The 15 Best Things to Do in Kyoto - 2024 (with Photos) - Tripadvisor
Things to Do in Kyoto

Things to Do in Kyoto, Japan - Kyoto Attractions

Things to Do in Kyoto


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


Top Attractions in Kyoto

These rankings are informed by traveler 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 travelers are saying

  • Aakash G
    Oregon4 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Iconic and mesmerizing! The thousands of red torii gates are breathtaking. A bit of a hike to the top, but the views are worth it.
    Written May 22, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • DipuKV
    Pune, India2,904 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Kinkaku-ji Temple, the crowning glory of Kyoto, is a gilded shrine, which basks in the beauty of its glitter and the serene attractiveness of its surrounds. Simply superb.
    Written May 20, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • DipuKV
    Pune, India2,904 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Amazingly beautiful, Kiyozumi-Dera is one of the most popular shrines in Kyoto. Located slightly uphill, the site offers you mesmerising views of the city as well.
    Written May 20, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Martin R
    7 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    A beautiful setting. The highlight is the tremendous hall with 1,001 Buddha statues. Unfortunately, no photos allowed in this part of the venue.
    Written May 5, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • DipuKV
    Pune, India2,904 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    One of the most sought-after visitor experiences in Kyoto, Arashiyama is teeming with tourists & long lines of bamboo groves, with a surfeit of spots for clicks / views / selfies.
    Written May 20, 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 April 27, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • DipuKV
    Pune, India2,904 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Located a short walk away from the JR Nijo station, Nijo Castle is one of the landmarks in Kyoto. A nicely maintained castle, surrounded by impressive gardens.
    Written May 21, 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 May 8, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • DipuKV
    Pune, India2,904 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    The search for the elusive geisha brought us to this quarter. The pedestrian-only street is teeming with tourists clicking away, despite signboards warning of fines, and waiting for that glimpse of geishas!
    Written May 20, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Tanya T.
    Illinois1,560 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    We walked through this market shortly after it opened, which is probably the best time to avoid the crowds. In less than two hours, it became packed, and we could barely move through the aisles, especially near the entrance. Take advantage of the side streets if you need to move quickly from one end to the other or if you want to reach a specific store.

    There are plenty of food stalls, but most have standing room only. Waste bins are not plentiful, so it's best to dispose of garbage where you make purchases. Finding public restrooms can also be challenging – we had to locate the nearest convenience store like FamilyMart, 7-Eleven, or Lawson's.

    Overall, it's a great experience, and you can find nice souvenirs. The further you venture into the market and onto side aisles, the better the deals tend to be. I noticed that prices for food and souvenirs were generally higher near the entrance.

    To summarize:

    Go early to avoid crowds
    Use side streets for quicker navigation
    Be prepared for limited seating at food stalls
    Dispose of trash at point of purchase
    Find restrooms at nearby convenience stores
    Hunt for better deals deeper into the market

    Despite the potential challenges, it's definitely worth exploring this vibrant market for an authentic local experience and great bargains on souvenirs and street food!
    Written May 18, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Susan T
    Mount Pleasant, WI599 contributions