Best Things to Do in Kyoto, Japan: A Guide to Discovering a City Where Spirituality and Tradition Are Still Very Much Alive!
Kyoto reveals Japan in a calm, unhurried way. There’s no need for drama—just walk a little and it becomes clear why so many Japanese traditions were born here.
During my trip, Kyoto was the place where I felt closest to the country’s history.
Not because it’s “ancient,” but because so many places still function exactly as they always have. Gardens are maintained with almost silent precision, temples keep their old rituals, and the tea ceremony is still treated as something meaningful, not just a performance for tourists.
At the same time, Kyoto isn’t stuck in the past. There are students everywhere, small cafés full of personality, local markets, and neighbourhoods that show a city evolving without losing its identity.
If it’s your first time in Japan, Kyoto helps you understand the country beyond the image of neon lights and technology.
It’s a city that invites you to slow down, observe, and notice the details—and maybe that’s why so many people feel the urge to return.
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Top Things to See and Do in Kyoto, Japan
Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Kiyomizu-dera is one of Kyoto’s most iconic temples and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Founded in the 8th century, its name means “Temple of Pure Water,” referring to the spring that flows beneath the main hall.
The wooden structure built along the hillside is a major draw, offering impressive architecture and a beautiful view over the city.
This temple is especially stunning in spring, when blooming cherry trees frame the entire scene in a unique way.
The walk up to the temple along Matsubara Street is also part of the experience, thanks to the traditional shops, Japanese sweets, and small souvenirs that make the route unforgettable.
Tip: The temple is particularly beautiful at sunset. Buy your ticket in advance if you want to attend the seasonal night illumination.
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Explore Kyoto’s Gion District and Its Geishas
Strolling through Gion feels like stepping back in time, which is why it’s considered a must-visit in any Kyoto itinerary!
I agree, Gion is the district of geishas and traditional tea houses, where narrow streets, red lanterns, and wooden façades preserve the aesthetic of the Edo period.
In the late afternoon, it’s sometimes possible to see a maiko (apprentice geisha) walking quickly between appointments, just like in the movies.
It’s a subtle moment, but it speaks volumes about the preservation of Japanese culture.
Gion is also great for dining: there are kaiseki restaurants, offering fine Japanese multi-course meals, and izakayas where you can enjoy fresh tempura or sashimi.
Travel tip: Always respect the geishas’ privacy and avoid intrusive photography.
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Explore the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is one of the most photographed spots in Japan, and for good reason—walking among the tall bamboo stalks swaying gently in the wind is an experience I recommend to every traveler.
However, it can also be a bit disappointing, as the grove often gets very, very crowded.
In fact, this experience inspired me to write an article about whether visiting the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is worth it, which I recommend reading if you’re unsure.
That said, Arashiyama, in western Kyoto, offers more than just the bamboo grove. I also recommend exploring Tenryu-ji Temple, the Katsura River, and the Togetsukyo Bridge, all of which are must-see attractions.
Tip: Arrive before 8 a.m. to enjoy the area in peace.
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Visit Nijo Castle
Nijo Castle is one of Kyoto’s most remarkable sites and helps to understand how Japan transitioned from the feudal period to the modern era.
It was commissioned in 1603 by Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Tokugawa family, to serve as his official residence whenever he visited Kyoto. Later, the complex was expanded with gardens, moats, and massive walls.
The highlight of the visit is the Ninomaru Palace, with its “uguisubari” floors that intentionally creak when walked upon. This was a simple way to deter intruders and has become one of the castle’s most fascinating features.
The rooms are decorated with Kanō school paintings, full of gold, tigers, and stylized pine trees, showcasing the level of detail associated with the shoguns’ power.
The gardens also deserve attention. Also, the pond, islands, and ornamental trees create a peaceful space, despite the castle being right in the heart of Kyoto.
Honmaru Palace, located in the inner defensive ring, is less visited but completes the understanding of the complex’s military and ceremonial structure.
Beyond its historical importance, Nijo Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most comprehensive visits for those wanting to go beyond traditional temples and shrines.
It’s an excellent spot to include in a one- or two-day Kyoto itinerary, especially for history and architecture enthusiasts.
Visit the Torii Gates of Fushimi Inari Taisha
The red torii gates of Fushimi Inari Taisha are one of Kyoto’s, and indeed Japan’s, most iconic sights!
The shrine, dedicated to Inari Ōkami, the deity associated with rice and prosperity, has existed since 711 and remains one of the city’s most visited locations.
Most visitors come for the famous path of gates, forming a continuous tunnel up the slopes of Mount Inari.
Each torii has a donor. Companies or individuals donate a gate to give thanks or request luck in business, and the donor’s name is engraved on the back.
