pass is only accepted on JR Trains.

Do you need this pass?

• If you plan on staying within Kyoto and not visiting other cities, this is not for you. Just get an ICOCA Card or single-journey tickets at the station.
• If you plan to visit Kyoto, Nara, Kobe or other cities in Kansai, this could be great for you.

IMPORTANT! You can’t buy this pass in Japan. You have to purchase ONLINE. This pass is meant for foreign nationals traveling as a temporary visitor (tourist) in Japan. You can book online below:

Kansai Thru Pass

Offers unlimited rail and bus rides in many cities in Kansai Region including Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe, and Nara. You can also use this to travel from Kansai Airport to Osaka or Kyoto. JR Lines are not covered, though.

Available in 2- and 3-day validity variants.

The ICOCA Card isn’t a pass. It’s a prepaid IC card. It’s sort of Kansai’s version of Tokyo’s SUICA or PASMO Card.

When you use an ICOCA card, you still pay for every trip. You just need to quickly hover the card over the reader at the station gates and you’re through. You can also use it not just on trains but also on buses, lockers, vending machines, and even convenience stores. Yep, lockers. The ICOCA card works on lockers at train stations!

You can also use it to snag some discount on your train to or from Kansai Airport. The best direct journey from the airport to Kyoto (or vice versa) is the HARUKA Train. And if you have an ICOCA Card, it will slash a significant amount from the ticket price. We’ve used it on our recent trip. We simply had to go to JR Counter, show our ICOCA Card, and tell the staff we’re booking a Haruka train. Normally, it costs around ¥4000 one-way, including the seat fee. But with ICOCA, it’s only ¥1600 .

You can get an ICOCA card from Klook, which is already preloaded with ¥1500 + the deposit of ¥500. You can get the deposit when you return the card.

Things to Do in Kyoto

Osaka may be too obsessed with its ever-growing skyline but Kyoto is quite the opposite. Development is noticeable but it shines in places where it dwells in the past. Historic districts and ancient structures are its biggest crowd-drawers — Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion), Gion District, and the Arashiyama District.

Before I enumerate the attractions I recommend, consider exploring in style by renting a kimono!

Kimono Rental

We’ve done this on our last trip, and it made our trip much more unforgettable. If you want to take awesome photos at the each tourist spot, try dressing up in a full traditional kimono set.

Fushimi Inari Shrine

Nearest Station : JR Inari Station Admission Fee : FREE

Fushimi Inari Shrine (伏見稲荷大社 or Fushimi Inari Taisha) is the most well-known and most important Shinto site that is dedicated to Inari in the city of Kyoto, Japan. While the thousand torii gates are the most picturesque parts of the site, they are but trails that connect the shrines and other places of worship. The shrine was built in 711 by one Hata-no-Irogu. According to legend, he was a powerful man, who one day shot an arrow at rice-cake target. To his surprise, the rice cake transformed into a swan and perched on a peak of the mountain. Rice began growing at the site, sustaining the community. A shrine was erected as a tribute to the god of rice, Inari. In 816, it was moved to its current location, at the base of the Inariyama hill.

More info here: Fushimu Inari Shrine

Nearest Station : Saga-Arashiyama Station (JR Sagano/Sanin Line)

Kyoto’s Arashiyama district is dotted with shrines, temples, and other important landmarks. Many of these can be accessed for FREE. Of these, the most popular are the Tenryuji Temple (which collects a entrance fee) and the adjacent Bamboo Forest.

Regarded as the best among the Five Great Zen Temples of Kyoto, Tenryuji Temple has been declared by the Japanese government as a Special Place of Scenic Beauty and in 1994 was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was originally founded in 1339 by Shogun Ashikaga Takauji as a place to console the spirit of Emperor Go-Daigo. Zen master Muso Soseki was the founding priest. Today, it is a major tourist destination, alluring everyone with its Zen beauty and tradition.

An exquisite garden encloses this temple, which makes the walk getting here an event in itself. Next to an abbey hall is the Sogen Pond, which is frequented by many species of birds. The trail ends at the start of the bamboo groves.

If you have more time, drop by Togetsukyo Bridge, Horinji Temple, and Nanamiya Shrine.

You can easily do this tour on your own (DIY-style), but if you have the budget and you want to level up your experience, you can book a Rickshaw Tour and let a local do the footwork and show you around the area.

Kinkaku-ji: Temple of the Golden Pavilion

How to get there : Kyoto City Bus number 101 or 205 (230 yen) Opening Hours : 9am-5pm Admission fee : 400 yen

Nearest Stations : Gion Shijo Station (Keihan Line), Kawaramachi Station (Hankyu Line) Entrance Fee : FREE

Gion District is famous for two iconic forms of traditional Japanese entertainment — the kabuki and the geisha. They are what people from all over the world travel to Kyoto for. While they are very different from each other, their roots are intricately tangled. I was thankful that once in my life my soles touched the ground where these two art forms burgeoned and flourished.

More info: Gion District

Kyoto Tower

Nearest Station : Kyoto Station Opening Hours : 9:00am to 08:40pm Admission Fee : 770 yen

The tallest building in Kyoto, featuring an Observation Deck that provides a panoramic view of the city.

Toei Studio Park

Nearest Stations : Uzumasa-Koryuji Station (Keifuku Arashiyama Line) or JR Hanazono Station Opening Hours : 9:30am-4:30pm Admission Fee : 2200 yen

The Toei Kyoto Studio Park (東映太秦映画村, Tōei Uzumasa Eigamura, or more simply Movie Land) is actually a film set that has been made open to the public. It is the only theme park in Japan where visitors can watch and observe actual filming of period dramas (jidaigeki films). More than 200 movies are shot here every year! But it is more than a movie set.

It is a Japanese pop culture explosion contained in a theme park! It was that one attraction in Kyoto that I had a strong personal connection to because it reintroduced me to the heroes of my childhood! Ninja shows, anime artifacts, samurai fighting lessons, and super sentai reunion filled that visit, the most memorable for me. And because I’m shallow like that. Visitors may also choose to rent a full Edo period costume and dress up as a samurai or a geisha so they could explore the park in style!

More info: Toei Movie Park

Other Attractions

• KYOTO INTERNATIONAL MANGA MUSEUM Nearest Station : Karasuma-Oike Subway Station Opening Hours : 10am-6pm every day except Wednesday and holidays
• TOFUKUJI TEMPLE Nearest station : Tofukuji Station (JR Nara Line) Hours open : 9am-4pm (may change per season) Entrance Fee : ¥400 (Hojo and gardens), ¥400 (Tsutenkyo Bridge and Kaisando Hall)
• KIYOMIZUDERA TEMPLE How to Get There : From Kyoto Station, take Bus 100 or 206 (15 minutes, ¥230 yen) and alight at Gojo-zaka or Kiyomizu-michi bus stop. Walk for 10 minutes. Hours open : 6am-6pm Entrance Fee : ¥400

Sample Kyoto Itinerary

Below is a sample 4-day 4-night itinerary which involves spending 2 nights in Osaka and another 2 nights in Kyoto.

For the Osaka leg, please read this first: OSAKA TRAVEL GUIDE WITH ITINERARY

This Kyoto itinerary assumes the following:

• You’re taking Cebu Pacific flight scheduled to arrive in Osaka at 8:10pm.
• IMPORTANT! In this case, make sure that the first thing you do after going through Immigration and picking up your bags is to head straight to the HIS Office to collect the passes and/or mobile wifi that you booked with Klook because it closes at 10pm.

• You DON’T need a JR Pass or Kansai Pass for this Kyoto itinerary . The OA Pass for the Osaka leg and ICOCA Card for Kyoto are enough. Using the JR Pass will cost much more.
• You’re staying in a capsule hotel in Namba, like Capsule Hotel ASTIL Dotonbori or Y’s Cabin Osaka Namba (¥3250 per night)for the Osaka leg, and at a dorm near Kyoto Station like K’s House (¥2500 per night) for the Kyoto leg.
• You’re skipping breakfast . It’s healthy (according to intermittent fasting advocates, hehe) and you’re poor!

