All activities in Kyoto

Things to do in {geoName} 

Kyoto, a city steeped in history and culture, offers a plethora of activities and sights that cater to every type of traveller. Walk through the famous torii gates of the Fushimi Inari Shrine, explore the lush bamboo groves of Arashiyama, or watch the sun reflect off Kinkaku-ji’s golden walls as you take in the serene surroundings. Kyoto’s unhurried charm offers moments of stillness in everyday moments. 

Wander through the cobblestoned streets of Gion, Kyoto’s geisha district with traditional machiya houses, or relax in a traditional Japanese Onsen and feel every inch of stress leave your body. It’s rejuvenation at its finest. Kyoto is a place where time slows, beauty deepens, and every corner hums with tradition. 

Unique {geoName} things you can’t do anywhere else

Japan continues to prove to be one of the world’s most unique travel destinations. And in Kyoto specifically, there are sights to be seen and activities to be explored that you just can’t find anywhere else. Get the chance to walk through 10,000 Torii gates, attend a private Geisha performance, or participate in an authentic tea ceremony in its birthplace. Below are our favourite Kyoto-only things to do:

• Fushimi Inari Shrine: Only in Kyoto can you walk the entire mountain trail beneath over 10,000 red torii gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine. 
• Private Maiko performances: Kyoto is the only city in Japan with living, practising geisha communities. You can book a maiko performance where a maiko (an apprentice geisha) entertains with dance, conversation, and traditional games.
• Traditional tea ceremonies: While tea ceremonies are popular in Japan in general, Kyoto is their original birthplace. You can book an exclusive Kyoto Garden Tea ceremony and immerse yourself in a truly unique experience. 

Best {geoName} attractions to see

When time is of the essence, you’ll want to make sure you’re hitting the best attractions in Kyoto. Below are the best attractions to see:

• Fushimi Inari Shrine: We’ve said it once, and we’ll say it again. The Fushimi Inari Shrine is famous for a reason, and its spectacular views and iconic Torii gates make it a must-visit when you’re visiting Kyoto. 
• Kinaku-Ji: From the moment you enter the temple grounds, you’ll be stunned by the majestic glow of Kinaku-Ji. A gold-leaf-covered temple perched upon a tranquil pond — it’s something straight out of a painting.  
• The Streets Of Gion: Step into old Japan as you walk through the narrow lantern-lit streets of Gion. Kyoto’s famous geisha district is a sight to behold. If you’re lucky, you might see a working geisha walk through these streets, but remember to be respectful and refrain from taking photos. 
• Kiyomizu-dera: Experience that ‘straight out of a storybook’ feel from the moment you set foot on this historic hillside temple. Time your trip in Spring or Autumn, and you’ll see pink cherry blossoms or glowing maple leaves in every direction as you step onto the famous wooden terrace overlooking the city. 
• Aramshiyama Bamboo Forest: Walk among towering bamboo stalks and soak in the peaceful atmosphere of one of Kyoto’s most iconic sights.

Best {geoName} day trips and tours

• Kyoto to Nara Day Trip: Just under an hour from Kyoto, Nara offers peaceful parks filled with free-roaming deer and stunning sights like the Great Buddha at Tōdai-ji and historic temples. You can also book a one-day Kyoto & Nara day tour and stop by the Fushimi Inari Shrine and the golden Kinkaku-Ji temple as well. 
• Kyoto to Uji Day Trip: For the matcha lovers, Uji is Japan’s matcha capital and is only 20 minutes from Kyoto. Visit the beautiful Byodo-in Temple and enjoy authentic tea experiences along the serene Uji River. And make sure you pick up a few of your favourite matcha powders to bring home. 
• Mount Koya Day Trip: Located approximately 2.5 hours from Kyoto, Mount Koya is a sacred mountain retreat home to ancient temples and serene forests. This One-Day Mount Koya Walking Tour includes express round-trip buses from Kyoto to Mount Koya and a passionate guide that’ll tell you stories about Koyasan that you won’t find in any guidebook. 

Budgeting for things to do in {geoName}

You’re likely to spend most of your time in Kyoto outdoors — whether that’s hiking up Mount Fushimi Inari for the famous Torii gates, or strolling through tranquil temples, bamboo groves, and gardens. This means that many of our favourite Kyoto attractions are open to the public and free to enter. However, there are a few temples or gardens that require a small entrance fee to help with maintenance. Nonetheless, exploring the best sights in Kyoto is relatively affordable. 

If you’re wanting to splurge, staying in a traditional Ryokan with a traditional Japanese breakfast included, booking accommodation with private onsens, or experiencing a private Maiko performance, are all experiences that can elevate your trip in Kyoto. 

Free things to do in {geoName}

Below are our favourite free things to do in Kyoto, because the best things in life are free. 

• Stroll through Fushimi Inari Shrine’s torii gates: One of Kyoto’s most photographed attractions is entirely free to enter. Hike the entire trail and feel the air get crisper as you reach closer to the summit. 
• Explore Gion’s historic streets: Wander the cobblestoned streets lined with preserved wooden machiya houses in Gion, Kyoto’s famous geisha district. 
• Walk through along Philosopher’s Path: A serene canal-side walkway lined with cherry blossom trees and small shrines. Time your trip during cherry blossom season or autumn to see golden maple trees frame every corner.
• Visit the iconic Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: Surround yourself with lush bamboo trees and take a moment to connect with nature. The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is a popular attraction that is completely free to enter. We’d recommend going early in the morning to avoid crowds—it’s popular for a reason.