In Kyoto, beauty hides in quiet corners.
Kyoto sits quietly, cradled by mountains like a secret the land forgot to hide. The city stretches under a low, endless sky, stitched together by train lines and temple roofs. You could walk ten minutes and find yourself in a bamboo forest, or at the edge of a koi pond that reflects the sky too perfectly.Let this guide help you find them — calmly, joyfully, and without feeling overwhelmed by the big city attractions and distractions.
Getting Your Bearings: Kyoto at a Glance
Image Credit: Tourist Journey
This beautiful city unfolds slowly, like a cherry blossom about to bloom. If you’re a first-time traveller, Kyoto might seem a little overwhelming. So much to see, so little time. That’s where this guide comes in. Think of this article as your friendly neighbourhood Kyoto local, here to help you explore the city like a curious insider.
History of Kyoto
Image Credit: NYK Daily
Kyoto has a long history, with archaeological evidence that implies that humans were already living in Kyoto as early as the Old Stone Age. However, it is believed that Kyoto was founded in 794 AD, when Emperor Kanmu moved the capital of Japan from Nara to a new city called Heian-kyō, which means “Capital of Peace and Tranquility.” This is the Kyoto we have now!
Since then, Kyoto became the seat of the Japanese imperial court. It also became the center of Japanese culture, art, literature, and religion. Many of Kyoto’s iconic temples, shrines, and gardens were established during this era – shaping the city’s landscape and culture.
Eventually, Japan had to move their capital from Kyoto to Tokyo (called “Edo” at that time) because of Kyoto’s decline in power and influence. This was because of the Tokugawa Shogunate, also known as the last feudal Japanese military government.
The Tokugawa Shogunate were incredibly powerful, even more so than the Emperor. They were mainly based in Tokyo, so the Emperor decided to move the capital to Tokyo after realizing the city’s convenient location and easy access to the West for trade. Tokyo became Japan’s new capital, yet Kyoto still left its own historical legacy.
Kyoto’s Significance
Even if Kyoto is no longer the capital of the country today, it still feels like the soul of the country. Stepping into Kyoto feels like entering the heart of Japan, seeing how the city continues to preserve the nation’s heritage and traditions.
Image Credit: Forever Foreign
As Japan continues to grow in modernisation, Kyoto still finds a way to remind us of Japan’s historical past. The city is renowned for its preservation of traditional architecture, gardens, temples, and shrines. It still serves as a hub for artistic and cultural activities, from tea ceremonies to geisha performances.
Throughout its history, Kyoto has been a crossroads for cultural exchange within Japan and the wider world. Now, the city remains as a major centre for culture and tourism. You will learn so much about Japanese culture, history, and spirituality in this rich city of customs and traditions. We can all agree that Kyoto continues to shape the nation’s identity up to this day!
Neighbourhoods in Kyoto
One of the most significant features of Kyoto is its layout. When Kyoto was still Heian-kyō, the city’s layout was meticulously planned, modelled after the Chinese Tang dynasty capital of Chang’an. The city is organised like a grid, with its northern neighborhoods home to ancient temples and peaceful mountain trails, and the south offering vibrant markets and street life.
Kyoto is a city of distinct and historic neighbourhoods, each with its own history and unique character. Central to the city’s identity is the Hanamachi districts, also known as the geisha districts. There are five key Hanamachi districts in Kyoto; Gion Kobu, Gion Higashi, Pontocho, Miyagawa Cho, and Kamishichiken.
If you’re eyeing to travel through neighbourhoods that give off more of a “historical” vibe, check out Higashiyama for temple-hopping, Arashiyama for lush bamboo groves, and Fushimi for nature activities.
Let’s not forget that Kyoto has popular commercial areas too! Shijo-Kawaramachi, also known as Downtown Kyoto, is the city’s main shopping and entertainment hub. The Kyoto Station is also considered a vibrant shopping and dining district in Kyoto, serving as the city’s main entry point that will lead you to a variety of hotels, restaurants, and shops.