Make the necessary adjustments to match your schedule and preferences.

Day 0 08:10pm – Arrival at Kansai Airport 09:10pm – Collect Klook passes at Arrival Hall 09:54pm – Board Nankai Airport Express to Namba, ¥920 10:30pm – Check-in at the hotel

Day 1: OSAKA 07:00am – Wake up 08:30am – Subway to Tanimachiyonchome Station (Osaka Castle), FREE (OA Pass) 09:00am – Osaka Castle, FREE (OA Pass) 12:00nn – Subway to Nakatsu Station (Ramen Yashichi), FREE (OA Pass) 12:30nn – Lunch at Ramen Yashichi, ¥730 02:30pm – Subway to from Nakatsu to Umeda, FREE (OA Pass) 03:00pm – Umeda Sky Building Observatory, FREE (OA Pass) 04:30pm – Subway from Umeda to Namba, FREE (OA Pass) 05:00pm – Early dinner at Tokisushi, ¥1134 06:00pm – Dotonbori Tour, FREE (OA Pass) 09:00pm – Back to hotel, sleep

Day 2: ENDO SUSHI, TRANSFER TO KYOTO 05:00am – Wake up 06:00am – Subway to Tamagawa Station (Endo Sushi), FREE (OA Pass) 07:00am – Breakfast at Endo Sushi, ¥1242 08:30am – Subway Tamagawa to Namba Station, FREE (OA Pass) 09:00am – Start packing 10:30am – Hotel check out 11:10am – Subway to Shin-Osaka, FREE (OA Pass) 12:05nn – Transfer to a JR Local or Special Rapid train to Kyoto, ¥560 12:30pm – Arrival at Kyoto Station 12:40pm – Find lockers to store luggage, ¥700 01:00pm – Quick lunch (onigiri, etc), ¥500 01:27pm – Train to Saga-Arashiyama, ¥240 02:00pm – Explore Arashiyama, Tenryuji Fee: ¥500 05:32pm – Train to Kyoto Station, ¥240 05:45pm – Dinner at Kyoto Ramen Street, ¥900 07:00pm – Collect bag from locker 07:30pm – Walk to hotel 08:00pm – Hotel check-in 08:30pm – Sleep

Day 3: KYOTO 07:00am – Wake up 08:00am – Take Bus 101 or 205 to Kinakuji, ¥230 09:00am – Kinkakuji Temple, ¥400 11:00am – Bus to Kyoto Station, ¥230 12:00nn – Lunch, ¥1000 01:07pm – Train to Inari Station, ¥140 01:12pm – Fushimi Inari Shrine, FREE 03:20pm – Train to Gion-Shijo, ¥270 03:50pm – Explore Gion 06:30pm – Back to Kyoto Station 07:00pm – Dinner, ¥900

Day 4: UNIVERSAL STUDIOS 07:00am – Check out 08:06am – Train to Universal City, ¥800 08:55am – Store luggage in locker, ¥700 09:00am – Universal Studios Japan, ¥7900 12:30pm – Lunch, ¥1500 04:00pm – Train to Airport, ¥1190 05:30pm – Check in 08:30pm – Flight out

If you follow this Kyoto itinerary, prepare to shell out around ¥40,000 (USD 380, PHP19,750) including possible miscellaneous expenses like bottled water and some snacks but excluding airfare.

Universal Studios Japan eats up the biggest chunk of the budget. You can save a lot by skipping it, if it’s not your priority anyway. Instead, I strongly recommend Toei Studio Movie Park in Kyoto. This is my most-loved theme park in Japan because it’s uniquely Japanese. (More info about that here: Toei Kyoto Studio Park .) This way, the cost goes down to only ¥31,000 (USD 295, PHP15,300)

Another way to further reduce the cost is by limiting your food budget to only ¥500 per lunch/dinner. Convenience stores and supermarkets offer cheap meals for much lower. But you’re in Japan! It would be such a shame to visit Osaka and not eat out!

You can also find an early morning flight so you can save one hotel night.

This itinerary may also be too dense for you. It was for me, haha. In fact, I skipped a few of these because my legs were this close to falling off. That’s because I’m old and lazy. Again, that’s me.

More Tips for the Poor Traveler

Here are more tips to help make your trip go smoothly.

• Lockers . In major stations in Osaka and Kyoto, you’ll find them in many corners. There are two types: electronic and coin lockers. Rental costs ¥300-¥700 depending on the size. In Kyoto, if your hotel is far from Kyoto Station (which is the focal point of everything touristy in the city) and your flight is scheduled at night, you may choose to store your baggage at one of the many lockers scattered at the lower levels of the station. This way, you save a hotel night and does not need to travel back to the hotel just to get your things.
• Tipping is unusual in Japan. Most restaurants have the cashier stationed by the exit so you pay after your meal, on your way out.
• When in doubt, ask . The people of Osaka and Kyoto are some of the friendliest I have ever met.

2️⃣0️⃣2️⃣0️⃣ • 1️⃣ • 1️⃣7️⃣

More Tips on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️

Is this post helpful to you?

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• JAPAN MULTI-CITY TOUR: How to Plan a Budget Trip
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Kyoto: Getting there and around

Getting to kyoto.

• ¥ around 14,000
• multiple trains per hour

Tokyo and Kyoto are connected with each other by the JR Tokaido Shinkansen . Nozomi trains require about 140 minutes to reach Kyoto from Tokyo, Hikari trains about 160 minutes and Kodama trains about four hours.

The regular one way fare from Tokyo to Kyoto is 13,320 yen for a non-reserved seat or around 14,000 yen for a reserved seat. The Japan Rail Pass is valid on Hikari and Kodama trains, but requires a supplement fee of 4,960 yen on Nozomi trains.

The Tokyo-Osaka Hokuriku Arch Pass is a rail pass that allows holders to travel between Tokyo and Kyoto via Kanazawa , using the Hokuriku Shinkansen . It is not the fastest way to travel between Tokyo and Kyoto, but it allows pass holders to visit the less-explored Hokuriku Region along the way. It costs 24,500 yen and is valid for seven consecutive days.

• ¥ 3,500 - 10,000
• multiple daytime and overnight connections per day

The one way trip from Tokyo to Kyoto by highway bus takes about 7-8 hours. There are daytime and overnight buses. Fierce competition on the Tokyo-Kyoto-Osaka route has produced a wide variety of comfort levels (from discount to super premium buses) and an abundance of low priced offers.

Typical one way fares for discount buses, such as Willer Express , start from around 3500 yen; while premium buses charge up to 10,000 yen. If used effectively, the Japan Bus Pass can reduce the cost for the bus trip to around 3000 yen. Online reservations can be made through Willer and Japan Bus Online .

• 2-3 transfers
• ¥ 9,000 - 23,000
• multiple flights per day

The closest airport to Kyoto is Osaka 's Itami Airport , about one hour by bus from central Kyoto ( more details ). Most flights connect Itami Airport with Tokyo 's Haneda Airport , with just a few serving Tokyo's Narita Airport . Flight duration is one hour. The regular one way fare is around 28,000 yen, but discount tickets are usually available for around 9,000 to 14,000 yen.

• ¥ around 10,000 (expressway tolls)

Driving between Tokyo and Kyoto via the Tomei and Meishin Expressways takes about five to six hours without breaks and traffic jams. The expressway toll is around 10,000 yen one way.

• 4 transfers
• ¥ 2,410 - 8,210

By local trains , the one way trip from Tokyo to Kyoto takes about nine hours and typically involves about four transfers of trains. The regular fare is a relatively expensive 8360 yen, however, with a Seishun 18 Kippu you could theoretically do the trip for as little as 2410 yen.

Above fees and schedules are subject to change. Be sure to check current yen exchange rates .

