Ultimate Kyoto Travel
For over 1000 years the capital of Japan
Kyoto served as Japan's capital and the emperor's residence from 794 until 1868. It is one of the country's ten largest cities with 1.5 million inhabitants and a modern face.
Over the centuries, Kyoto was destroyed by many wars and fires, but due to its exceptional historical value, the city was dropped from the list of target cities for the atomic bomb and escaped destruction during World War II. Countless temples, shrines and other historically priceless structures survive in the city today.
The streets and architecture reflect the styles of the Tang Dynasty, preserving a timeless allure. Notable regions include the Higashiyama District, known for its sacred temples, shrines, and altars, as well as the graceful Arashiyama area. Must-do experiences in Kyoto encompass savoring traditional delicacies, strolling along flower-adorned paths, and enjoying an enchanting geisha performance.
First Time In Kyoto
When you close your eyes and think of Japan, you’re probably picturing Kyoto: sublime Zen gardens, mysterious Buddhist temples, colorful Shinto shrines, graceful geisha. The fact is, Kyoto is the most rewarding city in Japan and a place all travelers should visit at least once in their lives.
Why Kyoto? What Is So Special About Kyoto?
Kyoto is Japan in a nutshell. It is the cultural and historical heart of the country, the best place in all of Japan to experience traditional temples, shrines, gardens, geisha, shops, restaurants, and festivals. In short, Kyoto is the most rewarding destination in the country and should be at the top of any travel itinerary. Indeed, I may be biased, but I would go so far as to say that Kyoto is the most rewarding single city in all of Asia.
How Much Time Should I Spend In Kyoto?
The simple answer is: As much time as possible. Indeed, I know of many people who visit only Kyoto when they come to Japan – and they never regret the decision. But, most people will want to see other parts of Japan. If you’ve got about a week in Japan, I’d consider spending three days in Tokyo and four in Kyoto. If you’ve got a few more days, consider adding a third destination to the Kyoto-Tokyo combo. Good options include Takayama, Hiroshima/Miyajima or Nara.
When’s The Best Time Of Year To Visit Kyoto?
You can visit Kyoto at any time of year – it’s never too hot, too rainy or too cold to visit. The summers (from late June to early September) can be hot and humid, but not impossibly so. The winters (from early December to late March) can be cold, but not freezing. Spring and fall are obviously the ideal times to visit, with warm to cool temps and generally sunny skies.
The late March/early April cherry blossom season is very popular, for obvious reasons, but it’s also very crowded. The November and early December fall foliage season is also great and not quite as crowded as the cherry blossom season.
Is It Easy To Get Around Kyoto?
Kyoto is a relatively small city with an excellent public transport system. It’s VERY easy to get around. Indeed, unless you come from a city with a freakishly good public transport system, I bet it’s easier to get around Kyoto than it is to get around your hometown.
Kyoto's public transportation system is renowned for its efficiency and convenience, making it an excellent way to navigate the city.
The city's extensive bus network is a primary mode of transportation, covering nearly all areas and offering flat-rate fares within the central zone. For tourists, the Raku Bus services provide easy access to major attractions with announcements in multiple languages.
Kyoto's subway system, although not as extensive, features two lines that facilitate travel across the city, particularly for accessing key destinations like Nijo-jo Castle and Heian-jingu Shrine.
For a more local experience, visitors can rent bicycles from various ports around the city, allowing for flexible and scenic exploration at one's own pace.
What Are Kyoto’s Must-See Attractions?
I’m personally not a big fan of travel checklists and “must-see” tourism. Still, there’s no denying that Kyoto has a bunch of attractions that every visitor to the city should check out. Here are some things I consider must-see attractions and activities in Kyoto: Buddhist temples, Shinto shrines, Japanese gardens, a night in a ryokan, Japan’s exquisite traditional accommodation, a meal in a Japanese restaurant, whether gourmet or hole in the wall, an evening stroll through the Gion entertainment district, a traditional festival, and some great old Kyoto shops
Kyoto is a city rich in cultural heritage and natural beauty, featuring historic districts like Gion with its geisha culture, scenic spots such as Arashiyama's bamboo grove, iconic temples like Kiyomizu-dera with panoramic city views, the spiritually significant Fushimi Inari Taisha with its thousands of torii gates, and the architecturally magnificent Nijo-jo Castle, all of which offer visitors a diverse and immersive experience of traditional Japanese history and aesthetics.
Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, provides stunning panoramic of the city from its wooden stage. Founded in 778 AD, this historic temple highlights remarkable architecture and spiritual experiences, such as sipping water from the Otowa Waterfall. Its beautiful surroundings change with the seasons, reflecting deep cultural and religious importance. Kiyomizu-dera is a site of magnificent vistas and profound compassion, honoring deity Kannon.
Gion
Gion, situated in Kyoto's Higashiyama-ku, is a rich in history and traditional Japanese culture. Initially developed as an entertainment hub during the Seng period, Gion has transformed into one of Japan's premier geisha districts, renowned for its well-preserved historic architecture. Visitors can delve intoion's enchanting past by wandering its stone-paved streets flanked by wooden structures and enjoying the performances ofisha and maiko, who entertain in ochaya or teahouses with singing, dance, and engaging conversation. The district features annual public dances by geisha and maiko, further enhancing Gion vibrant cultural heritage.
When Is Cherry Blossom Season In Kyoto?
One of the most frequent questions I’m asked is “When Is Cherry Blossom Season In Kyoto?” The answer is: from the last week of March through to the middle of April. Organising a trip to see them at the best time requires careful planning.
The cherry blossoms (sakura) usually bloom in the last week of March and the first two weeks of April in Kyoto (roughly between 20 March and 14 April). In an average year, the blooms peak on 1 April in Kyoto. Once they bloom, they are notoriously fickle: sometimes almost all the trees will come into full bloom (mankai) at the same time and stay in full bloom for a week or even longer.
Other times, cherries in different parts of the city will peak at different times and some trees will start dropping petals while others still haven’t peaked. Worse yet, heavy rains can strike just after most trees have reached peak, bringing the petals down several days earlier than they might have lasted.
It’s Hard To Predict When The Cherry Blossoms Will Peak
Timing your trip to coincide with the cherry blossoms is a very tricky affair. If you leave yourself only a couple of days in Kyoto, you might find that you’ve arrived just after the cherries have bloomed, or you might have the frustrating experience of seeing the trees approaching peak just as you have to leave the city. In order to be sure of catching the cherries at their peak, you’d have to stay 10 days or so in the city, and this would cost a fortune at high-season rates.
Booking Accommodation During Cherry Blossom Season
Kyoto becomes incredibly popular during cherry blossom season for both domestic and foreign tourists. As such, it’s wise to book well in advance – by at least a couple of months – to get the exact Kyoto hotel you want in the price bracket you prefer. Your choice will be very limited if you make a last-minute decision to visit Kyoto to see the blossoms. You can check current Kyoto hotel availability and prices for mid-March to mid-April, when the cherry blossoms bloom, on Trip.com and Expedia.com. You can also check accommodation in nearby Osaka, which is only 10 minutes by bullet train from Kyoto, if you need a bigger choice of places to stay.
Kyoto Where to Stay
Kyoto is a city rich in history and culture, featuring a diverse array of accommodation options throughout its districts. Whether you prefer traditional ryokans and templegings or contemporary hotels, each area provides a distinct experience for those looking to soak in the city's allure. The placement of hotels is carefully with Kyoto's cultural attractions, scenic beauty, and transportation centers, making it easy for every traveler to find the perfect starting point for their adventures.
Shijo Kawaramachi (Vibrant Shopping District, Central Location)
Shijo Kawaramachi is the bustling heart of Kyoto, known for its vibrant shopping scene and central location. It is a hub for public transportation, making it an ideal base for exploring the city. The area is well-connected by the Kyoto City Subway and buses, with easy access to major attractions like the Nishiki Market and Gion district. The district's proximity to cultural landmarks, such as the Kyoto Imperial Palace and the Kamo River, adds to its allure for visitors seeking a dynamic urban experience in Kyoto.
