Kyoto

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Overview

Kyoto is old Japan writ large: atmospheric temples, sublime gardens, traditional teahouses and geisha scurrying to secret liaisons.

01 / Attractions

Must-see attractions

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Nishiki Market
Downtown Kyoto
The covered Nishiki Market (Nishiki-kōji Ichiba) is one of Kyoto’s real highlights, especially if you have an interest in cooking and dining. Commonly…
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Enryaku-ji
Kyoto
Located atop 848m-high Hiei-zan (the mountain that dominates the skyline in the northeast of the city), the Enryaku-ji complex is an entire world of…
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Kiyomizu-dera
Southern Higashiyama
A buzzing hive of activity perched on a hill overlooking the basin of Kyoto, Kiyomizu-dera is one of Kyoto's most popular and most enjoyable temples. It…
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Chion-in
Southern Higashiyama
A collection of soaring buildings, spacious courtyards and gardens, Chion-in serves as the headquarters of the Jōdo sect, the largest school of Buddhism…
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Gion
Southern Higashiyama
Gion is the famous entertainment and geisha quarter on the eastern bank of the Kamo-gawa. While Gion’s true origins were in teahouses catering to weary…
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Nijō-jō
Downtown Kyoto
The military might of Japan's great warlord generals, the Tokugawa shoguns, is amply demonstrated by the imposing stone walls and ramparts of their great…
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Shōren-in
Southern Higashiyama
This temple is hard to miss, with its giant camphor trees growing just outside the walls. Fortunately, most tourists march right on past, heading to the…
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Daigo-ji
Kyoto
Daigo-ji is a World Heritage–listed sprawling temple complex located in the Daigo district of Kyoto, which lies on the east side of the Higashiyama…

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02 / Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip

Best Things to Do

Explore the incredible temples in Kyoto with our detailed guide. Experience the tranquility and beauty of these historic sites showcasing Japan's rich culture.

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Best Time to Visit

Kyoto presents a new face with each changing season. From cherry blossom viewing to the parades of Gion Matsuri, here are the best times to visit Kyoto.

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Things to Know

From planning your trip to local etiquette, here are the most important things to know before going to Kyoto.

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Transportation

From buses, trains and the subway to discovering the city on foot or two wheels, here’s everything you need to know about getting around Kyoto.

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Free Things to Do

From stunning temples to incredible landscapes, here are Kyoto's best experiences that are completely free.

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Best Neighborhoods

Venture across Kyoto's distinctive neighborhoods and unwind the tales of this storied city, from kimono-clad dancers in Gion to the shrine in Fushimi.

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Day Trips

Get a real taste of Japan with these easy and exciting day trips from Kyoto.

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Money and Costs

Kyoto may be known as an expensive city but that doesn't mean there aren't deals to be found. Plan your perfect budget break with our top tips.

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Traveling with Kids

Japan is a delightful place for travel with little ones in general, and Kyoto is no exception – here are our favorite things to do with kids and teens.

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