Things to do in Kyoto
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Most popular experiences in Kyoto
History & culture
See all 290 activitiesOpens in new tabPerfect Kyoto 1Day Bus Tour
Classes & workshops
See all 79 activitiesOpens in new tabSkip the lines Basic Ticket at SAMURAI NINJA MUSEUM TOKYO
Private & custom tours
See all 172 activitiesOpens in new tabFrom Osaka/Kyoto: Kyoto UNESCO World Heritage Sites 1Day Bus Tour
Shows & concerts
See all 13 activitiesOpens in new tabKyoto: Gion District Guided Walking Tour at Night with Snack
Adventure & outdoor
See all 33 activitiesOpens in new tabKyoto/Osaka: Sanzenin, Bamboo Forest, & Arashiyama Day Trip
What to do in Kyoto
Popular places to visit
Kiyomizu Temple
Constructed entirely without nails and built on high poles, this temple is part of a World Heritage Site and offers visitors both beauty and history.
Nishiki Market
Come to this market in the heart of the city to experience the authentic sights, smells and sounds of the bartering vendors and their traditional food.
Nijō Castle
Visit the world of a wealthy and powerful shogun in this opulent 17th-century castle complex.
Fushimi Inari Shrine
This shrine at the base of Inari Mountain is dedicated to the goddess of rice and prosperity. See its thousands of red gates around a network of beautiful trails.
Kyoto Tower
In a city known for its temples and other ancient relics, this observation point catches the eye as an example of 20th-century innovation.
Kinkaku-ji Temple
Built in the 14th century for a shogun, then rebuilt twice, this temple is now a Buddhist site and its top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf.
Kyoto Imperial Palace
You can find out about the history of Kyoto with a trip to Kyoto Imperial Palace. Visit the temples and top-notch restaurants in this culturally rich area.
Yasaka Shrine
Observe traditional Shinto architecture, pretty lanterns and sacred rituals at this historic shrine, home of the annual Gion Festival and Kyoto’s favorite cherry blossom park.
Heian Shrine
An important shrine for patriotic locals and curious tourists alike, this site has charming buildings and natural gardens that celebrate Kyoto’s fusion of past and present.
Areas of Kyoto
Central Kyoto
Travellers love Central Kyoto for its popular shops, and you can see more of Kyoto by jumping on the metro at Imadegawa Station or Kuramaguchi Station. You might spend time checking out top sights like Seimei-Jinja Shrine and Nishijin Textile Center.
Gion
Unique features of Gion include the monuments and shopping. Make a stop by Yasaka Shrine or Maruyama Park while you're exploring the area.
Shimogyo Ward
Shimogyo Ward is highly notable for its popular shops, and you might want to visit top sights like Kyoto Railway Museum and Shijo Street. See more of Kyoto by jumping on the metro at Tanbaguchi Station or Umekoji-Kyotonishi Station.
Karasuma
Karasuma is popular for its popular shops. Explore top sights like Nishiki Market and Rokakkudo Temple, and you can get around town on the metro at Karasuma Oike Station.
Higashiyama Ward
Consider a visit to Kiyomizu Temple and take some time to enjoy the abundant dining options during your time in Higashiyama Ward. If you want to see more of the city, jump on the metro at Higashiyama Station or Sanjo Keihan Station.
Nakagyo Ward
Sanjo Street and Nijō Castle are top sights in Nakagyo Ward, and you should be sure to explore the popular shops. Hop aboard the metro at Nijojo-mae Station or Karasuma Oike Station to see more sights in the area.
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