Kyoto Tourist Attractions
Japan

Famous Tourist Spots to See and Top Things to Do in Kyoto

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Kyoto is the capital of Kyoto prefecture in the Kansai region on Honshu island of Japan. In the 8th century, Emperor Kanmu shifted the capital of the empire to Heian Kyo, which means tranquility and peace capital. In the 11th century, the city was renamed as Kyoto Miyako, which translates to “Capital City”. This city remained the capital of Japan till 1869. It was then named Saikyo, which meant Western Capital in contrast to Tokyo, which meant Eastern Capital. It was much later that the city was named Kyoto, which is also sometimes called the thousand year capital.

It is one of the most culturally and historically rich city in Japan. Some of the best places to visit in Kyoto are the temples and shrines. Many of these are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Additionally, the temples and shrines of the city are some of the most renowned and significant ones of Japanese Buddhism. You will notice in the sections below that about 60% of top Kyoto attractions are temples and shrines. But, each of them are unique in their own way.One incredible aspect of these Kyoto tourist attractions are their tranquil surroundings. These temples and shrines are either situated along the rivers, mountains, lakes or encompassed by mesmerizing gardens. You will notice this trend of developing elaborate gardens in many Kyoto tourist spots, especially historical villas and palaces.

Among other top things to do in Kyoto is shopping for handicrafts, walking along the groves, trying sake, indulging in cultural events and so on. Many of the cultural aspects of Kyoto travel can be explored around the palaces, shrines and temples itself. While there are several spots spread about the city where you can enjoy modern and traditional offerings of Kyoto.

Explore The Top Tourist Places of Kyoto in 5 Days

This section outlines a day by day itinerary for you to explore maximum number of Kyoto tourist spots in 5 days.

Day 1

1. Ryōan-ji Temple

This Zen Buddhist temple goes back all the way to the 15th century. It is not only popular among Kyoto attractions but among the most important temples in Japan. You will need about an hour to explore this temple.

Ryōan-ji Temple

2. Kinkaku-ji Temple

Also known as the Temple of the Golden Pavillion, this Zen Buddhist temple hails from the 14th century. It is again one of the most significant temples in the country and is also one of 17 historic monuments of ancient Kyoto. You will need at least an hour to explore this temple when you visit Kyoto.

Kinkaku-ji Temple

3. Kyoto Imperial Palace

This palace was the official home of the emperor of the nation till1868. It is one of the best places to visit in Kyoto owing to its historical significance, grand architecture, opulent decor and much more. You will need about an hour and a half to explore this palace.

Kyoto Imperial Palace

4. Sento Imperial Palace

This palace was built for emperor Gomizuno in 1630. The palace has had a tragic history of being burned multiple times. It is still popular among Kyoto tourist spots. You can see the remains of the palace and the beautiful gardens around it. It will take you 30 to 45 minutes to explore it.

Sento Imperial Palace

5. Nijo Castle

This castle was built in 1603 by Tokugawa Leyasu, who was the very first shogun of the Edo period. This castle has also been used as an imperial palace after 1867 and is hence among the most opulent things to see in Kyoto. You will need about 2 hours to explore this castle.

Nijo Castle

6. The Museum of Kyoto

This is among the first Kyoto tourist attractions you should visit to learn about the history and culture of the city. This museum exhibits various artifacts concerning history, culture and traditions of the region as well as the nation from 10th century onwards. You will need 2 hours to explore this museum.

The Museum of Kyoto

Day 2

1. Kiyomizu-dera Temple

This temple is among UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It’s name translates to Pure Water Temple owing to Otawa waterfall which flows here. The wooden stage which protrudes from the main hall is one of the best spots for Kyoto sightseeing. You will need about an hour for this temple.

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

2. Kodai-ji Temple

This temple was established in 1606 by Nene, a widow of Toyotomi Hideyoshi who was a Japanese Warlord. This temple follows Rinzai sect of Zen Buddhism and is one of the most beautiful temples to see during Kyoto travel. You will need about an hour for this temple.

Kodai-ji Temple

3. Kennin-ji Temple

This temple is among the 5 most important temples of the region known as Kyoto Gozan. It is hence among Kyoto famous places for its significance to the country’s culture. This is also the oldest Zen temple in the city and was founded by a monk Yousai, considered to be the on who brought zen buddhism to Japan. You will need 1 hour to explore this temple.

