What is The Best Activity to Do in Kyoto, Japan?

Kyoto, Japan is a truly magical place. This serene city is filled with ancient Buddhist temples, colorful parks, and winding streets lined with traditional Japanese restaurants and gift shops. But with so much to see and do, it can be a bit overwhelming for travelers trying to figure out what to do in Kyoto. We’ll break down the best activities for both first-time and return visitors, highlighting the unique experiences you won’t find anywhere else in Japan.

Explore Authentic Japanese Temples

The temples of Kyoto are perhaps the most iconic sightseeing locations in the city. From their bright orange gates to intricately designed pathways, Kyoto’s temples offer a glimpse into Japan’s past. The city is home to over 1000 temples and shrines, including Kiyomizudera and Fushimi-Inari. Each of these landmarks is surrounded by Japan’s legendary cherry blossoms in the springtime, so be sure to plan a visit during that season if possible. While there are simply too many temples to enjoy in one visit, you can read more about the most popular and culturally significant destinations on a japan-guide.com website.

Ride Bicycles through Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is one of the most visited sites in Kyoto, and for good reason. This enormous field of bamboo trees is known for its peaceful atmosphere, making it a popular spot for visitors to both local and international visitors. Renting a bike is one of the best ways to take in all of its beauty. The grove is open 24 hours a day, so be sure to plan your ride accordingly. And while there, make sure to explore Tenryu-Ji Temple, which overlooks the forest, providing stunning photo opportunities.

See Traditional Kaiseki Cuisine

When visiting Japan, there’s no better way to experience its culture than to indulge in its cuisine. One of the most popular kinds of Japanese food is kaiseki cuisine, which features dishes that are prepared according to traditional Japanese culinary methods. There are a variety of places throughout Kyoto where you can experience this unique cuisine, including Unzenji, Funazushi Sushi Restaurant, and Miyakomesseba. Each of these locations offers menu items that combine fresh ingredients and age old recipes, making for a truly unforgettable culinary experience.

Relax with a Stay at a Traditional Ryokan

While visiting certain cities around the world, it often feels like you’re just observing the culture from afar. But when staying at a traditional ryokan in Kyoto, visitors get an insider’s peek into the daily lives of locals. Ryokans are an important part of Japanese culture, offering guests an authentic lodging experience that includes sleeping on futons and eating traditional Japanese meals. Ryokans like Uenosansou, Irodoriya Ryokan and Yuzan are all equipped with modern amenities while remaining true to the traditional Japanese style and aesthetic.

Take a Tour of a Traditional Japanese Home

For visitors looking for something unique and off-the-beaten-path in Kyoto, taking a tour of a traditional Japanese home is ideal. The JAPAN home-visiting Plan offers visitors the chance to explore a local resident’s home through guided tours of . These tours provide an up close look at Japanese domestic architecture and lifestyle, as well as storytelling sessions filled with interesting tales of Japan’s past.

Kyoto: Izakaya Food Tour with Local Guide

Izakaya food tours are a great way to sample some of the most popular eats in Kyoto while learning about important cultural customs along the way. This Kyoto: Izakaya Food Tour with Local Guide from GetYourGuide will take you through the city’s backstreets with a local guide who can share their knowledge about the cuisine, history, and architecture of Kyoto. Guests will have the chance to enjoy tasty dishes like Okonomiyaki and Takoyaki while exploring one of Japan’s oldest cities.

The Best Activity to Do in Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto offers countless activities that allow you to explore its rich history and culture. From temples to bamboo groves to Izakaya tours, you can find something for everyone in this unique city. Whether you’re looking for an activity that allows you to experience the city from an insider’s perspective or one that shows off some of its most iconic spots, Kyoto certainly has something for everyone.

An Insider’s Guide to Kyoto, Japan: Discovering Hidden Gems and Unique Experiences

Kyoto, one of Japan’s most popular tourist destinations, is known for its historical landmarks, scenic beauty, and rich cultural heritage. As an insider, I can help you explore the hidden gems and unique experiences of this beautiful city. Here’s a guide to places and activities that will surely make your visit unforgettable.

Local Attractions

Instead of crowding at popular tourist spots like Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Fushimi Inari Shrine, venture out to the lesser-known attractions like Chion-in Temple, Eikando Zenrinji Temple, and the Shugakuin Imperial Villa. These serene and beautiful locations are truly hidden gems of Kyoto.

Dining Spots

Kyoto is well-known for its traditional cuisine, including seasonal kaiseki (Japanese haute cuisine) and yudofu (tofu hot pot). Local favorites include Yasaka Endo, a century-old soba noodle shop, and Mamezen, a quaint café that serves delicious matcha latte and sweets. Experience Kyoto’s food culture by visiting Nishiki Market, a bustling food market that offers a wide range of traditional Japanese food and beverages.

Cultural Experiences

Kyoto hosts various festivals, rituals and cultural events throughout the year, such as Gion Matsuri, one of Japan’s largest and most famous festivals, the Kyoto International Manga Anime Fair, and Aoi Matsuri, where people dressed in Heian Period style parade through the city. Experience the city like a local by attending a traditional tea ceremony in a tea house, dressing up in a kimono, visiting a pottery studio, or trying a calligraphy workshop.

Local History

Kyoto has a rich and fascinating history, one that is well worth exploring. Visit Nijo Castle, where you can walk on squeaky floors to warn against sneaky intruders, or Kinkakuji Temple, the Golden Pavilion that was burnt down by a monk in 1950’s Japan, and admire its beauty. Also, visit Kyoto’s National Museum, which holds an extensive collection of ancient Japanese art and artifacts.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Leave the touristy sites behind and explore rural Kyoto in Miyama, an idyllic town with ancient thatched-roofed farmhouses where time seems to stand still. Or why not take a day trip to Uji, just outside of Kyoto, and learn about the history of Japanese green tea, and visit the Byodoin Temple, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Conclusion

Kyoto is full of surprises, and if you are willing to venture off the beaten path, you can truly explore and experience the city like a local. From the beautiful temples to the delicious food, Kyoto is a city that you won’t forget anytime soon. I hope this guide was helpful in planning your trip to Kyoto, and I wish you a happy and unforgettable journey!