From famous photo spots like Fushimi Inari Shrine to off-the-beaten-path bamboo parks, we’ve curated a complete list to suit every itinerary.
Thinking of exploring Japan’s cultural heart? This 2025 guide to the best things to do in Kyoto has everything you need — from iconic temples and tranquil gardens to hands-on workshops and food spots locals swear by. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, family traveller, or nature lover, Kyoto promises unforgettable experiences for every type of traveller.
Wondering what to do in Kyoto in 1 day? Planning a trip with kids? Or looking for unique things to do in Kyoto at night? We’ve got you covered.
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Overview of the best things to do in Kyoto
⛩️ Shrines and Scenery
- Fushimi Inari Taisha
- Kinkaku-Ji
- Nijo Castle
- Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
- Rakusai Bamboo Park
- Okazaki Shrine
🎨 Unique Things To Do In Kyoto
- Kyoto Railway Museum
- Fushimi Sake District *NEW ADDITION!
- Nakamura-Rosoku (Japanese Candle Painting)
- Kyoto Meditation Centre
- Kuoe Kyoto (Watchmaking Workshop)
- Kamitowa (Washi Paper-making Workshop)
🏙️ City Spots & Culture
- Kyoto Tower
- ShinPuhKan Mall
- Sannenzaka Ninenzaka
- Nishiki Market
- Kitano Tenmangu Shrine Antique Fair
- Kabuki Show at Minami-za Theatre
- Sumiya Teahouse
- Hozugawa River Boat Tour
🍡 Kyoto Food Spots
- Hanami Koji
- Arashiyama Itsukichaya
- Honke Owariya Soba
- Nanzenji Junsei (Traditional Tofu Cuisine)
🏞️ Day Trips From Kyoto
- Uji City
- Ine Funaya
- Kurama
Bonus:
🧒 Things To Do in Kyoto with Kids
- Kyoto Railway Museum (Thomas the Train car!)
- Monkey Park Iwatayama (Arashiyama area)
- Kyoto Aquarium
- Kamitowa Washi Paper Workshop
- Kyoto International Manga Museum
🌙 Things To Do in Kyoto at Night
- Stroll Hanami Koji under lantern light
- Catch a Kabuki performance at Minami-za
- Evening visit to Yasaka Shrine (open 24 hours)
- Night river walk along Kamogawa River
- Gion district geisha spotting
⏰ What To Do in Kyoto in 1 Day:
Only have a day? Here’s a fast-track Kyoto itinerary:
- Morning: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
- Lunch: Soba at Honke Owariya
- Afternoon: Explore Kinkaku-Ji & Nishiki Market
- Evening: Gion walk + dinner at Hanami Koji
⛩️ Kyoto Shrines and Scenery:
1. Fushimi Inari Taisha
Image credits: Wikimedia Commons
Known for the scenic hike lined with thousands of red torii gates, the Fushimi Inari Taisha is an iconic Shinto Shrine that’s located on the top of Mount Inari. The shrine is dedicated to the Shinto god of rice and is known to have been around since 794 AD.
Address: 68 Fukakusa Yabunouchicho, Fushimi Ward, Kyoto, 612-0882
Opening Hours: 24 Hours
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2. Kinkaku-Ji
Image credits: Maikoya
The stunning Zen Buddhist temple is famous for its top two floors, which are covered in gold leaves and an icon of Kyoto. The Kinkaku-Ji temple is surrounded by beautiful gardens that date back to when the temple was first built before 1408.
The place was initially the home of a shogun until he passed away, and the grounds were rebuilt as a Zen temple of the Rinzai Sect, a great place for history buffs and those interested in the history of shoguns.
Address: 1 Kinkakujicho, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 603-8361
Opening Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM
Admission Fee: 400 JPY (~S$3.60)
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3. Nijo Castle
Image credits: Japan Today
The Nijo Castle was built back in 1603 as the home of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Edo Period. It was kept within the family but was later used as an imperial palace before being donated to the city.
It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site back in 1994. One of the features of the castle is its nightingale floors, a precautionary measure against intruders to protect the shogun.
Address: 541 Nijojocho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8301
Opening Hours: 8:45 AM – 5 PM
Admission Fee: 1,030 JPY (~S$9.30)
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4. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Image credits: snow monkey resorts
Another one of Kyoto’s icons is the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a forest lined with bamboo trees that gives you the surreal feeling of being transported into a different dimension. It may not sound like much, but the tranquillity of the forest is something you must experience for yourself while in Japan.
Address: Arashiyama, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-0007
Opening Hours: 24 hours
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5. Rakusai Bamboo Park
Image credits: Another Kyoto
While Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is a must-see for first-timers to Kyoto, it can get pretty crowded, especially during the peak seasons. Just 30 minutes away from the city is Rakusai Bamboo Park with similar views and beautiful, tall bamboo trees without the bustle of the crowd.