Kennin-ji Temple

4. Yasaka Shrine

Also known as Gion Shrine, it is home to the famous Gion Matsuri Festival, which is one of the best time to visit Kyoto. The shrine itself is about 1350 years old. You will need 30 to 45 minutes to explore this shrine.

Yasaka Shrine

5. Maruyama Park

This is the oldest public park in the country and one of the best places to go in Kyoto to see cherry blossoms. You will need about half an hour to explore this park.

Maruyama Park

6. Chion-in Temple

This is one of the most important temples of the Jodo sect of Buddhism in Japan. It is also one of the most beautiful places to see in Kyoto owing to the intricate carvings. You will need about an hour to explore this temple.

Chion-in Temple

7. Pontocho Alley

The alley has a local and historical feel to it and is hub for several fun activities in Kyoto. This alley is a great option for taking a leisurely walk and exploring restaurants and cafes along its sides. You can easily spend an hour or so strolling the lanes.

Pontocho Alley

8. Nishiki Market

If you think shopping is among the best things to do in Kyoto, then this market is the place for you. This 400 year old market is also known as Kyoto’s kitchen. You will need a couple of hours to explore the market and the various offerings in it.

Nishiki Market

Day 3

1. Katsura Imperial Villa

This regal villa was a recreational home for the members of Katsura clan, one of the royal clans of Kyoto during the Edo period. It is one of the best things to do in Kyoto if you want an insight into the history, culture, traditions and lifestyle of ancient royalty of Japan. You will need about an hour to explore this villa.

Katsura Imperial Villa

2. Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

This grove is among the most beautiful things to see in Kyoto. This pathway stretches for about half a kilometer and is an absolute delight to explore. You will need about an hour at least to walk its entire length.

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

3. Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama

This is among the most fun things to do in Kyoto if you like interacting with animals. The macaques roam freely in this park without being confine to any cages. You should keep aside an hour to admire the peculiar behavior of the monkeys at this park.

Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama

4. Tenryuji Temple

Also known as the Heavenly Dragon Temple, this is the head temple for the Rinzai sect of Japanese Buddhism. Besides its cultural significance, the temple is also popular among Kyoto attractions for its architecture, interior art and blissful gardens. You will need about an hour or so to explore this temple.

Tenryuji Temple

5. Okochisanso Villa / Okochi Sanso Garden

This villas was residence of renowned Japanese actor Denjiro Okochi. The villa, besides being a house museum, is also popular among Kyoto tourist attractions for its incredible gardens. You will need about an hour to explore the villa.

Okochi Sanso Garden

6. Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple

This temple was built in the 8th century by Empress Shotoku. It is one of the best places to visit in Kyoto for its historical and cultural significance as well as for its aesthetics. You will need about an hour to explore this temple.

Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple

Day 4

1. Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine

This Shrine was built around 711 in honor of Inari, the Shinto God of Rice. It is one of the most important shrines in Japan and has exceptional architecture and design. It is a truly majestic place to visit among Kyoto tourist spots. You will need 2 hours to explore this shrine.

Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine

2. Tofukuji Temple

This temple was built in 1236 and is considered third most important one among 5 mountain temples of Rinzai Zen in the region. You will need 30 to 45 minutes to explore this temple.

Tofukuji Temple

3. Sanjusangendo Temple

The name of the temple roughly translates to ‘Hall with Thirty Three Spaces Between Columns’. The temple is well known for its iconic 120 meters long hall. It is among the most fascinating things to see in Kyoto as it is the longest wooden structure in the country. You will need about an hour to explore this temple.

Sanjusangendo Temple

4. Kyoto National Museum

This is one of the oldest museums in the country and exhibits a large collection of renowned Japanese and oriental artworks. The museum houses more than 12,000 artworks, which warrants its inclusion among Kyoto famous places. You will need 2 hours to explore this art museum.

Kyoto National Museum

5. Nishi Honganji Temple

This temple is among the best places to go in Kyoto to admire Momoyama style of architecture. Nishi Honganji Temple is the headquarters for Shin sect of Japanese Buddhism. You will need an hour to explore this temple.

