Your Complete Guide to Exploring the Best of Kyoto
Kyoto exudes timeless beauty, offering a serene escape with its blend of historic ambiance and natural scenery. Ideal for holidaymakers and backpackers, it’s compact and easy to explore by foot, bike, or public transport. With affordable hostels and local eateries, it caters well to budget travellers. The city’s peaceful atmosphere and cultural depth provide a perfect backdrop for discovering Japan’s traditions and rich history.
When to visit
Temp
Mar – May
Sep – Oct
2 – 33°C
36 – 91°F
Kyoto’s Top Attractions
Attraction Matrix
Search for attractions that you are interested in based on WindingTravel categories:
WindingTravel Category Examples
Nature & Outdoors: Hiking, National Parks, Beaches, Wildlife Viewing, Camping
Culture & History: Museums, Monuments, Historical Buildings, Cultural Tours, Art Galleries
Food & Drink: Local Cuisine, Food Tours, Markets, Wineries/Breweries, Street Food
Entertainment & Nightlife: Bars, Nightclubs, Live Music, Festivals, Comedy Clubs
Adventure Sports: Surfing, Skydiving, Rafting, Scuba Diving, Climbing
Relaxation & Wellness: Spas, Hot Springs, Yoga Retreats, Meditation Centres, Thermal Baths
Shopping & Markets: Souvenirs, Flea Markets, Shopping Districts, Boutique Shops, Craft Fairs
Unique Experiences: Workshops, Volunteering, Local Festivals, Artisan Crafts, Rooftop Bars
City Highlights: Iconic Landmarks, Famous Streets, Observation Decks, Architectural Tours, Scenic Views
Family-Friendly: Zoos, Aquariums, Theme Parks, Interactive Museums, Educational Centres
Country Highlights: Attractions that are on the WindingTravel Country page that most tourists wont want to miss!
Review further details of each attraction to find out more:
| Fushimi Inari Shrine | Walk through thousands of red torii gates at this famous shrine, which leads up Mount Inari. A sacred and scenic pilgrimage route offering stunning views and tranquility. |
| Kiyomizu-dera | Visit this stunning hillside temple with panoramic views over Kyoto. The wooden stage offers spectacular vistas, especially during cherry blossom season and autumn foliage. |
| Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) | Admire the shimmering golden exterior of Kyoto’s iconic Zen temple, Kinkaku-ji, surrounded by serene gardens and a reflective pond. A must-see symbol of Kyoto’s heritage. |
| Arashiyama Bamboo Grove | Stroll through the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where towering bamboo stalks create a magical, otherworldly experience. A peaceful and awe-inspiring natural escape. |
| Gion District | Explore Kyoto’s famous geisha district, with narrow streets lined with traditional teahouses. Catch a glimpse of geiko (geishas) and immerse yourself in Kyoto’s culture. |
| Ryoan-ji Temple | Experience the Zen serenity of Ryoan-ji’s famous rock garden, one of Japan’s most renowned examples of minimalist landscape design. Ideal for quiet reflection and meditation. |
| Philosopher’s Path | Enjoy a peaceful walk along this scenic canal, especially during cherry blossom season. The path is lined with temples, shrines, and quaint cafes, perfect for contemplation. |
| Nijo Castle | Walk through this UNESCO World Heritage site, a beautiful example of feudal Japan’s architecture. The castle features impressive gardens, intricate interiors, and history. |
| To-ji Temple | Visit this UNESCO World Heritage site, home to Japan’s tallest wooden pagoda. The temple grounds offer a rich blend of historical, cultural, and spiritual significance. |
| Nishiki Market | Discover Kyoto’s famous “Kitchen Street,” where local vendors sell fresh produce, seafood, street food, and traditional snacks. A must for food lovers seeking authentic flavors. |
Check the map to plan your route:
Transport
Kyoto’s transport system features buses, trains, and subways, with buses being the main option for reaching historic sites. IC cards like ICOCA streamline travel. Cycling and walking are popular due to compact city areas. Ride-hailing apps like Uber and DiDi are used, though taxis remain a more traditional option.
Seasonality and Weather
Kyoto experiences distinct seasons with diverse weather. Spring (March-May) offers mild temperatures of 10–20°C (50–68°F) and cherry blossoms. Summer (June-August) is hot, humid, and rainy, often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Autumn (September-November) brings crisp, dry weather and colorful foliage, with temperatures between 15–25°C (59–77°F). Winter (December-February) is chilly but dry, with averages of 2–10°C (36–50°F).
The best times to visit are spring and autumn for comfortable weather and seasonal beauty.
Where to stay
Gion: Historic area, famous for traditional tea houses and proximity to temples.
Kawaramachi: Central, with shopping, dining, and easy access to attractions.
Higashiyama: Scenic, near cultural sites and old Kyoto atmosphere.
Kyoto Station Area: Great transport links, shopping, and modern amenities.
Arashiyama: Peaceful, surrounded by nature and close to bamboo forests and temples.
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