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2,000+
Temples & Shrines
17
UNESCO Sites
2h 15m
From Tokyo
3-5 days
Recommended
Kyoto served as Japan's imperial capital for over a millennium, and today it remains the country's cultural heart. With over 2,000 temples and shrines, traditional geisha districts, and exquisite gardens, Kyoto offers the most authentic glimpse into Japan's rich heritage. The city beautifully balances ancient traditions with modern life.
Must-See Attractions
Fushimi Inari Shrine
伏見稲荷大社
Thousands of vermillion torii gates wind up the mountainside. Most iconic shrine in Japan.
24 hours
Tip: Visit at dawn or dusk to avoid crowds
Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
金閣寺
Zen temple covered in gold leaf, reflected beautifully in the surrounding pond garden.
9:00-17:00
Tip: Go early morning for best reflections
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
嵐山竹林
Towering bamboo stalks create an otherworldly atmosphere. One of Kyoto's most photographed spots.
Always open
Tip: Visit before 8am for photos without crowds
Gion District
祇園
Historic geisha district with traditional wooden machiya houses, tea houses, and restaurants.
Evening is best
Tip: Respect geisha privacy - don't block or touch
Kiyomizu-dera Temple
清水寺
Historic temple with massive wooden stage offering panoramic views of Kyoto.
6:00-18:00
Tip: Special night illuminations in spring and autumn
Philosopher's Path
哲学の道
Stone path along a cherry-tree-lined canal. Perfect for a contemplative walk between temples.
Always open
Tip: Best during cherry blossom or autumn
Kyoto Food Guide
Kyoto cuisine emphasizes subtlety, seasonality, and visual beauty
Kaiseki
Multi-course haute cuisine showcasing seasonal ingredients
Yudofu
Tofu hot pot, especially around Nanzen-ji temple area
Matcha Sweets
Green tea flavored desserts - Kyoto is the matcha capital
Obanzai
Traditional Kyoto home cooking, simple and seasonal
Yatsuhashi
Cinnamon-flavored rice flour sweets, Kyoto's famous souvenir
Suggested Itineraries
Classic 2-Day Itinerary
Day 1
- Fushimi Inari (early morning)
- Gion District (afternoon)
- Pontocho for dinner
Day 2
- Kinkaku-ji
- Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
- Tenryu-ji Temple
3-Day Deep Dive
Day 1
- Eastern Kyoto: Kiyomizu-dera, Philosopher's Path, Ginkaku-ji
Day 2
- Northern Kyoto: Kinkaku-ji, Ryoan-ji, Ninna-ji
Day 3
- Arashiyama: Bamboo, Tenryu-ji, Monkey Park, Day trip to Nara possible
Practical Tips
Getting Around
- Bus system covers most attractions
- 1-day bus pass ¥600
- Rent bikes for Arashiyama area
- Walking is pleasant in Gion/Higashiyama
Best Seasons
- Spring: Cherry blossoms (late March-April)
- Autumn: Fall colors (November)
- Winter: Fewer crowds, snowy temples
- Summer: Hot and humid, festivals
Etiquette
- Dress modestly at temples
- Don't photograph geisha up close
- Remove shoes when required
- Speak quietly in sacred spaces