• Famous Area
2025.01.04

5 things to do when sightseeing in Kyoto

Kyoto is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Japan.
Kyoto is full of Japanese traditions and culture, beautiful parks, shrines, and temples.

This article introduces five things to do in Kyoto, so please use it as a reference for your sightseeing.

Let’s go see a temple!

Kinkakuji Temple


Source: https://www.shokoku-ji.jp/kinkakuji/

There are many temples in Kyoto, but Kinkakuji Temple has been selected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as a cultural asset of the ancient capital of Kyoto.

The official name of Kinkakuji Temple is “Rokuonji Temple,” but it is called “Kinkakuji Temple” because the building is made of gold.
On a fine day, the temple looks very beautiful on the pond.

Address: 1 Kinkakuji-cho, Kita-ku, Kyoto, 603-8361, Japan

Business hours: 9:00-17:00

Kiyomizu Temple


Source: https://www.kiyomizudera.or.jp/

Kiyomizu-Dera Temple, a very popular spot among travelers in Japan, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
It is a typical Kyoto location that is also visited by Japanese school excursions.

There are many highlights such as the view from a place called Kiyomizu-no-butai (stage of Kiyomizu) and the Kiyomizu Falls.
Especially in autumn, you can enjoy the beautiful autumn leaves and feel more Japanese atmosphere.

Address: 1-294, Kiyomizu 1-chome, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto 605-0862

Business hours: 6:00-18:00

Enjoy a walk in Arashiyama!


Source: https://www.arashiyamahoshokai.com/

The Arashiyama area of Kyoto is a beautiful place throughout the four seasons: cherry blossoms in spring, green vegetation in summer, autumn leaves in fall, and snow in winter.
It is a popular tourist destination, so it is recommended to come early in the morning for sightseeing.

There is an easy-to-read MAP on our website to help you with your sightseeing.

Address: 40 Sagano-baba-cho, Tenryuji, Saga, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto City

Business hours: Open all year round

Let’s visit the historic castle!


Source: https://nijo-jocastle.city.kyoto.lg.jp/

The entire area where the castle is located is registered as a World Heritage Site, Nijo Castle.

English guided tours are available if you register in advance or if there is space available on the day of the tour.

Address: 541 Nijojo-cho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto 604-8301

Hours: 8:45-16:00 (Closing time: 17:00)

Enjoy sweets while walking along the old streets!


Source: https://www.giwon-komori.com/

One of the best things to do in Kyoto is to eat sweets at a cafe during a break.
You can enjoy Japanese sweets “Wagashi”.

There are several recommended cafes in the Gion area where you can enjoy Japanese sweets, so please try a taste of Japan while sightseeing in Gion.

Sweet shop Kyoto Gion Komori

Address: 61 Motoyoshi-cho, Shinbashi-dori Yamato-oji Higashi-iru, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, 605-0087, Japan

Business hours: 11:00-19:00 (last order: 18:00)

Let’s make ramen!


Source: http://fireramen.com/ramen-factory/

Looking for a hands-on activity in Japan?
Ramen is one of Japan’s most popular foods, and there is a ramen cooking class in Kyoto City.

This activity is recommended for couples and families interested in ramen because you can enjoy both making and eating it. Since it is indoors, you can enjoy it without worrying about the weather.

Address: 447-14 Kaji-cho, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto 602-0841

Business hours: 11:00-19:30

Summary

These are the five best things to do in Kyoto for sightseeing.

Sightseeing in Kyoto is a great way to experience Japanese traditions and culture, and it makes for a memorable trip.
Please incorporate the 5 things to do in Kyoto and enjoy a memorable sightseeing tour of Kyoto.