Things to do in Kyoto

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Heian Shrine showing a temple or place of worship, religious aspects and heritage architecture
Kyōto featuring landscape views, a garden and forest scenes
Otsu showing flowers
Sannenzaka Ninenzaka showing a sunset, a city and a house
Kyu Chikurinin Garden showing a park

Kyoto Attractions

Kyoto is one of Japan’s most enchanting cities. Located on the island of Honshu, this wondrous city is a mixture of old-world charm and modern progression. It is easy to find an abundance of fun things to do in Kyoto, and it is simple to get a map of the city to find out where the best Kyoto activities are located. You can find terrific deals on Kyoto travel packages including flights, hotel rooms, and Kyoto tours on Expedia.

While visiting Kyoto, you can immerse yourself in the local history with sites such as Shimogamo Shrine, To-ji, and the iconic Nijo Castle. You can also learn more about Japanese history as well as the histories of other countries while visiting museums like the Kyoto National Museum and the Kyoto International Manga Museum.

A visit to the Iwatayama Monkey Park will give you the chance to see some of the region’s most charming creatures. This park is home to numerous snow monkeys and is a must-see attraction in Kyoto. You can even feed and interact with the monkeys while visiting this top tourist destination.

If you are coming to Kyoto in the spring, you will be treated to the sight of beautiful cherry blossoms throughout the city. The magnificent pink and white blossoms seen on the cherry trees create a picturesque setting reminiscent of a storybook theme. Tourists from places all around the world frequently take Kyoto excursions during this time of year to witness this marvelous display of nature.

You also must see the Kyoto Botanical Garden while visiting the city. In addition to being one of the area’s best tourist spots, the garden also gives you the opportunity to escape into a peaceful natural wonderland. You can take a stroll along the paved walking paths as well as through the conservatory. Tourists can see the vibrant flowers and lush green vegetation throughout the garden.

You can save big on your travels by booking through Expedia. The deals featured on Expedia give you the chance to save some money, so you can enjoy all of the attractions in Kyoto to the fullest.

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Kyoto must see attractions

1. Kiyomizu Temple

Nestled in the Otowa Mountain, to the east of central Kyōto, the Buddhist temple of Kiyomizu is one of the city’s most popular attractions, attracting millions of visitors each year. The current temple buildings date from the 15th to 17th centuries, but there has been a temple here since 778.
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Kiyomizu Temple which includes a temple or place of worship and religious aspects

2. Nishiki Market

Traditional Japanese food is the order of the day in the Nishiki Market, known as Kyoto’s Kitchen. The market plays host to hundreds of restaurants, shops and temporary stalls selling culinary supplies from fresh seafood to knives. Shops sell either food or utensils with which to prepare it. A stark contrast to the serene and humble temples, shrines and museums, Nishiki Market is the perfect place to experience the typical hustle and bustle of food trade at the core of Kyoto.
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Nishiki Market featuring markets and street scenes as well as a large group of people

3. Fushimi Inari Shrine

The Fushimi Inari Shrine was founded in 711 and is the head shrine for the 40,000 shrines to Inari, goddess of rice and prosperity, in Japan. Worshippers come here to ask for wealth and success in business, and travelers come to enjoy the beauty and history of the area.
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Fushimi Inari Shrine featuring interior views and a temple or place of worship as well as a small group of people

4. Kyoto Tower

The steel Kyoto Tower stands 430 feet (131 meters) high, making it the tallest in the city. Built on top of a nine-story building, the top part of the tower is supposed to resemble a Japanese-style candle. It can be seen from all over Kyoto, which makes it an attractive meeting point.
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Kyoto Tower

5. Nijō Castle

Nijo Castle is a testament to the power of the Tokugawa Shogunate during the Edo period (1603-1868). The castle was the stronghold of the family who essentially controlled Japan during this time, leaving the emperor to rule in name only. To create a defence against enemies, the castle was built with two palaces, two stone walls and two moats.
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Nijo Castle featuring heritage architecture, landscape views and a pond

6. Kinkaku-ji Temple

Of all the temples you’ll see in Kyōto, this one is perhaps the most breathtaking. Also known as “Kinkaku-ji,” the Temple of the Golden Pavilion’s top two floors are coated in gold leaf, creating a dazzling mirror image in the pond on which it’s built.
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Built in the 14th century for a shogun, then rebuilt twice, this temple is now a Buddhist site and its top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf.