Getting around

Kyoto features a rectangular street system. Unlike the streets in other Japanese cities, most of central Kyoto's streets are named. The main streets running from east to west are numbered in ascending order from north to south, and are about 500 meters apart from each other, with several smaller streets in between. For example, Shijo means "4th Avenue" and Nijo means "2nd Avenue".

Kyoto's city center with the highest concentration of dining, shopping and entertainment opportunities, is located around the junction of Shijo-dori (4th Avenue) and Kawaramachi-dori (Kawaramachi Street). JR Kyoto Station is located south of the city center at the height of Hachijo-dori (8th Avenue).

The most prominent north-south street is Karasuma-dori (Karasuma Street), which runs from Kyoto Station via the city center to Kyoto Imperial Palace . Another north-south axis is Kamo River, about one kilometer east of Karasuma-dori.

Kyoto has a rather inadequately developed public transportation system for a city of its size, consisting of two subway lines, a dense bus network and several railway companies, whose lines are not always conveniently connected with each other. Taxis and bicycles can be worthwhile alternatives.

The recommended way to get around Kyoto by public transportation is to use an IC card , such as Icoca, which is accepted on virtually all trains and buses in the city. Alternatively, travelers intending to use buses or subways extensively, should consider one of the 1-day passes available. See the ticket section below for more details.

Below is a simplified map of the railway and subway lines of Kyoto:

Few of Kyoto 's tourist attractions are located close to subway or train stations. Instead, Kyoto has a dense bus network with direct bus lines from Kyoto Station and/or the city center around Shijo-dori and Kawaramachi-dori to most major sights.

Kyoto is served by multiple bus companies. For central Kyoto, the green Kyoto City Bus buses are most numerous and useful. The red buses by Kyoto Bus are second most prominent and tend to be convenient to access sights in more outlying areas of the city.

The tourist offices provide a useful English network map for the Kyoto City Buses, which makes it quite easy for foreign visitors to access tourist attractions by bus. Despite the good map and English displays and announcements, however, getting off at the correct bus stop can still be stressful, especially in crowded buses.

Since buses are small and operate surprisingly infrequently even on some major routes, buses to major tourist sights can often get crowded, especially on weekends and during holidays. In addition, much time can be lost when buses get stuck or only proceed slowly in the busy street traffic. Consequently, it is recommended to use subways and trains as much as possible, and use buses only for medium and short distances, for example, from the closest subway station to the destination.

Most buses are entered through the back door and left through the front door. The fare has to be paid when leaving the bus. Inside much of central Kyoto, there is a flat rate of 230 yen per ride. Outside the flat fare zone, the fare increases with the distance. Click here for more information on riding buses.

There are two subway lines in Kyoto , the Karasuma Line which runs from south to north along Karasuma-dori and stops at JR Kyoto Station, and the newer Tozai Line which runs from east to west and meets the Karasuma Line at the intersection of Karasuma-dori and Oike-dori.

Japan Railways

All JR lines, including the Tokaido Shinkansen , pass through or commence at JR Kyoto Station . JR trains can be a convenient for accessing the Arashiyama area (JR Sagano Line) and some attractions in southern Kyoto along the JR Nara Line, e.g. Fushimi Inari Shrine and Uji .

Other Railways

• Hankyu Railway connects Kyoto with Osaka . The line initially runs below Shijo Avenue from Kawaramachi westwards in direction of Osaka. It is a good option for accessing the area around Katsura Rikyu , from where a branch line also connects to Arashiyama .
• Keifuku Railway (also known as Randen) operates two tram-like train lines in northwestern Kyoto. For train lovers, a ride on these trains is a small attraction by itself. The lines can be an option for accessing Arashiyama and the area around Ryoanji and Kinkakuji .
• Keihan Railway 's main line runs next and parallel to Kamo River, but unfortunately does not connect to Kyoto Station . The line continues to Osaka and is an alternative to the JR Nara Line to access some of the attractions in southern Kyoto.
• Eizan Railway operates two train lines from where the Keihan Line ends, Demachiyanagi Station. One line leads to Kurama , while the other runs to the base of Hieizan .
• Kintetsu Railway connects Kyoto Station to Nara . Note that some trains on the Karasuma Subway Line continue to run on the Kintetsu Nara Line and the other way around.

By sightseeing bus

The Sky Hop Bus is an expensive but convenient way to visit Kyoto's most famous sightseeing spots. Double-decker buses with an open-air second floor run clockwise every hour from Kyoto Station in a large circle around the city, stopping near major tourist sites along the way, including Nijo Castle , Kinkakuji , the Imperial Palace , Heian Shrine and Kiyomizudera . A 12-hour pass costs 2500 yen and a 24-hour pass costs 3600 yen and can be purchased through Klook .

Kyoto is probably the Japanese city with the highest concentration of taxis . Especially in the city center, taxis are found everywhere. Taxis can not only be a more comfortable, but also an economical alternative to buses on short to medium distances for groups of three or more.

Most taxis accommodate up to four passengers (not including the driver), while larger vehicles are able to accommodate an additional fifth passenger. The rate starts around 610 yen for the first two kilometers and increases by 80 yen for every additional 300-400 meters traveled.

Kyoto City's simple layout and flat terrain make it easy and convenient to explore by bicycle . Numerous bicycle rental outlets can be found around the city, especially around major stations, such as Kyoto Station or in popular biking areas like Arashiyama . Typical rental prices are around 1000-1500 yen per day for basic bicycles and around 1700-2000 yen for electric assist bicycles. Some lodgings may provide their guests with bicycles for a small fee or for free.

Kyoto is generally a bicycle-friendly city with relatively easily navigable roads and a handful of cycling routes, most notably along Kamo River. Designated bicycle parking is often freely available around popular sightseeing spots. The situation is a little bit more challenging in the city center due to congested roads, crowded sidewalks and a lack of designated parking areas. Also, distances to some of the more outlying sightseeing spots should not be underestimated. For example, it is about eight kilometers (typically a 45-75 minute ride) from Kyoto Station to Kinkakuji or about ten kilometers to Arashiyama .

Passes and Tickets

See also our separate page about the various passes available for the Kansai Region .

The prepaid IC card available in Kyoto is called Icoca . It does not give you any discounts over regular tickets, but it makes the process of taking trains and buses easier, as you do not always need to buy a ticket for each ride. Icoca cards can be purchased through ticket machines at JR stations. Local non-JR railway companies offer their own IC card called Pitapa ; however, Pitapa is a postpaid card that works more like a credit card and is targeted at residents.

Icoca and Pitapa can be used on virtually all trains and buses in and around Kyoto (and most other major cities in Japan). Additionally, eight other IC cards from other major cities of Japan can also be used on the trains and buses of Greater Osaka and Kyoto, including Suica, Pasmo, Kitaca, Toica, Manaca, Sugoca, Nimoca and Hayakaken.

The Kansai One Pass is a special version of Icoca exclusively for foreign tourists that additionally qualifies for discounts at various attractions in the Kansai Region . It is available for sale at Kansai Airport and major railway stations in the Kansai Region.

Furthermore, the following one day passes are available for Kyoto :

• Kyoto Sightseeing Card (1100 yen) Unlimited use of Kyoto's two subway lines and most buses (including Kyoto City Buses, Kyoto Buses, JR buses and Keihan buses) in central Kyoto and outskirts, including Ohara and Daigoji on one calendar day. The pass also comes with discount coupons for selected sights in Kyoto. It can be purchased from ticket machines in subway stations, at bus ticket centers and from some hotels. The pass can pay off especially if you visit outlying areas such as Ohara . The downside is that, besides the subway lines, the pass does not cover any other trains which are often a convenient means of getting around.
• Kyoto Subway One Day Card (800 yen) Unlimited use of Kyoto's two subway lines on one calendar day. The card can be purchased from ticket machines at subway stations. It generally pays off if you use subways more than three times per day, however its value is restricted by the subway's limited coverage area.

Questions? Ask in our forum .

