Kyoto, the former capital of Japan, is a city steeped in history and tradition. It is home to over 2,000 temples and shrines, and is a popular destination for both tourists and locals alike. Here are 15 of the best things to do in Kyoto:
【1】 Visit the Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, known for its thousands of torii gates leading up to the summit of Mount Inari
Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the southern part of Kyoto, Japan. The shrine is dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice, fertility, and foxes. It is one of the most important Inari shrines in Japan, and is known for its thousands of torii gates that lead up to the summit of Mount Inari. The torii gates, which are donated by individuals and companies, are lined up on the trails behind the main buildings of the shrine. The trails lead through a forest to the top of the mountain, and visitors can hike to the summit, enjoying the sights and sounds of the forest along the way. The view from the summit is also a highlight. The Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine is also known as a site for many foxes, which are considered as messengers of Inari.
【2】Take a stroll through the beautiful Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is a natural area located in the Arashiyama district on the western outskirts of Kyoto, Japan. It is known for its thick groves of bamboo that tower over visitors, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere. The grove is a popular spot for visitors to take a stroll and enjoy the beauty of the tall bamboo stalks, which can reach heights of up to 100 feet. The grove is also home to several temples and shrines, including the Tenryu-ji Temple and the Okochi-Sanso Villa. The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is best visited early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds, and also during the Golden Hour, when the light is soft and the bamboo stalks take on a beautiful golden glow. The pathway through the bamboo grove is a pedestrian path and it’s easy to walk by yourself. You can also rent a bike and enjoy cycling along the path. It is definitely one of the must-see places in Kyoto.
【3】Explore the Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion
Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion, is a Zen Buddhist temple located in Kyoto, Japan. The temple’s main hall, or “kinkaku,” is covered in gold leaf and sits on the edge of a large pond, which reflects the golden building to create a beautiful and serene scene. It was built in the 14th century and was originally the retirement villa of the shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu. The temple’s garden is also famous and it’s designated as a special place of scenic beauty and a historical monument.
Kinkaku-ji is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Kyoto, and for good reason: the golden structure is truly stunning, and the setting of the temple on the edge of a pond makes for a picturesque scene. Visitors can take a tour of the temple, which includes a visit to the garden and an opportunity to view the Golden Pavilion from different angles, including from the pond. You can also explore the garden around the temple, which features a variety of different elements like rock gardens, a waterfall, and a miniature island.
It is important to note that the temple was destroyed by fire twice, first in 1950 and again in 1985, but the temple has been rebuilt and restored to its original appearance, so visitors can still see the impressive golden structure that has made it so famous.
【4】Visit the Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former residence of the shogun
Nijo Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Kyoto, Japan. It was built in the 17th century by the founder of the Edo Period, Tokugawa Ieyasu, as his Kyoto residence. The castle is famous for its beautiful and elaborate architecture, including its Ninomaru Palace, which is a complex of buildings that feature intricate sliding doors (fusuma) and delicate wall paintings (byōbu) depicting scenes from Japanese history and folklore. The palace is also famous for the “nightingale floors” (ugyō-bari) which are designed to squeak in a particular way, to alert the residents if someone is walking on it, serving as a security measure.
The castle’s extensive gardens, including the Honmaru Garden and the Ninomaru Garden, are also worth a visit. They feature a variety of different elements, including a large pond, several tea houses, and a variety of different types of trees and plants. The castle also features several guard towers, called yagura, which offer views of the surrounding area.
Nijo Castle is a must-see destination for anyone interested in Japanese history and architecture. Visitors can take guided tours of the palace to learn more about the history of the castle and the Edo Period, and also take a stroll through the beautiful gardens. It is open to the public year-round, and it’s also a good idea to visit the castle during cherry blossom season, as the gardens are particularly beautiful during this time.
【5】Take a dip in the hot springs of the Arima Onsen
Arima Onsen is a hot spring resort located in the city of Kobe, in Hyogo prefecture, Japan. It is one of the oldest hot spring resorts in Japan, with a history dating back over 1,000 years. The resort is known for its two main types of hot springs, the “golden water” (kin no yu) and the “silver water” (gin no yu), which are said to have different healing properties. The golden water is said to be particularly effective for treating rheumatoid arthritis and other illnesses related to the bones and muscles, while the silver water is said to be good for treating skin conditions.
Arima Onsen offers several different types of accommodation, from traditional Japanese inns (ryokan) to more modern hotels. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of different activities and experiences, including traditional Japanese hot spring baths, spa treatments, and local cuisine. The hot spring is also famous for its beautiful natural scenery, and the surrounding area is home to several hiking trails and scenic spots, which are great for a day trip.
