Things to do in Kyoto Prefecture

Find and book activities, attractions and tours
Yasaka Shrine featuring a temple or place of worship and heritage architecture

Kyoto Prefecture Attractions

With so many amazing things to do in Kyoto Prefecture, you may need to consider staying an extra day or two. From excellent excursions to unforgettable tourist attractions, you'll feel like you've hit the sightseeing jackpot. Come up with a must-do list and embrace new adventures!

Explore the best sights in Kyoto Prefecture with some popular tours & day trips, or check out our list of {495 fun activities in Kyoto Prefecture fun activities in Kyoto Prefecture}. We have no booking fees as well as free cancellation, so you can rest easy and channel your energy into planning the ultimate vacation.



Most popular activities in Kyoto Prefecture

What to do in Kyoto Prefecture

Free Things to Do in Kyoto

Vacationing in Kyoto on a budget? The following can be experienced for nada.

Zohiko Urushi Art Museum - Find out if there are any special exhibitions or tours on at this museum.

Kyoto Art Center - This is a must-visit for culture vultures looking to add an artistic flourish to their trip.

Mirei Shigemori Residence - If you're curious about times gone by, this is one attraction you really should visit.

Okazaki Park - This bustling place is much loved by visitors and locals alike.

Takaragaike Park - Find a place to sit and enjoy the feeling of calm that comes with being around water.

Shiori-an - Chat to a local resident and learn why many sightseers stop to visit this place.

Goo Shrine - Take some time for a bit of prayer or meditation at this tranquil spiritual site.

Keage Incline - Kick back and let nature's rugged beauty here quieten your mind.

Funaokayama Park - If you enjoy working in your garden, this attraction will captivate your green thumb.

Things to Do in Kyoto Prefecture with Kids

There are lots of memorable experiences in Kyoto Prefecture that the entire gang will enjoy. These are some of the most popular family friendly experiences in the area.


 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Kyoto Prefecture? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 


 

Frequently asked questions

What to do in Kyoto Prefecture on a sunny day?
What to do in Kyoto Prefecture on a rainy day?
What is Kyoto Prefecture famous for?
Decisions, decisions — there are plenty to make in Kyoto Prefecture, such as which of these iconic attractions to see first:

  • Kiyomizu Temple
  • Nijō Castle
  • Kyoto Imperial Palace

What should I not miss in Kyoto Prefecture?
If you’re eager to explore the best of this place, find time for these attractions in your itinerary:

  • Kyoto Tower
  • Fushimi Inari Shrine
  • Heian Shrine
  • Sanjusangendo Temple

Are there cheap things to do in Kyoto Prefecture?
If you’re on a shoestring budget, consider adding the following affordable tours and activities to your itinerary:


What can you do in Kyoto Prefecture for free?
You’ll hardly have time to grab your wallet out of your bag with so many incredible free things to do:

  • Nishiki Market
  • Shijo Omiya
  • Pontocho
  • Yuhigaura Hot Springs


Discover the most popular places to visit in Kyoto Prefecture

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Kyoto Prefecture

Nijo Castle showing a park and a pond

Central Kyoto

4.5/5(1,806 area reviews)

Ancient temples blend with modern architectural treasures while markets, museums, dining and shopping streets showcase thousands of years of Japanese traditions. 

Central Kyoto
Gion which includes cycling, street scenes and night scenes

Gion

5/5(208 area reviews)

Experience a traditional tea ceremony or a night of cultural entertainment within the historic wooden teahouses of this well-preserved Kyoto district.

Gion
Kyoto Tower showing a city, night scenes and city views

Shimogyo Ward

4.5/5(96 area reviews)

Shimogyo Ward is highly notable for its popular shops, and you might want to visit top sights like Kawaramachi Street and Kyoto Railway Museum. See more of Kyoto by jumping on the metro at Tanbaguchi Station or Umekoji-Kyotonishi Station.

Shimogyo Ward
Shoren-in Temple which includes a temple or place of worship and signage

Higashiyama Ward

4.5/5(29 area reviews)

Nestled in the lower mountains of eastern Kyoto, this neighborhood is filled with temples, shrines, shops and a rich history of feudal Japan.

Higashiyama Ward
Central Kyoto

Karasuma

Experience sensory delights at the Kitchen of Kyoto, shop for souvenirs, take an art class and visit a sacred temple in this central neighborhood. 

Karasuma
Kyōto showing a river or creek and mountains

Nakagyo Ward

4.5/5(52 area reviews)

Travelers love Nakagyo Ward for its popular shops, and you can see more of Kyoto by jumping on the metro at Nijojo-mae Station or Karasuma Oike Station. You might spend time checking out top sights like Nishiki Market and Kawaramachi Street.

Nakagyo Ward

Popular day trips from Kyoto Prefecture