Kyoto is one of those magical cities where ancient traditions and modern life exist in perfect harmony. One minute you’re wandering through centuries-old temples, and the next you’re sipping matcha lattes in a trendy café. With its peaceful gardens, vibrant food scene, and iconic torii gates, Kyoto offers a little something for every type of traveler—and honestly, we were completely smitten.
We were lucky enough to spend two full weeks soaking up the best of Kyoto, which gave us plenty of time to explore beyond the usual tourist trail. In this guide, we’re sharing 24 of our absolute favorite things to do in Kyoto—from must-try foods (including the ones we didn’t love), to entrance fees and helpful travel tips that’ll make your trip smoother. Whether you’re planning your first visit or looking for fresh ideas, we hope this list helps you experience the very best of this unforgettable city!
Watch our video guide below!
The Top Things to Do in Kyoto
1. Take a Free Walking Tour in Kyoto
Kick off your Kyoto adventure with a free walking tour! It’s a fun and informative way to explore the city while learning about its rich history, especially the fascinating world of geisha and maiko. Our guide also shared helpful tips about photography rules in popular areas—something that’s gotten stricter lately. Since the tour is tip-based, you can pay what you feel the tour is worth!
2. Walk Down Sannenzaka & Ninenzaka
Strolling through the narrow streets of Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka feels like stepping back in time. These charming, sloped streets are lined with beautifully preserved wooden buildings, traditional teahouses, and local shops selling everything from handcrafted souvenirs to matcha ice cream. It’s one of the most picturesque areas in Kyoto and perfect for slow, scenic wandering—especially early in the morning or around sunset when the crowds thin out. Don’t forget your camera—every corner here is photo-worthy!
3. Explore the Breathtaking Views of Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Kiyomizu-dera is a historic Buddhist temple founded in 778 and is one of Kyoto’s 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Perched on a hillside, the temple offers incredible panoramic views of the city below, especially beautiful during cherry blossom or autumn leaf season. The wooden stage, traditional pagodas, and surrounding nature make this site not only architecturally impressive but also spiritually uplifting. This temple is inspired and inspiring, and definitely worth the small admission fee of 500 yen (about $3 USD).
4. Enjoy the Tranquil Japanese Gardens of Maruyama Park
Just a short walk downhill from Kiyomizu-dera, you’ll find Maruyama Park—a peaceful oasis filled with classic Japanese garden features. Whether you’re wearing a kimono for a photo shoot or just enjoying a casual stroll, the park’s arched bridges, gentle streams, and flowing waterfall create the perfect setting for both relaxation and stunning pictures. It’s especially popular during cherry blossom season, but lovely any time of year.
5. Watch a Geisha Dance at Gion Corner
One of our favorite things to do in Kyoto was watching a geisha and maiko perform at Gion Corner—a theater that showcases traditional Japanese arts. The dances were mesmerizing, and afterward, both performers were all smiles during the photo session! Tickets cost around $27 USD and include the performance, museum access, and photos. For such a rare and special experience, it’s totally worth it!
6. Enjoy Lunch with a View at Tohka Saikan Chinese
If you’re looking for a meal with a view, we highly recommend grabbing lunch or dinner along the beautiful Kamo River. One of our favorite spots was Tohka Saikan, a Chinese restaurant that not only serves up tasty dishes but also offers a lovely view of the river below. It’s the perfect combo of great food and peaceful scenery—ideal for taking a break from sightseeing.
7. Wander Through Pontocho Restaurant Alley
Another awesome spot for dining with atmosphere is Pontocho Alley. This narrow, lantern-lit street is packed with restaurants and bars, many of which overlook the river. It’s a great place to grab a meal, sip on something refreshing, and soak up the lively Kyoto vibe. Whether you’re looking for sushi, cocktails, or just a romantic setting, Pontocho’s got you covered.
8. Shop and Snack at Teramachi Shopping Street
For a fun mix of shopping and snacking, don’t miss Teramachi Shopping Street. This long, covered arcade is filled with shops selling clothes, shoes, souvenirs, and tons of tasty treats. It’s a great place to escape the sun or rain while hunting for unique finds and grabbing a bite to eat along the way.
