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Kyoto Travel Guide for First-Time Visitors to Japan

Kyoto Travel Guide for First-Time Visitors to Japan

Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital, is a city where history and culture thrive. It boasts numerous unique attractions such as temples, shrines, beautiful gardens, traditional cuisine, and lodging. Among the famous tourist spots are Kiyomizu-dera, Kinkaku-ji, and Fushimi Inari Taisha.

This article showcases recommended sightseeing spots, itineraries, event information, dining options, and accommodations in Kyoto. This guide will assist you in enjoying Kyoto’s historical temples, stunning Japanese gardens, and traditional cuisine.

1.Kyoto Travel Guide

Located in the Kansai region, Kyoto was the capital from 794 to 1868. The city is home to numerous historic buildings, including Kyoto Imperial Palace and Kitano Tenmangu Shrine.

Kyoto’s tourist attractions are spread across various areas. The “Sagano and Arashiyama Area” is known for its scenic mountains and bamboo groves, while the “Gion and Higashiyama Area” is famous for temples like Kiyomizu-dera and Kennin-ji.

Kyoto also offers a number of places to enjoy festivals, events, and cuisine. Plan your itinerary, dining spots, and accommodations to make the most of your Kyoto trip.

First Time in Kyoto: Tips for a Memorable Visit – Japan Travel

2.Kyoto Itineraries

Kyoto travel itineraries vary depending on the length of your stay. Plan an optimal travel itinerary based on how many days you can spend.

We outline five recommended itineraries:

・1-Day Itinerary

If you only have one day, it’s recommended to use the train or bus to cover key areas. For example, in the Gion and Higashiyama Area, explore Kiyomizu-dera and Chion-in in the morning, have lunch in Kyoto’s downtown or at Nishiki Market, and visit Fushimi Inari Taisha in the afternoon. Enjoy the evening atmosphere on Hanamikoji Street in Gion.

Must-See! Kyoto 1-Day Tour Plan|Tips for Efficient Sightseeing

・2-Day Itinerary

For a 2-day itinerary, you can visit more landmarks. Spend the first day as described in the 1-Day Itinerary, focusing on the Gion and Higashiyama Area.

On the second day, visit the Sagano and Arashiyama Area. Stroll through Tenryu-ji Temple and the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove in the morning. In the afternoon, take a taxi to visit Kinkaku-ji and Myoshin-ji Temple.

・3-Day Itinerary

A 3-day itinerary allows you to explore both popular and off-the-beaten-path areas. Spend the first two days as in the 2-Day Itinerary, and on the third day, visit more remote areas.

Some areas we recommend include the Kurama and Kibune Area, surrounded by mountains and water, or the Fushimi and Uji Area, famous for Byodo-in Temple and Uji tea.

・4-Day Itinerary

For a 4-day trip, follow the 3-Day Itinerary for the first three days, and use the fourth day to explore areas outside Kyoto city.

For example, the Keihoku Area in northern Kyoto is home to many Zen temples, while the Kyotanabe and Kizugawa Area in southern Kyoto, closer to Nara, offers ancient temples and statues.

How to Travel from Kyoto to Nara

・5-Day Itinerary

A 5-day itinerary includes the content of the 4-Day Itinerary plus additional activities, as well as urban exploration. Experience zazen meditation or tea ceremonies at Daitoku-ji or Myoshin-ji, or go hiking in Kyoto’s mountains.

The Karasuma Oike and Shijo Kawaramachi Area is great for shopping and dining, while the Kyoto Station Area features commercial and leisure facilities, including the Nidec Kyoto Tower with an observation deck 100 meters above ground.

Recommended for First-time Visitors to Kyoto! A 2-Day Kyoto Tour Plan

3.Things to Do in Kyoto

Kyoto is home to numerous tourist spots, making it impossible to see everything in a limited schedule. Therefore, it is important to organize your priorities and plan your trip accordingly.

・Visit Temples and Shrines

Kyoto boasts several UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Among the most famous temples are Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion) and Kiyomizu-dera, while other notable shrines include Kitano Tenmangu and Fushimi Inari Taisha.

6 of the Temples and Shrines in Kyoto, Japan!

・Stroll Through Japanese Gardens

Many Kyoto temples feature beautiful Japanese gardens. These include karesansui (dry landscape gardens) and gardens with large ponds, making them perfect for photography.