Links and Resources

Arukumachi kyoto route planner, kansai one pass, kyoto municipal transportation bureau, keihan railway, kintetsu railway, hankyu railway, kansai airport transportation, osaka airport transport, sky hop bus, enjoy cycling in kyoto, keifuku railway, eizan railway, hotels around kyoto.

Experiences around Kyoto

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

The Perfect 7-Day Japan Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

Japan captured my heart from the moment I firs visited. The delicious food, the rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, vibrant history, and the very friendly and polite people – it all blew my mind.

But Japan often feels impenetrable, especially to first-time visitors. While I think Japan deserves a minimum of 10 days, I get that some people might only have a week, so I wanted to write this, my ideal seven-day itinerary for Japan for a first-time visitor.

With only a week, there’s not much you can see unless you really rush it. And I don’t think you should do that.

So this itinerary only focuses on Tokyo and Kyoto (the most popular destinations) as well as some day trips from each. If you wanted to rush things a little, you could add in Osaka (more on that at the end).

(Note: If you purchased a Japan Rail Pass , activate it on arrival. That way, you can take advantage of the free JR trains throughout the city.)

Table of Contents

Japan Itinerary Day 1: Tokyo

Japan itinerary day 2: tokyo, japan itinerary day 3: tokyo, japan itinerary day 4: kyoto, japan itinerary day 5: kyoto, japan itinerary day 6: nara, japan itinerary day 7: tokyo, an alternative itinerary.

Tsukiji and Toyosu Fish Markets Cure your jet lag with some food! In 2018, Tokyo’s main fish market moved to Toyosu. It is now twice the size of Tsukiji (the old one), making it the largest such market in the world. Here you can eat fresh sushi for breakfast, just a few feet from where it was hauled in from the sea, while marveling at the chaotic atmosphere.

You can still head to the old market in Tsukiji to eat, shop, and wander as well. I like it a lot, because there are more food options! Food and drink tours of the Tsukiji Outer Market are available for around 15,000 JPY.

Toyosu Fish Market is open Monday-Saturday 5am-5pm, though most shops don’t open until 7am. Admission is free, but you have to pick up a visitor’s pass when you enter. Tsukiji Fish Market’s hours vary by shop (usually 5am-2pm). Admission is free.

teamLab Planets This digital art installation is a multi-sensory and immersive experience in which you become part of the artwork, walking barefoot through the four exhibition spaces and gardens as you interact with the installations’ elements in unique ways. It’s really fun! TeamLab is generally sells out in advance, so I recommend getting your tickets online ahead of time .

Take a walking tour Walking tours are a great way to get the lay of the land while connecting with a local guide. I always go on one or two when I arrive somewhere. Tokyo Localized offers many free tours, including a classic overview and ones of both the famed Harajuku and Shinjuku neighborhoods. Its Imperial Palace tour would be the most convenient one after teamLab.

The Imperial Palace Formerly Edo Castle, the Imperial Palace was built in the 15th century, and some of the walls and moats from that time are still in use to this day. When the emperor moved from Kyoto to Tokyo in 1869, he took Edo for his new palace and renamed it. While you can’t go inside, it is surrounded by beautiful grounds, a moat, and a park worth wandering through. You can also see the changing-of-the-guard ceremony (though it’s relatively low-key and unassuming). Admission to the grounds is free.

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden This park is over 144 acres and home to some 20,000 trees. Most of the original park was destroyed in World War II but was rebuilt and reopened in 1949. During spring, it is one of the best places to see cherry blossoms. My favorite area is the landscape garden, which has several ponds with bridges and islands. It’s a peaceful oasis away from the urban hustle and bustle.

Depending on how you feel relative to your jetlag, you could fit a few more activities before you end your day. Check out this post for suggestions .

• Senso-ji – This is Tokyo’s most popular and famous temple. Beautifully painted, it sits in a scenic spot near a pagoda and the lovely Kaminari Gate. There’s a huge statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, inside the main hall. It’s very busy during the day, so maybe check out the grounds in the evening.
• Asakusa Shrine – This nearby Shinto shrine is much more peaceful, with fewer visitors, but with people praying, meditating, or performing traditional rituals. It was built during the Edo period (1603–1868) and survived the air raids of World War II.

Afterward, head to Ueno Park . Spanning over 133 acres, Ueno Park was established in 1873 on land formerly owned by a 17th-century Buddhist temple. It gets super busy in cherry blossom season, as there are over a thousand trees here. Throughout, you’ll find various stalls and vendors selling snacks, drinks, and souvenirs. On weekends, there are usually cultural events or festivals showcasing traditional arts, music, and dance. Four of Tokyo’s main museums are here:

• Tokyo National Museum – Established in 1872 on the north end, this massive building is the oldest and largest art museum in Japan. It houses one of the world’s largest collections of art and artifacts from Asia, particularly Japan.
• Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum – This museum showcases rotating exhibitions of contemporary and traditional Japanese art.
• National Museum of Nature and Science – This museum features a wide range of permanent and temporary exhibitions covering natural science and history.
• Tosho-gu Shrine – This beautiful 17th-century Shinto shrine has carved gold doors and other ornate carvings. It’s worth seeing up close!

Afterward, walk down to Akihabara to explore the video game parlors, arcades, and anime shops. This very buzzy area is ground zero for all things electronic, and it’s fun to play many of the games. This is where you’ll find the famous maid cafés, where servers dress up as maids and serve you food and drinks. These range from big touristy ones to holes-in-the-wall (the girls on the street are promoting the latter, which are a lot more culturally fun). They aren’t cheap, though, as you have to buy drink packages and pay a fee, but they’re kitschy and fun.

In the evening, visit Shinjuku and then drink in Golden Gai . In Shinjuku, you’ll find a plethora of cool bars, bright lights, and tiny hole-in-the-wall eateries. Be sure to wander down Memory Lane (aka Piss Alley) for tiny izakaya joints and bars. Afterward, head over to Golden Gai, a warren of narrow alleyways with a bit of a red-light-district feel, flanked by diminutive backstreet bars. It’s quite touristy but also a lot of fun. I’ve had some wild nights here!

With Arigato Tours , you’ll learn about the neighborhood while stopping to sample Japanese classics like sushi, yakitori, and ramen. The 23,900 JPY cost includes a drink and dishes at four stops.  

Kamakura Here you can see a 13-meter (43-foot) bronze statue of Buddha that was built in 1252. It was initially constructed within Kotoku-in Temple, but that has since been washed away by several storms, so it now sits in the open air. Admission to enter the temple grounds is 300 JPY, while it’s 20 JPY to go inside the statue. The journey there — around an hour — is free with a Japan Rail Pass .

Tokyo Disneyland I’m a sucker for Disney. You’ll find many of the same classic rides from Disney World here, like Splash Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain, The Haunted Mansion, and everyone’s favorite teacup ride, The Mad Tea Party. But there are several unique attractions as well, like Pooh’s Hunny Hunt and Journey to the Center of the Earth.

Ticket prices vary depending on the day and time, but full-day admission begins at 7,900 JPY for adults and 4,400-6,200 JPY for children. It’s best to book in advance .

Mount Fuji Mount Fuji is located an hour outside of Tokyo. An active stratovolcano (which last erupted in 1708) and covered in snow for almost half of the year, it stands an impressive 3,776 meters (12,389 feet) and provides one of the most iconic views in the country. One of the Three Holy Mountains of Japan, Mount Fuji is both a Special Place of Scenic Beauty and a UNESCO Cultural Site. In the summer, the mountain is open to hikers, who take 5-12 hours to reach the summit (traditionally, they depart at night to arrive at the top for the sunrise).

If you don’t want to hike, you can simply visit on a day trip. There are buses that can take you partway up, where you’ll be offered sweeping vistas of the surrounding area. Guided day tours from the city cost around 12,000 JPY.  

