8 attractions in Kyoto that you shouldn't miss!
- Noa
Kyoto, the capital of Japan for over a thousand years, is now a fascinating blend of history and progress. With attractions in Kyoto that include ancient temples, impressive Japanese gardens, amazing food and beautiful scenery, this city has simply become a must-see destination. The city is an hour away from Osaka and Nara so it is definitely worth putting it on your itinerary! Come discover the magical alleys, enjoy the delicious local food and experience the incredible Japanese culture that awaits you there.
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Table of Contents
Weather in Kyoto Japan
- December to February: Wintery and cold. Can drop to -5 degrees, not very rainy.
- March to May: Spring, a highly recommended season! Around 10-20 degrees.
- June to August: Summer. Temperatures reach around 30 degrees, humid and rainy.
- September to November: Autumn, pleasant and cool, about 15-20 degrees.
8 attractions in Kyoto that you shouldn't miss
Kyoto has attractions that will really immerse you in the fascinating culture and history of Japan. Beyond the temples, you will also find authentic Zen gardens, castles, and beautiful narrow streets to get lost in.
Fushimi Inari Shrines
When you think of shrines in Kyoto, Fushimi Inari is probably the place that comes to mind. It is one of the most magical and special places in the city, and in Japan in general. This sacred Shinto shrine is dedicated to Inari, the god of rice and agriculture, and is best known for its paths lined with tens of thousands of red torii gates, which form a long and impressive tunnel on Mount Inari.
You can start your journey at the main temple at the entrance. From there, you will embark on a beautiful trail that leads to the top of the mountain, which stretches for about 4 kilometers. Along the way, you will pass through many gates that were donated by individuals and businesses as a sign of gratitude and blessing to the god Inari. Please note, the temples are a very busy attraction most of the day, but they are open 24 hours a day so you can arrive very early in the morning or at night.
Tōfuku-ji Temple
As far as temples in Kyoto go, this is one of the largest and most impressive in the city! The temple is particularly known for its impressive Zen gardens and traditional Japanese architecture. The place is surrounded by calm and tranquility, with views of maple trees changing colors in the fall season.
Toji Temple
The temple is known for its pagoda, which stands 55 meters high! It is the tallest pagoda in Japan. Located near Kyoto Station, the temple showcases Buddhist art and history with unique art treasures and beautiful exhibitions. The temple gardens are especially beautiful during the cherry blossom season and in the fall.
Shōsei-en Gardens
The gardens belong to the Higashi Honganji Temple and used to be a place for tea ceremonies and royal tours. Simply a magical natural gem in the heart of the city. The traditional Japanese gardens offer stunning views with ponds, bridges, and flowering trees, which are a peaceful and magical retreat. Each season, the gardens are renewed with different colors and blooms, making a visit to them a changing experience every time.
Fushimi-Momoyama-jō Castle
The castle was built in the late 16th century by the military leader Toyotomi Hideyoshi. A huge and impressive structure, with traditional architecture with rich and intricate details. A trip there is a fascinating historical experience that combines culture, art and rich Japanese history. Please note that you cannot enter the castle.
Nijō Castle
Built in the 17th century by Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu, it is one of the most important historical sites in the area. A huge complex with magnificent architecture and Japanese Zen gardens. You can also enter one of the buildings (but not take pictures), and there are particularly spectacular paintings on the walls of the rooms, and a "nightingale" floor - which chirps when you walk on it. You can buy electronic tickets in advance on the castle's official website.
Shinsen-en Gardens
The gardens are located near Nijo Castle, and are some of the oldest gardens in the city, dating back to the Heian period, in 826! In the enchanting gardens you will find picturesque ponds, red bridges, and small temples.
Kyoto Gyoen National Garden and the Imperial Palace
Gardens in the heart of the city, surrounding the Kyoto Imperial Palace, a huge park full of greenery. In the beautiful gardens you will find comfortable walking paths, flowering trees, and small lakes, a wonderful place to rest and relax. The Imperial Palace itself, located within the gardens, is an impressive and central building in Japanese history, which served as the home of the emperors until the capital was moved to Tokyo in 1869.
