Things to do in Kyoto Prefecture
Activities, attractions and tours
Visit Kyoto Prefecture
Most popular experiences in Kyoto Prefecture
Tours & day trips
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Perfect Kyoto 1Day Bus Tour
Private & custom tours
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Tokyo to Kyoto 1-Full Day Private Guided Tour
Classes & workshops
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Skip the lines Basic Ticket at SAMURAI NINJA MUSEUM TOKYO
Adventure & outdoor
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Cycling in Kyoto
Shows & concerts
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Kimono & Tea Ceremony Experience in a Kyoto Cultural Asset
What to do in Kyoto Prefecture
Popular places to visit
Kiyomizu Temple
Constructed entirely without nails and built on high poles, this temple is part of a World Heritage Site and offers visitors both beauty and history.
Fushimi Inari Shrine
This shrine at the base of Inari Mountain is dedicated to the goddess of rice and prosperity. See its thousands of red gates around a network of beautiful trails.
Nishiki Market
Come to this market in the heart of the city to experience the authentic sights, smells and sounds of the bartering vendors and their traditional food.
Nijō Castle
Visit the world of a wealthy and powerful shogun in this opulent 17th-century castle complex.
Kyoto Tower
In a city known for its temples and other ancient relics, this observation point catches the eye as an example of 20th-century innovation.
Kinkaku-ji Temple
Built in the 14th century for a shogun, then rebuilt twice, this temple is now a Buddhist site and its top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf.
Kyoto Imperial Palace
Kyoto Imperial Palace is just one of the places to see in Kyoto, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Discover the fascinating museums and temples in this culturally rich area.
Heian Shrine
An important shrine for patriotic locals and curious tourists alike, this site has charming buildings and natural gardens that celebrate Kyoto’s fusion of past and present.
Yasaka Shrine
Observe traditional Shinto architecture, pretty lanterns and sacred rituals at this historic shrine, home of the annual Gion Festival and Kyoto’s favorite cherry blossom park.
Areas of Kyoto Prefecture
Central Kyoto
Travellers love Central Kyoto for its popular shops, and you can see more of Kyoto by jumping on the metro at Imadegawa Station or Kuramaguchi Station. You might spend time checking out top sights like Seimei-Jinja Shrine and Nishijin Textile Center.
Gion
Unique features of Gion include the monuments and shopping. Make a stop by Yasaka Shrine or Hanamikoji Street while you're exploring the area.
Shimogyo Ward
Shimogyo Ward is highly notable for its popular shops, and you might want to visit top sights like Kyoto Railway Museum and Shijo Street. See more of Kyoto by jumping on the metro at Tanbaguchi Station or Umekoji-Kyotonishi Station.
Downtown Kyoto
While you're in Downtown Kyoto, take in top sights like Kyoto International Manga Museum or Rokakkudo Temple, and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Karasuma Oike Station or Marutamachi Station.
Higashiyama Ward
Consider a visit to Kiyomizu Temple and take some time to enjoy the abundant dining options during your time in Higashiyama Ward. If you want to see more of the city, jump on the metro at Higashiyama Station or Sanjo Keihan Station.
Karasuma
Karasuma is popular for its popular shops. Explore top sights like Nishiki Market and Rokakkudo Temple, and you can get around town on the metro at Karasuma Oike Station.