Getting to and Around Kyoto
To reach Kyoto, most travellers arrive via Kansai Airport (near Osaka). The JR Haruka Express train takes around 75 minutes to Kyoto Station; you can buy train tickets at ticket machines near all ticket gates across the Station or at ticket offices. From Tokyo, the Tokaido Shinkansen (Kodama/Hikari) brings you to Kyoto Station in about 2–3 hours. Once you’re in Kyoto, Google Maps or apps like Hyperdia/Google Translate work very well for navigating through the city.
Kyoto’s compact downtown means walking is often the fastest way to see an area. Many neighbourhoods (like Gion, Nishiki, Pontocho) are best explored on foot or by bicycle. You’ll spot bike rentals shops all over the city – a fun and efficient way to get around, especially along the Kamo River or Philosopher’s Path. Each bike rental shop has their own terms and conditions, from how long you can rent a bike, how much, and what kind of bikes you can rent.
Image Credit: KYOTO ECO TRIP
For longer distances, Kyoto has buses, subway lines, and trains. The city buses cover almost every tourist spot, but note that as of 2024, the Kyoto one-day bus pass has been discontinued. Instead, you can pay per ride (about ¥230 for adults in the city) or get the combined Subway & Bus Day Pass (¥1,100) which covers unlimited rides on all municipal buses and the two subway lines (Karasuma and Tozai). The subway day pass alone is ¥800.
Kyoto has two subway lines—the north-south Karasuma Line (green) and the east-west Tozai Line (turquoise). While their coverage is limited compared to buses, they’re a fast and efficient way to avoid traffic and reach key areas of the city. It’s a useful way to maximise your sightseeing time, especially when paired with buses or walking. Be sure to have your IC card (Suica or Pasmo) loaded and ready for seamless travel.
Popular bus routes include #100/101 (Kinkaku-ji and Ginkaku-ji loops) and #17/205. Expect traffic delays during rush hour; plan extra time to reach your destination. Taxis are pricey in Kyoto but sometimes handy late at night or if you have heavy luggage. Uber is also available in Kyoto, making it easier for you to travel around the city conveniently.
Remember: While many establishments in the city do accept credit cards and mobile payment services, smaller shops, local markets, and traditional inns (ryokans) often prefer cash (yen). This is especially true at places like Nishiki Food Market, where you’ll find a vibrant stretch of street food stalls, specialty vendors, and local delicacies—many of which are cash-only. To avoid hassle, it’s a good idea to stop by a 7-Eleven ATM on your way, as they reliably accept international cards.
Where to Stay in Kyoto
Image Credit: Momondo
When choosing where to stay, think about what kind of trip you want. Kyoto’s Central Downtown (Kawaramachi/Shijo) area is lively and convenient: you’ll be a few steps away from shops, restaurants, and buses. Nearby Gion and Higashiyama offer historic flair – traditional ryokan (Japanese inns) and machiya (townhouse) stays are charming here, and you can easily stroll to the Yasaka Shrine and Kiyomizu-dera.
If you love nature and a quieter vibe, Arashiyama in the west (near the bamboo grove and the monkey park) has scenic hotels and guesthouses. Finally, the Kyoto Station area has many budget-friendly business hotels and the unbeatable convenience of transit links (ideal if you’re coming by Shinkansen or flying into Kansai Airport).
In the high season (spring cherry blossoms or fall colours), it’s advised to book accommodations early. Kyoto is busy! For a unique splurge, consider a ryokan in Gion or near Kiyomizu – sleeping on futons and soaking in an onsen bath is a memory-maker. On a budget, capsule hotels and guesthouses can be found throughout the city. Here’s a short list of affordable accommodations you can check out.
- ALA Hotel Kyoto
- Nohga Hotel Kiyomizu Kyoto
- Capsule Hotel Anshin
- The Pocket Hotel
- Piece Hostel Sanjo
- WeBase Kyoto
Pro tip: If you have a JR Rail Pass and arrive by train, staying near Kyoto Station saves time. This station is considered a central hub as it is near many accommodations, restaurants, and landmarks. Plus, Kyoto Station can bring you directly to other cities of Japan.
