This Kyoto, Japan travel guide will show you the best way to step back in time and immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of one of Japan’s most enchanting cities.
In this guide, I’ll tell you the top things to do and see, including visiting iconic landmarks such as the Golden Pavilion and the Fushimi Inari Shrine, based on my own experience. I’ll also share insider tips on how to get around the city, the best time to visit, where to stay, and important visa requirements to ensure a smooth and stress-free trip.
So, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, let me guide you through the wonders of Kyoto.
Travel to Kyoto Japan
Primary Airport
Kyoto Japan does not have its own international airport. The closest international airport is Kansai (KIX), though their flights are somewhat limited.
Other Transport Options
If you are traveling within Japan, taking the train is a great option. The rail system in Japan is convenient, cost-effective, and also a great way to see the countryside.
I personally loved the experience of taking the bullet train from Tokyo to Kyoto and getting an unforgettable view of the Japanese landscape (including Mt. Fuji!) along the way.
Transport from Airport and Train Station
If you fly into Kansai International Airport, you can take the Limited Express Haruka train operated by JR West. The train ride is about 72 minutes. If you arrive by train to the Kyoto Train Station there is an array of local trains to bring you to whichever neighborhood you decide to stay in.
Things to Do in Kyoto
Top Tours and Multi-Day Excursions from Kyoto Japan
Kyoto is full of history and you can immerse yourself with cooking classes, city bike tours, Samurai classes, and more!
Top Spots to Visit in Kyoto Japan
Arashiyama Monkey Park
Not only will you enjoy expansive views of Kyoto and the surrounding mountains, but you get to see monkeys in the wild. There are a lot of rules with the monkeys because there are so many of them and they are just as curious about us as we are about them. Just don’t feed them, touch them, or look them in the eyes and you are bound to have an unforgettable time.
Fushimi Inari Taisha
The iconic rows of thousands of red torii gates leading up to the sacred Mount Inari. Inari is the God of Rice, and foxes are thought to be the messengers, so be on the lookout for fox statues. You can also choose how long you want to hike the trail – the peak is about 2-3 hours, but about 20-30 minutes up you will get great views too.
Gion Corner
Immerse yourself into the rich culture of Kyoto’s heritage at Gion Center. They have daily performances and tea ceremonies you can attend each day at 6pm and 7pm. No need for reservations, but get there early to ensure a good seat, and you may even have the chance to watch a geisha stroll by.
Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion)
Adorned in pure gold leaf, this beautiful pagoda was built to house the sacred relics of Buddah. The central Golden Pavilion and the surrounding temples and gardens were designed to evoke the feelings of paradise and enlightenment. This awe-inspiring temple is not to miss.
Nishiki Market
Located in downtown Kyoto, Nishiki Market is an easy stop to add on your day’s itinerary. Established over 400 years ago, this market is a treasure trove of delicious local delicacies, mouth-watering street food, and food straight from the sea or farm. If you’re not hungry, you will still want to stop by to checkout the other goods and souvenirs for sale.
Best Place to Stay in Kyoto
The closer you can stay to the city center, the better. However, you’ll notice there are not many hotels in the area. And certainly no hotels with towers filled of rooms like you would find in many of the urban Japanese cities. Instead, Kyoto is full of smaller inns and bed and breakfasts, which makes the experience that much more unique.
When to Visit Kyoto Japan
If you are planning a visit to Kyoto, the Summer should be avoided due to the heat and rain that is normal for that time of year.
Springtime is the most popular time to visit, as you will possibly get to glimpse the full bloom of Cherry Blossom and Plum trees that are iconic for the area. Some say, however, that the Fall is equally beautiful with the yellow, orange and red of the trees sweeping through the city and on the surrounding hillsides. Both seasons offer ideal temperatures and would make a great time to visit Kyoto.
Winter does get cold, but if you don’t mind packing a snow jacket you can experience Kyoto with less tourists and beautiful snow swept landscapes.
Getting Around Kyoto Japan
Kyoto is a very walking-friendly city. You can experience much of the city on foot, and enjoy more of the hidden alleys and roadside stalls and cafes by foot. To get to the far side of the city, such as Gion or the Arashiyama area, you will want to take the subway, bus or taxi. But once you’re there you can spend the rest of the day on foot.
A more interesting, and very tourist-specific, mode of transportation was a hand drawn cart for up to two people. Similar to how you would see pedicab bikes in other larger cities across the world.
Visa Requirements for Kyoto Japan
Japan issues automatic 90-day visas upon arrival for many countries. American, Canadian, Australian and UK citizens are among the countries that will get an automatic 90-day visa when traveling to Kyoto. To check if you need a Visa to travel to Japan, checkout iVisa.