Nishi Honganji Temple

6. To-ji Temple

This temple was built in 794 to fulfill an imperial decree. It is included among UNESCO World Heritage sites and is very popular among Kyoto famous places. The iconic 55 meter tall pagoda of the temple is the tallest wooden tower in Japan. You will need an hour and a half to explore this temple.

To-ji Temple

7. Kyoto Tower

This 131 meters tall tower is among the most iconic landmarks of the city. The tower looks like a candle from a distance and is one of the best places for Kyoto sightseeing. You would need an hour for the Kyoto Tower.

Kyoto Tower

Day 5

1. Ginkaku-ji Temple

Also known as the Temple of Shining Mercy and Temple of the Silver Pavillion, this temple holds great significance in Zen Buddhism culture. You will need about an hour to explore this temple.

Ginkaku-ji Temple

2. Philosopher’s Walk (Tetsugaku No Michi)

One of the most popular activities in Kyoto is to walk on the path associated with renowned philosopher Kitaro Nishida. This scenic pathway, in his honour, is known as Philosopher’s walk. You will need 20 to 30 minutes to explore it.

Philosopher's Walk

3. Eikan-do Temple (Zenrin-ji Temple)

This temple belongs to the Jodo sect of Japanese Buddhism. The temple was earlier associated with Shingon sect, but was renamed after the head priest in the 11th century. It was converted to Jodo sect later in the 17th century. You will need about an hour to explore this temple.

Eikan-do Temple

4. Nanzen-ji Temple

This Zen Buddhist temple was built in the 13th century. It was first built as a retirement home for Emperor Kameyama. This temple is among the mot important zen buddhist temple in Japan and hence among Kyoto famous places. You will need an hour or so to explore this temple.

Nanzen-ji Temple

5. Kyoto Museum of Traditional Crafts

One of the top things to do in Kyoto is to explore Japanese culture, especially of the ancient times. Much of the ancient culture associated with craftsmanship and handicrafts is celebrated at this museum. You will need 2 hours to explore this museum.

Kyoto Museum of Traditional Crafts

6. Heian Shrine

This is the highest ranking shinto shrine in the country as determined by Association of Shinto Shrines in Japan. It was built to commemorate 1100th anniversary of Kyoto becoming capital of the empire. It is among must see Kyoto attractions. You will need an hour to explore it.

Heian Shrine

If you are planning for Kyoto travel for more than 5 days or if you want to add more tourist attractions or activities to your itinerary, check out the section below.

Things to do in Kyoto, Japan

Monuments, Museums & Historical Places to Visit in Kyoto, Japan

  1. Fushiri Inari Taisha Temple
  2. Kinkaku Ji Temple
  3. Kiyomizu Dera Temple
  4. Nijo Castle
  5. Higashiyama Jisho Ji Temple
  6. Ryoan Ji Temple
  7. Kyoto Imperial Palace
  8. Tenryu Ji Temple
  9. Yasaka Shrine
  10. Nanzen Ji Temple
  11. Toji Temple
  12. Heian Shrine
  13. Rengeoin Sanjusangendo Temple
  14. Tofukuji Temple
  15. Daigoji Temple
  16. Kodaiji Temple
  17. Byodoin Temple
  18. Kyoto National Museum
  19. Eikan do Temple
  20. Ninna Ji Temple
  21. Kyoto International Manga Museum
  22. Kitano Temmangu Shrine
  23. Chion in Temple
  24. Shimogamo Jinja Shrine
  25. Kifune Shrine
  26. Saiho Ji Temple
  27. Kennin Ji Temple
  28. Kyoto Railway Museum
  29. Enryakuji Temple
  30. Daitoku ji Temple
  31. Hokan Ji Temple
  32. Kamigamo Jinja Shrine
  33. Sanzen in Temple
  34. Nishi Hongan Ji Temple
  35. National Museum of Modern Art
  36. Shoren in Monzeki Temple
  37. Katsura Imperial Villa
  38. Kurama Dera Temple
  39. Higashi Honganji Temple
  40. Daikakuji Temple
  41. Honen in Temple
  42. Giouji Temple
  43. Shugakuin Imperial Villa
  44. Onjo ji Temple
  45. Adashino Nenbutsuji Temple
  46. Kyoto City Museum of Art – KYOCERA
  47. The Museum of Kyoto
  48. Ishiyama Dera Temple
  49. Myoshinji Temple
  50. Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple
  51.  Hirano Jinja Shrine
  52. Jojakko ji Temple
  53. Kozanji Temple
  54. Mimuroto Temple
  55. Shisen Do Temple
  56. Murin an Villa
  57. Yasui Konpiragu Shrine
  58. Ujigami Shrine
  59. Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine
  60. Shinsho Gokurakuji Temple
  61. Ruriko in Temple
  62. Takaosan Jingoji Temple
  63. Jishu Jinja Shrine
  64. Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum
  65. Nomomiya Shrine
  66. Chishakuin Temple
  67. Konkai Komyoji Temple
  68. Iwashimizu Hachimangu Shrine
  69. Enkoji Temple
  70. Obakusan Mampukuji Temple
  71. Yoshimine Dera Temple
  72. Omi Jingu Shrine
  73. Taizo in Temple
  74. Hosen in Temple

