What to do in Kyoto
Activities, attractions and tours
Explore thousands of activities with free cancellation and no added fees.
Design your experience with airport transfers, excursions, day tours & more.
Get an insider's look in what to book before you travel.
Most fun & popular experiences in Kyoto
Tours & day trips
See all 543 activities
Perfect Kyoto 1Day Bus Tour
Private & custom tours
See all 225 activities
Tokyo to Kyoto 1-Full Day Private Guided Tour
Classes & workshops
See all 130 activities
Kendo and samurai experience in Kyoto
Adventure & outdoor
See all 44 activities
Cycling in Kyoto
Shows & concerts
See all 14 activities
Kimono & Tea Ceremony Experience in a Kyoto Cultural Asset
What to do in Kyoto
Popular places to visit
Kiyomizu Temple
Constructed entirely without nails and built on high poles, this temple is part of a World Heritage Site and offers visitors both beauty and history.
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.
Fushimi Inari Shrine
This shrine at the base of Inari Mountain is dedicated to the goddess of rice and prosperity. See its thousands of red gates around a network of beautiful trails.
Kyoto Tower
In a city known for its temples and other ancient relics, this observation point catches the eye as an example of 20th-century innovation.
Nijō Castle
Visit the world of the wealthy and powerful shogun, in this opulent 17th-century castle complex.
Kinkaku-ji Temple
Built in the 14th century for a shogun, then rebuilt twice, this temple is now a Buddhist site and its top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf.
Kyoto Imperial Palace
Kyoto Imperial Palace is just one of the places to see in Kyoto, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Discover the fascinating museums and temples in this culturally rich area.
Shijo Street
During your trip to Kyoto, you can do some window-shopping at Shijo Street. While in this walkable area, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.
Heian Shrine
An important shrine for patriotic locals and curious tourists alike, this site has charming buildings and natural gardens that celebrate Kyoto’s fusion of past and present.
Explore areas of Kyoto
Central Kyoto
Ancient temples blend with modern architectural treasures while markets, museums, dining and shopping streets showcase thousands of years of Japanese traditions.
Gion
Experience a traditional tea ceremony or a night of cultural entertainment within the historic wooden teahouses of this well-preserved Kyoto district.
Shimogyo Ward
Shimogyo Ward is highly notable for its popular shops, and you might want to visit top sights like Kyoto Railway Museum and Shijo Street. See more of Kyoto by jumping on the metro at Tanbaguchi Station or Umekoji-Kyotonishi Station.
Downtown Kyoto
While you're in Downtown Kyoto, take in top sights like Kyoto International Manga Museum or Museum of Kyoto, and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Karasuma Oike Station or Marutamachi Station.
Karasuma
Experience sensory delights at the Kitchen of Kyoto, shop for souvenirs, take an art class and visit a sacred temple in this central neighborhood.
Higashiyama Ward
Consider a visit to Kiyomizu Temple and take some time to enjoy the abundant dining options during your time in Higashiyama Ward. If you want to see more of the city, jump on the metro at Higashiyama Station or Sanjo Keihan Station.
Day trip destinations from Kyoto
- Kyoto sightseeing tours & attractions
- Hotels near popular Kyoto Attractions
- Cities to visit near Kyoto
- Expedia's Latest Trends