It’s historical, it’s zen, it’s Japan’s cultural heart of Kyoto.
Beige facades and cobblestone alleys greeted me as I looked out the window upon entering Kyoto. This was my first visit to the historic Japanese city, and at first glance, ‘quiet minimalism’ was the phrase that came to mind. That said, I soon discovered Kyoto has many sides. By day, ancient shrines and traditional tea ceremonies deserve a spot on any travel itinerary; by night, quaint watering holes vie for your attention with unique cordials and lively beats. For a taste of this peaceful city where tradition intertwines with modernity, here are the best attractions in Kyoto I recommend visiting…
The ultimate first-timer’s guide to Kyoto: Best attractions
1. Kiyomizudera
With a magnificent view of the city, this beautiful attraction in Kyoto is a sight to behold. Kiyomizudera (“Pure Water Temple”) overlooks the city with an iconic wooden stage that provides the best vantage point. A world heritage site with over 1,200 years of history, exploring its storied halls is like travelling back in time. Its many shrines welcome you in to pray for luck, love, success and more. Tip: plan your trip to coincide with the special night viewing of this temple (which only happens thrice a year) for a mesmerising view of its halls and the city below.
Kiyomizudera, 1-294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0862, Japan
2. Fushimi Inari Taisha
Mention Kyoto and people will likely think of the bright orange torii gates of Fushimi Inari Taisha. If you’re only hitting up one torii gate photo op on your Kyoto trip, make it this one. Located at the base of Mount Inari, the meandering path of a thousand torii gates leads to a shrine dedicated to the Shinto god of rice, as well as a picturesque view atop the Yotsutsuji intersection. There are also teahouses, restaurants and souvenir shops along the hike to keep you going. Fun fact: this was the famous filming location of the movie, Memoirs of a Geisha!
Fushimi Inari Taisha, 68 Fukakusa Yabunouchi-cho, Fushimi-ku, Kyoto, 612-0882, Japan
3. Higashima & Gion
Higashima captivated me with its old world charm. With traditional houses, narrow lanes and hidden shrines aplenty, this district transported me to ancient Kyoto where geishas roam the streets (they still do – spot them around Gion, a popular tourist destination in the northwest of Higashima). Take a tour of this district for a historical peek into Kyoto’s past. While you’re there, enjoy pitstops at charming cafes, traditional tea houses, and artisanal boutiques that line the streets.
4. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Here’s an unmissable Kyoto attraction for nature lovers: the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove features an enchanting pathway of towering bamboo trees, offering a verdant canopy and crisp fresh breeze. For the best snaps, take a stroll during golden hour to capture the dappled golden rays filtering in through the greenery. (But if you wanna beat the crowd, early morning hikes are your best bet.) When you’re out of the forest, make a visit to the nearby Nonomiya Shrine to make your wishes for love.
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8394, Japan
5. Tenryuji
One of Kyoto’s five great zen temples, Tenryuji is a world heritage site that’s just a walk away from the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. Originally built in 1339 (and rebuilt multiple times after wars and fires), much of Tenryuji’s halls today date from the Meiji Period. On the other hand, its beautifully landscaped garden has survived centuries in its original state. Enjoy the serene pond flanked by pine trees, forested mountains and historical architecture.
Tenryuji, 68 Sagatenryūji Susukinobabachō, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8385, Japan
6. Kinkakuji
The golden pagoda of Kinkakuji (“Temple of the Golden Pavilion”) is hard to miss. At this palatial attraction in Kyoto, tickets come in the form of a protective amulet, which honours its heritage as a Buddhist temple. With pavilions and gardens telling stories of the Kamakura period, the Edo period and beyond, it’s no surprise that this was designated as a Unesco World Heritage Site in 1994. Even the trees are an attraction: keep an eye out for the rare Querus gilva beech trees that were designated natural monuments in 1983.
Kinkakuji, 1 Kinkakujichō, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 603-8361, Japan
The ultimate first-timer’s guide to Kyoto: Where to eat
7. Yuuhisai Koukoudan
No Kyoto itinerary is complete without a tea ceremony. I had my first-ever experience at Yuuhisai Koukoudan and it blew me away with its intricacies. It began with a detailed tour of the heritage-rich compound, a sharing of the tea ceremony’s history, a serving of delicately crafted wagashi sweets, and concluded with the brewing of aromatic matcha tea. I was told that each tea cup is different here. You may end up drinking out of the same cup used by famous names like David Beckham!
Yuuhisai Koukoudan, 524-1 Mototsuchimikadochō, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto 602-8006, Japan
8. Suba
When it’s cold out, there are few things better than slurping down a piping hot bowl of delicious soba. And Suba delivers. The tempura soba was probably my favourite meal of my Kyoto trip (the rainy weather might have something to do with it). Take your pick between hot and cold noodles. The menu also features cold soba noodles with a dipping sauce, which my travel companions raved about.
Suba, 182-10 Minoyacho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8015, Japan
9. Tsudaro
You can’t miss trying a kaiseki meal when you’re travelling to Japan. Tsudaro is a popular pick in Kyoto, featuring a multi-course meal served in a historical geisha house. Dropping by for lunch was a delectable treat. I tried seasonal starters (think: sea bream roe, dried mullet and more) and savoury delights (like seasonal fish marinated in miso). Expect exquisitely plated creations that are delicately crafted to highlight the fresh, natural flavours of each ingredient.
