Looking for an unforgettable time in Japan? Amp up your travel itinerary with the best things to do in Kyoto.
So, you’re part of the horde of tourists heading to Japan in 2023! We can’t blame you for getting excited – after all, we’re so in love with this beautiful country. If you’ve already explored the buzzing city of Tokyo and had your fill of delish street food in Osaka, put this historical city next on your list. Here’s a fun-filled guide to all the best attractions and things to do in Kyoto.
Best things to do in Kyoto
1. Fushimi Inari Taisha
Even if you’ve never set foot in Japan before, we’re sure you’ve caught sight of these famous red torii gates. This place has been a hot spot for tourists since it appeared in the hit film Memoirs of a Geisha back in 2005. Pass through the densely packed Senbon torii (thousand gates) and make your way to the inner shrine. Here, you can purchase fox-shaped ema (wooden plaques) to write your wishes on.
Fushimi Inari Taisha, 68 Fukakusa Yabunouchicho, Fushimi Ward, Kyoto, 612-0882, Japan
2. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
If you’re looking for things to do in Kyoto that are Instagram-worthy, head downtown for a peek at this stunning landmark. Thousands of bamboo plants tower over the heads of tourists at the magnificent Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Rent kimonos at shops close by and snap pics at the famed Bamboo Alley. We recommend coming here early to avoid the crowds (or you’ll catch smartphones and selfie sticks instead of bamboo trees).
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, 6 Sagakamenoocho, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto, 616-8386, Japan
3. Kiyomizu-dera Temple
If you find yourself in Kyoto during the cherry blossom season around end-March or early April, the wooden stage at Kiyomizu-dera Temple is a fantastic vantage point to catch trees in bloom. Pop over to visit this Unesco World Heritage Site and explore its storied halls that have been around for over 1,200 years. Got more time on your hands? Make your way to the nearby Zuigu-do Hall. For a 100 yen entrance fee, you’ll get to walk into a pitch black tunnel that symbolises the womb of the bodhisattva.
Kiyomizu-dera Temple, 1 Chome-294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0862, Japan
4. Higashiyama District
You’ll be whisked back in time to ancient Japan at Higashiyama District. We recommend you put this preserved historic neighbourhood on your list of things to do in Kyoto. There are plenty of narrow lanes flanked by traditional merchant shops to explore, and you can pick up crafts, traditional sweets, and lovely handcrafted pottery to take home. The best part? You’ll catch sight of the beautiful Yasaka Pagoda – an iconic landmark of this district.
Higashiyama District, 294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, Japan
5. Kyoto Tower
Take in the entirety of Kyoto and all its beauty at the top of this attraction. It’s the tallest structure in the city and even houses a three-star hotel. Make your way to the observation deck for 360-degree views of Japan’s former capital. There are free-to-use telescopes sitting around to give you a closer look at the city’s charming sights. You can catch a glimpse of Kiyomizu-dera Temple’s main building from there!
Kyoto Tower, 721-1 Higashishiokojicho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8216, Japan
6. Nishiki Market
Step into “Kyoto’s Kitchen” at Nishiki Market. This fresh food market street located in central Kyoto is home to more than a hundred shops and restaurants. You’ll be treated to an array of fresh or dried seafood, delish sushi and seasonal produce that’s all locally procured. Hot tip: stop at Kyoto Matcha Sweets Sawawa for amazing warabi mochi and matcha ice cream.
Nishiki Market, 609 Nishidaimonjicho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8054, Japan
7. Nijo Castle
History buffs and architecture geeks should put Nijo Castle on their list. This striking building was the residence of the first shogun of the Edo Period, Tokugawa Ieyasu. Surrounded by stone walls and a moat, it’s beautifully preserved and looks like it’s straight out of a fairytale. The nightingale floors in some corridors and hallways are also a distinct feature. They emit a chirping sound when stepped on – a helpful security measure against intruders in ancient Kyoto.
Nijo Castle, 541 Nijojocho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture 604-8301, Japan
8. Kinkaku-ji
This impressive golden pavilion in Kyoto has two top floors that are covered in gold leaf – talk about opulent! Each floor features different architectural designs such as the Shinden style from the Heian period, and Bukke style from samurai residences. Need a tea break? Venture through the surrounding gardens and you’ll find Sekkatei Teahouse where you can sit for delish matcha tea and sweets.
Kinkaku-ji, 1 Kinkakujicho, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 603-8361, Japan
9. Kyoto International Manga Museum
Embrace your inner otaku at Kyoto Manga Museum. There’s even a wall of manga that features 50,000 books (what!). Keep an eye out for its ever-changing exhibitions that showcase works from well-loved manga artists. Recent ones include installations by Kaoru Mori and Murakami Tomohiko.
Kyoto International Manga Museum, Nakagyo Ward, Kinbukicho, 604-0846, Kyoto, Japan
10. Fushimi Sake District
Kyoto’s always been known as a major sake production site, so you’ll find plenty of old breweries here, especially in the Fushimi Sake District. You’ve got to sign up for a sake tasting tour to fully appreciate this area. We like this one by By Food. It’ll take you to small and large sake breweries to savour amazing sake. You’ll even get to visit the Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum.
Fushimi Sake District, 82-2 Hiranocho, Fushimi Ward, Kyoto, 612-8057, Japan
Have a whale of a time checking out the best things to do and attractions in Kyoto!