Wander the Bamboo Forest For a relaxing break, head to Arashiyama and let the dense and towering stands of bamboo envelop you. Located near the famous Tenryu-ji temple, it’s one of the most beautiful places in the entire country. It’s not that big, but there are some hidden areas to explore. Just make sure to arrive early if you want to enjoy it without the crowds (it fills up fast after sunrise).

While there, I would also recommend visiting the Okochi Sanso Garden, which (along with the home) belonged to the famous Japanese actor Denjir? ?k?chi (1898–1962). It’s not free (it’s 1,000 JPY), but it’s really nice and has some wonderful views.

Visit the Golden Pavilion Originally built in the late 14th century as a retirement villa for the shogun (military governor), this iconic structure was later converted into a Zen Buddhist temple. The present-day edifice dates only to the 1950s, however, when a monk attempting to kill himself burned the historic original to the ground. The rebuilt temple is covered in brilliant gold leaf, symbolizing purity and enlightenment. Each of the three stories exhibits a different architectural style. Completing the scene are the serene reflecting pool and traditional Japanese gardens that contain lush foliage, manicured trees, and scenic walking paths.

1 Kinkakuji-cho, Kita-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto, +81 075-461-0013, shokoku-ji.jp. Open daily 9am-5pm. Admission is 500 JPY.

Admire Ryoan-ji Temple This is my favorite temple in Kyoto. Originally established in 1450 as a residence for a high-ranking samurai, it was soon converted into a Zen temple and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a mausoleum that houses the remains of seven emperors. Its traditional rock and sand garden is considered one of the best in the country. There’s also a teahouse where you can experience the traditional Japanese tea ceremony ( chanoyu ) as you overlook the Kyoyochi reflecting pool.

There are other temples in the area to check out as well:

• Daitoku-ji Temple – This massive complex dating back to 1315 covers almost 60 acres. It contains several dozen temples and is a good place to see a variety of Zen gardens and architectural styles. It’s also deeply linked to the Japanese tea ceremony, as several of the country’s most noteworthy masters studied here.
• Toji Temple – This is home to Japan’s tallest pagoda (five stories high). Founded in 796, just after Kyoto became the capital, it was one of only three Buddhist temples allowed in the city.

Go on a sake brewery tour Kyoto has a sake (rice wine) brewing tradition going back 400 years and is known for some of the best in the world, due to using the area’s pure natural spring water in the brewing process. Arigato Tours offers an excellent three-hour tour of Fushimi (the brewing district) for 23,320 JPY, including stops at several breweries, a guided tour of the Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum, and tastings.  

See the Fushimi Inari Shrine This mountainside Shinto shrine, dating back to 711, is dedicated to Inari, the god of rice and prosperity. It’s known for its thousands of vibrant orange torii gates that form a network of trails leading up Mount Inari. You can hike the trails on your own while enjoying panoramic views of Kyoto below or join a guided hiking tour , on which you’ll get off the paved paths and into hidden bamboo groves. Get here as early as possible to avoid the crowds.

68 Fukakusa Yabunouchicho, +81756417331, inari.jp. Open 24/7. Admission is free.

Walk around Higashiyama Spend an afternoon walking along the narrow streets of one of the oldest and best preserved districts on your own or on a walking tour . The traditional machiya buildings (traditional wooden townhouses) are filled with small shops selling local specialties and handicrafts, as well as restaurants and teahouses. It’s a popular area in which to participate in a tea ceremony . Another nice place to stroll in this neighborhood is the Philosopher’s Path, which follows a cherry-tree-lined canal that’s beautiful and meditative even when the blossoms aren’t in season.

Visit Kiyomizu-dera One of a number of UNESCO sites in ancient Kyoto, Kiyomizu-dera (meaning “pure water temple”) is located in the foothills of Mount Otowa in the eastern part of the city. It’s one of the most famous temples in all of Japan. It was established in 778, but most of the existing buildings date to the 17th century. There’s not a single nail used in the construction, which becomes all the more impressive once you see how large the temple is, which is best known for its wooden terrace that juts out over the hillside. The temple’s name comes from the nearby waterfall whose waters (from which you can still drink today) are said to have wish-granting and healing powers.

1 Chome-294 Kiyomizu, +81 75-551-1234, kiyomizudera.or.jp. Open daily 6am-6pm. Admission is 400 JPY.

Explore Shorin-ji Temple This small temple dates back to the 16th century. What makes it worth visiting is its meditation classes. You’ll get to tour the temple and then be instructed in zazen , the Japanese style of meditation. It’s a very unique experience and something that I think will add a lot of depth and nuance to your visit (especially if you’ve seen a lot of temples). Just make sure to dress comfortably.

15 Chome-795 Honmachi, +81 75-561-4311, shourin-ji.org. Open daily 10am-4pm. Admission is 800 JPY.

Wander the Nishiki Market Nishiki Ichiba is now one of the biggest indoor markets in town. Known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen” and spanning over five blocks, it is full of vendors selling traditional dishes from the region, classic Kyoto souvenirs, and really just about anything else. There are over a hundred stalls here, many of which have been in the same family for generations. Opening hours depend on the shop but are typically from 9am to 6pm.

To dive deeper into Japanese food culture, you can take a food tour of the market . It’s the best way to learn about all the food you’ll see, as well as the market’s history.

Explore Gion Gion, the historic geisha district, is renowned as being one of the most iconic and atmospheric areas of town. It’s known for its traditional wooden machiya houses, narrow alleyways, cobblestone streets, and preservation of geisha (known locally as geiko) culture. Lining the main street are ochayas (teahouses where geishas entertain), small shops, and many restaurants, ranging from upscale kaiseki restaurants serving traditional Kyoto cuisine to casual eateries.

To really learn more about this amazing party of town and its past, take a walking tour of Gion . You’ll learn a ton and get a lot of context. They cost around 1,800 JPY.

At night, go to the Pontocho Row , a narrow street lined with restaurants, hole-in-the-wall bars, and jazz clubs. It’s one of the more lively areas in Kyoto.  

Nara was the capital of Japan in the eighth century, so there are lots of buildings and temples here that are upwards of a thousand years old (which is rare in Japan, due to the prevalence of fires and earthquakes, as well as World War II). Some things to do:

• Frolic with deer – The real draw in Nara are the deer. Since the 17th century, those in and around the city have been considered sacred. You can buy crackers to feed them or just watch them stroll around carefree.
• See the Buddha – Don’t miss a visit to Todai-ji, the world’s largest wooden building, home to a 16-meter (52-foot) Buddha statue. It was built in 738 and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Take a walking tour – This guided half-day walking tour for 11,500 JPY includes all of Nara’s highlights as well as a traditional lunch.

Ryogoku Kokugikan, Japan’s most famous sumo wrestling arena, hosts tournaments three times each year, in January, May, and September. Tickets sell out quickly, so book online in advance. Prices vary but start around 3,200 JPY for arena seats. You can book a ticket online here (you’ll be accompanied by a guide too, so you can learn more about the tradition as it unfolds before your eyes).

To learn more about the sport in in the off-season, book a tour of a sumo stable .  

So, if you want to add another city to this itinerary you can follow this breakdown:

• Days 1 & 2: Tokyo
• Days 3 & 4: Kyoto
• Day 5: Nara
• Days 6 & 7: Osaka

Tokyo, Kyoto, and Nara are all covered above. As for Osaka, some of my favorite things to see and do:

Take a food tour Known as “the Kitchen of Japan,” Osaka boasts a diverse culinary scene. Mouthwatering sushi and sashimi, Kobe beef and Japanese BBQ, and flavorful ramen can all be found here in abundance. Plus, there are local specialties like okonomiyaki (a savory pancake with egg and vegetables) and kushikatsu (kebab skewers). You can take a food tour for around 13,000 JPY, a ramen and gyoza cooking class for 9,500 JPY, or just wander and eat.