Kyoto Day Trip Recommendations
Kyoto has day-long attractions like food tours, workshops, and trainings that will really immerse you in Japanese culture. Here are 4 highly recommended attractions!
In the beginner class, you will learn the basics of ninja, practice throwing ninja weapons, and using swords.
✅ Rating of 5 ⭐ on VIATOR out of 375 raters!
✅ Learn ninja techniques from a master
✅ Small group up to 6 participants
✅ Starting from $90
Reserve your spot in the class now! ￬
Sake is fun and its production is an art. On the tour you will learn about the traditional production process and taste different types of sake.
✅ Rating of 5 ⭐ on VIATOR out of 416 raters!
✅ Tasting of 22 types of Japanese sake
✅ Small group training
✅ Starting from $96
Reserve your spot on the tour now! ￬
A journey of rare Japanese flavors through the streets of Kyoto at night!
✅ Rating of 5 ⭐ on VIATOR out of 1260 raters!
✅ Dinner and dessert
✅ Includes 3 drinks
✅ Starting from $157
Reserve your spot now! ￬
Because what's tastier than sushi? In this workshop, you'll learn to prepare traditional sushi dishes, Japanese soup, and ginger pickles, using fresh ingredients and traditional techniques.
✅ Rating of 5 ⭐ on VIATOR out of 83 raters!
✅ Includes meal, tea and recipes
✅ Small group training
✅ Starting from $73
Reserve your spot in the workshop now! ￬
Where to sleep in Kyoto, Japan?
The most recommended areas for accommodation are Gion and the Kyoto Station area. Here are some recommendations for comfortable and good hotels:
⭐ Rating of 8.9 on Booking.com
✅ Excellent location near the station
✅ Capsule rooms – perfect for individuals
✅ Starting from $34 per night
Compare prices to get the best price:
⭐ Rating of 8.8 on Booking.com
✅ 3 star hotel
✅ Central and convenient location
✅ Starting from $54 per night
Compare prices to get the best price:
⭐ Rating of 8.9 on Booking.com
✅ Luxurious 3-star hotel
✅ Excellent location
✅ Starting from $85 per night
Compare prices to get the best price:
⭐ Rating of 9 on Booking.com
✅ Luxurious 4-star hotel
✅ Excellent location near Gion Station
✅ Starting from $172 per night
Compare prices to get the best price:
Kyoto restaurant recommendations
It's hard to find bad food in this city. There's plenty of high-quality Japanese food, great cafes, and Western food. Here are some recommendations for places that are especially worth trying.
Komeda's Coffee
A cafe with excellent breakfasts and lunches, near the Fushimi Inari Shrines.
Chanpionkare Hyakumanbenten
An excellent Japanese curry restaurant, with richly flavored curry, about a half-hour walk from the Royal Palace area.
Musashi Sushi
The sushi conveyor belt is among the most recommended in the city, with a huge and super fresh variety of sushi (mainly nigiri), which you choose from the conveyor belt and calculate the cost at the end according to the quantity and color of the plates.
Bread & Coffee Hirarinto
A magical and sweet family place, with a selection of excellent soba, delicious homemade pizzas and also several breakfast options.
Other interesting destinations in Japan
After exploring Kyoto’s temples, gardens, culture and food, you’ll want to see more of Japan. An hour’s drive away is Osaka , a city famous for its nightlife and fine dining, a must-see for all culinary and cultural enthusiasts. Kyushu , Japan’s southernmost island, is a region packed with mesmerizing natural landscapes and healing hot springs. Okinawa , with its crystal-clear beaches and unique culture, is a tropical paradise for diving and vacation enthusiasts. Nara , the historic city with a famous park filled with wandering deer, offers an interesting glimpse into ancient Japanese culture. Of course, you’ll also want to get to Tokyo , Japan’s capital, from where you can return home or continue on to other destinations in the East.
Questions and Answers
Which temples in Kyoto are not to be missed? 🛕
Here are 3 temples in Kyoto that you don't want to miss:- Fushimi Inari
- Tōfuku-ji
- Tōji
