Kyoto is a major center of Japanese culture, a mystical city where traditional arts thrive and ancient temples dot the landscape. But it’s also a big, modern city. Think of this Kyoto travel guide as an introduction with some advice on planning your stay in Japan’s ancient capital. I only spent a short time in Kyoto on my trip to Japan, but I learned a lot in the process.
If you’re planning a trip to Japan, make sure to also check out my 10-day itinerary for some ideas.
Overview
Kyoto is more or less on a grid, with the Kamo River running north-south through the city. Orient yourself around the river. On the eastern side is Higashiyama District, the part of town with traditional architecture and many temples. All those Instagram pictures of Kyoto you saw? Probably from Higashiyama.
On the western side, you have the modern city and Kyoto Station. Chances are you’ll be arriving at Kyoto Station, a huge train station that connects to the shinkansen bullet train. North of there is Downtown Kyoto, worth visiting for the shopping and dining.
I recommend staying in one of these central areas, on the eastern side in Higashiyama or on the western side in either Downtown Kyoto or near Kyoto Station. More on that below. Staying in one of these areas, many of the best sights will be within walking distance or a short ride on the subway/train.
Things to Do in Kyoto
Kyoto’s Shrines and Temples
The “must-see” attractions of Kyoto are its incredible shrines and temples. Kyoto was the capital of Japan for around 1000 years, from the late 700s until the mid 1800s. During this time, religious leaders established important sites that still play an important role in the spiritual life of Japan. Today there are more than 1500 shrines and temples in Kyoto!
What are shrines and temples?
In general, there are two different types of traditional religious sites. Shrines are associated with the Shinto religion, a very old religion founded in Japan. Shrines are believed to be places where deities or spirits called kami live.
On the other hand, temples are places associated with Buddhism. The religion came to Japan from China and Korea around the 6th century. Buddhist temples are places of worship and meditation, usually with sacred objects like sculptures. Some of the larger temples are part of monasteries, where monks live and work.
Though these sites are separate, most Japanese people observe both Shinto and Buddhist traditions.
How can you visit shrines and temples?
Visiting is easy. Both shrines and temples keep regular daytime hours, and some are open at night as well. They are usually free or cost a small entry fee of a few hundred yen ($2-3 USD).
Some shrines and temples have short guides or signs in English, but not all. When in doubt, observe what others are doing. Always be respectful when entering a shrine or temple and avoid speaking loudly.
Which ones should you visit?
Kyoto has hundreds of shrines and temples, some of which are world famous. The most important shrine is Fushimi Inari shrine. It’s famous for the thousands of vermillion red torii gates that line the walking paths. Hiking up the main path, you’ll pass lots of smaller shrines and statues on your way to a sweeping viewpoint.
Kyoto has many important Buddhist temples that represent the centers of zen Buddhism. A few to consider visiting:
- Kodaji – Located in central Higashiyama, Kodaji is an important zen temple with beautiful architecture and grounds. It even has its own bamboo grove!
- Kiyomizu-dera – Probably the most popular temple. Kiyomizu-dera has several gorgeous buildings nestled in Kyoto’s hillside. It’s famous for a waterfall said to bring good fortune.
- Nanzenji – Located in northern Higashiyama, Nanzenji is a sprawling temple complex with rock gardens and a historic aqueduct. It’s close to one end of the Philosopher’s Path walking trail.
- Tofukuji – It’s one of the oldest temples in Kyoto and has incredible zen gardens. Tofukuji is also famous for its sanmon gate built in 1425. The temple is close to Fushimi Inari shrine.
- Kinkakuji – An iconic temple famous because it’s literally covered in gold. To visit the striking Kinkakuji you’ll have to get across town and take the bus. (Or walk a long way!)
If you’re pressed for time, I suggest visiting Fushimi Inari shrine and focusing on one of the major temples (Kodaji, Kiyomizu-dera, Nanzenji, Tofukuji, or Kinkakuji). Also consider visiting a less famous temple for a more unique and less crowded experience. Try the one closest to your hotel!
There is also a small shrine conveniently located by Nishiki Market (see below).
Kyoto’s Castles
There are two major castles in Kyoto: Nijo Castle and the Imperial Palace. Why two? Well, during the Edo Period Japan had an emperor but real political power was held by the Tokugawa shogunate. Tokugawa Ieyasu was a military leader who consolidated power to rule all of Japan, and he wanted his own fancy castle in Kyoto near the emperor’s place. Ok, history lesson over.
Nijo Castle (Nijo-jo) offers an amazing window into the world of feudal Japan. You can tour the shogun’s palace, where murals decorate the rooms and sliding doors. The wooden floors were designed to squeak so that intruders couldn’t sneak in. Take that, ninjas! Outside are impressive stone walls and gardens. I recommend getting an audio guide or joining an English language tour to get the most out of your visit.