9. Teppanyaki & Okonomiyaki Zetto
One of our favorite food stops inside Teramachi Market was Teppanyaki & Okonomiyaki Zetto. This little gem serves up mouthwatering yakisoba and okonomiyaki—a savory Japanese pancake loaded with flavor. We highly recommend going all in with the sauces (trust us, they make it even better!). It’s a fun, casual experience and a delicious way to try something uniquely Japanese. Definitely one of those meals you’ll remember long after your trip!
10. Browse the Food Stalls at Nishiki Market
Right off Teramachi Shopping Street, you’ll find Nishiki Market. This vibrant market street—famous for its colorful skylights—is packed with food stalls offering everything from sweet dumplings to adventurous eats like octopus stuffed with quail eggs. It’s the perfect place to snack your way through the afternoon and try a little bit of everything!
That said, we did sample some sashimi here and, to be honest, we wouldn’t recommend it. It wasn’t as fresh as the sashimi we had in Tokyo—and surprisingly, it was also more expensive. If you’re craving sushi or sashimi, we’d suggest saving that experience for Tokyo, where the quality and value are both top-notch.
11. Get a Bird’s Eye View from Kyoto Tower
For the best panoramic views of the city, head to the top of Kyoto Tower, the tallest structure in town at 100 meters high. From up there, you’ll get an amazing view of the city skyline and the mountains that surround Kyoto. Tickets are super affordable—starting at just 900 yen (about $6 USD)—and it’s a great way to get a sense of the city’s layout, especially early in your trip.
12. Grab a Bite at the Kyoto Tower Food Hall
Feeling hungry after taking in the views from Kyoto Tower? Head down to the basement level and check out the Kyoto Tower Food Hall! It’s a casual, fun spot with tons of tasty options—from udon noodles to burgers to sweet treats.. The prices are super reasonable, and there’s something for every craving, so it’s a great place to refuel without breaking the bank.
13. Be Dazzled by Kinkaku-ji (The Golden Pavilion)
Kinkaku-ji is one of those places that will literally make you stop and say, “Wow.” Covered in real gold leaf and perched beside a peaceful pond, this shimmering temple looks like something out of a fairytale. On a sunny day, the reflection of the Golden Pavilion on the water is absolutely magical. The surrounding gardens are also stunning, making this spot one of Kyoto’s most iconic and photogenic destinations. It’s definitely a must-see—even if you’ve already seen it a hundred times in photos, nothing compares to seeing it in person.
14. Discover the Serene Rock Garden at Ryoan-ji
If you’re in the mood for something more peaceful and meditative, head over to Ryoan-ji, home to one of Japan’s most famous Zen rock gardens. This minimalist masterpiece is all about simplicity: just 15 carefully placed rocks set in a bed of raked white gravel. It might not sound exciting at first, but once you sit down and take it in, you’ll understand the quiet beauty of it. It’s the perfect place to slow down, breathe deeply, and soak up some classic Kyoto calm.
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15. Experience a Traditional Tea Ceremony
One of the most peaceful and unforgettable things to do in Kyoto is a traditional Japanese tea ceremony—and wow, what a vibe! We booked it through Get Your Guide, and it was such a beautiful experience. Watching the host prepare matcha with such calm, grace, and precision turned something as simple as making tea into a kind of art. And yes—we even got to whisk our own matcha! (Spoiler: it’s trickier than it looks, but totally fun.) If you’re looking for a quiet, meaningful activity that connects you to Japanese culture, this is it. Be sure to check the link below to see if there’s a spot available during your trip!
16. Walk Through the Famous Torii Gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine
No trip to Kyoto is complete without seeing the endless path of bright red torii gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine! It’s one of the most iconic sights in all of Japan—and trust us, it’s even more magical in person. You can walk under thousands of vibrant gates that wind their way up the mountain, creating a stunning tunnel of color. Whether you hike all the way to the top or just stroll a little ways in, it’s an unforgettable experience. (Bonus tip: go early in the morning to beat the crowds and get those dream-worthy photos!)