Osaka Castle One of the most famous landmarks in the country, the castle was originally built in the late 16th century by Toyotomi Hideyoshi and played a pivotal role in the unification of Japan during the Sengoku period (1467-1615). Over the centuries, it has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times due to wars, fires, and natural disasters. The current version dates to 1931. The castle is situated amid sprawling grounds and surrounded by a moat. It’s also home to a small but insightful museum and an observation deck that offers some picturesque urban views.

Dotonbori This is arguably Osaka’s most iconic district, known for its vibrant nightlife (bars, clubs, theaters, and music venues), colorful signage, and delicious food. It’s best seen at night due to the plethora of huge neon lights and signs lining both the canal and streets, which have become symbols of Osaka’s nightlife. A guided walking tour that includes Dotonbori as well adjacent neighborhoods is 6,500 JPY.

Shitennoji Temple This temple is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Japan, founded in 593. The architecture is a blend of traditional Japanese and East Asian styles, featuring impressive pagodas, gates, and shrines set amid serene gardens. Stroll through the tranquil grounds, admire the beautiful architecture, and learn about the temple’s historical and cultural significance at the museum. The temple is 300 JPY to enter, the garden is 300 JPY, and the museum is 500 JPY.  

Japan is one of my favorite countries. While it’s relatively small, it offers an amazing array of things to see and do (as well as some of the best food in the world). With seven days, you can easily see a good number of the main highlights and get a taste for the incredible history and culture. It will be a busy week, but this itinerary ensures you’ll still have some time to slow down, relax, and take in the local pace of life.

Just make sure you get a Japan Rail Pass before you go. While it’s not as cheap as it used to be, it will likely save you time and money!

Book Your Trip to Japan: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . They are my two favorite search engines, because they search websites and airlines around the globe, so you always know no stone is being left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the most comprehensive inventory so they are best for booking a hostel. If you want to stay in a hotel or guesthouse in Japan, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancelations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it, as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel! I list all the ones I use to save money when I travel — and I think they will help you too!

Be sure to check out the Japan Rail Pass if you’ll be traveling around the country. It comes in 7-, 14-, and 21-day passes and can save you a ton of money!

Looking for More Travel Tips for Japan? Check out my in-depth Japan travel guide for more ways to save money, information on costs, tips on what to see and do, suggested itineraries and reading and packing lists, and much, much more!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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Gardens of stone, moss, sand: 4 moments of Zen in Kyoto

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Once, when the Buddha was asked to preach about a flower he was presented, he instead “gazed at it in silence,” according to British garden designer Sophie Walker in her book “The Japanese Garden.” In this spiritual moment, Zen Buddhism was born, inspiring the serene and eternal dry or rock gardens called karesansui.

Unlike a garden designed for strolling, which directs visitors along a defined path to take in scenic views and teahouses, a dry garden is viewed while seated on a veranda above, offering the heightened experience of traveling through it in the imagination, revealing its essence in meditation.

With rocks artfully placed along expanses of fine gravel raked by monks into ripples representing water, they are sources for contemplation, whether they refer to a specific landscape or are serenely abstract. Ryoan-ji, which dates to about 1500, is the supreme example of the latter among Kyoto temples, with its 15 low rocks in five clusters set in pools of moss within an enclosed rectangle of raked gravel. The puzzle is that only 14 are visible at any one time, no matter where you sit to view it.

Change in Kyoto, Japan’s major city of temple gardens, is a quiet evolution. But a tour of several dry gardens designed within the past century — and even within the past few years — demonstrates that the Zen tradition is timeless when it comes to landscape design, and that moments of contemplation are still possible, even as the crowds grow bigger.

Upon arrival at the Zen monastery complex Daitoku-ji, in northern Kyoto, I headed to Zuiho-in, one of its 22 subtemples. The temple was founded in 1319, and then in 1546, powerful feudal lord Sorin Otomo dedicated it to his family. This was during the period of Spanish and Portuguese missionaries in Japan. Like others, Otomo converted to Christianity but remained inspired by Zen Buddhism.

I entered along angled walkways until I arrived at Zuiho-in’s temple veranda to view the main dry garden. Although the style may at first appear traditional, this garden was designed in the 1960s by Mirei Shigemori, a landscape architect whose training was in the Japanese cultural arts: conducting the tea ceremony, flower arranging, and landscape ink and wash painting. As the Western modernist movement entered Japan, he adopted it in combination with traditional arts and became determined to revolutionize a garden aesthetic that had remained fixed for hundreds of years. He succeeded in designing more than 200 gardens in Japan and even worked with the Japanese American sculptor Isamu Noguchi on a UNESCO garden, collecting stones in Japan that Noguchi set in the garden at the organization’s Paris headquarters.

In the Zuiho-in garden, the gravel swirls are raked into high peaks as if far out at sea, with a chain of jagged pointed rocks like islands leading to a mossy peninsula crested by a massive stone representing Mount Horai, where, according to Taoist mythology, the heroes called the Eight Immortals, who fought for justice, reside. Referring to Otomo’s Christianity, rocks in a second garden define a cross, and three rows of squarish stones embedded in sand elsewhere in the garden could be seen as Shigemori’s modernist signature.

Across town, in the Higashiyama district, the Philosopher’s Walk is a pedestrian path along the picturesque Lake Biwa Canal. First opened in 1890, it is believed to be named for a Kyoto University philosophy professor who strolled there while meditating. As you walk along it, depending on the season, the swift current below carries brilliant fall leaves or delicate cherry blossoms shed from trees lining the banks.

Honen-in, one of several Buddhist temples along the Philosopher’s Walk, is particularly popular in fall, with its grand staircase and entry gate framed by vast canopies of fiery-red Japanese maple trees. Two large, rectangular white-sand mounds along the central path are periodically raked by monks into new designs; last fall, a maple leaf was outlined on one and a ginkgo leaf on the other against backgrounds of ridges.

The high priest, Kajita Shinsho, who lives there with his family, had a private courtyard with a veranda that needed a garden, and in March 2023, he engaged Marc Peter Keane, an American landscape architect now living in Kyoto, to design it. A graduate of Cornell University, Keane has lived in Japan for almost 20 years and specializes in Japanese garden design. Like Shigemori, he has immersed himself in Japanese culture. His home and studio are now permanently in Kyoto.

Only three old, gnarled camellia trees remained on the rectangular site, with blossoms in season ranging from dark rose to pale pink and white. Keane’s idea was to represent the constant flux of nature, exemplified for him by the carbon cycle — the process by which carbon travels from the air into organisms and back into air. His garden, titled “Empty River,” creates what he described as “a physical expression of this invisible cycle through a river of pure carbon charcoal.”

He traced by foot a narrow serpentine “river” that winds around the roots and trunks of the camellias, and with the short charcoal sticks he placed in the long groove, it cuts a strong black line through a blend of fine brown and white gravel. There are no rocks, only small stones framing the courtyard and plantings, with Andromeda ferns in the corners. Its starkness is its beauty, softened only when camellia petals are strewed across the gravel in April.

Keane compares this distillation of design and materials to a haiku, the Japanese three-lined poem. But like the gardens of old, it also expresses the Buddhist concept of emptiness.

At Tofuku-ji, a temple, in the city’s southeastern district, Shigemori designed the garden of the Hojo, the Abbot’s Hall, as early as 1939, using materials found on site. His avant-garde vocabulary of straight lines and grids may have seemed sensational then, but it is beloved now for its harmonious vitality.

From the first veranda, you overlook the southern garden, with clusters of mostly jagged vertical rocks and ripples of raked gravel radiating out, terminating at the far end with five mossy mounds like sacred mountains in the sea. In the western garden, squarely trimmed azaleas alternate with square fields of white gravel, reflecting ancient land-division customs. Azaleas in Japan are closely clipped, so these bloom in gorgeous flat surfaces of deep pink.

Next, a vast checkerboard field of leftover square paving stones embedded in a carpet of moss seems to dwindle off to infinity in the northern garden. And finally, to the east, a pattern of stone pillar foundations recreates the Big Dipper constellation, with gravel raked in concentric circles around each pillar to emphasize its individuality.