Address: 2 Chome-300-3 Oekitafukunishicho, Nishikyo Ward, Kyoto, 610-1112, Japan
Opening Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM (Closed on Wednesdays)
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6. Okazaki Shrine
Image credits: The Japan News
Arguably the cutest shrine of them all, Okazaki Shrine is dedicated to rabbits and is full of bunny statues, cute miniature bunny charms, and snacks that come in all sorts of bunny shapes and sizes. Definitely a unique stop for the rabbit lovers!
Address: 4 Okazakisaaoyama-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606‑8342
Opening Hours: 6 AM – 6 PM
Admission Fee: Free
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🎨 Unique Things To Do In Kyoto:
7. Kyoto Railway Museum
Image credits: Japan Guide
Japan is well-known for its modern and extensive railway systems. At the Kyoto Railway Museum, you’ll get to discover the history of Japan’s train systems and see all 53 railway vehicles that have been adapted through the years.
You’ll even get to see a life-sized Thomas the Train car that has been parked within the museum’s premises.
Address: Kankijicho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8835
Opening Hours: 10 AM – 5:30 PM
Admission Price: 1,200 JPY (~S$10.80)
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8. Gekkeikan Okura Museum
Image credits: Kyoto Museum
Dive into Kyoto’s rich sake brewing history with a visit to the Fushimi Sake District. The Gekkeikan Okura Museum offers a tour around the compound of the brewing company that has been around since the 1600s, and gives visitors a glimpse into the sake production process, complete with tasting sessions at the end of the tours.
The wooden brewery buildings and narrow canals make the area incredibly photogenic. So even if you’re not into sake, this cultural district is a flavourful detour from the usual haunts.
Address: Kankijicho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8835
Opening Hours: 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM (Last entrance at 4 PM)
Admission Price: 600 JPY (~S$5.40)
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9. Nakamura-Rosoku (Japanese Candle Painting)
Image credits: Becos
Candles are a big part of Japanese culture, with different candles used for different ceremonies and occasions. Candles were usually hand-painted with flowers, used as a substitute in months when flowers were not in season and hard to get.
Try your hand at creating or decorating your own candles as you learn and appreciate more of Japanese culture at Nakamura-Rosaku, which has been handcrafting candles since 1887.
Be sure to book your slot online in advance for the workshops, but the store is open every day if you just want to take a look and purchase the ready-made candles!
Address: 57-8 Takeda Mitsuguicho, Fushimi Ward, Kyoto, 612-8413, Japan
Opening Hours: 9 AM – 5:30 PM
Workshop Prices: 2,000-3,000 JPY (~S$20-30)
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10. Kyoto Meditation Centre
Image credits: Japan National Tourism Organisation
Take Zen to a whole new level and enjoy maximum relaxation at the Kyoto Meditation Centre. Led by a monk in a traditional temple setting, you’ll learn breathing techniques and mindfulness practices that monks have used for centuries.
Some sessions include a vegetarian meal and a traditional tea ceremony. Ideal for spiritual seekers or anyone wanting a break from sightseeing.
Address: Depends on location chosen
Opening Hours: Varies
Workshop Prices: 20,000 JPY per pax (~S$200)
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11. Kuoe Kyoto (Watchmaking Workshop)
Image credits: Kuoe Kyoto
Get hands-on at Kuoe, a Kyoto-based watchmaker offering workshops where you assemble your own timepiece at affordable prices. Combining timeless pieces with minimalist Japanese aesthetics, this experience is great if you are looking for a meaningful souvenir or a wearable piece of Kyoto to take home.
Make a reservation to secure your slot before heading over!
Address: 224 Eirakucho, Tohbeh Building #105, Nakagyo Ward, 604-8071 Kyoto City, Kyoto
Opening Hours: 11 AM – 5:30 PM (Closed on Tuesdays)
Workshop Prices: About 15,000-20,000 JPY per pax (~S$150-200)
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12. Kamitowa (Washi Paper-Making Workshop)
Image credits: Wabunka
If journaling or scrapbooking is your thing, you’d probably own countless rolls of washi tape. I didn’t know the washi tape originated from Japan, but to be honest, I’m not surprised at all!
Try your hand at traditional paper making with intricate textures and patterns at Kamitowa, guided by skilled artisans. A great activity for both the young and old.
Reservations are advised and can be made on their website.
