15 Must-See Attractions in Kyoto

Kyoto is a top destination for first-time visitors to Japan, and for good reason. With over 2,000 temples, lush gardens, and traditional tea houses, it stands as one of Japan’s historical treasures – and don’t miss the breathtaking sunset views from Kiyomizu-dera.

The city’s maze-like streets can be enchanting, allowing you to explore hidden shrines, cherry blossom-lined canals, or beautifully designed parks. However, it’s wise to have a plan. Focus on these essential sights and experiences to make the most of your visit.

1. Experience the Splendor of Kinkaku-ji

Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion, is a must-see for tourists. Adorned with gold-leaf on its upper levels, this zen temple is a breathtaking sight year-round. While foot traffic flows steadily, expect crowds to gather in front of the temple, pausing to capture stunning photos of its reflection in the pond – and who can resist?

For a quieter experience, try visiting on a weekday.

2. Stroll Through the Iconic Orange Gates of Fushimi Inari Taisha

Fushimi Inari-Taisha consistently tops visitor lists for a reason: its 10,000 vibrant orange torii gates winding up the hillside offer the perfect backdrop for photos. The tradition of donating a gate has been honored since the Edo Period, as businesses express gratitude for their successes.

Begin at the base to enjoy the sight of fox statues, representing Inari, the Shintō god of rice, tea, agriculture, and industry. Completing the entire loop takes two to three hours, but the climb is worthwhile to escape the crowds that typically gather at the lower levels (don't worry; there are plenty of vending machines to keep you refreshed along the way).

For a unique experience, consider visiting at sunrise, when local monks ascend the hill for their duties and the resident cats are out and about.

3. Seek Fortune at Kiyomizu-dera

Situated in Eastern Kyoto, Kiyomizu-dera stands majestically on 139 stilts. In the Edo period, ambitious seekers would leap from the temple's platform, 43 feet above, hoping to fulfill their wishes. Nowadays, you can seek your fortune at the sacred Otowa Waterfall on the temple’s lower level, which splits into three streams. Each one offers a different blessing: longevity, academic success, or love luck—just remember, sipping from more than one is considered greedy. Regardless of fortune, the temple provides stunning panoramic views of the city, particularly breathtaking during spring's sakura season, autumn's vibrant foliage, and beautiful sunsets.

4. Experience Time Travel at Nijō-jo

Step through the grand eastern gates of Nijō-jō and journey back in time. This castle was once home to the Tokugawa shoguns, boasting lavish gardens and opulent rooms adorned with detailed murals and intricate carvings that reflect the immense wealth of its former occupants.

Look out for the painted lions, crafted by an artist who had never seen one in real life, and enjoy the unique experience of walking barefoot on the “nightingale floors,” which chirp melodically, serving as a natural alarm against intruders.

5. Take a Relaxing Stroll at Koke-dera

Koke-dera, also known as Saiho-ji, is so breathtaking that it inspired the track 'Moss Garden' on David Bowie’s 1977 album Heroes. However, to walk in Ziggy Stardust's footsteps, you'll need to plan ahead. To maintain the temple's serene atmosphere, visitors must register at least one day in advance, though it's recommended to do so up to two months prior due to limited capacity.

Once you gain entry, guests are invited to engage in a devotional practice, typically involving the copying of Buddhist sutras. Think of it as a warm-up for the main event: a leisurely half-hour walk through a picturesque garden adorned with 120 different types of moss.

6. Enjoy a cup of matcha

Matcha was initially consumed by Chinese Buddhist monks who believed that this highly caffeinated drink aided them in their pursuit of nirvana. As Buddhism spread to Japan, so did matcha, particularly in the southern region of Kyoto Prefecture, which boasts an 800-year tradition of cultivation. To dive deeper into this beverage, consider starting with a traditional tea ceremony at Camellia, where you'll not only learn the intricate preparation steps but also discover the historical and practical significance behind each action.

For a contemporary twist, visit Maccha House. Their flagship location on Shijō Kawaramachi offers a variety of innovative takes on matcha, including a brown sugar matcha latte and their signature Uji Matcha Tiramisu. Tea shops like Ippōdō and Marukyu Koyamaen (located in the Kyoto Isetan department store near Kyoto Station) can help you take some zen home with you.

While you're there, don't forget to try some wagashi, a delicate pastry made from red beans and sugar that pairs wonderfully with the earthy flavors of matcha.

7. Satisfy your ramen cravings

Kyoto's culinary scene is often overshadowed by its neighbor Osaka, famously known as 'the nation's kitchen.' Nevertheless, the city has been perfecting various types of ramen since the first street stall opened in 1961.

