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About this guide
Kyoto, Japan’s former imperial capital, is a harmonious fusion of blending historic traditions and modern life. Renowned for ancient temples, serene gardens, and well-preserved historic districts, Kyoto offers travelers a glimpse into Japan’s deep cultural heritage. From the iconic torii gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine to the golden splendor of Kinkaku-ji, travelers can walk among the local history. Afterward, visitors can enjoy the traditional matcha in a traditional teahouse and find world-renowned Japanese cuisine. Travelers can enjoy the seasonal regional beauty of the cherry blossoms in spring or follow the fiery maple leaves along the street in autumn.
- Best time to travel: March to May and October to November (peak season), July to August and January to February (off-season), June, September, and December (shoulder season)
- Time zone: Japan Standard Time (JST)
- Currency: Japanese Yen (JPY, ¥)
- Language(s): Japanese, English, and Mandarin Chinese
- Noteworthy: Setsubun Festival (February), Aoi Matsuri (May), Gion Matsuri (July), Jidai Matsuri (October), To-ji Temple Flea Market (Every 21st of the month)
- Best for: Japanese History Buffs, Outdoor and Nature Lovers, Asian Cuisine and Tea Culture, Budget-Friendly and Luxury Getaway
Get Away: Getting To And Around Kyoto, Japan
By Air
The nearest major airport to Kyoto is Kansai International Airport. The gateway is roughly 75 minutes away from the main city by train. Travelers can take a Haruka Express train for a direct ride to Kyoto Station. For convenience, travelers can opt for airport buses and taxis. Another option is Itami Airport, mainly serving domestic flights, with buses and taxis available for the 50-minute trip to Kyoto.
By Car
For unfamiliar travelers, the narrow streets, heavy traffic, and limited parking can make driving in Kyoto difficult. However, if planning to explore more open rural areas surrounding Kyoto, such as Arashiyama’s outskirts or northern Kyoto’s countryside, a rental car can be useful. Within the city, it's best to rely on public transit or walking.
By Public Transit
Kyoto has an excellent public transportation system, including trains, subways, and buses. The JR, Keihan, and Hankyu train lines all connect through major attractions. Kyoto’s subway system is known for efficiency but can be somewhat limited. Buses cover more areas, making them ideal for reaching temples and historic districts, and IC cards like ICOCA or Suica make travel more convenient.
Explore Kyoto, Japan On Foot
Walk through Kyoto’s best attractions, such as the Gion district, Nishiki Market, and Higashiyama. This allows visitors to discover unique alleyways, traditional townhouses, and serene gardens at their own pace. Comfortable shoes are essential as some temple complexes, like Fushimi Inari Shrine, involve extensive walking and stair climbing.
Quick facts
Japan Standard Time (JST)
Japanese Yen (JPY, ¥)
Japanese, English, and Mandarin Chinese
Good For
Japanese History Buffs
Outdoor and Nature Lovers
Asian Cuisine and Tea Culture
Budget-Friendly and Luxury Getaway
Keep in mind
- Setsubun Festival (February)
- Aoi Matsuri (May)
- Gion Matsuri (July)
- Jidai Matsuri (October)
- To-ji Temple Flea Market (Every 21st of the month)
Gourmet
Gourmet: Places To Eat In Kyoto, Japan
Fire Ramen Menbaka presents a thrilling ramen-making performance with dramatic flames. This exciting combination of entertainment and authentic Japanese cuisine makes this popular with international tourists seeking something deliciously special.
Set in a 4,290-square-meter area once owned by the renowned Japanese artist Takeuchi Seiho, The Sodoh Higashiyama Kyoto serves an authentic Kyoto menu. The beautiful Japanese-style atmosphere and garden changes with each season with an immersive experience of the ancient Higashiyama atmosphere.
Located next to the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine, Vermillion Espresso Bar offers a cozy, bilingual atmosphere with a menu featuring locally sourced Uji Matcha. Savor delicious treats like frozen lemon cheesecake and banana bread or a hearty dish like Shakshuka.
At Koe Donuts, guests can indulge in freshly made organic donuts served knife-and-fork style, paired with refreshing smoothie bowls. Try creative flavors like fluffy Amazon cacao glaze with raspberry jam, Uji green tea with dark chocolate, and more.
The multi-award-winning authentic Italian gelato at Premarche Gelateria includes Japan’s largest selection of vegan and non-milk flavors. Perfect for dietary restrictions, expert gelatiere Nobuo Nakagawa crafted 100% rice gelato for everyone to have a healthy treat.
At Sizuya Gion, the menu includes easy portable pre-made sandwiches, pastries, and refreshing drinks in the heart of Kyoto. Try the spicy focaccia dog, American hot dog, and lemon cream bread for a quick bite on a busy day.
Play
Play: Things To Do In Kyoto, Japan
The immersive Kyoto Samurai Experience gives visitors the chance to step into the world of the samurai with traditional attire. Learn the history of Japan’s warrior class, practice sword techniques, master a real katana, and conclude with a calming Zen meditation.
From the perfect broth to handmade noodles, the Ramen Cooking Class at Ramen Factory shares how to make Japanese ramen. Customize the bowl with popular toppings and savor the delicious creation in this authentic hands-on experience.
Experience the art and philosophy of a traditional Tea Ceremony in Kyoto Townhouse in an authentic Kyoto townhouse. Guests explore the deeper cultural significance of matcha beyond its preparation while savoring a specially selected Japanese sweet treat.
Join the Kyoto Foodie Night Tour for a culinary adventure of curated modern and traditional dishes across up to six local food stands and restaurants. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, this immersive experience highlights Kyoto’s rich food culture, making it the perfect way to explore the city’s flavors after dark.
Experience the art of handmade Udon Baking in Centennial Kyomachiya in a historic 120-year-old townhouse. Guests learn traditional techniques from kneading to cutting the perfect noodles then enjoy the food with a delicious tempura set.
For a truly unique and eerie experience, join the Kyoto Ghost Tour to explore the city's dark history through spine-tingling urban legends and chilling tales. Guests wander through atmospheric streets and shadowy bamboo forests to hear haunting stories that go beyond typical ghost tours.
Guided by an expert potter, guests discover the art of Akahada-yaki Pottery with local rare clay in Nara. The hands-on session includes learning to shape using wheel throwing before having a relaxing break with Japanese tea and a sweet treat.
Experience the ultimate relaxation at Machiya Sauna Kyoto where guests can rejuvenate mind, body, and soul in the Japanese sauna with a refreshing cold bath. Afterward, unwind in the living room or outdoor space, lying back in the peaceful atmosphere, with the option to extend to a serene overnight retreat.
