Curator’s statement
Kyoto is the perfect destination for travelers looking for a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. It is home to 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including temples and shrines such as Kinkaku-ji and Fushimi Inari Taisha. What I love most about Kyoto are the numerous cultural experiences that are available to travelers.
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Where to stay in Kyoto
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Things to do in Kyoto
Gio-ji temple is a quiet oasis that feels like a different world just 30 minutes outside of Kyoto.
The classics
The classics, because they’re classics for a reason, include Fushimi Inari Taisha, known for its thousands of torii gates winding up the mountain, and Kiyomizu-dera, with its sweeping city views. Kinkaku-ji is known for its golden shimmery exterior.
Finally, Gion is worth visiting for its traditional streets, tea houses, and possible geisha sightings. A traditional tea ceremony is a wonderful way to spend some time in Gion.
Arashiyama
A day trip to Arashiyama is a must-do. The Hozugawa River Boat tour or Sagano Romantic Train ride will drop you off in this town, just 30 minutes outside of Kyoto. Here, you can’t miss strolling through Nenbutsu-ji bamboo forest and Gio-ji temple with its incredible greenery. The Arashiyama Monkey Park is another possible stop for this day trip.
Onsens, crafts & more
Other possible things to do when staying in Kyoto are a trip to Osaka to see its neon billboards, Nara to feed the bowing deer, and an onsen soak at Tenzan-no-Yu or Kurama Onsen.
There are many crafting cultural experiences to be had in Kyoto as well, like Kintsugi, the golden pottery repair, and wagashi, traditional sweet making.
Places to eat & drink in Kyoto
Pontocho Alley is known for its bars, restaurants, and traditional buildings.
There’s plenty of good food in Kyoto, and most travelers love to seek out Pontocho Alley and the Gion district for the traditional buildings and restaurants.
Gion Karyo and Kikunoi Honten are great options for Kaiseki dining, a traditional multi-course dining.
Hyotei is a Michelin-starred restaurant that’s perfect if you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime Kyoto meal.
Omen Ginkaku-ji is perfect for some simple, handmade udon, Japan’s comfort food.
Sushi no Musashi does conveyor belt sushi right with affordable, but high-quality sushi.
Breakfast can be tough to find, but Sunny George's was a delicious spot for a quick meal and it’s worth seeking out Japan’s fluffy pancakes as well.
Nishiki Market is known as Kyoto’s food scene. Here you can find some of the best Italian, Japanese, and Mexican food I’ve ever had.
Kyoto is also known for its matcha and sweet treats, which you can find scattered all over the city, and of course, the animal cafes, which you will also find scattered around.
Need to know
Japan is a complex destination that requires a lot of planning in order to have a seamless experience. But it also has everything a traveler is looking for at an amazing price. There are various apps and resources available that can help with a Japan trip, and spending the time upfront to plan will only bring rewards when you get there.
Travel Advisor
Joelle Destache
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Kyoto page.