Address: 345 Sanjo-cho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto, Japan
Opening Hours: 10:30 AM – 5 PM (Closed on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays)
Workshop Prices: About 2,500-4,000 JPY per pax (~S$25-40)
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🏙️ Kyoto City Spots & Culture:
13. Kyoto Tower
Image credits: Klook
Offering panoramic views of the city, the Kyoto Tower is one of the greatest icons in the whole of Kyoto. Learn more about the city’s geography and get a bird’s-eye view of the city from 131m up in the air.
While the observation deck is the highlight of the tower, there are also shops and dining options within the compound.
Address: 721-1 Higashishiokojicho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8216
Opening Hours: 10:30 AM – 8:30 PM
Admission Price: 900 JPY (~S$8.10)
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14. ShinPuhKan Mall
Image credits: Kanpai Japan
ShinPuhKan is a new re-imagined shopping mall housed within a restored historical building that was built back in 1926.
The layout of the mall includes portions of the original building restored and a newer annexe, so the whole complex looks historical yet modern at the same time, making it one of the must-see places in Kyoto.
There are boutiques, a cinema and countless dining options, as well as a hotel, all located within the complex.
Address: 586-2 Kakimotocho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-0915, Japan
Opening Hours: 11 AM – 8 PM
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15. Sannenzaka Ninenzaka
Image credits: Japan Web Magazine
Step back into the olden days of Kyoto and take a stroll along old cobblestone streets that lead down from the Kiyomizu-Dera Temple.
The streets are lined with restored traditional shophouses with shops selling sweets, traditional crafts, food and souvenirs that will give you a taste of Japan back in 808 AD.
Address: Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0826, Japan
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16. Nishiki Market
Image credits: No Destinations
Nishiki Market, affectionately known as ‘Kyoto’s Kitchen’, is a five-block-long shopping street that is home to more than a hundred shops and restaurants.
There are plenty of things to appreciate and try, from fresh seafood to local produce, kitchenware and knives. Some shops serve free samples for you to try, and there are also a few restaurants and food stands for you to try local dishes.
The sheer number of stores can get pretty overwhelming, so you might want to consider going on a food tour, where a local guide will introduce you to some of the best food stores within the market.
Remember to use your YouTrip card while booking your tour to get up to 5% cashback on Klook!
Address: Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8054, Japan
Opening Hours: 9 AM – 6 PM (Varies by store)
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17. Kitano Tenmangu Shrine Flea Market
Image credits: My Kyoto Machiya
The Kitano Tenmangu Shrine is dedicated to the god of scholarship and is not only a beautiful temple, but also a cultural hotspot. It is best known for the flea and antique market that’s held on the 25th of each month. You’ll find antique traditional kimonos, vintage crafts and local street food.
The best time to visit this shrine is during spring when the plum blossoms are in full bloom and line the walkways of the temple.
Address: Bakurocho, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto
Opening Hours: 5 AM – 6 PM (April to September), 5:30 AM – 5:30 PM (October to March)
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18. Minami-Za Theatre Kabuki Show
Image credits: Klook
Experience the cultural side of Japan through a kabuki performance at Minami-za, Kyoto’s iconic kabuki theatre. Step back into the Edo period of Japan with elaborate costumes and immersive storytelling through movement and dance.
Performances are usually in Japanese, but the set and energy of the performers will captivate you as though you understood every word spoken.
Address: 186-3 Gojōmachi, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto
Opening Hours: Varies according to showtimes
Admission Price: 4,000-10,000 JPY (~S$40-100)
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19. Sumiya Teahouse
Image credits: The Year of Mud
Step into the pleasure quarters of old Kyoto at Sumiya, one of the last remaining ageya (entertainment teahouses) in the Shimabara district. A visit here feels like entering Japan of old, with tatami rooms, sliding doors and art from centuries past.
Once a space for hosting elaborate banquets and performances for higher society, it now operates as a museum preserving this lesser-known facet of Kyoto’s past.
It’s a treat for history lovers and those curious about geisha and merchant-class culture.
Address: 32 Nishishinyashiki-Ageya-cho, Shimogyo-ku
Opening Hours: 10 AM – 4 PM
Admission Price: 800-1,000 JPY (~S$8-10)
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20. Hozugawa River Boat Tour
Image credits: Discover Kyoto
Skip the train for a traditional wooden boat with a journey down the Hozugawa River. Departing from Kameoka through to Arashiyama, this 2-hour ride offers a close-up look at Kyoto’s natural beauty.
Boatmen navigate with long bamboo poles and provide lively commentary (in Japanese, but still fun!). It’s a great way to admire nature without having to hike or trek.
