FREE Guide: Highlights of Kyoto - 40+ Locations and Recs!

Attractions

There is so much to see and do in Kyoto - you could truly spend weeks here and never see it all! This list of attractions includes the highlights of each district of Kyoto, along with admission prices, to help you plan your trip - whether that be a weekend visit or a long-term stay!

Eastern Kyoto

My personal favorite area of Kyoto!

Kiyomizu-dera

@mackenziewoods

To get the best experience (and photos!), get here as early as possible. It opens at 6AM, and I'd recommend getting there soon after! Make sure to drink from the Otowa Waterfall at the base of the main hall - but be aware! Drinking from all three streams is greedy! Best to choose your top two :) If there in spring or fall, check the schedule for special evening illuminations! Admission: 500 yen

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Higashiyama Ward

@mackenziewoods

Come here after your trip to Kiyomizudera for a late breakfast or early lunch. Shops and restaurants begin to open around 9-10AM - and there is plenty to choose from in the packed district!

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Gion District

@mackenziewoods

This is a famous geisha district, meaning you have the chance to see a real geisha in person. But please remember to take NO photos of them! Here you'll find many restaurants and shops, noted for their tall and tightly packed structures. You can attend a maiko hosted dinner here or a twice-daily cultural show at Gion Corner.

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Ginkakuji

@mackenziewoods

This "Silver Pavilion" is set amidst beautiful gardens and also consists of several other temple buildings. Opens at 9AM in winter, and 8:30AM otherwise. This is at the northern end of Philosopher's Path, so you can start your trek here before walking the path and finishing at Eikando Temple and/or Nanzenji Temple. Admission: 500 yen

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Philosopher's Path

@mackenziewoods

This is mainly recommended for cherry blossom season! But for best pictures during that busy season, get here early. Hit Ginkakuji afterward before a late breakfast or early lunch!

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Eikandō Temple

@mackenziewoods

Ideal temple to observe the beautiful fall colors during the autumn season! Evening autumn illuminations take place in November to early December. Admission: 600 yen, except in autumn when fee increases to 1000 yen Located near the south end of Philosopher's Path, so come by here after walking along that path! Opens at 9AM.

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Nanzen-ji Temple

@mackenziewoods

Located at the southern end of Philosopher's Path, finish your trek here and/or at Eikando Temple! Make sure to check out the large aqueduct running through the grounds, dating back to the Meiji Period. Admission: 600 yen

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Yasaka Shrine

@mackenziewoods

This shrine is ideal to visit at night when the structures are beautifully lit up. Admission: Free

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Kyoto National Museum

@mackenziewoods

Take a break from the shrines and temples of Kyoto and visit this art and history museum! Regular Admission: 700 yen Special Exhibits: ~1500 yen Garden Admission only: 300 yen

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Western Kyoto

Escape from the bustle of the city in this nature-centric district of Kyoto

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

@mackenziewoods

Well paved walkways allow for an easy stroll through this bamboo grove - but beware that it does get very dark at night! Plan accordingly. Admission: Free

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Togetsukyo Bridge

@mackenziewoods

Scenic landmark in the Arashiyama district. Take a moment to walk across the bridge on foot and admire the river below. Admission: free

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Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama

@mackenziewoods

A small hike is required to reach the monkey park, so make sure you wear appropriate shoes and that your travel group is willing to make the short trek (well worth it!). Admission: 600 yen

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Sagano Scenic Railway trolley train

@mackenziewoods

Had enough walking? Rest your feet and still enjoy the scenery when taking this train from Arashiyama to Kameoka on a 25-minute ride. Note that trains do not operate in winter (late December - February). Admission: 880 yen one way between Torokko Saga and Torokko Kameoka stations Return train back to Arashiyama on JR Sagano Line from Umahori Station: 200 yen

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Hozugawa River Boat Ride (Hozugawa Kudari)

@mackenziewoods

Combine this with the Sagano Scenic Railway to get back to the Arashiyama district! Boats land near the Togetsukyo Bridge. The boat-boarding pier is only a 15 minute bus ride (310 yen) from the last stop on the Sagano Scenic railway. Admission: 4500 yen

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Daikaku-ji Temple

@mackenziewoods

The gardens and foliage around the pond are especially pretty in the spring and fall. Admission: 500 yen (temple), 300 yen (gardens)

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Northern Kyoto

The area for focusing on temple and shrine exploration!

