Why visit Kyoto
Kyoto is old Japan writ large: atmospheric temples, sublime gardens, traditional teahouses and geisha scurrying to secret liaisons.
Meet your new travel partner
Stay connected in Kyoto
Holafly eSIM provides unlimited mobile data with no hidden fees, giving you peace of mind wherever you travel. Stay connected even after your plan ends with Always On. Use code LONELYPLANET for an exclusive discount.
Go to Japan with Lonely Planet Journeys
Pick one of our ready-to-book trips or fully customize your own with help from our local experts.
bookable trip
Japan’s Golden Route: Tokyo, Kanazawa, Kyoto, and Fuji in 14 Days
14 days / 13 nights
highlights
- 1Savor Uji matcha from the source during a traditional tea ceremony
- 2Meander among peaceful bamboo groves and orange-hued torrii shrines in Kyoto
- 3Cross the famous Shibuya Crossing on a four-day tour of Tokyo, past and present
from $6,820
per person


Explore more trips
Explore more trips

10 days / 9 nights
Spring's Season of Sakura: 10 Days of Japanese Cherry Blossoms
FROM $4,963
per person

10 days / 9 nights
Nozawa Slopes, Nagano Temples, and Tokyo Treasures: Japanese Winter in 10 Days
FROM $5,370
per person
Top places to visit in Kyoto
Discover the best attractions in Kyoto from must-see sights to unexpected hidden gems.
Travel Guides
Kyoto travel tips from Lonely Planet experts
Find practical guidance from our team of contributors around the world who bring their decades of first-hand travel experience to your next 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.
Read full article
Best Time to Visit
Kyoto presents a new face with each changing season, from snowy temples to summer parades. These are the best times to visit Kyoto.
Read full article
Things to Know
No places better represent the gamut of Japanese culture than Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka, and there's no better way to visit them than via Shinkansen
Read full article
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.
Read full article
Free Things to Do
Get to know Kyoto for free with these top experiences that won't cost you a thing.
Read full article
Day Trips
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.
Read full article
Money and Costs
Even in an expensive city like Kyoto, you can find deals to help you enjoy your trip. Here are our top tips for a budget-friendly experience.
Read full article
Traveling with Kids
A trip to Kyoto will make unforgettable memories for little one. Here’s a full guide to family-friendly Kyoto activities and traveling to Kyoto with kids.
Read full article
5 Shops
They call Nishiki Market “Kyoto’s Kitchen” for a reason. Here's a guide to getting the best from Kyoto's favorite foodie marketplace.
Read full article
Get a book. Get inspired. Get exploring.
in partnership with getyourguide