Nature & Wildlife Tourist Places to Visit in Kyoto, Japan

  1. Bamboo Forest
  2. Arashiyama Forest
  3. Mount Hiei
  4. Mount Kurama
  5. Mount Atago
  6. Lake Biwa Canal

Entertainment & Leisure Tourist Places to visit in Kyoto, Japan

  1. Maruyama Park
  2. Arashiyama Monkey Park
  3. Kyoto Botanical Gardens
  4. Toei Kyoto Studio Park
  5. Kyoto Aquarium
  6. Kyoto City Zoo
  7. Kyoto Gyoen National Garden
  8. Okochi Sanso Garden
  9. Kurama Hot Springs
  10. Shosei en Garden Kikoku Tei
  11. Suntory Yamazaki Distillery

Shopping in Kyoto, Japan

  1. Nishiki Market
  2. Sannenzaka Market
  3. Shijo Dori Market
  4. Keage Incline
  5. Hanamikoji Street
  6. Shinkyogoku Street
  7. Tenjin San Flea Market
  8. Higashiyama District
  9. Kyoto Station Area Market
  10. Teramachi Street
  11. Downtown Market
  12. Takashimaya Shopping Center
  13. Kobo San Flea Market

Offbeat Places, Tours & Adventure Things to do in Kyoto, Japan

  1. Hiking
  2. Bicycle Tour

Sightseeing in Kyoto, Japan

  1. Tetsugaku No Michi
  2. Gion District
  3. Kyoto Tower
  4. Togetsu Bridge

Food, Dining, Restaurants, & Street Food in Kyoto, Japan

  1. Sushisei
  2. Sou
  3. Ogawa
  4. Chihana
  5. Bibliotic Hello
  6. Hafuu
  7. Menami
  8. Sfera Bar
  9. Azuma Sushi
  10. Hatakaku
  11. Aisani
  12. Nishiki Warai
  13. Kurasu
  14. Kagizen
  15. Chidoritei
  16. Yoshikawa Tempura
  17. Den Shichi
  18. Sumibi Torito
  19. Sugari
  20. Matsuba

How to Reach Kyoto, Japan?

By Air

The closest airport for Kyoto travel is in the neighboring city of Osaka. You can choose between Kansai International Airpot and Osaka International airport. You can get direct train from Kansai International Airport to visit Kyoto. As for Osaka International Airport, you will get direct bus transport. You can also go to Osaka city and find train and bus transport for your journey. There are options of private transport as well, but those are quite expensive. You can also hire car or board a tour bus for Kyoto sightseeing from Osaka.

By Road

You can have option of several train services from different cities in Japan to reach Kyoto. There is a direct bullet train that connects Tokyo to Kyoto, which is a popular choice among tourists and locals alike. There are also regular trains to visit Kyoto from Osaka, Kobe, Himeji, and many other cities on the island.

The bus network for Kyoto travel is far more widespread. You can catch a direct or connecting bus from several cities and towns on the island. You will come across several Kyoto attractions on the outskirts of the city if you travel by bus.

If you plan to travel by car, you would want to stick to Meishin Expressway which connects Nagoya and Osaka. This route will take you to the city and also to some of Kyoto tourist spots.

By Water

Being a landlocked city, there are no direct water routes for Kyoto travel.

Image Reference

Mustafa Natalwala

Mustafa is a content writer and digital marketing expert at WideWorldTrips.com His mainly interests are into travelling, photography, film-making

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