It is a great place to relax and rejuvenate while experiencing traditional Japanese culture. Arima Onsen is located within the city of Kobe, and it’s easily accessible by train or bus. It’s a popular destination for both local and foreign tourists, and it’s a great place to visit if you want to experience a traditional Japanese hot spring resort while also being able to explore the city of Kobe.
【6】Wander the streets of the Gion district, known for its traditional geisha houses
Gion is a district located in the city of Kyoto, Japan. It is famous for its traditional Japanese architecture, including its wooden machiya townhouses and its narrow, winding streets. Gion is also known as Kyoto’s geisha district, as it has been home to many geisha and maiko (apprentice geisha) for centuries. Visitors can still see geisha and maiko in Gion today, as they walk to and from their appointments or as they perform at traditional teahouses.
Gion is also home to several traditional Japanese inns (ryokan), temples, and shrines, including the Yasaka Shrine, which is known for its beautiful cherry blossoms in the spring. In addition, Gion also offers a variety of restaurants and shops, many of which sell traditional Japanese goods and souvenirs.
Gion is an excellent place to experience traditional Japanese culture and architecture. Visitors can take a stroll through the narrow streets and admire the traditional machiya townhouses, and also catch a glimpse of geisha and maiko as they move about their business. It is especially beautiful at night when the lanterns are lit and the streets are filled with visitors. It’s also a great place to visit if you’re interested in Japanese tea ceremony, as Gion is home to several traditional teahouses where you can experience this ancient Japanese tradition.
【7】Take a day trip to the nearby town of Nara, home to the famous Todai-ji Temple and its giant Buddha statue
Nara is a city located in the Nara prefecture, in the Kansai region of Japan. It was the capital of Japan from 710 to 794 AD, during the Nara period. Nara is famous for its numerous historical and cultural sites, many of which have been designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
The most famous attraction in Nara is the Todai-ji Temple, which houses the world’s largest bronze statue of the Buddha Vairocana. The temple is also home to the Daibutsu-den, a hall that is one of the largest wooden structures in the world. Another important attraction is the Kasuga-taisha Shrine, a Shinto shrine with a history dating back to the 8th century. The shrine is known for its many stone lanterns and bronze lanterns, which are lit twice a year during the Kasuga-wasshoi festival.
Nara also has a large population of Sika deer, considered as a national treasure and protected as natural monument, which roam freely around the city, particularly in Nara Park, where visitors can interact and feed the deer.
Nara is also home to several other temples, shrines, and historical sites, including the Horyu-ji Temple, one of the oldest wooden buildings in the world and the Yakushi-ji Temple, famous for its beautiful pagoda. Visitors can also explore Nara’s many museums, which offer insights into the city’s rich history and culture.
It’s a great place to visit if you’re interested in Japanese history and culture, and it’s easily accessible by train from Kyoto or Osaka. Nara offers a great combination of historical and cultural sites, beautiful nature and the unique experience of interacting with the friendly and cute deer.
【8】Visit the Kyoto Imperial Palace, the former residence of the Japanese Emperor
The Kyoto Imperial Palace is a palace located in the city of Kyoto, Japan. It was the residence of the Imperial Family of Japan from the late 14th century until the capital was moved to Tokyo in the late 19th century. Today, the palace is used for ceremonial and state occasions, and it is open to the public for guided tours.
The palace complex is composed of several buildings, including the Seiryo-den, which is the main audience hall and the residence of the emperor, the Shishinden, which is the residence of the empress, and the Kogosho, which is the residence of the Crown Prince. Visitors can also see the palace’s beautiful gardens and traditional Japanese architecture.
The palace grounds are surrounded by a large moat, and entry is through the Tatsumi-no-mon gate. Guided tours of the palace are offered twice a day and are conducted in Japanese and English. The tour includes a visit to the Seiryo-den, the Shishinden, and the Kogosho, as well as a walk through the palace’s beautiful gardens.
It’s a great place to visit if you’re interested in Japanese history and culture, and it’s easily accessible by bus or train from Kyoto Station. The palace is a great place to learn about the history of the Imperial Family of Japan, and the beautiful traditional architecture and gardens make it a great place to visit. It’s also a nice place to relax and get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
【9】Take a hike up to the top of Mount Yoshida for beautiful views of the city
Mount Yoshida is a mountain located in the city of Kyoto, Japan. It is not a well-known tourist destination, but it is a popular spot for hiking and offers a great view of Kyoto city. The mountain is located in the northern part of the city, and it is part of the Kitayama mountain range.
