30 Things to Do in Kyoto
Kyoto invites visitors into a world where ancient traditions meet modern life. As Japan’s former imperial capital for over a thousand years, the city holds countless temples, shrines, palaces, and gardens. Planning your trip involves choosing from numerous things to do in Kyoto, deciding what to see in Kyoto first, and finding experiences that match your interests and budget; thankfully, there are many fantastic free things to do in Kyoto alongside its paid attractions, allowing everyone to soak in its unique atmosphere. From exploring iconic landmarks covered in gold leaf to wandering through serene bamboo forests, Kyoto offers a deep dive into Japanese culture.
This guide presents 30 distinct experiences to help you craft your perfect Kyoto itinerary. Whether you seek spiritual tranquility, bustling market energy, historical insights, or simply beautiful scenery, you’ll find options here. We cover famous sites and some quieter spots, providing a mix that captures the city’s diverse character, ensuring your visit is memorable and filled with discovery.
Iconic Temples and Shrines
Wander through thousands of vibrant red torii gates winding up a mountainside at Fushimi Inari Shrine. This visually stunning shrine is dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice, and offers a memorable hike with city views.
Marvel at the stunning gold leaf covering the top two floors of Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion. This Zen Buddhist temple reflects beautifully in the surrounding pond, creating a picture-perfect scene.
Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple, famous for its large wooden stage built without nails, offering panoramic views of Kyoto. The walk up through the lively Higashiyama District adds to the experience.
Find peace at Ryoan-ji Temple, home to Japan’s most famous Zen rock garden. The minimalist arrangement of 15 stones set in white gravel encourages quiet contemplation.
Explore Ginkaku-ji, the Silver Pavilion, known for its elegant temple buildings and meticulous gardens. Unlike its golden counterpart, it was never covered in silver, but its subtle beauty and ‘Sea of Silver Sand’ garden are captivating.
Step inside Sanjusangen-do Temple to witness the awe-inspiring sight of 1001 life-sized statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. The sheer scale and artistry of the main hall are impressive.
Visit Yasaka Shrine, located at the edge of the Gion district and a focal point for the famous Gion Matsuri festival. It’s beautifully lit at night, offering a different atmosphere, and entry to the grounds is free.
Discover Toji Temple, known for its tall five-story pagoda, the tallest wooden tower in Japan. The temple grounds also host a popular flea market on the 21st of each month.
Explore Tenryu-ji Temple in the Arashiyama district, a highly ranked Zen temple with a beautiful landscape garden. The garden uses ‘borrowed scenery’ incorporating the surrounding mountains into its design.
Historic Castles and Palaces
Tour Nijo Castle, the former residence of the Tokugawa shogunate in Kyoto, famous for its ornate architecture and ‘nightingale floors’. These floors were designed to chirp like birds when walked upon, alerting guards to intruders.
Stroll through the expansive grounds of the Kyoto Imperial Palace Park, the former ruling palace of the Emperor of Japan. While palace building tours require advance booking (often free), the spacious park itself is free to enter and perfect for a relaxing walk.
Exploring Atmospheric Districts
Wander through the Gion District, Kyoto’s famous geisha district, known for its traditional wooden machiya houses. Keep an eye out in the evenings for geiko (Kyoto geisha) or maiko (apprentices) heading to appointments.
Explore Pontocho Alley, a narrow atmospheric lane running parallel to the Kamogawa River, lined with restaurants and bars. It’s particularly charming at night when the lanterns glow.
Walk the charming streets of the Higashiyama District, leading up to Kiyomizu-dera Temple. These preserved historic lanes are filled with small shops, cafes, and pottery stores, offering a glimpse of old Kyoto.
Nature Walks and Gardens
Walk amidst the towering stalks of the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a famous and enchanting pathway. The sound of the wind rustling the bamboo creates a uniquely tranquil atmosphere.
Take a leisurely stroll along the Philosopher’s Path, a pleasant stone path following a canal lined with cherry trees. It’s especially beautiful during cherry blossom season in spring and colourful in autumn.
Hike up to the Monkey Park Iwatayama in Arashiyama for great views over Kyoto and the chance to see wild Japanese macaques. Remember not to stare directly at the monkeys.
Relax in Maruyama Park, located next to Yasaka Shrine, especially popular during cherry blossom season. It features a famous large weeping cherry tree (shidarezakura) that is illuminated at night.
Enjoy a simple walk or bike ride along the banks of the Kamogawa River, which flows through central Kyoto. It’s a popular spot for locals to relax, picnic, and enjoy the changing seasons.
Markets and Shopping Streets
Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Nishiki Market, known as ‘Kyoto’s Kitchen’. This narrow, covered street features hundreds of stalls selling local foods, produce, pickles, and kitchenware.
Browse the covered Teramachi & Shinkyogoku Shopping Arcades, offering everything from souvenirs and clothing to tea and snacks. They provide a lively shopping experience, sheltered from the weather.
Experience a traditional temple market like Kobo-san Market (Toji Temple, 21st of month) or Tenjin-san Market (Kitano Tenmangu, 25th of month). These lively events offer antiques, crafts, food, and plants, providing great browsing opportunities.
Cultural Immersion
Participate in a traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony to learn about the precise art of preparing and serving matcha green tea. It’s a calming experience offering insight into Zen principles and Japanese hospitality.
Try renting a Kimono or Yukata for a few hours or a day to stroll through Kyoto’s historic streets. Many shops offer rentals with dressing assistance, letting you fully immerse yourself in the traditional setting.
Join a Kyoto Cooking Class to learn how to prepare local dishes like sushi, tempura, or traditional home-style cooking. It’s a fun, hands-on way to connect with Japanese food culture.
Visit the Kyoto International Manga Museum, housed in a former elementary school, holding a vast collection of manga from Japan and worldwide. You can read manga freely in many areas of the museum.
Learn about Japan’s warrior history at the Samurai & Ninja Museum, offering interactive exhibits, displays of armor and weapons. You can often try throwing ninja stars (shuriken) or watch a samurai demonstration.
Scenic Views and Journeys
Ascend the Kyoto Tower for 360-degree views of the city and surrounding mountains from its observation deck. It’s located conveniently across from Kyoto Station.
Explore the impressive modern architecture of the Kyoto Station Building, designed by Hiroshi Hara. Take the escalators up to the rooftop Sky Garden for free city views and see the dramatic glass roof.
Ride the Sagano Scenic Railway (often called the Sagano Romantic Train) along the Hozugawa River between Arashiyama and Kameoka. The journey offers beautiful valley views, especially stunning during autumn foliage season.
Experience the Hozugawa River Boat Ride, a thrilling two-hour journey down the river from Kameoka to Arashiyama. Guides navigate traditional wooden boats through rapids and calm stretches amidst scenic nature.
