• There are many fun things to do in Kyoto, Japan, so you must plan your itinerary accordingly.

• You can start off by exploring Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Fushimi Inari Shrine's torii gates, or the gold-leaf covered Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion).

• Or savor kaiseki meals, explore Nishiki Market for local specialties, and indulge in Kyoto's famous matcha treats.
   

Kyoto, the old capital of Japan, has so many cool things to do and see that you’ll never be bored. From bamboo forests and historic temples to traditional tea ceremonies and Kyoto food, there’s no shortage of fun things.

Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation or a taste of Japan, Kyoto has something for everyone. In this post, we’ll cover the most fun things to do in Kyoto, so your trip is full of awesomeness and surprises.

1. Stroll Through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Walking through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is like entering another dimension. This bamboo forest in western Kyoto is a peaceful oasis away from the city. As you stroll along the paths the bamboo rustles in the wind and it’s like a spell is being cast. It’s especially beautiful in the early morning or late afternoon when the crowds are smaller, and the light is soft.

One of the cool things about visiting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is you can take awesome photos. The tall green bamboo is an excellent backdrop for photography. You can also rent a bicycle or take a traditional rickshaw ride through the grove and take your time.

In addition to the bamboo grove, Arashiyama has more things to see. The nearby Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has beautiful gardens and traditional buildings. The Togetsukyo Bridge over the Katsura River has magnificent views and is especially beautiful during cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons.
 

2. Fushimi Inari Shrine

Fushimi Inari Shrine is one of Kyoto’s most famous and photographed landmarks. Famous for its thousands of bright red torii gates, the shrine is dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice and agriculture. The torii gates form a tunnel that snakes up Mount Inari, it is a cool and immersive experience.

 

The hike up the torii gate tunnel is fun and rewarding. As you climb the mountain, you’ll see smaller shrines, statues, and beautiful forested areas. The higher you go, the fewer people you’ll see and it is more peaceful and personal. The hike to the top takes about 2-3 hours round trip, but you can turn back at any point if you prefer a shorter walk.

One of the cool things about Fushimi Inari Shrine is the sense of adventure and discovery. Each turn of the path reveals new sights and hidden corners, it’s like a journey through a fantasy landscape. Do not forget to stop at the food stalls near the entrance for delicious local snacks like grilled mochi and inari sushi, it’s a nice bonus to your visit.

3. Traditional Tea Ceremony

Having a traditional Japanese tea ceremony is necessary when visiting Kyoto. Tea ceremonies, or “chanoyu,” are part of Japanese culture and a window into the country’s refined beauty and mindfulness. Kyoto, with its history and culture, is the best place to experience this ancient art.

The ceremony takes place in a peaceful tea house, often surrounded by a garden. The tea master carefully prepares and serves matcha, a powdered green tea, with precise and elegant movements. As a participant, you will get to see and appreciate the details and rituals of the tea ceremony.

The joy of a tea ceremony lies in its immersive and meditative nature. It’s a chance to slow down, engage your senses and have a moment of peace and reflection. Learning about the history and meaning of the tea ceremony from the tea master adds depth to the experience. And the matcha itself is a treat—rich, flavorful, and often served with traditional Japanese sweets to balance the bitterness.
 

4. Explore Gion District

Gion is Kyoto’s most famous geisha district, famous for its traditional wooden machiya houses, teahouses and geishas and maikos (apprentice geishas). Walking through Gion is like stepping back in time to old Japan, where you can experience the elegance and charm of a bygone era. It has to be one of the top things to do in Japan.

The best time to visit Gion is in the evening when the streets are lit up with lanterns. As you walk along Hanamikoji Street, keep an eye out for geishas and maikos making their way to their evening appointments. Their kimono and hairstyles are a sight to behold and a window into Kyoto’s culture.

One of the cool things about Gion is the chance to dip into Kyoto’s culture. You can visit Yasaka Shrine, a major Shinto shrine at the eastern end of Gion, or explore the narrow alleys of Pontocho, another old entertainment district with restaurants and bars. For a real treat, book a geisha or maiko performance and enjoy traditional music, dance and games.
 

5. Chill out at a Japanese Garden

Kyoto is famous for its Japanese gardens, which are works of art. These gardens are a peaceful oasis and a chance to experience nature’s beauty and serenity, carefully crafted by skilled gardeners.

One of Kyoto’s most famous gardens is the one at Kiyomizu Temple. The temple’s hillside location has great views of Kyoto and the garden has greenery, winding paths and ponds. Another must-see garden is at Ryoanji Temple, home to Japan’s most famous rock garden. The minimalist arrangement of rocks and white gravel is a meditation in itself.

The uniqueness of Kyoto’s gardens is in their beauty and tranquility. Whether you’re strolling through a lush garden or contemplating a rock garden, these spaces are an escape from the city.

Each garden has its own character and seasonal highlights, from cherry blossoms in spring to autumn’s vibrant maple leaves. Exploring these gardens allows you to appreciate the art and philosophy of Japanese garden design.
 

6. Dine Out in Kyoto

Kyoto’s food scene is a foodie’s paradise. The city is famous for its traditional cuisine, which is all about seasonal ingredients, subtle flavors and beautiful presentation. From fine dining to street food, there’s something for everyone.

