Kyoto is an undeniably beautiful city. From its atmospheric temples and photogenic shrines to stunning natural scenery, there’s an unbelievable amount to discover. It’s also a true cultural hub, boasting impressive museums, historic teahouses, and an epic culinary scene that’s sure to get your mouth watering.
Pro tip: Visiting Kyoto for the first time? Use our 3-day Kyoto itinerary as a base and adjust based on our food and travel preferences!
Watch: The dos and don'ts of visiting Kyoto
Kyoto is one of Japan's most popular destinations, and residents and tourists sometimes don't get along too well. When traveling, always try to be mindful and abide by local laws and traditions when you can. Watch byFood host Shizuka break down what not to do as a tourist in Kyoto.
Make a note of these rules to ensure your visit is a great one and that you don't accidentally disrupt Kyotites' daily routines.
1. Eat your way around Nishiki Market
Nishiki Market is an absolute paradise for food lovers and a must-visit on your first trip to Kyoto. This vibrant market stretches over five blocks and is brimming with more than a hundred shops and stalls that offer a staggering variety of local delicacies, from fresh seafood and seasonal produce to traditional sweets. As you stroll through the bustling aisles, take the opportunity to sample unique snacks like yuba (tofu skin), fresh sashimi, and Kyoto-style sweets.
It can be a little overwhelming to visit Nishiki Market without knowing where the good spots are. Luckily, you can book a 3-hour, in-depth tour of Nishiki Market. Follow your guide to the best food stalls and discover your next favorite Japanese food!
2. Walk under the torii gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine
The endless torii gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine are among the city’s most photogenic features, and strolling through them is one of the quintessential things to do in Kyoto. Foxes are thought to be messengers of the god Inari, so keep an eye out for the many statues of these cute animals dotted around the grounds.
Good to know: It takes about 2 hours of hiking to reach the top of the shrine — something many visitors don't realize until they start climbing the trail! But after 45 minutes, you will reach a middle point with a lovely view of Kyoto City. From there, take an alternative trail back down.
3. Stroll through Arashiyama's bamboo forest
Arashiyama is most famous for its otherworldly bamboo forest, where tall stalks tower above the walking paths and leaves rustle gently in the breeze. The Shigetsu restaurant in nearby Tenryu-ji is a fantastic spot to enjoy the traditional vegetarian Buddhist cuisine shojin ryori in a temple.
As with the previous two attractions, Arashimaya can get a bit crowded, so visiting earlier in the day is recommended.
Watch: What to eat around Arashiyama
Shizuka introduces some noteworthy foodie spots around Kyoto's Arashiyama neighborhood. You'll definitely feel peckish after your walk through the bamboo groves.
Once your heart and stomach are full, head back to central Kyoto to continue your adventure!
4. Admire the gilded splendor of Kinkaku-ji
Kinkaku-ji, or the Golden Pavilion, is one of the most iconic sights in Kyoto. The top two floors of this Zen temple are completely covered in dazzling gold, and the image of it surrounded by pine trees and reflected in the mirror-like pond below is sure to take your breath away.
Pro tip: For minimal crowds, head to Kinkaku-ji first thing in the morning. Alternatively, you can visit nearby Ryoanji Temple, another Zen institution famous for its serene rock garden.
5. Explore the magnificent Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Perched on the eastern hills of Kyoto, Kiyomizu-dera Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage site that promises awe-inspiring views and rich historical significance. The temple's wooden stage juts out over the hillside, offering sweeping vistas of Kyoto's cityscape, particularly stunning during the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons. The temple's name, which means "Pure Water," originates from the Otowa Waterfall running beneath it. Visitors can partake in the time-honored tradition of drinking from its streams, each promised to bestow health, longevity, or academic success.
Pro tip: After exploring Kiyomizu-dera, wander down the historic Higashiyama District's narrow lanes packed with charming shops, teahouses, and eateries.
6. Stroll along the Philosopher’s Path
The Philosopher’s Path is a charming walking trail that runs alongside a canal in the Higashiyama district and is a great option if you’re looking for free things to do in Kyoto. It was named after Nishida Kitaro, a philosopher who took meditative strolls here on his way to work at Kyoto University.
Notable landmarks along this path include:
- Hakusa Sonso Hashimoto Kansetsu Garden & Museum (which hosts its very own tea ceremony experience!)
- Higashiyama Jisho-ji Temple is home to a stunning Japanese garden and to Ginkaku-ji, or Silver Pavilion.
- Monk, one of Kyoto's best pizza restaurants — no, really! It was featured in World's 50 Best!
- Eikando Temple is one of Kyoto's most meditative places. Visit for superbly preserved temple architecture that you can see inside and out.
7. Learn how to make classic Kyoto foods
Taking a Japanese cooking class is one of the top things to do in Kyoto when it rains, and there are plenty to choose from. You can learn everything from how to make traditional wagashi sweets and decorative sushi, or even your own ramen noodles from scratch.
Check out our selection of the best cooking classes in Kyoto for a hands-on experience with a local teacher.
8. Wander the historic streets of Gion
Arguably Kyoto’s most famous geisha district, wandering around historic Gion is one of the most atmospheric things to do in Kyoto at night. The preserved narrow streets and traditional wooden architecture will transport you back to ancient Japan.
Note: As of spring 2024, the backstreets of Gion are reserved for paying guests of local businesses and residents. Tourists should be careful not to stay on the main street.
Looking for a place to eat in this historic district? Check out our list of the best restaurants in Gion.
Watch: All-you-can-eat Japanese BBQ in Gion
When in Kyoto, eat as the Kyotoites do. Tendan Gion Honten is one of the restaurants we love recommending to travelers looking for something to eat in Gion. Watch Shizuka try Tendan's unique take on yakiniku, or Japanese BBQ.
Can you imagine a better way to spend your time in Gion? We think not.