The mountain is relatively small, but it is a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy nature. There are several hiking trails that lead to the summit, which is about 400 meters above sea level. The trail is relatively easy, but it can be steep in some places.
The summit of the mountain offers a great view of the city and the surrounding area. On a clear day, you can see as far as Kyoto Tower and the Kyoto Station. The mountain is also a great place to see the autumn foliage, as the trees on the mountain turn beautiful shades of orange and red in the fall.
Mount Yoshida is a great place to visit if you’re looking for a quick and easy hike with a great view of the city. It’s also a nice place to relax and get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. It’s easily accessible by bus or train from Kyoto Station.
【10】Visit the Heian Shrine, a Shinto shrine dedicated to the first and last emperors of Japan
Heian Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the city of Kyoto, Japan. It is dedicated to the spirits of Emperor Kammu and Emperor Komei, the last two emperors to rule from the city of Kyoto. It was built in 1895 to commemorate the 1100th anniversary of the founding of the capital in Kyoto by Emperor Kammu.
The shrine is known for its beautiful architecture and gardens, which are designed to resemble the style of the Heian period (794-1185 AD), the last period in which Kyoto served as the capital of Japan. The main hall of the shrine is a large two-story building with a thatched roof, and it is surrounded by a large garden with a pond and a traditional Japanese tea house.
Heian Shrine’s garden is particularly famous for its beautiful cherry blossoms in spring and red leaves in autumn. The garden is also home to several other shrines, including the Toyokunin-jinja, which is dedicated to the spirits of the imperial family, and the Okuninushi-no-mikoto, which is dedicated to the god of love and marriage.
Heian Shrine is a great place to visit if you’re interested in Japanese history and culture, and it’s easily accessible by bus or train from Kyoto Station. The shrine is a great place to learn about the history of Kyoto and the Heian period, and the beautiful traditional architecture and gardens make it a great place to visit. It’s also a nice place to relax and get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
【11】Check out the Kyoto National Museum, which houses an extensive collection of Japanese art and artifacts
The Kyoto National Museum is a national museum located in the city of Kyoto, Japan. It was founded in 1897 and is dedicated to the preservation and display of Japanese art and cultural artifacts. The museum has a large collection of objects, including ceramics, textiles, lacquerware, metalwork, and sculptures from the ancient and medieval periods. The collection also includes Japanese, Chinese, and Korean artworks, as well as some Buddhist art from India and other parts of Asia.
The museum has several exhibition rooms, including the Honkan, which is the main exhibition hall, and the Heiseikan, which is a modern exhibition hall that opened in 2014. The Honkan features rotating special exhibitions, as well as a permanent collection of objects from the ancient and medieval periods, including ceramics, textiles, and lacquerware. The Heiseikan features special exhibitions of contemporary art and design, as well as a collection of modern and contemporary art.
The Kyoto National Museum is a great place to visit if you’re interested in Japanese art and culture, and it’s easily accessible by bus or train from Kyoto Station. The museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Japan, and the beautiful traditional architecture and gardens make it a great place to visit. The museum also has a nice shop and a café where you can buy souvenirs and refreshments.
【12】Take a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Japanese dishes like sushi or ramen
There are many cooking classes in Kyoto that are designed for tourists. These classes typically teach traditional Japanese dishes such as sushi, tempura, ramen, and kaiseki, which is a multi-course traditional Japanese dinner. Many of these classes are hands-on, where participants will learn to make the dishes themselves under the guidance of a professional chef.
Some popular cooking classes in Kyoto include:
- Cook Kyoto: This cooking school offers both half-day and full-day classes, where you can learn to make a variety of traditional Japanese dishes.
- Kyoto Foodie: This cooking school offers a variety of classes, including sushi making, ramen making and traditional Kaiseki dinner class.
- Kyoto Cooking Tour: This tour company offers cooking classes and food tours that take place in local homes and restaurants.
- Kyoto Gourmet: This company offers both group and private cooking classes, where you can learn to make traditional Japanese dishes such as sushi, tempura, and ramen.
- Zen Cultural: This cooking school offers classes that focus on traditional Zen vegetarian cuisine, which is a unique aspect of Kyoto’s culinary culture.
These are just a few examples, there are many other cooking classes available in Kyoto, and you can also find classes in local language or with English speaking instructors. It is highly recommended to book in advance as these classes are popular among tourists.
【13】Visit the To-ji Temple, known for its large, five-story pagoda
To-ji Temple (also known as To-ji-in) is a Buddhist temple located in the city of Kyoto, Japan. The temple is officially known as Kyō-ō-gokoku-ji, which means “the temple for the defense of the country by means of King Ashoka’s teachings.” It was built in 796 AD by the order of Emperor Kanmu and was one of the major temples of the Heian period (794-1185 AD).