Best Time to Travel to Kyoto: Seasonal Tips and Festivals
Kyoto shines in every season, but the experience changes dramatically:
Spring (March–May)
Cherry blossoms usually peak in late March–early April. This is the high season (expect crowds and book hotels months ahead). Best spots: Maruyama Park, Philosopher’s Path, Heian Shrine Garden. If you’re here in early May, catch the cool lantern festival at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, known as the Kitano Tenmangu Plum Blossom Festival. Dress in layers – Kyoto can be chilly in March.
Summer (June–August)
Expect heat and humidity (mid-30°C/95°F is common). This season has famous events: Gion Matsuri (all July, with grand floats on July 17) and the Daimonji Okuribi (five bonfires on mountains on Aug 16). Crowds can be heavy around festivals. For a local experience, look for kawadoko dining (waterfront patios) in Kibune (northern Kyoto) such as Kibunesou or Ryokan Hirobun – cool off near a river. Carry water and wear breathable clothes. Enjoy summer treats like kakigori (shaved ice) or beer on an outdoor lantern-lit patio found in the Gion, popularly known as the Geisha District of Kyoto.
Autumn (September–November)
Image Credit: Bookaway
Late November is peak koyo (fall foliage) season. Famous gardens like Eikando, Tofuku-ji, and Kiyomizu explode with colour. Crowds rival cherry blossom season in spring, so morning visits are key. The weather is comfortable (sweater/jacket level by late November). This is an excellent time to sip tea on a temple porch and watch the leaves drift down. Watch for special evening illuminations at temples (mid Nov–Dec).
Winter (December–February)
In winter, it gets cold (rarely below freezing) but generally dry. This is Kyoto’s low season, so it’s peaceful and hotels are cheaper. Some shrines have New Year’s festivities in early January, like the Hatsumode, also known as the Japanese tradition of visiting a shrine or temple to welcome the new year. You can do this at any Buddhist Temple or Shinto Shrine for free but do expect long lines!
If it snows (rarely thick, but sometimes dusts the ground), the temples look magical under a bit of white. Just bring a warm coat! A winter highlight is a bowl of yudofu (hot tofu hotpot) at Nanzen-ji temple grounds, or a hot matcha latte from a local café like Nakamura Tokichi Honten in Uji.
Aim for spring or fall for fair weather and scenery, or summer for festivals and winter for tranquility. Check the exact cherry blossom forecast (Kyoto releases weekly updates in spring) and plan accordingly. And whatever the season, always carry an umbrella – Kyoto’s weather can surprise you with a sudden shower!
Things to Do in Kyoto: Kyoto’s Must-See Spots
Kyoto’s iconic sights are famous for very good reasons – you won’t want to miss them. Here are some essentials you have to tick off your to-see list:
Kiyomizu-dera (清水寺)
This cliff-hanging temple in Higashiyama has spectacular city views from its wooden terrace. It’s especially pretty at sunset or during cherry blossoms (late March-April) and autumn leaves (October-November). Heads-up: It can be crowded mid-day, so consider an early morning or evening visit.
Fushimi Inari Taisha (伏見稲荷大社)
Famous for the endless tunnel of orange torii gates, this shrine is a feast for the eyes. Best time to go is early morning or weekday to beat crowds. The hike up the mountain takes 2–3 hours round-trip, but you can turn back sooner. Fushimi Inari is free and open 24/7, so you can try hiking at night for a unique experience.
After, explore the nearby Fushimi neighbourhood – Kyoto’s sake-brewing heart. The Kyoto tourism board praises Fushimi’s “pristine water” and canal cruises past old breweries. Don’t miss the Gekkeikan Sake Museum if you have time.
Kinkaku-ji (金閣寺) – the Golden Pavilion
Image Credit: Explore Shaw
This shimmering temple by its pond is world-famous (and often decked out in gold leaf!). It’s best enjoyed early in the morning. The temples in Kyoto each charge a small admission (usually ¥400–600).
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Sagano
In the outskirts (northwest Kyoto), the bamboo forest is a must-see. It’s open 24/7 and free to walk (visiting at dawn lets you have it mostly to yourself). Nearby, visit Tenryu-ji Temple gardens and the Arashiyama Monkey Park (a 20-min uphill hike ending in free-roaming macaques and a great city view). If you go, the Monkey Park’s opening hours and the small entry fee details can be checked online. Afterward, cross the scenic Togetsukyo Bridge and stroll around Arashiyama Park or take a Yakatabune boat ride located on the west side of Togetsukyo Bridge.