The most famous section is the Senbon Torii, where the gates are so close together that the sky is barely visible. Despite the name meaning “thousand gates,” the entire complex is estimated to have around ten thousand.
The trail begins at the main shrine, and the first section is the busiest, but crowds thin as you climb higher.
The full ascent to the summit takes about two hours, with several scenic viewpoints along the way.
Travel tip: Visit in the late afternoon to avoid tour groups and enjoy the sunset over the city.
Try the Famous Fluffy Pancakes at Panel Café
Panel Café, in Gion, became famous for its fluffy pancakes that are everywhere online, and after trying them, I understood why the place is so popular.
We went for the pancakes, especially the crème brûlée version, and I can say it lives up to the hype. The texture is light, almost airy, and the contrast between the caramelized top and the fluffy base works perfectly.
The café is small and modern, which means there can be a wait, especially late in the morning. Still, once the plate arrives, it’s easy to see why so many people line up. The pancakes are made to order, so they take a little time—but it shows in the flavor.
Despite the sweets’ popularity, the menu offers more. The burgers are a pleasant surprise: simple, well-prepared, and perfect for anyone wanting something more substantial before or after dessert. This is useful for visitors to Gion with tight schedules who don’t want to make two stops.
If you want to try a truly excellent version of soufflé pancakes, Panel Café is a safe choice. The experience depends a bit on the wait, but if your goal is to taste something special and different, it’s worth including in your itinerary.
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Try Uji Green Tea
Tasting green tea in Uji is one of the most interesting experiences near Kyoto. The city is a short trip away and is known as the Japanese green tea capital, evident in the hills covered with tea plantations and the many shops showcasing locally produced matcha.
Uji has centuries of tea cultivation tradition and is where techniques now recognized throughout Japan originated. The most important is shading the plants before harvest, which intensifies the color and makes the flavor sweeter. Even newcomers quickly notice the difference when matcha is freshly prepared.
Participating in a tea ceremony is one of the most complete ways to understand this connection between technique, tradition, and culture. The ritual is quiet, composed of precise gestures and full attention to the moment when the tea is whisked and served.
Beyond ceremonies, there are historic tea houses where you can try other styles, such as sencha or gyokuro. Each has its own character and helps to better understand the importance of tea in Japanese identity.
For those seeking a short getaway with peaceful scenery and living tradition, Uji is an excellent choice.
Travel tip: If you love matcha, try the local ice creams and sweets. Itohkyuemon is one of the most famous brands.
Watch the Traditional Preparation of Mochi
Watching the traditional preparation of mochi is one of the most fascinating experiences in Kyoto.
In some old shops, the mochitsuki—the process of pounding cooked rice until it becomes elastic—is still done the traditional way.
The most striking moment is the rhythm between the two artisans: one lifts the heavy mallet and pounds the rice, while the other turns and moistens the hot rice between each strike.
To keep the movement synchronized, they repeat short, rhythmic sounds, like “hai! hai! yossha!”, which act almost like a musical beat. Seeing this choreography live highlights the trust and precision required for the process to go smoothly.
Once the dough is ready, the mochi is shaped while still hot and served immediately. The flavor is delicate, the texture much softer than store-bought mochi, and the difference is immediately noticeable.
At Mochi-Mochi, where I watched the ritual, I could see (and hear) the entire process before tasting the freshly made sweet.
For those who appreciate traditions still alive in daily life, watching mochitsuki is a simple and authentic way to experience Kyoto beyond its temples and gardens.
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Rent a Kimono in Kyoto
Renting a kimono in Kyoto is one of those experiences that helps you get into the rhythm of the city. No elaborate planning is needed, just choose one of the traditional shops scattered around Gion, Higashiyama, or near Fushimi Inari Shrine, and in a few minutes, the transformation begins.
The process is simple. First, you select the pattern and fabric. There are lighter kimonos for summer and warmer options for the colder months. Then, the staff takes care of everything: dressing, tightly securing the obi, and adding accessories to complete the outfit. Hair styling and makeup are optional but make for great photos.
Kyoto’s streets seem made for this kind of stroll. The colors of the traditional buildings make a perfect backdrop, and it’s not uncommon to see entire groups dressed in full kimono searching for the best angle.
It’s worth noting that a kimono is beautiful but not the most comfortable garment in the world. The layers of fabric and the obi restrict movement, so it’s best to plan a relaxed pace, with breaks to rest and drink water. On hot days, the heat can be noticeable.
Shops usually require same-day returns, though some offer hotel delivery for an extra fee. Prices vary widely, so there are options for all budgets.
It’s an experience that pairs perfectly with a day of temples and historic streets. Above all, it’s a way to experience Kyoto more closely, participating in a tradition still alive in everyday Japanese life.