Ukifune Garden

Keane’s 2022 Ukifune Garden (Drifting Boat Garden) is an allegorical interpretation of the chapter by the same name from “The Tale of Genji,” Murasaki Shikibu’s 11th-century novel about Prince Hikaru (which means “Shining”) Genji, and his tempestuous romantic and political life at court.

Keane designed it as the Zen courtyard garden of the Genji Kyoto hotel , opened in April 2022, on the banks of the Kamo River, near where Genji builds his own grand estate and gardens in the book. Designed by American architect Geoffrey Moussas, who also lives in Kyoto, the hotel’s plan incorporates the indoor-outdoor characteristics of Kyoto’s old merchant houses.

Keane was inspired by the “Genji” scene in which one of two powerful dignitaries vying for the favor of Ukifune, a woman of 22, travels through a snowstorm and absconds with her by boat on the Uji River. As they pass the Isle of Orange Trees, she recites a poem in which she likens herself to the drifting boat: “The enduring hue of the Isle of Orange Trees may well never change, / yet there is no knowing now where the drifting boat is bound.”

Keane consulted with John Carpenter, curator of Japanese art at New York City’s Metropolitan Museum of Art, who told him of the late-16th-century “Genji” screen painting by Tosa Mitsuyoshi in the museum’s collection illustrating this famous scene. A copy of the panel now hangs in Kyoto next to the garden.

Keane installed a swerving “river” with gray river stones set ingeniously on edge rather than flat, giving the flow a greater sense of direction. The garden is set between two wings of the hotel, and the “water” appears to tumble down like a waterfall from one building into the next with a wide, flat steel bridge above, a viewing platform bringing the design to life. The banks on either side are densely planted with maple trees, lady palms, ferns and ground-cover moss. And a boat-shaped stone carries a large patch of moss, which Keane interprets as Earth drifting through the galaxy.

The gardens at Zuiho-in and the Tofuku-ji Abbot’s Hall garden require tickets. The entrance fee at both is 400 yen (about $2.65) for adults and 300 yen (about $2) for children.

General admission to Honen-in is free, except for during the spring and fall opening weeks, which usually fall during the first week of April and the third week of November and cost 500 yen for spring and 800 yen for fall. The Empty River garden can be visited during those weeks.

The Genji Kyoto hotel garden is free to visit.

If you get hungry while touring gardens, Izusen , a restaurant in the Daiji-in subtemple of the Daitoku-ji monastery complex, offers multiple local specialties in set menus beautifully presented in mostly lacquered red bowls, which nest when empty. Open 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. by reservation; 4,370 to 8,050 yen. It is near Zuiho-in.

Also by reservation, Yudofu Kisaki , a restaurant between the entrance to Honen-in and the Philosopher’s Walk, has vegetarian and tofu specialties. Open 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., last order at 6 p.m.; 4,370 to 8,050 yen.

For a companionable book to read on your tour, Nobel Prize-winning novelist Yasunari Kawabata’s post-World War II novel “The Rainbow” is newly available in English. Several chapters take place in Kyoto, and it can feel as if you are traveling together, often in the same gardens. Kawabata’s knowledge of plants was formidable, and the simplicity of his descriptions both natural and direct: “On the lawn in front of the gate, in the shadows of the pine trees, dandelions and lotuses were in bloom. A double-flowered camellia had blossomed in front of the bamboo fence.”

Deitz is a freelance writer. This article appeared in The New York Times.

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16 Japanese Cities To Visit Besides Tokyo And Kyoto

• Osaka: Experience incredible nightlife and outstanding cuisine in this seaside city known for its energetic atmosphere and delicious food.
• Naoshima: Discover the art island with its galleries, sculptures, and installations, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and sea views.
• Himeji: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site Himeji-jo castle and explore the picturesque Mount Shosha and Kokoen garden for a diverse cultural experience.

As Japan finally opens its borders to eager travelers after one of the strictest lockdowns that the world has seen, most itineraries focus on the shopping districts of Tokyo and the Buddhist temples of Kyoto. Occasionally, the street food of Osaka might make it to the list.

Few consider venturing beyond the big cities of Tokyo and Kyoto, but for those who dare try, thrilling adventures await in Japan's best cities. From former homes of samurai warriors and current cities of geishas, hot springs spas, traditional architecture, and ski mountains — these cities deserve a spot on everyone’s Japanese bucket list.

UPDATE: 2023/10/09 19:32 EST BY MARIA BOU INK

Japan's beauty is not limited to Tokyo and Kyoto. The country is a hub of wonderful towns that are worth a trip. Therefore, this list was updated to include two of the best cities to visit in Japan besides Tokyo and Kyoto.

Related: Beautiful Tourist Pics Showcasing The Best Things Japan Is Known For

If tourists want to sample some of the greatest cuisine and beverages Japan has to offer, they should head over to Osaka , a seaside city famed for its incredible nightlife and outstanding cuisine. Tokyo's big-city energy is also present here but on a little lesser scale. This way, tourists can visit cities in Japan other than Tokyo and Kyoto while having the same vibes and escaping the crowds. Tourists are recommended to visit the Osaka Castle and Park in between all of their eating and exploring. It is one of the most well-known sights in Japan and is definitely worth visiting.

• Some attractions: Tempozan Ferris Wheel, Universal Studio Japan, Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, etc.

The island of Naoshima, which is reachable via ferry, is a wonderful location. The area is referred to as the art island, and tourists may find galleries, sculptures, and installations everywhere they go, especially if they stay at the upscale Benesse House, which serves as both a hotel and a museum of modern art. On the island, there are two towns, both of which include charming stores and little restaurants. There are also sea views everywhere, which enhances the tranquil atmosphere.

• Some attractions: The Yellow Pumpkin, Chichu Art Museum, Naoshima Public Bath I Love Yu, etc.

Home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site castle , Himeji is worth a special trip for the Himeji-jo castle alone. Widely considered to be the finest example of 17th-century feudal-era Japanese architecture that still survives, Himeji-jo may be the reason tourists visit this city in Japan, but Himeji gives them several reasons to stay. On the outskirts of the city is the picturesque Mount Shosha, with a Buddhist temple at its peak. And if a hike isn’t someone’s cup of tea, tourists can spend a day at the Kokoen garden, which is made of nine walled gardens connected by a network of streams, waterfalls, and ponds and sits on the former feudal lord’s residence.

• Some attractions: Himeji Castle, Engyoji, Himeji Central Park, etc.

Related: Three Days In Japan: 10 Cities You Can Explore In Only 72 Hours

Matsue’s location on a peninsula by the Sea of Japan with Lake Shinji on its west and Lake Nakaumi on the east has given the city another name: The City of Water. While the water bodies that surround it have given Matsue its second name, there are also water bodies within the city. Canals with boat tours for tourists flow through the city, old samurai houses flank its streets, and Matsue is home to one of only twelve medieval castles that are preserved in their original state in Japan. But that’s not all: the city has long attracted curious travelers with its rich myths and legends related to Matsue being the place where Japanese gods descend.

• Some attractions: Matsue-jō Castle, Yuushien, Yaegaki Shrine, etc.

Yokohama is the second-largest Japanese city and the first to have opened its ports to the world at the end of the Edo Period. The port city quickly transformed from a small fishing village to a major city when foreign trade introduced new cultures to the old Japanese traditions of the village. As a result, Yokohama offers a contrast between old and new, and travelers can explore the streets of Yokohama to see the Western influence on the Japanese way of life everywhere. Tourists can visit traditional Japanese gardens and tea rooms, ramen and instant cup noodle museums, giant ferry wheels reminiscent of the London Eye, and one of the largest Chinatowns in the whole country.

• Some attractions: Shin Yokohama Ramen Museum, Yokohama Chinatown, Yokohama Cosmoworld, etc.