Gion and Pontocho
Kyoto’s legendary Geisha districts. Walk the lantern-lit alleys of Hanami-koji in Gion, keeping quiet and respectful – you might spot a maiko (apprentice geisha). At night, Pontocho Alley by the Kamo River has a lively mix of traditional kaiseki eateries and modern bars. (Insider note: have dinner here at restaurants like Yoshiya, but keep tabs on the bill – it can be pricey.)
Nishiki Market
Known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” this covered food market in downtown Kyoto offers everything from pickled veggies to freshly grilled eel. It’s about five blocks long. Most shops are open roughly 9:00–18:00 (some close on Wed or Sun). Go for a snack spree! Try wagashi (sweet bean cakes), fresh mochi, or even Kyoto-style taiyaki (fish-shaped pastries).
Philosopher’s Path & Ginkaku-ji
The stone-paved path along a canal is lovely, especially in cherry blossom season. It connects to Ginkaku-ji (銀閣寺) – the Silver Pavilion. (It’s not actually silvered, but its moss gardens are Zen.) This area is peaceful and less crowded than Kinkaku-ji/Gion, giving visitors a break from busy downtown.
Nijo Castle
A flat castle (not a shrine) famous for its “nightingale floors” that chirp when you walk – a built-in security system! Inside are ornate Shogun-era paintings. It’s a UNESCO site and worth a stop if you like history. The Nijo Castle is open from 8:45 AM to 5:00 PM, with an admission of JPY 800.
Kyoto Imperial Palace
Image Credit: Tourist in Japan
The Emperor’s old residence is a lush park in central Kyoto. Free admission, but you need a same-day timed reservation (easily done at the visitor center near Marutamachi Station or through the website here). This is a nice way to see imperial Kyoto without crowds.
Kamogawa River
Lined with cherry trees and cafés, locals love picnicking by the Kamogawa (Kamo) River. On warm evenings, local university students sit on riverside steps (with snacks and beer). If the weather’s nice, take some delicious snacks and drinks and try it yourself!
Each of these spots offers a taste of Kyoto’s history and charm. Mix and match based on your interests. For example, art lovers might add the Kyoto International Manga Museum or the Kyoto National Museum. Architecture buffs can wander the Sanjusangendo Hall (1001 Buddha statues) or the vast Kyoto Station building itself (with a rooftop view).
Unique Things to Do in Kyoto: Hidden Gems and Local Secrets
Beyond the famous sights, Kyoto has plenty of lesser-known treats. These are fun to sprinkle into your trip if you have extra time or want to avoid the crowds:
Fushimi’s Breweries and Boat Rides
Image Credit: Trip Savvy
We already mentioned Fushimi’s famous shrine. But wander the backstreets south of Inari Station and you’ll find traditional sake breweries and even canal cruises. It’s surprisingly rural-feeling. (Fushimi is a short train ride south of central Kyoto on the JR Nara Line.)
Takao (高雄)
North of Arashiyama (reachable by bus or car), Takao is a mountain area with a spectacular riverside. In summer, restaurants set up kawadoko – dining platforms over the water (imagine lunch with your feet almost in the river!). In autumn, the maple leaves here are jaw-dropping. Winter brings a specialty dish: wild boar hotpot. A temple to see here is Kosan-ji (1,500 years old!), tucked in the forest.
Yamashina and Ohara
On the east side of Kyoto, Yamashina offers scenic boat cruises on old canals, plus quiet temples and the chance to see Kyoto ceramics (Kiyomizu-yaki pottery is made around here). Ohara is even further north, famous for the mossy gardens of Sanzen-in Temple and rustic countryside – a tranquil escape.
Shimogamo and Tadasu-no-Mori
Near the Kitayama/Kinkakuji area, Shimogamo Shrine sits on the edge of an ancient forest (Tadasu-no-mori). It’s one of Japan’s oldest shrines. Fewer tourists venture here, so it feels like a step back in time.
