About Kyoto
Japan's ancient capital is a living museum of 1,600 temples, imperial gardens and geisha districts. Slow mornings among moss and lantern-lit evenings in Gion make Kyoto the soul of traditional Japan.
Best time
Late March–April & November for foliage
Weather
Hot humid summers, cold crisp winters
Airport
Kansai (KIX), ~75 min away
Getting around
Buses and bikes beat the limited subway for temples
Experiences
Things to do in Kyoto
1
Walk the thousands of torii at Fushimi Inari
2
See golden Kinkaku-ji reflected in its pond
3
Wander the Arashiyama bamboo grove at dawn
4
Spot geiko in the Gion district
5
Join a traditional tea ceremony
Plan your trip
Suggested itinerary
- 1
Day 1
Eastern temples
- Fushimi Inari
- Kiyomizu-dera
- Gion evening walk
- 2
Day 2
West & north
- Arashiyama bamboo grove
- Kinkaku-ji
- Ryoan-ji rock garden
Where to eat
- $$$$
Kikunoi
Kaiseki • Three-Michelin-star seasonal dining
- $
Nishiki Market
Street food • 'Kyoto's kitchen'
Where to stay
- The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto
- Hoshinoya Kyoto
- Tawaraya Ryokan
Shopping
- Nishiki Market
- Teramachi
- Gion boutiques
Nightlife
- Pontocho Alley
- Kiyamachi riverside bars
Museums & culture
- Kyoto National Museum
- Samurai & Ninja Museum
Local foods to try
- Kaiseki
- Yudofu
- Matcha sweets
- Yatsuhashi
Hidden gems
- Philosopher's Path
- Okochi Sanso villa
- Kurama-dera mountain temple
Travel tips
- Visit temples at opening time to beat crowds
- Respect geiko — never chase them for photos
Nearby
Attractions in the city
In pictures
Kyoto gallery
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
Keep exploring