Kyoto Imperial Palace has famously beautiful gardens, but the buildings are not open to visitors. If you’d like to stroll through the gardens and see some impressive buildings from the outside, check it out.
Nishiki Market
The hub of all things tasty in Kyoto is Nishiki Market. Located in Downtown Kyoto, the market is home to a huge range of food stalls, produce stands, and other shops. It’s the perfect place to grab lunch or shop for a few souvenirs.
Make sure to stop by Aritsugu, where you can shop for top-quality kitchen knives made by master bladesmiths.
Another stop to make is at Nishiki Tenmangu shrine, a small Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of learning. Follow the beautiful lanterns to find the shrine tucked in next to the busy market. If you’d like, pay a few yen to the robotic fortune teller to learn your fortune!
The Kyoto Samurai and Ninja Museum (below) is located next to the market also.
Other Experiences
Kyoto Samurai and Ninja Museum – Let’s be honest: most of us have seen samurais and ninjas in media. And they’re cool, right? The Kyoto Samurai and Ninja Museum brings you into the world of these legendary warriors with hands-on experiences. First, you’ll learn a bit about the history with a look at real arms and armor. After that, the basic experience includes a chance to try on samurai armor and throw ninja stars. The museum also offers upgraded experiences like learning to use a samurai sword!
Traditional Tea Ceremony – The ritual of making and drinking tea is an honored Japanese tradition. Chado (“the way of tea”) is a complex subject, with many variations and points of etiquette. Fortunately, several places in Kyoto offer visitors a chance to experience this tradition in a less formal setting. I went to Tea Ceremony Nagomi, where we got to make matcha and learn about the basics.
Wear a Kimono – You’ll see lots of people wearing the traditional clothing of Japan, the kimono or yukata, particularly in Higashiyama. If you’d like to join in this celebration of traditional dress, check out some options for kimono rental.
Getting Around Kyoto
Public transportation in Kyoto is excellent, but plan to do a lot of walking around the old city streets. Look up directions on Google Maps to see what options are available.
Your first option should be taking a subway/train. The Karasuma Line subway runs north-south parallel to the river on one side, connecting Kyoto Station with downtown Kyoto. On the other side of the river, the Keihan Line train also runs north-south through Higashiyama. The Tozai Line subway runs east-west through the middle.
There is also an extensive bus system. If you need to get somewhere farther afield, I’d look at the bus. I didn’t end up needed it on my trip.
A variety of discount transit passes are available. Since public transportation is relatively affordable, I found it more convenient to pay-as-you-go with an IC card. But if you’re doing a lot of sightseeing, it may be worth investigating if one of the passes is a good value for you.
Where to Stay in Kyoto
Gion/Southern Higashiyama
If you want to immerse yourself in Kyoto’s old-town vibes, stay around the Gion area of Higashiyama. Gion is Kyoto’s most famous geisha district, where traditional tea houses and restaurants dot the lantern-lined streets. You’ll be walking distance to many important temples too. Just be warned that hotels can get pricey. I stayed at one of the Rinn Gion properties and really loved it.
Downtown Kyoto
For a convenient location close to excellent dining options, stay in Downtown Kyoto. The area around Nishiki Market and Pontocho street has excellent restaurants, and the old town area of Gion is a short walk across the bridge. Two of the main subway lines cross at Karasuma Oike Station, so getting places is pretty easy. Downtown Kyoto is also home to a large shopping area.
Kyoto Station Area
If accessing Kyoto’s transportation network is important, consider staying near Kyoto Station. You’ll be able to easily catch a train to other areas of the city and beyond. The area around Kyoto Station lacks some of the charm of other areas, but there are still plenty of places to eat and shop nearby.
Eating in Kyoto
Eating is one of the best parts about visiting Kyoto and Japan in general. I can’t give a ton of specific recommendations, but here are some tips to get the most out of Kyoto food scene.
- Breakfast – For breakfast, recommend grabbing something from a convenience store. Whether you want to try a traditional onigiri rice ball or a western-style pastry, it’s a quick a delicious way to start a day of sightseeing.
- Lunch – If you’re going heavy on sightseeing, don’t overthink you lunch. There are many places to get a quick and delicious meal.
- Dinner – If you want to eat at a serious restaurant, seek out reservations in advance. Fancy restaurants in Gion book up, and not all of them readily accommodate English speakers. Ask at your hotel for help contacting a restaurant.
- Check out the Pontocho area for some excellent dinner options. It’s a traditional street in Downtown Kyoto where you find a variety of yakitori, sushi, and international restaurants.
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