Nishijin Textile District
North of the city center, this area is Kyoto’s historic textile hub. You can see kimono fabrics being made (look for the Nishijin Textile Center, which also has a short kimono fashion show). There’s also a little old-world café culture here if you want a break from sightseeing. Café Hyodo and Oahu are highly recommended for the café enthusiasts!
The Night Streets of Gion
Image Credit: Link Kyoto
Once the sun sets, walk through Gion’s atmospheric lanes (like Shirakawa Minami-dori). If you’re lucky, you might glimpse a geisha (though this is rare and they move quickly). One fun cultural stop is Gion Corner, a small theater that hosts a compact one-hour show of Kyoto’s traditional arts (tea ceremony, puppet theater, dance). It’s tourist-friendly and shows you kabuki and koto music in bite-sized form (tickets ¥4,000).
Seasonal Pop-Up Events
Keep an eye out for temple light-ups or special openings. For instance, in fall, temples like Kiyomizu and Kitano Tenmangu hold evening illumination events (tickets cost extra). Winter sometimes brings “special openings” of normally closed spaces (like cloisters of temples). Check the Kyoto City official site or local news before your trip.
Remember, half the fun is wandering Kyoto’s side streets. Why not turn down a narrow alley and peek in? You might find a tiny shrine with colourful offerings (Yasaka Koshin-do with its pom-pom amulets is a cute one near Gion), or a craftsman’s workshop. As a local saying goes, Kyoto’s beauty is found in the ma – the space between things – so take your time to notice the small moments.
What to Eat in Kyoto
Image Credit: Kashiwaya Magazine
Kyoto is a food lover’s paradise. Famous for delicate kaiseki cuisine and sweet confections, it also has plenty of down-to-earth eats. Here’s what you shouldn’t miss:
Wagashi (Traditional Sweets)
Try yatsuhashi (cinnamon rice flour sweet), mochi, and dorayaki. Many historic tea houses (especially in Gion/Higashiyama) serve beautifully crafted wagashi and matcha. A street favourite is freshly made yatsuhashi from stores around Nishiki Market.
Matcha Sweets & Tea
Uji, just outside Kyoto, grows most of Japan’s high-grade green tea. You’ll find matcha soft-serve ice cream, matcha-flavoured cheesecake, and elaborate matcha dessert platters in the city (e.g., in Gion or Kyoto Station’s shopping mall). Even humble convenience or popular discount stores such as Don Quijote have matcha-flavoured sweets!
Kaiseki and Tofu
Kyoto is famous for refined kaiseki (multi-course meals that look like art). Kaiseki restaurants like Kikunoi are said to be expensive, but even sitting at a local ryokan dinner or ordering a kaiseki set meal (around ¥5,000–10,000) is a special experience of seasonal Kyoto ingredients. Some temples’ sub-temples (like Nanzen-ji Junsei) specialise in yudofu (simmered tofu) kaiseki – a simple yet iconic Kyoto taste.
Street Food and Markets
Make the most of Nishiki Market: snack on grilled seafood, savory tamagoyaki (sweet omelette on a stick), tsukemono (pickles), and ware soba (cold buckwheat noodles). Many stalls will offer samples. Also wander Kyoto’s covered shopping streets (like Teramachi or Shinkyogoku) for ramen shops, okonomiyaki (savory pancake), and conveyor-belt sushi. A Kyoto twist: shan-shan ramen (chicken broth) or tori katsu (chicken cutlet) are popular here.
Izakaya and Casual Eats
Evenings in Kyoto can be chilly, so slip into an izakaya (Japanese pub) in Pontocho or around Kawaramachi. You can check out Izumoya in Pontocho or Masuya Saketen in Kawaramachi. Enjoy skewers, sake, and local beer. For a cheap feast, Kyoto’s convenience stores (konbini) offer surprisingly tasty bentos and snacks when you’re on the go. One quirky local custom: you’ll see vending machines at ramen shops where you buy meal tickets before you enter. Don’t be shy to use them – it’s how locals do it.