Kinkaku-ji

@mackenziewoods

The "Golden Pavilion" - the top two floors are covered in actual gold leaf! Check out the teahouse and tea gardens just before and after the exit. Admission: 500 yen

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Ninna-ji Temple

@mackenziewoods

If you're traveling towards the end of cherry blossom season, come here for their late blooming cherry trees, called Omuro Cherries. Admission: 800 yen for the palace buildings; grounds are free except for in spring when there is a 500 yen charge

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Ryōan-ji

@mackenziewoods

A Zen temple known for its famous rock garden. This temple is only a 10 minute walk from the Ninna-ji Temple, so visit these back-to-back. Admission: 500 yen

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Daitoku-ji Temple

@mackenziewoods

An excellent temple to visit if you want to see a wide variety of Zen gardens rather than buildings. Main buildings are not generally open to the public. Admission: 500 yen

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Kitano-temmangū Shrine

@mackenziewoods

Shrine known for its monthly flea market, hosted on the grounds and nearby streets on the 25th of every month. Admission: Free

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Southern Kyoto

Quintessential Kyoto with many Instagram-worthy locations and torii gates!

Fushimi Inari Taisha

@mackenziewoods

Get here first thing in the morning to avoid large crowds - and to get the best pictures! Give yourself plenty of time to wander and explore the whole grounds - there is more here than just a short line of red torii gates. If you don't have a lot of time, still try to budget enough time to make the 30-45 minute ascent up to the Yotsutsuji intersection for views over Kyoto. Admission: Free!

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Tōfuku-ji Temple

@mackenziewoods

This large Zen temple is known for its autumn foliage - specifically the view of the Tsutenkyo Bridge - so make sure to include this in your itinerary if you are visiting in the fall. Admission: 600 yen (Tsutenkyo Bridge and Kaisando Hall), 500 yen (Hojo and gardens), or 1000 yen for all. Note: In autumn, all-inclusive ticket is unavailable and the fee for the Tsutenkyo Bridge and Kaisando Hall increases to 1000 yen.

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Tō-ji Temple

@mackenziewoods

This temple has Japan's tallest wooden pagoda, standing at 57 meters. The ground floor is open to the public. A flea market is held here on the 21st of every month, on the plaza and the surrounding park grounds. On the first Sunday of every month, a smaller antique market is held here. Admission: 500 yen (except for during special openings, then it rises to 600 yen)

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Daigo-ji Temple

@mackenziewoods

If you're a hiker, this temple is the one for you! The main temple building and grounds are located at the base of a mountain, with a hiking trail connecting to more buildings around the mountain summit. Regular Season Admission: 1000 yen for lower grounds + 500 yen for museum; Garden is free Spring Season Admission: 1500 yen for lower grounds and gardens + 500 yen for museum Upper grounds = 600 yen always

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Fushimi Sake Village

@mackenziewoods

Looking for something to break up all the temple and shrine visits? Stop by here for some sake taste-testing! There are nearly 40 sake breweries in this district, with some offering shops where you can taste and purchase their products.

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Central Kyoto

A mesmerizing blend of city-life and historical beauty

Nijō Castle

@mackenziewoods

This castle is the former Kyoto residence of the shogun. It is considered to be the best example of castle/palace architecture of Japan's feudal era. Admission: 800 yen + 500 yen for entrance to the Ninomaru Palace

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Nishiki Market

@mackenziewoods

A fun marketplace where you can find a variety of food stalls and shops, most with locally sourced products. Please note that it's considered rude to walk and eat at the same time - even if you get food from a stall, stand to the side to eat rather than continuing on through the market. Admission: Free, just whatever your food costs :)

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Kyoto Sento Imperial Palace

@mackenziewoods

Note that none of the buildings are open to the public - however, exploring the beautiful grounds and viewing the outside of the buildings is still a must when in central Kyoto! If you happen to have a bicycle, this is a great area to ride around. Admission: Free

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Pontocho Park

@mackenziewoods

This narrow alley is filled with many restaurants with a wide range of options - from food stalls to exclusive, reservation-required establishments. During the summer months, many restaurants build platforms over the Kamogawa River, making for a pleasant open-air dining experience.

