The 14 BEST things to do in Kyoto, Japan

Introduction

Welcome to The Journey Seeker! Find out all about best things to do in Kyoto, Japan!

Hello fellow travelers! If you’re planning a trip to Japan, you definitely don’t want to miss out on the beautiful city of Kyoto. With its rich culture, stunning temples and shrines, and delicious food, Kyoto has something for everyone.

Atmosphere / Vibes

From below of traditions Japanese paper lanterns with various hieroglyphs decorating facade of ancient Yasaka Shrine located in Kyoto
Photo by Ryutaro Tsukata
Kyoto is a city that exudes a sense of calm and tranquility. It’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and just relax. The people are friendly and welcoming, and the city has a strong sense of community.

Weather throughout the year

Three Woman Wearing Traditional Dresses Walking On Street in Kyoto, Japan.
Photo by Satoshi Hirayama
No matter when you visit Kyoto, you can expect to find something beautiful. In the spring, the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, painting the city in shades of pink and white. In the summer, the weather is warm and humid, making it the perfect time to visit the city’s many temples and shrines. In the fall, the leaves change color, creating a stunning display of oranges and yellows. And in the winter, the city is blanketed in snow, creating a magical winter wonderland.

Why Kyoto, Japan is the best place to be

Red and Black Temple Surrounded by Trees Photo in Kyoto, Japan.
Photo by Belle Co
There are so many reasons why Kyoto is the best place to be. For one, it’s home to a wide variety of temples and shrines, making it the perfect place for those interested in Buddhism and Shintoism. It’s also home to a number of beautiful gardens and parks, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. And let’s not forget about the food! Kyoto is known for its delicious traditional Japanese cuisine, including dishes like tofu, sushi, and ramen.

Cost of Travel

Through red gates of ancient Yasaka Shrine of various vehicles driving on road in Kyoto district
Photo by Ryutaro Tsukata
One of the great things about Kyoto is that it’s relatively affordable compared to other cities in Japan. While prices can vary depending on the time of year you visit and the type of accommodation you choose, you can generally find budget-friendly options.

Top 14 best things to do in Kyoto, Japan

White Flowers in Close Up Photography in Kyoto, Japan.
Photo by Eva Bronzini
  1. Visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine, known for its thousands of torii gates and beautiful mountain views.
  2. Take a stroll through the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, a peaceful and serene spot in the city.
  3. Explore the Gion District, home to traditional wooden machiya houses and a number of geisha.
  4. Try your hand at Zen meditation at the Daitoku-ji Temple.
  5. Visit the Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as the “Golden Pavilion,” a stunning architectural masterpiece.
  6. Take a boat ride along the Hozu River and enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
  7. Visit the To-ji Temple, known for its beautiful pagoda and expansive grounds.
  8. Relax in the gardens at the Ginkaku-ji Temple, also known as the “Silver Pavilion.”
  9. Experience traditional Japanese culture at the Gion Matsuri Festival, held every July.
  10. Shop for souvenirs at the Nishiki Market, a bustling food market with a wide variety of traditional Japanese foods and goods.
  11. Take a walk through the Philosopher’s Path, a beautiful cherry blossom-lined path in the spring.
  12. Explore the Nijo Castle, a stunning castle with beautiful gardens and a rich history.
  13. Take a cooking class and learn how to make traditional Japanese dishes like sushi and tempura.
  14. Visit the Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site with breathtaking views of the city.

Conclusion

Black Dragon Statue Near Brown Building
Photo by Eva Bronzini
Kyoto is truly a city like no other. With its rich culture, beautiful temples and shrines, and delicious food, it’s a must-visit destination for any traveler. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s history and culture, relaxing in its beautiful gardens, or simply enjoying the laid-back atmosphere, there’s something for everyone in Kyoto. So pack your bags and get ready to have the time of your life in this amazing city!


Have you thought about staying in Kyoto for a little longer and working remotely? Here is another blog post about becoming a Digital Nomad in Kyoto

Did you like this post? Have a look at our other blog posts about living in Japan, such as Yokohama, Nagoya or Sapporo.