Downtown Kyoto Travel Guide
Kyoto
Visit Downtown Kyoto
Popular places to visit
Nishiki Market
Come to this market in the heart of the city to experience the authentic sights, smells and sounds of the bartering vendors and their traditional food.
Kiyamachi Street
You can learn about the history of Kyoto with a trip to Kiyamachi Street. Amble around the area's riverfront or visit its shops.
Kyoto International Manga Museum
This institution is the home of manga in Kyoto. It holds exhibitions, workshops and events devoted to the promotion of Japanese literary art.
Teramachi Street
You can learn about the history of Kyoto when you stop by Teramachi Street. Visit the area's shops or simply enjoy its restaurants.
Samurai and Ninja Museum
You can spend an afternoon exploring the galleries in Samurai and Ninja Museum during your trip to Kyoto.
Rokakkudo Temple
After visiting Rokakkudo Temple, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Kyoto. Discover the top-notch restaurants and fascinating museums in this culturally rich area.
Things to do
Eikando Temple Kyoto Kimono Rental with Hair Styling Experience
Kyoto 5-Star Geisha Night Walk: Small-Group Authentic Experience
Kyoto Kimono Rental CHAMATSU|Kimono/Yukata Rental FamilyPlan
Kyoto Tea Ceremony with Kimono near Imamiya Jinjya Shrine
10 Must-see Spots in Kyoto One Day Private Tour
Top hotels in Downtown Kyoto
Hotel Gracery Kyoto Sanjo
"Clean and nice location for a brief stopover"
Reviewed on 28 May 2026
Hotel Monterey Kyoto
"We had 2 rooms and stayed 8 nights. Pros: good size room, location Cons: cleaning service could be improved, shower head very difficult to use."
Reviewed on 27 May 2026
The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Sanjo
"Had a wonderful stay at this hotel! The room was spotless — everything felt fresh and well-maintained from the moment we walked in. staff were incredibly friendly and we’ll definitely be coming back on my next visit!"
Reviewed on 26 May 2026
Cross Hotel Kyoto
"Hotel was amazing and in a great location. Tucked away from the busy street but within a 6 min walk from all the shops and food too!"
Reviewed on 27 May 2026
Hotel Musse Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi Meitetsu
"We enjoyed everything about Kyoto and our hotel helped set a positive mood. Great local, helpful staff at a well maintained property."
Reviewed on 27 May 2026
Hilton Kyoto
"Great stay. Excellent location. New property. Would stay here again especially for the price."
Reviewed on 26 May 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Downtown Kyoto
Fudocho
When in Fudocho, you can plan a visit to Shijo Kyo Machiya and Museum of Kyoto, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.
Karasuma
Karasuma is popular for its popular shops. Explore top sights like Nishiki Market and Shijo Kyo Machiya, and you can get around town on the metro at Karasuma Oike Station.
Nakagyo Ward
Sanjo Street and Nijō Castle are top sights in Nakagyo Ward, and you should be sure to explore the popular shops. Hop aboard the metro at Nijojo-mae Station or Karasuma Oike Station to see more sights in the area.
Gion
Unique features of Gion include the monuments and shopping. Make a stop by Yasaka Shrine or Hanamikoji Street while you're exploring the area.
Central Kyoto
Travellers love Central Kyoto for its popular shops, and you can see more of Kyoto by jumping on the metro at Imadegawa Station or Kuramaguchi Station. You might spend time checking out top sights like Nishijin Textile Center and Kyoto Gyoen National Garden.
Komatsucho
While visiting Komatsucho, you might make a stop by sights like Kenninji Temple and Hanamikoji Street.