For those who like the crowds of Tokyo but wish for a city just a tad more quite than the Japanese capital, Fukuoka’s contemporary attractions make it the ideal city. Fukuoka is Japan’s eighth most populous city and balances urban life with the natural beauty that is synonymous with Japan. The port city is filled with hot springs, hike trails, tea plantations, and sake breweries. But the best part, perhaps, is the fact that Fukuoka happens to be the city that invented tonkatsu ramen , so for those who’d like to slurp their way through Japan via its ramen, Fukuoka has to be the starting place.

• Some attractions: Ohori Park, Marine World, Uminonakamichi Seaside Park, etc.

Hokkaido is an island region of Japan that is known for its hot springs, ski mountains, and volcanoes. Hakodate — located on the island’s southern tip — is one of the largest cities in Hokkaido and was voted Japan’s most attractive city in 2015. Visitors can hike to Mount Hakodate and enjoy spectacular views of the city surrounded by the sea, soak in the hot springs, go down ski slopes, or take in the views of the Mount Komagatake volcano from the lakes of Onuma Park. The best part of the port city, however, is its food. Surrounded by the sea, Hakodate is famous for its freshly-caught seafood, and the Hakodate Morning Market is the best place to enjoy it.

• Some attractions: Goryokaku, Goryokaku Tower, Old Public Hall of Hakodate Ward, etc.

Related: After Cherry Blossom Season, Here Are 10 Unique Activities To Enjoy In Japan This Fall

Kyoto isn’t the only city in Japan famous for its Buddhist monasteries and temples. Formerly known as Heijo-Kyo , Nara was once Japan’s capital city and is now home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites . The Horyuji Area of Nara was the first to be on the list and includes 48 Buddhist sites, all of which are of immense importance to the Japanese culture and religion. Also on the list are areas with several temples and historical monuments from ancient times when Nara was still the capital, as well as pilgrimage routes and sites on the Kii Mountain. Tourists can end their tour of the temples and spiritual sites of Nara with a friendly visit to greet the deers at the Nara Park or stroll through Imaicho — a merchant town preserved from the Edo period that will take everyone back in time.

• Some attractions: Today-ji, Nara Park, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, etc.

Nagasaki is most often associated with the atomic bomb and the tragedy that followed. Still, the city has a lot more to offer beyond the Atomic Bomb Museum and the Nagasaki Peace Park, which attract most tourists. Not only is the city home to several stunning islands off its coast, but Nagasaki has consistently ranked on top of the list of places with the best night views in Japan . Travelers can hop onto a ropeway to the peak of Mount Inasa and enjoy spectacular views of Nagasaki as it lights up after sunset. More surprisingly, however, Japan’s first and oldest Chinatown happens to be in Nagasaki, and it has continued to serve Japanese-Chinese fusion foods since the 17th century.

• S ome attractions: Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum, Peace Park, Glover Garden, etc.

For those whose idea of a holiday in Japan includes spending hours soaking in hot water springs, Beppu is the place to be. Beppu’s gushes of hot spring water rank second highest in the world and the highest in Japan, gushing more than 100,000 liters of water each minute through thousands of hot springs. Not only does the abundance of hot springs make Beppu the Onsen City of Japan, but Beppu also has several boiling ponds known as Jigoku or hell. Locals use these Jigoku ponds for cooking food as well, giving rise to a culinary custom known as Jigoku-Mushi, or hell-steaming, that is peculiar to Beppu.

• Some attractions: Kannawa Hot Springs, Beppu Ropeway, Shidaka Lake, etc.

Takayama is several things: A city surrounded by the Japanese Alps, Japan’s ski destination, home to bustling morning markets and festivals dating back to the 1600s, and a place where Japanese tradition flourishes through some of the country’s most beautifully preserved villages. Takayama’s Sanmachi area, in particular, houses preserved thatched-roof houses from which antique dealers and artisans sell their wares, and hidden cafes and brewers dish out hot coffees and icy sake to any visitors who manage to spot them.

• Some attractions: Takayama Jinya, Hida Folk Village, Shinhotaka Ropeway, etc.

The city that served as the seat of the second most powerful feudal clan in Japan during the Edo period, Kanazawa has always been a place of great cultural significance in Japan. More importantly, Kanazawa was the second largest city after Kyoto, which managed to remain safe from the bombings of World War II. As a result, most of the city’s old castles, gardens, samurai, and geisha districts have survived the test of time. That being said, Kanazawa also houses the iconic 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art and is the city where traditional teahouses and crafts, including Kaga-yuzen (a silk dying technique), ohi ware (tea ceremony bowls), and gold leaf production continue to prosper.

• Some attractions: Kenroku-en, Higashi Chaya District, Myouryouji, etc.

Related: Unwind & Relax In Japan: The Best Onsens To Soothe Your Soul

Shirakawa-go

Shirakawa-go is not a city but a traditional Japanese alpine village stuck in time . It is part of a national park and is a great place to visit to see the way things used to be in Japan. Here (and its sister village Gokayama), visitors may feel like they are living in the world of the 2003 movie, The Last Samurai starring Tom Cruise (although it was actually filmed in New Zealand).

These traditional villages are UNESCO World Heritage Listed and are a great example of how Japan works to preserve its heritage.

• Some attractions: Wada House, Gassho-zukuri Minkaen, Myozenji, etc.

Hiroshima is one of only two cities to ever be hit with a nuclear bomb . It is also a testament to how cities can bounce back from destruction, being today a thriving city of over one million people. It was founded in 1589 as a castle town but transformed into a major industrial hub (which made it a target for nuclear bombing).

Today visitors can see the UNESCO World Heritage Listed Hiroshima Peace Memorial and commemorate the bombing wishing for such destruction to never again return to this planet.

• Some attractions: Peace Memorial Park, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, Atomic Bomb Dome, etc.

Sapporo is the capital of Japan's northern island of Hokkaido. It is the largest city north of Tokyo and is considered the cultural and economic center of Hokkaido. The city hosted the 1972 Winter Olympics and is one of the best places in Japan to enjoy the winter season. Come in early February and attend the Sapporo Snow Festival. The festival draws over 2 million visitors from far and wide. Additionally, Sapporo is home to the only beer museum in Japan - the Sapporo Beer Museum.

• Some attractions: Hokkaido Jingu, Moerenuma Park, Sapporo Beer Museum, etc.

Naha is the capital of the Okinawa Prefecture of Japan ( Okinawa is Japan's fifth major island ). The city has a population of around 300,000 and enjoys a humid subtropical climate (quite the opposite of Hokkaido's Sapporo). It is a stunning city and the gateway to Okinawa Island (which Americans may recall from the costly American invasion of the islands in World War Two). One of the top attractions in the city is the restored and rebuilt Shuri Castle (a former royal palace of the Ryukyu Kingdom).

• Some attractions: Shuri Castle, Naminoue Shrine, Okinawa Prefectural Museum & Art Museum, etc.

5 Big Budget Film Locations to Visit in the World

Published on april 24, 2024 at 6:59 pm by talha zubair in news.

This article looks at 5 big budget film locations to visit in the world . If you wish to check out our detailed analysis of experiential travel and set jetting, you may head over to 25 Big Budget Film Locations to Visit in the World .

5. Kyoto, Japan

Insider Monkey Score: 10.62

Related Movie/ Show: Memoirs of a Geisha (2005)

While the majority of the movie was filmed in California, several sequences from the movie were captured into the cultural paradise of Kyoto. This includes the iconic scene in the movie where Chiyo sprints through 10,000 lucky red gates in order to reach the Fushimi Inari shrine. Apart from their religious and cultural value, these gates are now an iconic film location, perfect for a set jetting experience.

Published on April 11, 2024 at by Inan Dogan, PhD

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• News from Kyoto City

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"Getting from Kyoto Station to Kiyomizu Temple: A Relaxing Route to the Temple that Avoids Heavy Traffic"

"getting from kyoto station to arashiyama & sagano: take a fun detour via the subway and randen", "getting from kyoto station to kinkaku-ji temple: take it easy and visit a shrine for good luck".