Japan
Kyoto
Visiting Kyoto: A Journey Through Japan’s Ancient Heart
Kyoto is where Japan’s past comes alive. Once the imperial capital, this enchanting city is home to over a thousand temples, centuries old traditions, and breathtaking seasonal beauty.
Last Update
Apr 10, 2024
Kyoto is where Japan’s past comes alive. Once the imperial capital, this enchanting city is home to over a thousand temples, centuries old traditions, and breathtaking seasonal beauty. Whether you're wandering through bamboo forests, sipping matcha in a tea house, or marveling at golden temples, Kyoto offers a serene, soulful escape that captivates every traveler.
Kyoto, Japan’s cultural heart, is a city where centuries old temples, tranquil gardens, and historic geisha districts blend seamlessly with modern life. While it’s smaller and more relaxed than Tokyo, navigating Kyoto still requires a bit of planning. With its mix of temples tucked into hillsides, bustling shopping streets, and scenic riversides, here’s the best way to get around Kyoto efficiently.
Trains: Fast but Limited
Kyoto’s train system is clean and reliable but doesn’t cover the entire city like Tokyo’s.
JR Lines: The JR Sagano Line is perfect for reaching Arashiyama and the bamboo grove, while the JR Nara Line takes you to Fushimi Inari Shrine.
Shinkansen: Kyoto Station is a hub for bullet trains, making day trips to Osaka, Nara, and Hiroshima easy.
Pro Tip: Use a Japan Rail Pass if you’re combining Kyoto with trips to other cities, it pays for itself quickly.
Buses: The Key to Kyoto’s Temples
Kyoto’s bus network is the most practical way to reach its iconic temples and shrines, many of which are not close to train stations.
Popular Routes:
Bus #100 and #206: Great for first-time visitors, covering many major sights like Kiyomizu-dera, Gion, and Kinkaku-ji.
One-Day Pass: A Kyoto City Bus & Kyoto Bus One-Day Pass is only about 600 yen and offers unlimited rides, a great deal if you plan multiple stops.
Note: Buses can get crowded during peak tourist seasons (spring and autumn), so try to start early in the day.
Walking: The Best Way to Soak in the Atmosphere
Kyoto is a city best enjoyed slowly. Many areas are walkable, and wandering through historic streets can be just as rewarding as visiting temples.
Higashiyama District: Stroll between Kiyomizu-dera and Gion, passing tea houses and souvenir shops.
Philosopher’s Path: A peaceful walkway lined with cherry blossoms, especially stunning in spring.
Bicycles: A Local Favorite
Kyoto is a bike friendly city, with rental shops near Kyoto Station and major tourist areas. Cycling is a great way to cover medium distances, especially to spots like Nijo Castle or Heian Shrine.
Pro Tip: Many temples provide designated bicycle parking, just be sure to lock your bike.
Taxis: Convenient but Costly
For groups or late night travel, taxis can be a good option. Drivers are professional and the cars spotless, though fares are higher than buses or trains. A short ride is often worth it if you’re tired after a long day of sightseeing.
Day Trips from Kyoto
Thanks to its central location, Kyoto is the perfect base for exploring nearby cities:
Nara: See the friendly deer and the giant Buddha at Todai-ji.
Osaka: Just 30 minutes away for food lovers and nightlife.
Uji: Famous for green tea and the Byodo-in Temple (on the 10 yen coin).
Why You’ll Fall in Love with Kyoto
Kyoto is a living museum, a city that honors its past while gracefully embracing the present. Whether you're meditating in a Zen garden or getting lost in quiet temple paths, Kyoto invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and experience the essence of Japanese culture.
Temples, Shrines & Timeless Beauty
No visit to Kyoto is complete without seeing its iconic temples and shrines.
Kinkaku ji (Golden Pavilion): Covered in gold leaf, this Zen temple reflects beautifully in the surrounding pond, especially stunning in the morning light.
Fushimi Inari Taisha: Walk through the famous path of thousands of vermilion torii gates winding up the forested mountain. Go early to avoid crowds.
Kiyomizu dera: Set on a hillside, this temple offers sweeping views of the city and is particularly magical during cherry blossom or autumn foliage seasons.
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove & Monkey Park
Head to Arashiyama, on the city’s western edge, to walk through a surreal path lined with towering bamboo stalks. It’s one of Kyoto’s most photographed spots and best enjoyed early in the day.
Afterward, take a short hike up to Iwatayama Monkey Park, where you can meet wild macaques and enjoy panoramic views over Kyoto.
Traditional Tea Culture & Gion District
Kyoto is the heart of Japanese tea culture. Visit a traditional teahouse for a matcha tea ceremony, where every movement and detail reflects centuries of ritual.
In the evening, stroll through Gion, Kyoto’s historic geisha district. Cobblestone streets, wooden teahouses, and lantern lit alleys create an atmosphere straight out of a bygone era. With luck, you might spot a geiko (geisha) or maiko (apprentice) gracefully hurrying between appointments.
Nishiki Market & Local Eats
For a taste of Kyoto, head to Nishiki Market, a narrow arcade packed with food stalls selling everything from yuba (tofu skin) and pickled vegetables to matcha sweets and fresh mochi.
Don’t miss Kyoto style kaiseki (traditional multi-course meal) or a comforting bowl of Kyoto ramen with light soy broth and green onions.
Travel Tip
Many of Kyoto’s key attractions are accessible by bus. A Kyoto City Bus Day Pass offers unlimited rides and saves you time and money especially helpful when visiting temples spread across the city.
Best Times to Visit
Spring (March–April): Cherry blossom season transforms Kyoto into a floral dream.
Autumn (November): Vibrant red and gold foliage frames temples and gardens.
Winter (December–February): Quiet, crisp days with light snow on temple rooftops.
A Day in Nara
Just under an hour from Kyoto or Osaka, Nara offers a magical day trip filled with rich history, stunning architecture, and an unforgettable encounter with hundreds of free roaming deer. As Japan’s first permanent capital, Nara is home to some of the country’s oldest and most important cultural landmarks, and its most charming residents.
Plan Your Trip