17. Bite Into the Best Burgers in the World at Dragon Burger
We’re not even exaggerating when we say this place serves up some of the best burgers we’ve ever had. Juicy, flavorful, and made out of premium Wagyu beef, Dragon Burger puts its own unique twist on the traditional burger adding toppings and sauces that are next-level delicious. If you’re craving a break from traditional Japanese food (or just love a great burger), Dragon Burger is a must-visit. Your taste buds will thank you!
18. Wander Through the Magical Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
Stepping into the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest feels like walking into another world. Towering stalks of bamboo sway gently above you, filtering the sunlight and creating this dreamy, peaceful vibe that’s totally unforgettable. It’s one of Kyoto’s most popular spots for a reason—it’s absolutely magical. Go early in the morning for a quieter experience, and don’t forget your camera… this place is pure Instagram gold!
19. Dine Riverside at Kameyamaya Restaurant
Right near the bamboo grove is a little gem called Kameyamaya Riverside Restaurant, and it’s the perfect place to relax after exploring. Set along the river with views of the surrounding hills, this cozy spot serves delicious local dishes in a peaceful, scenic setting. Whether you’re in the mood for noodles, tempura, or a refreshing drink, the combination of great food and gorgeous views makes this a memorable stop.
20. Cruise the River on a Traditional Japanese House Boat
Hop aboard a traditional Japanese house boat and drift down the Hozugawa River! It’s such a relaxing way to see the natural beauty of Arashiyama from a different perspective. The boats are charming and old-school with a boat captain moving the boat with nothing but a bamboo stick. The captains movement is fascinating to watch, and because there’s no motor noise, the whole ride feels peaceful and a little bit magical.
21. Monkey Around at Arashiyama Monkey Park
Ready to meet some wild locals? Head up the hill to Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama, where you can hang out (literally) with over 100 free-roaming Japanese macaques! The 20-minute hike to the top is totally worth it—not just for the monkey magic, but also for the incredible panoramic view of Kyoto. Once you reach the top, you can safely feed the monkeys from inside a little shelter (they’re on the outside, you’re on the inside—don’t worry!). It’s a fun, unique experience that’ll definitely leave you smiling.
22. Dive into Japanese Comics at the Kyoto International Manga Museum
Whether you’re a longtime manga fan or just manga-curious, the Kyoto International Manga Museum is an awesome place to geek out. This place is packed with thousands of manga in multiple languages—and yes, you can sit down and read as much as you want! It’s part museum, part giant reading room, and totally fun for all ages. There are also cool exhibits on the history of manga and even live caricature drawings if you’re feeling artsy. Don’t be surprised if you end up staying way longer than planned! We definitely did!
23. Step Back in Time at Nijo Castle
Visiting Nijo Castle feels like walking straight into a samurai movie. This beautifully preserved UNESCO World Heritage Site was once the home of powerful shoguns, and it’s packed with history, golden screen art, and even squeaky “nightingale floors” designed to chirp when someone walks on them. The grounds are just as impressive, with peaceful gardens and moats that make you feel like royalty.
We also enjoyed trying the tea house here. They have a delicious matcha cake that is to die for! Give it a taste while you’re there.
24. Stroll Through the Peaceful Kyoto Imperial Palace
Right in the heart of the city, the Kyoto Imperial Palace offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle. This former residence of the Imperial family is surrounded by wide gravel paths, quiet gardens, and towering trees—perfect for a leisurely stroll. The palace buildings themselves are gorgeous and full of classic Japanese elegance. Plus, entry is totally free, making it a must-see if you want a dose of royal history without spending a yen.
Our Final Thoughts on Kyoto
Kyoto really blew us away with its breathtaking temples, serene nature, mouthwatering food, and majestic palaces. Every corner of this city felt like stepping into a living postcard. So, we hope this travel guide not only helps you plan your trip but also inspires you to slow down, explore deeply, and fall in love with Kyoto just like we did.
Now that you know 24 things to do in Kyoto, check out these great travel tips below.
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