Sake and Drinks
In Fushimi or near Gion, you can sample Kyoto’s famous sake (rice wine). Many breweries let you taste it for free or for a small fee. Even if you don’t drink alcohol, you can enjoy hot amazake (sweet rice drink) in winter from street stalls. For a non-alcoholic warm-up, try Kyoto’s matcha latte or a sweet potato tea.
If you love a certain Tokyo specialty (like Monjayaki in Tsukishima or Gyoza in Ueno), don’t expect it everywhere – Kyoto has its own favourites (like tofu dishes, yuba [tofu skin], and pickled vegetables). So be adventurous! A bowl of hot udon near a temple can feel just as wonderful as high-end dining here. And if you want modern flair, Kyoto’s Kawaramachi area has great cafés and international eats too (trust me, we know a hidden little croissant bakery that locals adore).
Suggested Kyoto Travel Itinerary
Ideally, 2-3 days is perfect. This gives you enough time to hit the highlights and slow down to soak in Kyoto’s meditative charm.
2–3 Days in Kyoto (First-Timer’s Pace)
Day 1 – Higashiyama & Gion:
- Morning: Start at Kiyomizu-dera before the crowds get there (opens ~6:00 or 7:00 depending on season). Explore its temple and Jishu Shrine (love-themed stones to walk between).
- Walk down Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka streets: old merchant lanes filled with shops and wagashi.
- Lunch: Try yudofu at a nearby vegetarian temple restaurant such as Shimizu Junsho Okabeya located near Kiyomizu-Dera Temple.
- Afternoon: Stroll Maruyama Park and Yasaka Shrine, then wander through Gion’s backstreets (Hanami-koji, Shirakawa-dori).
- Evening: Have dinner in Pontocho Alley (TORIHARA is a great restaurant for yakitori aka grilled skewers), followed by watching a Geisha performance at Gion Corner. They have regular performances daily at 6:00 PM with tickets ranging from JPY 3,300 to JPY 6,600. Check out how to reserve tickets here!
Day 2 – Arashiyama & Western Kyoto:
- Morning: Take a train to Saga-Arashiyama. Enter the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove (free admission, open 24h). Then visit Tenryu-ji Temple (garden).
- Extra activity: Hike up to the Monkey Park Iwatayama for city views.
- Lunch: Riverside café or seasonal kaiseki by the river. You can check out Kibune Hiroya or Kibune Beniya.
- Afternoon: Cross Togetsukyo Bridge. Rent a bicycle from a local bicycle rental shop (the Kyoto Cycling Tour Project is a top choice!) nearby to ride along the river. Explore the Sagano Scenic Railway and learn more about how to experience it here.
- Evening: If time, swing by Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) in north-west Kyoto at sunset, when it’s peaceful and less crowded (it closes by 5:00pm). Alternatively, relax at your hotel or wander Kyoto Station’s futuristic halls.
Day 3 – Northern Kyoto & Fushimi:
- Morning: Hit Philosopher’s Path in Ginkaku-ji area; walk to Ginkaku-ji, then down the canal walk under the cherry trees.
- Brunch: Sample Kyoto sweets at a café near Ginkaku-ji. We recommend Yojiya Café!
- Midday: Take the subway + train to Fushimi Inari. You can take a 5-minute ride from Kyoto Station to JR Inari Station (Fushimi Inari is located just outside this station) using the JR Nara Line. You can also take a short walk from the Fushimi Inari Station along the Keihan Main Line. Hike partway through the torii gates.
- Late afternoon: Tour a sake brewery in Fushimi (like Gekkeikan). If you’re back in central Kyoto before dark, visit Nijo Castle for only JPY 800 (it has nice evening illumination during cherry blossom season).
- Evening: Have your final dinner in Kyoto. Try Kaiseki Ryori if you haven’t yet – a full course of small dishes like soup, sashimi, grilled fish, etc. Our Kaiseki restaurant recommendations are Nanzeji Junsei and Nikukappo Futago. Another dinner idea is to just simply go casual with Kyoto-style ramen or okonomiyaki at a cosy shop like Donguri.