Tsudaro, 570-121 Gionmachi Minamigawa, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0074, Japan
10. Kyo Unawa
Eel is one of the must-try foods in Kyoto, and Kyo Unawa is the place to savour this well-loved delicacy. The set meal comes with starters like sashimi and tofu, as well as sides including rice and pickles. Of course, you can’t miss the star of the table: beautifully grilled, fork-tender eel slices glazed with a sweet and savoury sauce. Pair it with a slice of pickle and a spoonful of rice for the ideal bite. Tip: this is a crowd-favourite, so make your reservations early to secure a table.
Kyo Unawa, 553-2 Yaoyachō, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8123, Japan
11. Kichi Kichi Omurice
The fluffy open omelette at Kichi Kichi Omurice is the stuff of (Internet) legend. If you’ve seen *that* viral video, you’ll understand the craving for this restaurant’s signature dish. The chef makes possibly the best omurice ever, with a perfectly cooked omelette served on a bed of rice, sliced open to reveal the delicate, fluffy and slightly runny egg spilling onto your plate. Put this on your list of things to eat in Kyoto, stat.
Kichi Kichi Omurice, 185-4 Zaimokucho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8017, Japan
12. Tenkaippin
You know a place is good when it’s recommended by a local. Tenkaippin was that find for me, recommended by the friendly bar owner at So-B Pub (more on this below!). The ramen boasts the rich, umami tonkotsu broth that’s unlike the usual, paired with al dente noodles. Psst: if you’re short on time, picking up the cup noodle version of this renowned dish might be the next best thing.
Tenkaippin, multiple locations
13. Nishiki Market
Grilled seafood, pickled bites, oden soup, traditional sweets, matcha brews, local sake… Nishiki Market is a food lover’s haven in Kyoto. I’d say dedicate the entire afternoon to exploring the whole stretch and sampling the treats on offer. Come hungry ‘cos there’s plenty to savour!
Nishiki Market, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8055, Japan
14. Convenience stores
If this were any other city, you likely wouldn’t find me popping into a convenience store for a meal on a vacay. But, this is Japan, where the convenience store aisles are chock full of delectable – even artisanal – treats. You’ll find full-on bento meals, decadent multi-layered parfaits and more incredible nosh. My favourite? The fluffy fruit sandwiches stuffed with airy whipped cream and juicy pieces of strawberries and mangoes.
Convenience stores: Family Mart, Lawson, 7-Eleven
The ultimate first-timer’s guide to Kyoto: Where to drink
15. Pontocho Alley
The best area to hit up for buzzin’ watering holes? Pontocho Alley. Tucked away along the cobbled streets, vibrant izakayas and quaint cocktail bars are waiting to be explored. So save your nights for a different boozy discovery each time – I’d say this alley is one of Kyoto’s best attractions in itself.
Pontocho Alley, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8014, Japan
16. Bee’s Knees
If you’re curious about the scene at the 47th best bar on Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2022 list, Bee’s Knees is worth a peep. Punchy liquid statements include classic concoctions with a twist: think Manhattan with PB&J, or negroni with houji tea.
Bee’s Knees, 364 Kamiyachō, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-0961, Japan
17. Bar K6
Up a narrow, unassuming flight of stairs, Bar K6 offers the kind of upscale ambience that evokes ‘old money’ vibes. Swing by in your classiest outfit and sip on its selection of sakes, rare malts, creative cocktails or the poison of your choice.
Bar K6, 481 Nijo Dori, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-0922, Japan
18. So-B
Unlike the other well-known names, this bar was a surprise find during my leisurely stroll. Operating out of the owner’s abode, the hidden gem features an eclectic interior (with retro toys and knick knacks adorning every ledge). And the local hospitality is incredible. The menu is compact, but what sold it for me was the friendliness of the locals. The bar owner and his friends invited us in on a random night and kept the laughs going with their surprising antics and entertaining anecdotes.
So-B, 501-6 Kami Korikicho, Kiyamachidori Oike-Agaru, Nakagyo-Ku, Kyoto 604-0961 Kyoto Prefecture
The ultimate first-timer’s guide to Kyoto: Where to stay
19. Hilton Garden Inn Kyoto Shijo Karasuma
During my visit to Kyoto, I stayed in Hilton Garden Inn Kyoto Shijo Karasuma and absolutely loved it. Modern decor, attentive service and a stellar location made it the perfect base to explore the city. If you’re looking for a convenient stay, this hotel is located within walking distance of some of Kyoto’s best attractions like Higashima and Nishiki Market!
Its spacious rooms provide a cosy home away from home, featuring a minimalist interior with a touch of wood and emerald green accents. Brownie points for the plush bed – I loved sinking into it after a day of exploration to enjoy supper and a movie.
The restaurant at the lobby, Together & Co, offers all-day dining options. The morning buffet spread includes the usual breakfast treats like scrambled eggs and pastries, alongside Japanese staples like miso soup and fishcakes. At lunch and dinner, I loved the seasonal grills and pasta with chirimen and shabazuke. If you’re keen on a tipple sans the commute, there are boozy cordials on the menu too. I recommend the hoshizora no wa spritzer for a refreshing sip.
Hilton Garden Inn Kyoto Shijo Karasuma, 397 Gojokarasumacho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto 600-8418, Japan
As a first-timer of the city, Kyoto’s best attractions captivated me with their rich culture and heritage. Exploring ancient sites from centuries past was like stepping into the pages of a history book. But what made my trip memorable was the delightful friendliness of its people. If you’ve yet to travel to Kyoto, I’ll say this: come for the mesmerising sights, stay (or return) for the charming hospitality.
