Exploring Kyoto, Japan: A Complete Travel Guide

Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto is a dream destination for many and for very good reasons. With its ancient temples, stunning gardens, and rich cultural heritage, it felt like stepping into a world where time slows down. We recently spent three days exploring Kyoto, and we can confidently say—it exceeded all our expectations. If you’re planning a trip, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your time in Japan’s cultural heart.

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Best Time to Visit Kyoto

Kyoto is breathtaking year-round, but my top recommendations are spring (March to May) and autumn (October to November). Spring brings cherry blossoms that turn the city into a pink wonderland, while autumn sets the maple trees ablaze in hues of red and gold. We visited in late November, and the fall foliage was absolutely magical.

How to Get to Kyoto

From Tokyo – The fastest and most convenient way is the Shinkansen (bullet train). The Nozomi train takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes, while the Hikari train takes around 2 hours and 40 minutes.
From Osaka – Kyoto is only about 15 minutes away by Shinkansen or 30-45 minutes by local train.
From Kansai International Airport (KIX) – Take the Haruka Express train directly to Kyoto Station in about 75 minutes.
By Bus – Overnight and highway buses from various cities provide a budget-friendly option.

What You Need to Know Before Visiting

Cash is still king – While credit cards are accepted at major hotels and stores, many smaller restaurants and temples only take cash.
Learn basic Japanese phrases – While many people speak English, knowing simple words like “Arigatou” (Thank you) or “Sumimasen” (Excuse me) goes a long way.
Respect the temple etiquette – Always cleanse your hands at shrine entrances, don’t take photos where it’s prohibited, and avoid loud conversations.
Get a Suica or ICOCA card – These rechargeable transport cards make train and bus travel seamless. Even better, you can add a Suica card to your Apple or Google Wallet. This allows you to simply use your phone for public transportation and you can even reload it directly on your phone.

How Many Days to Stay in Kyoto

If you want to soak in Kyoto’s beauty without rushing, we recommend at least three to five days. We spent three days exploring Kyoto, which allowed us to cover the main highlights, but five days would allow for more in-depth exploration and day trips.

Where to Stay

Gion and Higashiyama (Best for traditional experience) – Stay in a ryokan (traditional inn) and be close to historic sites like Kiyomizu-dera.
Downtown Kyoto (Shijo-Kawaramachi) (Best for convenience) – A great mix of restaurants, shopping, and nightlife with easy access to transport.
Arashiyama (Best for nature lovers) – A quieter area surrounded by bamboo groves and mountains.

How to Get Around Kyoto

Walking – Many of Kyoto’s attractions are within walking distance, especially in Higashiyama and Gion.
Buses – The Kyoto City Bus is the best way to get to most temples and shrines.
Trains and Subway – The JR Sagano Line is great for Arashiyama, while the Keihan and Hankyu Lines connect Kyoto to Osaka.
Bicycles – Kyoto is bike-friendly, and renting a bike is a fun way to explore!

Best Viewpoints in Kyoto

Kiyomizu-dera Temple – Stunning panoramic views of the city, especially during cherry blossom and autumn seasons.
Fushimi Inari Shrine – Climb past the famous torii gates for breathtaking mountain views.
Arashiyama Iwatayama Monkey Park – A unique viewpoint where you share the view with playful monkeys.
Shogunzuka Seiryuden – A less crowded but incredible lookout over Kyoto.
Okochi Sanso Garden – Beautiful garden with incredible views of the Kyoto area.

Must-Visit Temples in Kyoto

Kyoto is home to over 1,600 temples, each offering a unique glimpse into Japan’s spiritual and cultural heritage. Whether you’re looking for serene Zen gardens, breathtaking architecture, or historical significance, Kyoto’s temples have something for everyone. Here are some of the most remarkable ones that you shouldn’t miss.

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) – A stunning Zen temple covered in gold leaf, reflecting beautifully in the surrounding pond.
Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion) – Known for its serene gardens and elegant simplicity.
Kiyomizu-dera – Famous for its large wooden stage offering panoramic views of Kyoto.
Ryoan-ji – Home to Japan’s most famous rock garden.
Tofuku-ji – Spectacular during autumn with its vibrant maple leaves.
Tenryu-ji – A UNESCO World Heritage site in Arashiyama with a beautiful landscaped garden.
Fushimi Inari Taisha – Iconic for its thousands of vermillion torii gates leading up the mountain.

Best Tours and Activities

Tea Ceremony Experience – Kyoto is the birthplace of the Japanese tea ceremony, and joining one is a must!

Kimono Rental & Photoshoot – Walking around Kyoto in a kimono makes for an unforgettable experience.

Ramen Cooking Class – Learn how to make ramen from scratch at a local ramen factory

Day Trip to Nara – Visit Todai-ji Temple and interact with the adorable deer.

Iwatayama Monkey Park – Home to wild macaques with spectacular views.

Best Free Things to Do in Kyoto

Fushimi Inari Shrine – No entrance fee to explore the mesmerizing torii gates. Instead of stopping at the first few torii gates, hike all the way to the summit.
Philosopher’s Path – A beautiful, peaceful walk lined with cherry blossoms in spring.
Gion Geisha District – Strolling through Gion’s historic streets feels like stepping into the past.
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove – One of Kyoto’s most iconic and enchanting sights.
Nishiki Market – Even if you don’t buy anything, the market’s atmosphere is worth experiencing.

Kyoto Food and Drink Guide

Kyoto is a paradise for food lovers, offering a mix of refined traditional cuisine and local specialties. From delicate multi-course meals to casual street snacks, here are some of the must-try foods and drinks in Kyoto:

Yudofu (Tofu Hot Pot) – Found in temple restaurants, this dish is a Kyoto specialty.
Kaiseki (Traditional Multi-Course Meal) – A must-try for a fine dining experience.
Yatsuhashi (Cinnamon Rice Crackers) – Kyoto’s signature sweet treat.
Matcha Everything! – From matcha lattes to matcha soft serve, Kyoto is heaven for green tea lovers.
Sake in Fushimi District – This area is famous for some of Japan’s best sake breweries.

Important Tips for Planning Your Trip

This map includes all of our favorite locations around Kyoto.

Important Tips for Planning Your Trip

Book accommodations early – Kyoto is a popular destination, so hotels and ryokan fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.
Start your day early – Popular attractions get crowded, so visiting early in the morning enhances your experience.
Check temple opening hours – Some temples close earlier than expected, so plan accordingly.
Pack light for temple visits – Many shrines and temples require lots of walking and stairs, so comfortable footwear is essential.
Consider a guided tour – If you want to delve deeper into Kyoto’s history and culture, guided walking tours can be very insightful.

Final Thoughts

Kyoto is a place where the past and present coexist in the most beautiful way. Whether you’re wandering through historic temples, indulging in world-class cuisine, or simply watching the sunset over the city, Kyoto is bound to leave an everlasting impression. We are not big city people but Kyoto is not any ordinary city. We absolutely enjoyed our time here. If you ever get the chance to visit, take your time, soak it all in, and let Kyoto’s charm work its magic!