To-ji Temple is known for its large, five-story pagoda, which is the tallest wooden pagoda in Japan and a designated National Treasure. The pagoda stands at 57 meters tall and is a great example of the architectural style of the Heian period. The temple also includes a large main hall (Kondo) which contains a statue of the temple’s main deity, the bodhisattva Kōbō Daishi.
To-ji Temple is also known for its beautiful gardens and landscaping. The temple’s main gate is also a National Treasure and is a great example of the Heian period architectural style. The temple also has a large pond and a traditional Japanese garden, which is a great place to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
To-ji Temple is a great place to visit if you’re interested in Japanese history and culture, and it’s easily accessible by bus or train from Kyoto Station. The temple is a great place to learn about the history of Kyoto and the Heian period, and the beautiful traditional architecture and gardens make it a great place to visit. It’s also a nice place to relax and get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
【14】Take a traditional tea ceremony class to learn about the Japanese tea culture
There are also many tea ceremony classes in Kyoto that are designed for tourists. The traditional Japanese tea ceremony, also known as “sado” or “chanoyu”, is an important part of Japanese culture and is a way to experience and appreciate the traditional Japanese aesthetic. These classes typically teach the traditional Japanese tea ceremony, including the history and etiquette of the ceremony, as well as the traditional way of preparing and serving matcha (powdered green tea).
Some popular tea ceremony classes in Kyoto include:
- Urasenke: This tea school, based in Kyoto, offers classes in traditional Japanese tea ceremony for both tourists and locals.
- Ikenobo: This school offers classes in traditional Japanese flower arrangement and tea ceremony, and is one of the oldest schools of flower arrangement in Japan.
- Okochi Sanso: This traditional Japanese tea house is located in a beautiful garden and offers tea ceremony classes to tourists.
- Mimuroto-ji Temple: This temple offers tea ceremony classes in a traditional Japanese setting, and is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the tea ceremony.
- Kyoto Tea House: This company offers tea ceremony classes and tea ceremonies for tourists in a traditional Japanese tea house.
- Omotosenke: This tea school offers traditional tea ceremony classes for tourists and locals, located in a beautiful traditional Japanese house.
These are just a few examples, there are many other tea ceremony classes available in Kyoto and you can also find classes in local language or with English speaking instructors. It is highly recommended to book in advance as these classes are popular among tourists. Be aware that some classes are more traditional and traditional attire is required, check the requirements before you book.
【15】Visit the Ryoan-ji Temple, known for its famous rock garden
Ryoan-ji Temple is a Zen Buddhist temple located in the city of Kyoto, Japan. The temple is known for its famous rock garden, considered as one of the most famous and historically significant examples of karesansui (dry landscape) gardens in Japan. The garden is comprised of 15 rocks of various sizes placed among raked white gravel, with the layout and placement of the rocks carefully chosen to create a sense of mystery and contemplation.
The temple was built in the 15th century by a powerful nobleman, Hosokawa Katsumoto, and was later converted to a Zen temple in 1450. The temple is also famous for its beautiful architecture and serene surroundings. The temple buildings are constructed in traditional Japanese architectural style and the temple grounds are beautifully landscaped with ponds, gardens and a tea house.
Ryoan-ji Temple is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a great place to visit if you’re interested in Japanese art and culture. The temple is open to visitors all year round and is easily accessible by bus or train from Kyoto Station. Visitors can take a guided tour, or explore the temple and its gardens independently. It’s also a great place to relax and get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Summary
These are just some of the most popular and must-see attractions in Kyoto. Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine is one of the most popular tourist destination in Kyoto, known for its thousands of torii gates. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is a beautiful place for a stroll and peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The Kinkaku-ji Temple is a must-see for its famous Golden Pavilion. Nijo Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a former residence of the shogun. The Gion district is known for its traditional geisha houses and a great place to spot a geisha or a maiko. A day trip to the nearby town of Nara is a great way to explore the Todai-ji Temple and the giant Buddha statue. The Kyoto Imperial Palace is a former residence of the Japanese Emperor and open for visitors to explore. If you’re looking for great views of the city, take a hike up to the top of Mount Yoshida. Heian Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the first and last emperors of Japan. Kyoto National Museum is a great place to learn about the Japanese art and artifacts. The traditional tea ceremony is a must-do experience to learn about the Japanese tea culture. The Ryoan-ji Temple is known for its famous rock garden.
If you’re visiting Kyoto and looking for the best places to go like above, book one of the sustainable private tours at findhiddenwalks.com!
