Things to Do in Kyoto

Exploring Kyoto: A Comprehensive Guide for Tourists

Table of Contents

  1. Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
  2. Kiyomizu-dera Temple
  3. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
  4. Gion District
  5. Nijo Castle
  6. Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
  7. Philosophers’ Walk
  8. Traditional Maikoya Tea Ceremony Experience
  9. Try Traditional Japanese Cuisine
  10. Explore Kyoto’s Nightlife

<a name"fushimi"> Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

  • One of the most famous shrines in Japan, known for its thousands of vermilion torii gates.
  • Located at the base of a mountain, the trail leads to the summit and offers beautiful views of Kyoto.
  • Free admission, open 24 hours.

<a name"kiyomizudera"> Kiyomizu-dera Temple

  • One of the most celebrated temples in Japan, built without using a single nail.
  • Famous for its wooden stage from which visitors can enjoy a scenic view of Kyoto city.
  • Admission fee: 400 yen. Open 6 am - 6 pm (until 5 pm in winter).

<a name"arashiyama"> Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

  • A designated place of scenic beauty, the grove is an iconic site in Kyoto.
  • Visit Monkey Park Iwatayama to see wild Japanese macaques.
  • Free admission to the bamboo grove. Open 24 hours.

<a name"gion"> Gion District

  • Known for its traditional wooden machiya houses, this district is a must-visit for experiencing Kyoto’s old world charm.
  • Keep an eye out for Geishas in the evenings.

<a name"nijocastle"> Nijo Castle

  • A flatland castle that served as the shogun’s residence, now designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Admission fee: 600 yen. Open 8:45 am - 5 pm (last entry at 4 pm).

<a name"kinkakujii"> Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

  • A Zen temple whose top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf.
  • Admission fee: 400 yen. Open 9 am - 5 pm (last entry at 4 pm).

<a name"philosopherwalk"> Philosophers’ Walk

  • A scenic pedestrian path that connects Ginkakuji and Nanzenji temples, offering beautiful cherry blossoms in spring.

<a name"maikoyateaceremony"> Traditional Maikoya Tea Ceremony Experience

  • Book a session to learn about the traditional Japanese tea ceremony in a beautifully decorated tearoom.

<a name"japanese_cuisine"> Try Traditional Japanese Cuisine

  • Kyoto is famous for its kaiseki cuisine, a multi-course meal showcasing local seasonal ingredients.

<a name"kyotonightlife"> Explore Kyoto’s Nightlife

  • Visit Pontocho Alley for traditional entertainment and bars, or Gion district for a more sophisticated atmosphere.