Explore Nishiki Market
Visiting Nishiki Market is a dive into the everyday side of Kyoto’s cuisine.
This narrow, covered corridor, always bustling with activity, hosts dozens of stalls where food is prepared on the spot—no frills, just local ingredients and techniques that are part of the city’s daily routine.
As you move along, the market changes pace: one stall offers grilled octopus skewers, while another displays colorful pickles proudly explained by their makers.
Further ahead, someone slices freshly made, still-warm tofu, while a display showcases seasonal rice sweets.
Here, tasting small portions works better than ordering a full dish, as each stall offers a unique piece of Kyoto’s culinary scene.
What sets this market apart from Tokyo’s isn’t just what’s sold, but how it’s presented. Vendors chat, offer samples, and explain the origins of their products, creating that rare mix of a tourist-friendly market that still retains local life.
Travel tip: Bring cash and take your time. The best way to enjoy it is by sampling little by little, watching the preparation, and picking what sparks your curiosity.
Where to Stay in Kyoto, Japan
Choosing the right area to stay in Kyoto makes a big difference, especially since the city is extensive and the main temples are spread out. During my trip, I opted for a comfortable base in Kyoto and explored each neighborhood using public transport, which worked very well.
In fact, I wrote a complete article about where to stay in Kyoto, with detailed suggestions for different types of travelers.
Gion is a great option for those who want to wake up close to historic streets and wooden houses. At night, the area is very peaceful, and many ryokans serve kaiseki dinners and offer traditional Japanese baths. It’s a perfect choice for those seeking a stay more connected to tradition. I recommend Gion Elite Terrace (4 stars).
The area around Kyoto Station is ideal for travelers who prioritize mobility. The proximity to trains makes it easy to travel to Osaka or Nara, and there are several modern hotels, shopping centers, and restaurants that make this a practical and convenient base. Kyoto Century Hotel (4 stars) is a good choice.
In my case, I stayed at RESI STAY Tsubaki, an apartment with a kitchen and washing machine. The location was very convenient for getting around, and the extra space was useful after several days of traveling. I recommend it for those who prefer autonomy and comfort during their stay.
Don’t travel to Kyoto without reading this
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Best Time to Visit Kyoto
Spring (March to May) and autumn (October to November) are the best times, when cherry blossoms and maple leaves transform the landscape. Summer is hot and humid, while winter is cold but quiet. I traveled in August, one of the least ideal times to visit Japan, and still had a great experience.
How Many Days to Stay in Kyoto
Three days is the minimum recommended. Ideally, four or five days allow you to explore the main temples, visit Arashiyama, and take a short trip to Nara.
Getting Around Kyoto
Public transportation is efficient, with buses reaching almost every place within the city. For areas like Arashiyama and Fushimi Inari, the JR train is faster.
I preferred using Uber, which in Japan works like a taxi, with an approximate fare for the ride.
Is the JR Pass Worth It?
Yes, especially if you plan to travel the Tokyo–Kyoto–Osaka route. The pass covers the Shinkansen and can be cost-effective for long-distance trips.
However, before buying, read the article “Japan Rail Pass: Is It Worth It? Check the Discount Before You Buy”, where I explain how to calculate whether the JR Pass is worth it and how to purchase it at a discount.
Where to Shop in Kyoto
The Teramachi district has both traditional shops and modern boutiques. For local souvenirs, look for Kiyomizu pottery or handmade Japanese fans.
Which Is the Nearest Airport to Kyoto?
Kansai International Airport (KIX) in Osaka is the closest. From there, the Haruka Express train takes about 75 minutes to reach Kyoto.
How to Get to Kyoto from Osaka or Tokyo
From Tokyo, the Shinkansen takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes. From Osaka, it’s only 15 minutes on the express train. Both run frequently and are very comfortable.
Travel Insurance for Kyoto
Traveling in Japan is generally safe, but unexpected events can happen.
I use and recommend IATI Star, the insurance I take on my trips, as it covers everything from delays to medical emergencies—including COVID-19 and long-term travel.
You can book with a 5% discount through this link, ensuring protection and peace of mind throughout your trip.
You May Also Like:
- Is the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Worth a Visit? My honest opinion
- Where to eat in Kyoto: Wagyu, Tonkatsu, Katsudon, and more!
We travel as a family, focusing on authentic experiences, sustainable choices, and that extra touch of comfort that makes all the difference. At passaportenobolso.com, we share travel tips and practical information about destinations in Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Americas. I’ve visited over 40 countries and I don’t plan on stopping anytime soon. Every now and then, I also travel solo… Follow along on YouTube / Instagram / Facebook / TikTok / X / Pinterest.