Everyone travels differently: Swap days if you prefer or skip high-traffic sights for rest. Also, consider a day trip: Kyoto is a great base to visit Nara (deer park and giant Buddha, 45 min by either Kintetsu Railways or JR West) or Osaka (only 15 min by the Tokaido Shinkansen Line). If you head to Osaka, we cover it in depth in our Osaka Travel Guide.
For longer trips, mix in “Hidden Gem” activities listed earlier (Fushimi breweries, Takao, Yamashina). And don’t forget time for unplanned discoveries – Kyoto rewards aimless wandering.
Practical Travel Tips
Image Credit: Trip Savvy
Money
ATMs that accept foreign cards are available at post offices and 7-Eleven stores. Carry at least ¥5,000–10,000 in cash when out exploring. Small shops and family-run restaurants may not take cards. Adjust your tip to the Japanese culture: tipping is not common in Japan. Don’t leave change, don’t tip.
Language
Most Kyoto people in tourism know basic English. But learning a few phrases goes a long way: “Arigato gozaimasu!” (Thank you so much!), “Kore wa ikura desu ka?” (How much is this?), etc. Saying “Sumimasen.” (Excuse me.) for attention is very helpful. Signs at temples are often bilingual. Google Translate’s camera mode can read Japanese menus/signs in a pinch.
Connectivity
Consider buying an eSIM card from a trustworthy brand like Jetpac before you jet to Japan. Kyoto has decent free Wi-Fi spots (e.g. at the station and city center), but data helps with maps. Japan is very safe, so you can leave valuables in your hotel when sight-seeing (common practice).
Etiquette
Take off shoes whenever entering a home, some restaurants, or a temple’s main hall (look for indoor slippers). At temples and shrines, observe quiet reverence: no smoking, no loud talk, no climbing fences. It’s okay to take photos of most places, but watch for “no photography” signs (especially inside some gardens or tea houses). In a restaurant, the waiter might bow deeply; a simple nod and “thank you” is respectful. When eating street food, find a bench or step to stand by – eating on the go is often discouraged in Japan, except at markets like Nishiki (where it’s tolerated).
Tickets and Timing
Temples usually charge a small entry fee (don’t forget small change). Most open around 9:00 and close around 16:30–17:00 (so plan your afternoons accordingly). Some have special later hours for light-ups – check ahead. If you want to visit the Imperial Palace (Kyoto’s former Emperor residence), you need to reserve a slot (free) through the Kyoto Imperial Household Agency website or at the office of the Japan National Tourism Organization.
Culture
The locals of Kyoto appreciate modest dress at temples (shoulders covered, no singlets). If you dress in a kimono rental, great! But if not, you won’t stand out – feel free to explore in regular clothes. Also note: Kyoto slows down around 31st of December until the 3rd of January (New Year) – some shops are closed or run for limited hours, but temples come alive for first prayers.
Final Thoughts
Kyoto is a city that charms with both grandeur and intimacy. One moment you’ll be awed by a gilded pavilion, and the next a friendly shopkeeper might invite you to sample handmade senbei (rice crackers) out front of her stall. Whether you stick to the tourist trail or forge your own wandering path, you’ll discover Kyoto’s layers of tradition and warmth.
Image Credit: Simplicity Relished
Stay flexible, take your time, and savour the journey. Remember to look up from your map or phone now and then – sometimes the most memorable experiences lie in the unexpected: a sweet shrine tucked between houses, the laughter of children feeding koi at a temple pond, or the first sip of matcha on a crisp morning.
Have a wonderful trip and enjoy every bit of Kyoto’s magic. Safe travels, and kanpai (cheers) to an unforgettable adventure!
References
- Gion Corner. (n.d.). Gion Corner official website. https://www.kyoto-gioncorner.com/global/en.html
- Kanpai Japan. (2023, July 5). A guide to riding the Kyoto buses. https://www.kanpai-japan.com/travel-guide/guide-kyoto-buses
- Kyoto City Official Travel Guide. (n.d.). Hidden gems in Kyoto. https://kyoto.travel/en/see-and-do/hidden_gems_list.html
- Kyoto City Official Travel Guide. (n.d.). Kyoto weather and climate. https://kyoto.travel/en/info/other/weather.html