・Stay in a Ryokan

For an authentic Kyoto experience, stay in a ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn. Ryokan usually include breakfast and dinner and are often equipped with hot springs. Consider booking an onsen ryokan if you wish to enjoy a hot spring bath.

・See Geisha

Geisha are traditional Japanese entertainers who perform classical music and dance. To experience geisha culture, visit the Gion area, known for its geisha district.

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・Taste Kyoto’s Food Culture

Kyoto offers a variety of culinary experiences, from traditional kaiseki cuisine and temple-originated shojin ryori (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine) to modern dishes like ramen and sushi.

4.Popular Sightseeing Spots in Kyoto

Here are 10 popular sightseeing spots you should visit on your trip to Kyoto:

・Kiyomizu-dera

Kiyomizu-dera is a Buddhist temple famous for its wooden stage, known as the “Stage of Kiyomizu,” which is about 13 meters high. Other attractions include the Otowa Waterfall and the Nio-mon Gate.

・Kinkaku-ji

Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion, is a three-story temple officially named Rokuon-ji. The second and third floors are covered in gold leaf, creating a stunning appearance. The temple’s reflection in the adjacent pond offers a memorable view.

・Ginkaku-ji

Ginkaku-ji, or the Silver Pavilion, is a two-story temple officially named Jisho-ji. Known for its tranquil setting amidst trees, it stands in contrast to Kinkaku-ji. The temple’s garden, which is reminiscent of modern art, is also a highlight.

World Heritage Site Ginkaku-ji: History, Must-See Spots, and How to Get There

・Fushimi Inari Taisha

Located on Mount Inari, Fushimi Inari Taisha is the head shrine of all Inari shrines in Japan. The path from the mountain’s base to the summit is lined with thousands of vermillion torii gates, known as the “Senbon Torii,” creating a mystical atmosphere.

・Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

The Bamboo Grove Walk in the Sagano and Arashiyama Area spans approximately 400 meters. The path, flanked by bamboo groves, creates a serene ambiance with sunlight filtering through and the sound of rustling leaves. The nearby Nonomiya Shrine is known for its blessings for matchmaking.

Bamboo Grove Walks in Arashiyama | Routes and Highlights

Popular Spots and Activities in Kyoto’s Arashiyama

・Nishiki Market

Nishiki Market is a 390-meter-long shopping street lined with various food stalls and shops. With plenty of dining options for lunch or snacks, it’s a great place to spend some time exploring.

Kyoto Nishiki Market Guide | Hours and Top 5 Recommended Foods

・Gion

Gion is a famous entertainment district in Kyoto. The area is characterized by stone-paved streets and traditional wooden buildings. Take a stroll down Hanamikoji Street, the main thoroughfare, to soak in the historical ambiance.

・Nijō Castle

Nijō Castle was built by Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Edo Shogunate. Highlights include the opulent Karamon Gate, the Ninomaru Palace, and the Ninomaru Garden.

・Higashiyama

Higashiyama is an area stretching between Kiyomizu-dera and Yasaka Shrine. It’s easily accessible by train, with nearby stations such as Higashiyama Station, Gion-Shijo Station, and Kiyomizu-Gojo Station.

・Ryōan-ji

Ryōan-ji is renowned for its karesansui (dry landscape) rock garden, featuring 15 stones arranged in a mysterious pattern whose creator and creation date remain unknown. To the south of Ryōan-ji lies a stroll garden centered around Kyoyo Pond.

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5.Festivals and Events in Kyoto

Kyoto hosts numerous historical festivals and events. Plan your visit accordingly to enjoy these activities to their fullest.

・Gion Matsuri

Gion Matsuri is held every July at Yasaka Shrine, with the main event being the “Yamahoko Junko,” a parade of decorated floats that traverse Kyoto’s streets. The processions take place on July 17 and 24.

・Aoi Matsuri

Aoi Matsuri takes place on May 15 at both Kamigamo Shrine and Shimogamo Shrine. The highlight is the “Roto no Gi” procession, where participants dressed in Heian-period costumes march from the Kyoto Imperial Palace to Shimogamo Shrine and then to Kamigamo Shrine.

・Yabusame Shinji

Yabusame Shinji is held on May 3 at Shimogamo Shrine. In this ritual, archers on horseback shoot arrows at targets along a course in the Tadasu no Mori forest.