Kiyomizu-dera Temple (Historic Area, Panoramic City Views)
The area surrounding Kiyomizu-dera Temple is steeped in history and offers panoramic views of Kyoto. This district is characterized by its traditional atmosphere, with narrow lanes and wooden buildings that evoke a sense of old-world Japan. Accommodations here are typically smaller, boutique-style lodgings that blend seamlessly with the historic environment. Visitors can enjoy easy access to the temple itself, as well as other nearby cultural sites like Jishu Shrine and the Higashiyama District. The area's elevated position provides a tranquil retreat from the city's hustle and bustle, making it a favored choice for those seeking a more serene stay.
Arashiyama (Scenic Beauty, Riverside Tranquility)
Arashiyama is renowned for its scenic beauty and riverside tranquility. Located on the western outskirts of Kyoto, this area offers a more laid-back atmosphere compared to the city center. Accommodations here range from luxurious riverside ryokans to cozy guesthouses, all set against the backdrop of the Arashiyama Mountains and the Oi River. Visitors can explore the famous Bamboo Grove, Tenryu-ji Temple, and take leisurely boat rides on the river. The district's natural setting makes it a perfect choice for those looking to experience the peaceful side of Kyoto, with the added convenience of train and bus connections to the city center.
The Best Luxury Ryokan In Kyoto 2025
By definition, ryokan are traditional accommodations.
These are the best high-end ryokan in Kyoto. For a true luxury ryokan experience you cannot go wrong with any of these.
Located directly beside Yasaka-jinja and Muruyama-koen, in the heart of Southern Higashiyama and steps from Gion, this magical ryokan offers traditional rooms and some excellent Kyoto kaiseki cuisine. Interestingly, the entire ryokan has a yuzu theme. Yuzu is a Japanese citrus that is somewhere between orange and grapefruit. This place is a great way to sample the ryokan experience and a perfect place to be based for exploring Higashiyama.
One of the best locations in Kyoto and great food.
A stay at Nazuna Kyoto Gosho places you in the heart of Kyoto, within a 15-minute walk of Kawaramachi Street and Kyoto Imperial Palace. This spa guesthouse is 0.8 mi (1.2 km) from Nijō Castle and 2 mi (3.3 km) from Kyoto University.
Pamper yourself with a visit to the spa, which offers massages. Additional features at this guesthouse include complimentary wireless internet access and concierge services.
Kyoto's cuisine is a tapestry of tradition and elegance, featuring the multi-course kaiseki that celebrates seasonal flavors and presentation, soul-warming Yudofu rooted in temple cuisine, visually stunning and culturally significant Kyogashi sweets, and the spiritually and historically rich soba noodles perfected by time-honored establishments.
Kawadoko & Noryo Yuka
During the scorching summer months in Kyoto, locals set up riverside retreats with mats to escape the heat and enjoy festive meals, typically from May to September. Depending on the location, these setups are known as "noryo yuka" or "kawadoko." This tradition creates an elegant atmosphere in Kyoto, where diners savor exquisite and delicate dishes, refreshed by the river's mist and accompanied by the calming sound of flowing water. Dining by the riverside offers a truly enchanting experience to the summer season..
Kaiseki
Kaiseki is a traditional dining experience that highlights the culinary sophistication of the country, especially in Kyoto, its birthplace. Emerging from 16th-century tea ceremonies kaiseki has transformed into an intricate meal composed of a series of dishes that celebrate seasonal ingredients and the chef's skill. Each course is meticulously prepared and presented, reflecting the season not only in the choice of ingredients but also in the tableware and room decor, creating a harmonious dining experience that engages all the senses.
Tofu dishes
Yudofu is a classic dish from Kyoto that brings comfort, particularly in the cold winter months. It is created by gently simmering silken tofu with kombu seaweed in soft water. This warm tofu is enjoyed with various condiments such as dashi, soy sauce, and togarashi, showcasing its origins in the city's Buddhist temple cuisine. Although yudofu features simple ingredients, its preparation is considered an art in Kyoto, where the region's soft water and talented artisans elevate the quality of the tofu.