Address: 〒621-0005 Kyoto, Kameoka, Hozucho, Shimonakajima−２
Opening Hours: 9 AM – 4 PM
Admission Price: 3,000-5,000 JPY (~S$30-50)
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🍡 Kyoto Food Spots:
21. Hanami Koji
Image credits: Getty Images
Hanami Koji is the main hanamachi street within the Gion district that is distinctly known for its wooden Machiya houses and glimpse into the traditional streets of Kyoto. Many of the Machiya houses are home to Ochaya (tea houses) and high-end traditional restaurants.
At night, the street is lit with lanterns and a bustle of activity as locals and tourists flock to the area to try and spot geishas and maikos getting from one place to another, clad in traditional dress.
Address: Hanamikoji Street, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0074, Japan
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22. Arashiyama Itsukichaya
Image credits: Table Check
For an authentic dining experience, check out Arashiyama Itsukichaya, a charming teahouse that offers Japanese dishes like crispy tempura, sea cream shabu and wagyu rice bowls, carefully plated with attention to the finest details.
It’s a whole new experience having a meal so carefully prepared and plated against the beautiful backdrop of the Katsura River.
Make sure to have a reservation as the restaurant is often fully booked.
Address: 1-1 Arashiyama Kamikawaracho, Nishikyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-0006, Japan
Opening Hours: 10 AM – 5 PM
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23. Honke Owariya Soba
Image credits: Honke Owariya
Honke-Owariya is Kyoto’s oldest soba restaurant, which was first founded as a confectionery shop back in 1465 in the middle of the Edo Period. The business then expanded into a soba noodle shop, serving orders from the Imperial Family and Zen Temples back in the day.
Be sure to try their classic Ho-Rai Soba and to end your meal with their signature Sobamochi.
Address: 322 Niomontsukinukecho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-0841, Japan
Opening Hours: 11 AM -3 PM (Closed on Tuesdays)
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24. Nanzenji Junsei
Image credits: Kyoto City Official Travel Guide
This one’s for the tofu-lovers! Junsei serves elegant kaiseki meals with yudofu (boiled tofu) in different styles and forms. Personally, I’m not too big of a tofu fan, but I was pleasantly surprised by the taste and variations in taste of this Kyoto speciality.
To top it off, the highlight of the meal was the traditional garden and restored historic building that makes for a serene escape just near the Nanzen-ji Temple.
Address: 322 Niomontsukinukecho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-0841, Japan
Opening Hours: 11 AM – 3 PM (Closed on Tuesdays)
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🏞️ Day Trips From Kyoto
25. Uji Day Trip
Image credits: Encha Matcha
Uji is a charming riverside city that’s famous for its high-quality matcha and the majestic Byodo-In Temple, that’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Phoenix Hall of the temple is iconic to Japan, and it appears on the 10 yen coin if you look closely.
Take a stroll along the Uji River, visit teahouses, get homemade teaware and get your matcha fix as you discover the heart of Japanese tea culture in Uji.
Station: Uji Station on the JR Nara Line
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26. Ine Funaya Day Trip
Image credits: Japan Up Close
Less than three hours away from Kyoto, the quaint fishing village of Ine is known for its ‘funaya’ boathouses that line the bay with boats docked beneath traditional wooden homes. Being there will make you feel as though you’re living right out of a Studio Ghibli film.
Go on a boat cruise, rent bikes or enjoy fresh seafood by the waters. It’s the tranquil escape from the crowded cities you wouldn’t want to miss.
Address: Ine, Yosa District, Kyoto Prefecture
Station: Amanohashidate Station on the JR Hashidate Limited Express Train
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27. Kurama Day Trip
Image credits: Magical Trip
Nestled in the northern side of Kyoto and just 30 minutes away by train, Kurama is a serene village known for the best forest hikes and traditional onsens. The highlight of the town is Kurama-dera, a temple perched atop a hillside that is accessible via a scenic hike or a unique funicular ride.
Another highlight is the Kurama Onsen, one of Kyoto’s few natural hot spring resorts. It’s the perfect mountain escape!
Address: Ine, Yosa District, Kyoto Prefecture
Station: Kurama Station on the Eizan Electric Railway
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Where to stay in Kyoto:
Searching for accommodations? To make your trip planning even more seamless, we’ve found some of the best hotels in Kyoto to meet all your travelling needs.
- For the traditional Ryokan experience: Hiiragiya Ryokan
- For a trip with friends: Sakura Terrace The Gallery
- For a romantic getaway: Hoshinoya Kyoto
- For the solo-travellers: Nine Hours Kyoto
- For families with young children: The Thousand Kyoto
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Experience the cultural heart of Japan in Kyoto!
There’s so much to see and do while in Japan! We’ve found the best time to visit Japan and all you can do each month. And if you’re looking to make more than one stop, here’s the ultimate 14-day itinerary that’s all planned out for you so you don’t have to.
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