・Jidai Matsuri

Jidai Matsuri, held on October 22 at Heian-jingu Shrine, features a historical procession called the “Jidai Gyoretsu.” Participants dressed in period costumes march from the Kyoto Imperial Palace to Heian-jingu Shrine.

・Gojozaka Toki Matsuri

Gojozaka Toki Matsuri is a pottery festival held from August 7 to 10 on Gojo Street and at Wakamiya Hachiman Shrine. Visitors can access the area by taking the Keihan Main Line to Kiyomizu-Gojo Station and heading east from there.

・Gozan no Okuribi

Gozan no Okuribi, held on August 16, is an important traditional event in which bonfires are lit in the shape of characters and symbols on five mountains surrounding Kyoto. The locations are Higashiyama, Matsugasaki, Nishigamo, Daimonji, and Sagano.

・Kurama no Hi Matsuri

Kurama no Hi Matsuri takes place on October 22 in Kurama Village, north of Kyoto. Participants carry large torches through the village, eventually gathering at Yuki Shrine.

・Kitano Odori

Kitano Odori, a geisha dance performance, is held at the Kamishichiken Kaburenjo Theatre from late March to early April. Enjoy the elegant dances performed by geisha from the Kamishichiken district.

・Kamogawa Odori

Kamogawa Odori is held from May 1 to 24 at the Pontocho Kaburenjo Theatre. This performance has a history of over 140 years and features traditional geisha dances.

・Kyo Odori

Kyo Odori, held from April 6 to 21 at the Miyagawacho Kaburenjo (Mai Hall), showcases themed dances by geisha from the Miyagawacho district. Note that Kyo Odori will be on hiatus in 2025.

・Miyako Odori

Miyako Odori takes place from April 1 to 30 at the Gion Kōbu Kaburenjō Theatre. Geisha dressed in seasonal costumes perform dances that tell a story.

Kyoto Festivals and Events | January to December

6.Dining Spots in Kyoto

During your sightseeing in Kyoto, there are a wide variety of restaurants to choose from in which you can enjoy delicious meals. Here are some popular dining spots categorized by genre.

Popular Sushi Restaurants

・Izugen

Known for its saba sushi, maki sushi, and chirashi sushi, Izugen offers sushi that reflects Kyoto’s historical flavors.

・Souden

Souden is famous for its cute, round temari sushi, which pairs well with Japanese tea.

14 Recommended Sushi Spots in Kyoto

Top Ramen Shops

・Chinese Noodles ROKU

ROKU serves rich soup made from duck and local chicken, enhanced with porcini paste to change the flavor.

・Noodle Shop Rennosuke

Rennosuke is loved for its seafood-based broth and noodles made from carefully selected wheat.

Best ramen shops near the station in Kyoto

Delicious Udon and Soba

・Omen Ginkaku-ji

Located near Ginkaku-ji, Omen specializes in udon served with a rich broth and plenty of condiments.

・Ogawa

Situated near Kamigamo Shrine, Ogawa uses stone-ground buckwheat flour for flavorful soba. The kamo nanban (duck soba) is a popular choice.

Tofu Dishes

・Okabeya

At Okabeya, you can enjoy tofu dishes such as yudofu (hot tofu) and yuba (tofu skin).

・Yudofu Sagano

This tofu specialty restaurant offers yudofu and seasonal dishes featuring Kyoto vegetables.

Buddhist Vegetarian Cuisine

・Tenryuji Temple Shigetsu

Shigetsu, run by Tenryuji Temple, serves shojin ryori,a buddhist monk vegetarian cuisine using no meat, focusing on vegetables and wild plants.

・Ajiro

Near Myoshin-ji Temple, Ajiro offers vibrant kaiseki-style shojin ryori courses.

Popular Cafes

・% ARABICA Kyoto Higashiyama

Situated in the Higashiyama area, % Arabica serves espresso and café latte, with takeout options available.

・Cafe Bibliotic Hello!

Near the Kyoto Imperial Palace, this cafe offers coffee, tea, and light meals.

Traditional Uji Matcha

・Tsuji Rihei Honten Kyoto Uji Main Shop

This renowned tea shop offers Uji matcha made using traditional stone mills, with a variety of matcha sweets.

・Itoh Kyuemon – Uji Head Shop / Sabo

Continuing from the Edo period, Itoh Kyuemon respects Uji tea culture while developing new matcha menu items.