Kyoto Gogyo is famous for its gourmet burnt ramen, where the broth is cooked at extremely high temperatures to achieve a smoky flavor, providing an entertaining and fiery dining experience—so make sure to request a seat at the bar. Vegan Ramen UZU serves a unique mushroom-based ramen in a dimly lit dining room, illuminated by TeamLab’s “Reversed Indiscretion,” a captivating digital art installation that creates calligraphy-like designs on the walls and tables. Engine Ramen has gained popularity for its flexibility in making any menu item vegan or gluten-free, but be sure to arrive early as it tends to fill up quickly after opening at 4 PM.

8. Discover endless options at Nishiki Market

If you thrive on variety, then Nishiki Market is your ultimate destination. Often referred to as “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” this five-block stretch hosts over 100 eateries and shops, making it an ideal spot for sampling local delicacies. Many vendors even offer free samples. Feeling adventurous? Try the visually striking tako tamago (a baby octopus with an egg in its head) or some delectable beef sushi.

Other favorites include soy milk donuts, rice crackers, and dashimaki—a traditional Japanese rolled omelet that some stalls serve as tempura.

9. Take home eco-friendly souvenirs

Kyoto is a fantastic destination for souvenirs, offering everything from bento boxes to washi (handmade paper) and porcelain. You can easily spend a day exploring popular department stores like Takashimaya and Daimaru Kyoto. For a unique piece of history, visit Vintage Kimono AN Gion, a charming shop filled with vintage kimonos. They offer these historical garments at very reasonable prices (sometimes as low as ¥1000) and also sell obi belts and slightly damaged kimonos for those interested in repurposing the silk.

10. Experience a stay at a ryokan

As one of Japan's historical heartlands, Kyoto offers an authentic experience through its ryokan accommodations. These traditional inns are typically smaller than Western hotels, featuring woven tatami mats, futons that are laid out each night, and various meaningful artworks. This intimate atmosphere allows owners to give guests personalized service, along with exquisite meals that are hard to find elsewhere.

For a truly luxurious experience, consider a night at Tawaraya Ryokan, where David Bowie and Iman spent their honeymoon. This historic establishment, over 300 years old and currently in its 12th generation of family ownership, is often regarded as one of the most exclusive hotels in the world.

11. Unwind in an onsen

An onsen offers more than just a bath; it’s a wonderful way to connect with nature and friends while engaging in self-care, as long as you’re comfortable with communal nudity. Be sure to wash yourself thoroughly before enjoying the soothing hot waters, which locals believe can alleviate a myriad of ailments.

For a relaxing soak within the city, visit Fu-fu-no-yu, featuring beautiful rock-lined pools right by the Katsura River.

12. Stroll through Arashiyama

The gentle rustling of bamboo in the breeze is part of Japan's cultural legacy. Nestled in the Western Kyoto area, the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is renowned worldwide for this experience. Just remember, the scenic 140m (459ft) path can be quite busy, contrary to its tranquil reputation. If you're after the perfect selfie or a more serene visit, consider arriving at sunrise.

Not an early riser? Consider visiting Shoden-ji, a lesser-known temple in Northern Kyoto featuring a lush bamboo grove often missed by tourists.

13. Escape to the elegance of Ōkōchi Sansō

Even though it’s close to the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, many visitors overlook Ōkōchi Sansō as they rush to capture the perfect Instagram shot. This former residence of 1920s samurai film star Ōkōchi Denjirō offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling crowds. Take a stroll through the beautifully landscaped hillside gardens that provide sweeping views of the city, then unwind at the tea house with complimentary matcha and traditional Japanese sweets.

14. Experience the seasons at Osawa Pond

Located a 15-minute stroll from JR Saga-Arashiyama Station, Osawa Pond offers a glimpse into a bygone era. This artificial pond is recognized as the oldest surviving Japanese garden, providing a serene setting to admire the vibrant autumn foliage and the delicate cherry blossoms of spring. Don’t miss visiting Daikaku-ji, the adjacent expansive Shingon Buddhist temple, renowned for its time-honored architecture that frequently serves as a backdrop for historical films.

15. Discover the Gion District

In Kyoto, geisha—known locally as geiko—are iconic figures. These talented entertainers are typically engaged for high-end events and dinners in the lantern-lit streets of the Gion district. Much like the geiko themselves, Gion stands as a vibrant homage to the Edo period, featuring narrow wooden shops, traditional teahouses, and boutiques that celebrate age-old crafts, offering a charming respite from contemporary life.