One of the must-try dishes in Kyoto is kaiseki, a multi-course meal that’s the best of Japanese haute cuisine. Kaiseki meals are carefully prepared and presented, with each course highlighting seasonal ingredients and techniques.

For a more casual experience, head to Nishiki Market, also known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen”. This busy market has stalls selling fresh produce, seafood and local specialties like yudofu (tofu hot pot) and matcha-flavored treats.

The fun of trying Kyoto cuisine is the choice and quality of food. Whether you’re having a kaiseki dinner or street food at Nishiki Market, each bite is a taste of Kyoto’s culinary history. Don’t miss the chance to try matcha sweets and drinks, as Kyoto is famous for its high-quality green tea.
 

7. Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Kinkaku-ji, or the Golden Pavilion, is one of Kyoto’s most famous and photographed landmarks. This Zen Buddhist temple is covered in gold leaf and sits beside a pond, creating a beautiful reflection. The gardens add to the peaceful and picturesque scene.

Kinkaku-ji is a feast for the eyes. The temple’s gold shines in the sun and is a great subject for photography. The walking path around the temple offers different views, so you can see the pavilion and gardens from various angles. The garden has carefully pruned trees, stone lanterns and a charming tea house where you can have a cup of matcha.

The temple and gardens are an escape from the city. Whether you’re a keen photographer or just looking for a moment of peace, Kinkaku-ji is a must-see in Kyoto.

It might also interest you to know about the best places to visit in Japan.
 

8. Take a boat ride on the Hozu River

A boat ride on the Hozu River is a fun and scenic way to see Kyoto’s natural beauty. The Hozu River Gorge near Arashiyama has stunning views of forests, cliffs and water. The boat takes you through the heart of this beautiful area and gives you a unique perspective of Kyoto’s nature.

The traditional wooden boats are guided by experienced boatmen who navigate the river’s gentle rapids and calm stretches. Along the way, you’ll see wildlife, birds and fish and enjoy the sounds of nature. The boat ride is particularly beautiful during cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons when the surrounding hills are ablaze with color.

After the boat ride you can explore the charming town of Arashiyama with its temples, shops and scenic spots like Togetsukyo Bridge. The combination of a relaxing boat ride and Arashiyama is a fun day in Kyoto.
 

9. Visit Nijo Castle

Nijo Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-see in Kyoto. Built in the early 17th century, it was the residence of the Tokugawa shoguns when they visited Kyoto. Nijo Castle is famous for its architecture, gardens and history.

The Ninomaru Palace the main building, has stunning interiors with painted sliding doors and tatami mat rooms. One of the most interesting features of the palace is the “nightingale floors,” which squeak when you walk on them, alerting the inhabitants of any intruders.

The castle grounds are also impressive, with beautiful gardens, moats and stone walls.
 

Wrapping Up

Kyoto has a great mix of culture, nature and modernity, so it’s a must-see destination for travelers. A trip to Kyoto takes at least 4 days to see all the sights. Planning a Kyoto trip allows you to stay near the main sights, explore the traditional areas and see the cultural and natural highlights of the city.

If you are staying near the main Kyoto tourist attractions, you’ll be able to get up early, take a break in the afternoon and head out again in the evening without having to travel too far.

There’s plenty to do. Adventure seekers can hike and cycle along scenic rivers, and culture lovers can get into the world of geishas, samurais and ninjas. Kyoto’s charm is in its ability to mix the old with the new, so something for everyone and every interest.
 

Should I Get Travel Insurance for Japan?

At a minimum, your travel insurance should cover trip cancellation, trip interruption and emergency medical expenses. When it comes to international travel, the US Department of State outlines key components that should be included in your travel insurance coverage.
AXA Travel Protection plans are designed with these minimum recommended coverages in mind.

• Medical Coverage – The top priority is making sure your health is in order. With AXA Travel Protection, you can have access to quality healthcare during your trip overseas in the event of unexpected medical emergencies.

• Trip Cancellation & Interruptions – Assistance against unexpected trip disruptions can dampen the mood, AXA Travel Protection offers coverage against unforeseen events.

• Emergency Evacuations and Repatriation – In situations where transportation is dire, AXA Travel Protection offers provisions for emergency evacuation and repatriation.

• Coverage for Personal Belongings – AXA offers coverage for your belongings with assistance against lost or delayed baggage.

• Optional Cancel for Any Reason – For added flexibility, AXA offers optional Cancel for Any Reason coverage, allowing you to cancel your trip for non-traditional reasons. Exclusive to Platinum Plan holders.

Also Read: Japan, What to eat Japan, Is it safe: Japan, Travel Requirements: Japan, top things to do Japan

Disclaimer: Welcome to the AXA Assistance USA Travel Insurance Blog by AXA Assistance USA Travel Insurance! The Blog is intended to provide you with entertaining and educational information of a general nature. The articles are for editorial purposes only and are not intended to replace the advice of a qualified professional. Please contact AXA Assistance USA if you have any questions. AXA Assistance USA, Inc.© 2024 All Rights Reserved.