Famous Japanese Sweets

・Toraya Karyo – Kyoto Ichijo

Close to the Kyoto Imperial Palace, this shop specializes in Japanese sweets like yokan and anmitsu, and offers shaved ice in the summer season.

・Fujinami

With locations in the Higashiyama area, Kyoto Station, and near Kodaiji Temple, Fujinami is known for its dango and warabi mochi.

What to Eat in Kyoto: 13 Famous Dishes and Sweets in Japan

7.Ryokan in Kyoto

Ryokan in Kyoto offer a unique experience with traditional Japanese meals and baths. Here are some recommended ryokan for your trip to Kyoto.

・Matsubaya Ryokan

Located east of Higashi Honganji Temple, Matsubaya Ryokan offers budget-friendly accommodations. The first floor has a private bath that can be reserved for a relaxing soak.

・Kyomachiya Ryokan Sakura Urushitei

Conveniently located for access to central Kyoto, this budget-friendly ryokan offers various activities such as kimono dressing and sencha tea experiences.

・Hanakiya Inn

Situated in the Higashiyama area, Hanakiya Inn offers budget-friendly accommodations with all rooms designed in a traditional Japanese-style. Bathrooms and toilets are shared, and complimentary drinks like coffee are available in the common area.

・Ryokan Shimizu

This affordable ryokan is located a 7-minute walk from Kyoto Station. In addition to private baths in rooms, there are family baths that can be reserved. Don’t forget to book your breakfast the day before!

・Nishiyama Ryokan

Close to the Kyoto Imperial Palace, Nishiyama Ryokan offers mid-range accommodations. Spacious Japanese-style and Japanese-Western rooms are available, with amenities including a large communal bath and a garden.

・Ishibekoji Muan

Located near Yasaka Shrine, this mid-range ryokan offers both Japanese-style and Japanese-Western rooms, each featuring a hinoki (cypress) bath.

・Izuyasu

Situated near Kamigamo Shrine, Ogawa uses stone-ground buckwheat flour for flavorful soba. The kamo nanban (duck soba) is a popular choice.

・Arashiyama Benkei

Near Tenryu-ji Temple, this mid-range ryokan is known for its comfortable rooms, delicious meals, and relaxing baths. Note: As of 2024, the ryokan is closed for renovations.

・Yoshida Sanso

Located near Yoshida Shrine, Yoshida Sanso is a high-end ryokan offering three types of rooms: on the first floor, second floor, and in separate buildings.Guests can enjoy views of the beautiful garden and Kyoto’s stunning mountains.

・Hiiragiya

Situated between the Kyoto Imperial Palace and Nishiki Market, Hiiragiya is a high-end ryokan with both historical and modern buildings. Guests can savor exquisite kaiseki cuisine for dinner.

8.How to Get to Kyoto

There are a number of transportation options to reach Kyoto from Tokyo or Osaka, including airplanes, Shinkansen (bullet trains), and highway buses.

・From Tokyo to Kyoto

The fastest way to travel from Tokyo to Kyoto is by Shinkansen.Taking the “Nozomi” Shinkansen from Tokyo Station will get you to Kyoto Station in about 2 to 3 hours, with a fare of 13,970 yen.

Alternatively, if you choose to fly from Tokyo, you can take a flight from Haneda Airport to either Osaka International Airport (Itami) or Kansai International Airport, followed by a train or bus ride to Kyoto.

・From Osaka to Kyoto

When traveling from Osaka to Kyoto, you can use either trains or buses. For example, taking the JR West “Shin-kaisoku” (Special Rapid Service) from Osaka Station will get you to Kyoto Station in about 30 minutes, with a fare of 580 yen.

Airports Near Kyoto and Transportation Options to Kyoto

Where to Buy Suica in Kyoto and Where It Can Be Used

Conclusion

Kyoto offers a mesmerizing blend of history and culture. By visiting numerous temples, shrines, and beautiful Japanese gardens, you can immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of this ancient capital. Enjoy traditional culinary delights such as Kyoto cuisine and shojin ryori, and stroll through picturesque areas like Gion and Arashiyama.

Don’t miss out on historical festivals and events such as Gion Matsuri and Aoi Matsuri. After deciding the length of your stay in Kyoto, plan your main sightseeing spots, transportation methods, meals, and accommodations. Enjoy an unforgettable journey surrounded by Kyoto’s abundant natural beauty.

*This article is based on information available as of July 2024.