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Higashi Hongan-ji Temple

@mackenziewoods

Fun Fact: The main hall is the largest wooden structure in Kyoto! Admission: Free

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Nidec Kyoto Tower

@mackenziewoods

The only tall viewing structure in Kyoto, so if you're looking for 360 degree views of the city, this is your place! Admission: 800 yen

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Kyoto Station

@mackenziewoods

If travelling to Kyoto from nearby cities and towns, you'll likely arrive at Kyoto Station - but don't let this be your only experience here! There is plenty of shopping options here, including a department store, as well as an art museum, a hotel, and many restaurants and food stalls.

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Outlying Areas

Nara Park

@mackenziewoods

The most popular day trip from Kyoto, for a reason! The bowing deer in Nara Park are far from overrated - make sure to bring some coins to buy deer biscuits from vendors scattered throughout the park. If short on time in the Kyoto area, this can be done after a morning exploring Fushimi Inari (which is already recommended to visit early to avoid crowds). Make sure to leave time to explore Todaiji Temple when in Nara! Admission: Nara Park is free, 800 yen for Todaiji Temple

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Kurama Hot Spring

@mackenziewoods

Note! As of February 2024, this onsen is currently undergoing renovations. Please check close to your travel dates to see if reopening dates have been announced. Admission to outdoor bath only: 1000 yen for adults, 700 yen for children Admission to outdoor and indoor baths: 2500 for adults, 1600 for children

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Himeji Castle

@mackenziewoods

Less than 1 hour from Kyoto via train, this is a popular day trip or stopover on the way to Hiroshima. This castle is widely considered to be one of the most impressive in Japan. Note that during cherry blossom season, Himeji Castle has tons of visitors that may result in extremely long waiting times or limited ticketed entries, so plan accordingly. Admission: 1000 yen

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Byodo-in Temple

@mackenziewoods

This temple is famous for its Buddhist Pure Land architecture and gardens. Admission: 700 yen + 300 yen for tour of Phoenix Hall

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Restaurants & Bars

There's seemingly an endless amount of temples, shrines, and other attractions in Kyoto. After all the touring, eating a delicious meal and sipping on a craft cocktail is a welcome treat! Scroll through the list below of recommended restaurants and bars around the city.

Otowa Saryo

@mackenziewoods

A perfect stop for lunch when exploring the Higashiyama District. Recommended to get here as close to opening as you can to avoid lines and wait times. If the weather is good, try to get a seat outside - the views are amazing!

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Kobe Beef Steak Mouriya Gion

@mackenziewoods

If you're looking for authentic Kobe beef in the Kyoto area, this is your place! Intimate restaurant where you get your own personal chef who prepares each meal right in front of you. Do note that as expected for true Kobe beef, you will have to pay the high price for it - but I can attest that it's worth it here!

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Kyomachiya Obanzai Kohaku

@mackenziewoods

A tapas-like restaurant in the Pontocho-area of Kyoto with rich flavors and an intimate setting. Reservations are recommended!

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Kizakura Kappa Country

@mackenziewoods

This restaurant is operated by the large brewery Kizakura in the Fushimi Sake District. In addition to sake, they also serve their craft beer. Open for lunch from 11:30-14:30 (11:00 on weekends), and for dinner from 17:00-21:30

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Yamamoto Mambo

@mackenziewoods

Located in the immediate area of Kyoto Station, this is a good option for okonomiyaki

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in the Moon

@mackenziewoods

A great rooftop bar option in the heart of Kyoto!

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L'Escamoteur

@mackenziewoods

An intimate cocktail bar with a variety of craft concoctions personalized to your choosing - pick the vibe and general flavor of drink you want, and the bartenders will put together a unique cocktail just for you!

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