THE 30 BEST Places to Visit in Kyoto (UPDATED 2024) - Tripadvisor
Places to visit in Kyoto

Top Things to Do in Kyoto, Japan

Places to Visit in Kyoto


Book these experiences for a close-up look at Kyoto.


Top Attractions in Kyoto

These rankings are informed by traveller reviews—we consider the quality, quantity, recency, consistency of reviews, and the number of page views over time.
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*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.

What travellers are saying

  • Toru O
    Setagaya, Japan2,808 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    The shrine is a must-visit when you visit Kyoto. The shrine is situated on a mountain and it takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to get to the top of the mountain. You walk through a tunnel of toriis as you climb to the top. The tunnel of toriis is a sight to behold. Each torii were donated by corporations throughout Japan and bear their names and addresses on them. Although it was low-season for domestic tourists, there were many students from school trips and foreign tourists.
    Written 6 June 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Bernard W
    Dallas, TX1,906 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Kinkakuji Temple: the Golden Pavilion. Formal name Rokuon-ji is indeed as remarkable and special as everyone says. One walks on a one-way path and upon turning a corner the visitor beholds the Golden Temple in a pond amidst a beautiful setting of green foliage all around. When we were there, cherry blossoms framed every view beautifully. There were also many visitors, but if you are patient you can see and enjoy and take all the photos you want. There are also other ponds and mounds and pagodas, incense burners, and a main hall-sanctuary at the end.
    Written 5 June 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • AChee74
    Kuching, Malaysia1,287 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    One of the places that you need to visit and go. The walk to the temple itself is full of people and lots of shops.
    The views there are amazing.
    Written 4 June 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • MomRocco
    Chicago, IL538 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    This was one of the first temples we visited on our tour. We were impressed with the size and layout of the sight, but having first seen the Golden Pavilion Temple, it paled in comparison. Our tour also visited this location during Golden Week, which we had no idea how much more crowded everything would be as it is a time of celebration and travel by the Japanese people.
    Written 30 May 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • AChee74
    Kuching, Malaysia1,287 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    The walking area is not that big. But the bamboos are majestic is look. Its always full of people, but we went in the afternoon and manage to get some good photo shots
    Written 4 June 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Sabina G
    2 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    I had a thrilling time in Kyoto, diving into the historic worlds of ninjas and samurais! It was both educational and exciting—a true highlight for anyone fascinated by Japan's legendary warriors.
    Written 27 April 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Bernard W
    Dallas, TX1,906 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Nijo Castle is on a huge plot of land with many trees and ponds around it. It is Edo-style construction made to exude power of the Shogunate facing the Imperial Palace. Its 'nightingale' floors, squeak to alert the presence of any intruders. A 1-hour tour is 2500 yen; 600 yen for a good audio tour. Paintings show seasonal change in different rooms. The moat has carp in it, the towers each have special significance, and the entrance through the Karamon Gate is beautiful, ornate, and impressive. When we were there the cherry blossom trees were in full bloom and worth the visit just for them. Plan many hours here—lots to see.
    Written 5 June 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Venture762049
    9 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    This was a really fun three hour tour of Gion. Our guide, Kats, was very knowledgable and kind. We stopped for tea and sweets and saw the lights turn on in the neighborhood. We spotted a Geisha and saw some amazing temples and shrines. Highly recommend.
    Written 1 June 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • LVV
    Takatsuki, Japan63 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    I wasn't familiar with this temple but I had seen it recommended in a travel guide. It was on the way from the silver pavilion so we dropped by. I was pleasantly surprised by how beautiful this temple was. It's very spacious so you will need some time to explore everything. Unlike Ginkakuji, this temple was almost empty, so we could really enjoy the serene atmosphere.
    Written 8 May 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • AChee74
    Kuching, Malaysia1,287 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    A long walk with shops all along with food. Go with an open mind and try out the food that is on display.

    It has a roof so do not woory about getting wet!
    Written 4 June 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.