What to do in Kyoto Prefecture
Most fun & popular experiences in Kyoto Prefecture
Tours & day trips
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Kyoto and Nara 1 Day Bus Tour
Classes & workshops
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Kyoto: Tea Ceremony Ju-An at Jotokuji Temple
Attractions
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Family Mitsui House Museum with green tea admission ticket
Private & custom tours
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Kyoto Private 6 hour Tour: English Speaking Driver Only, No Guide
Adventure & outdoor
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City cycle (no gear change)
![[W/Lunch] Kyoto Highlights Bike Tour with UNESCO Zen Temples](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/1327902/28d26368-9219-498b-98b1-3192ad6824fc.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)
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.
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.
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.
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.
Kyoto Imperial Palace
You can find out about the history of Kyoto with a trip to Kyoto Imperial Palace. Visit the temples and top-notch restaurants in this culturally rich area.
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.
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.
Shijo Street
During your trip to Kyoto, you can do some window-shopping at Shijo Street. While in this culturally rich area, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.
Explore areas of Kyoto Prefecture
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 Kawaramachi Street and Kyoto Railway Museum. See more of Kyoto by jumping on the metro at Tanbaguchi Station or Umekoji-Kyotonishi Station.
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.
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.
Nakagyo Ward
Nishiki Market and Kawaramachi Street 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.