Recommended things to do in Kyoto

Number of things to do
963
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Kyoto KITSUNE Nightclub Admission Ticket For Foreign: $4
Top 5 things to do
Under $25
With kids

What to do in Kyoto

Free Things to Do in Kyoto

Taking a break in Kyoto on a budget? The following can be seen for nada.

Zohiko Urushi Art Museum - Chock-full of thought-provoking displays and objects, this place is a paradise for curious minds.

Kyoto Art Center - This is the place to get your culture hit and learn all about the local arts scene.

Gion Tatsumi Bridge - Drop by this historic site and learn a little about the region's cultural heritage.

Okazaki Park - This is a bustling area where you can absorb the atmosphere and appreciate the local way of life.

Takaragaike Park - Take some time out by the water to rest and replenish your energy.

Nishiki Market - Leave time to check out this place of local importance.

Honnoji Temple - Spend a moment in prayer or meditation at this revered religious site.

Keage Incline - Bring along your camera and let Mother Nature spark a sense of awe in you.

Murin-an - Renew your mind and body by spending time in nature.

 

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

 

 

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Kyoto

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 featuring a city, a high rise building and night scenes

Shimogyo Ward

4.5/5(96 area reviews)

Discover bustling Shijō Street's shopping district and explore attractions like Kyoto Tower and Kyoto Railway Museum. Easily navigate the area from Kyoto Station, a major transport hub.

Shimogyo Ward
Kyōto showing a river or creek and mountains

Downtown Kyoto

If you're spending time in Downtown Kyoto, check out sights like Kyoto International Manga Museum or Museum of Kyoto and hop on the metro to see more the city at Karasuma Oike Station or Marutamachi Station.

Downtown Kyoto
Shoren-in Temple which includes a temple or place of worship and signage

Higashiyama Ward

4.5/5(29 area reviews)

Traditional-style buildings and protected status define this part of Kyoto, with entertainment in Gion near Yasaka Shrine. Must-see attractions include Kiyomizu Temple, Kyoto National Museum, and Namikawa Cloisonne Museum.

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
See our Where To Stay guide

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from Kyoto

Photo by Breathing Means More

Ibaraki

Photo by Cathy Fuentes

Shimamoto

Photo by Therese Foley

Muko

Lake Biwa Canal featuring a river or creek

Otsu

Uji

Uji

Photo "Yawata" by Yanajin33 (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo by Yanajin33 (CC BY-SA)

Yawata

Tsutenkaku Tower which includes markets, a city and street scenes

Osaka

Photo by Kean Low

Kameoka

Frequently asked questions

Is Kyoto worth visiting?
One of the most popular things to do in Kyoto is explore Arashiyama Onsen. Check this top sight off your list, then experience more of the area's views and walking trails.
How do I spend a day in Kyoto?
Arashiyama Onsen and Kurama Hot Spring are two excellent places to kick-start your vacation adventures. Be sure to check out the retail and dining options in Kyoto while you're there too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Kyoto?
Arashiyama Onsen is one of the top tourist attractions in Kyoto and deserves a place on every to-do list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Kyoto?
Three days in Kyoto is plenty of time to visit the city's major highlights. Many guests book for two days on average. Arashiyama Onsen, Kyoto MINAMIZA Theatre and Kyoto Municipal Museum of Art are among the most popular sights. Like to see more? Hang around a while longer to check off nearby hotspots such as Osaka.
Is Kyoto a walkable city?
Some major attractions in Kyoto, including Kyoto MINAMIZA Theatre and Kyoto Municipal Museum of Art, are within walking distance. You can also enjoy several of the city's neighborhoods on foot. Only 2 miles from central Kyoto is Central Kyoto and Shimogyo Ward is 2 miles away.
What are some activities to do in Kyoto with kids?
Whether you're vacationing with tiny adventurers or hard-to-please teens, a schedule filled with fun activities makes all the difference. Browse our ideas for what to do in Kyoto with kids.

What to do in Kyoto for adults?
Teramachi Street and Ishibe Alley are just two of the things to do in Kyoto. With loads of activities available, there's something here for everyone to experience.
Are there free things to do in Kyoto?
One of the best ways to learn about free things to do in Kyoto is to ask a local tour guide. You'll get insider views on vibrant neighborhoods, parks and other highlights you can enjoy without reaching for your wallet. Kyoto Gyoen National Garden is one spot that doesn't charge an entrance fee.

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