50 Amazing Things to Do in Kyoto: Your Ultimate Guide

Discover the Allure of Kyoto

Kyoto, a city steeped in history and culture, offers a treasure trove of experiences that captivate every type of traveler. Whether you're drawn in by stunning temples, beautiful gardens, or vibrant street life, there are so many incredible things to do in Kyoto that it’s hard to narrow them down. From exploring ancient shrines to experiencing traditional tea ceremonies, this list of 50 activities will help inspire your itinerary and ensure you make the most of your visit. No matter if it’s your first time in this beautiful city or your returning for another adventure, there’s always something new to discover in Kyoto!

Higashiyama Area

1. Kiyomizu-dera Temple

2. Yasaka Shrine

3. Maruyama Park

4. Gion district (geisha area)

5. Tea ceremony in Gion

6. Sanjusangendo Temple

7. Philosopher’s Path

8. Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion)

9. Nanzen-ji Temple

10. Eikan-do Zenrin-ji (autumn leaves)

11. Try yudofu near Nanzen-ji

12. Chion-in Temple

Arashiyama Area

1. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

2. Togetsukyo Bridge

3. Tenryu-ji Temple

4. Iwatayama Monkey Park

5. Hozu River boat ride

6. Sagano Romantic Train

7. Jojakko-ji Temple

8. Gio-ji Temple

Northern Kyoto

1. Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

2. Ryoan-ji Temple (rock garden)

3. Ninna-ji Temple

4. Kitano Tenmangu Shrine

5. Hirano Shrine (cherry blossoms)

6. Kamigamo Shrine (UNESCO)

7. Shimogamo Shrine (UNESCO)

8. Shugakuin Imperial Villa (reservation)

9. Kyoto Botanical Gardens

Central Kyoto

1. Nijo Castle

2. Kyoto Imperial Palace

3. Kyoto International Manga Museum

4. Nishiki Market

5. Pontocho Alley

6. Kyoto Tower (observation deck)

7. Kyoto National Museum

8. Kyoto Railway Museum

9. Kyoto Aquarium

10. Nishi Hongan-ji Temple

11. Higashi Hongan-ji Temple

Southern Kyoto / Uji

1. Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine (torii gates)

2. Tofuku-ji Temple (autumn)

3. Byodoin Temple in Uji

4. Drink matcha in Uji

5. Daigo-ji Temple Tofuku-ji’s sub-temples

Outskirts / Special Visits

1. Kurama-dera Temple Kibune riverside dining (summer) Hike from Kurama to Kibune

2. Saiho-ji (Moss Temple, reservation)

If you are looking for tours or a local guide in Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Kobe, Himeji, etc. please do not hesitate to contact us!