Things to do in Kyoto Prefecture
Visit Kyoto Prefecture
Most popular activities in Kyoto Prefecture
History & culture
See all 391 activitiesOpens in new tabPerfect Kyoto 1Day Bus Tour
Classes & workshops
See all 125 activitiesOpens in new tabSkip the lines Basic Ticket at SAMURAI NINJA MUSEUM TOKYO
Private & custom tours
See all 233 activitiesOpens in new tabFrom Osaka/Kyoto: Kyoto UNESCO World Heritage Sites 1Day Bus Tour
Adventure & outdoor
See all 47 activitiesOpens in new tabKyoto/Osaka: Sanzenin, Bamboo Forest, & Arashiyama Day Trip
Shopping & fashion
See all 6 activitiesOpens in new tabKyoto: Arashiyama Bamboo, Temple, Matcha, Monkeys, & secrets
What to do in Kyoto Prefecture
Discover the most popular places to visit in Kyoto Prefecture
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.
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 the wealthy and powerful shogun, in this opulent 17th-century castle complex.
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.
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
You can find out about the history of Kyoto with a stop at Kyoto Imperial Palace. Check out the temples and top-notch restaurants in this culturally rich area.
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.
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.
Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Kyoto Prefecture
Central Kyoto
Ancient temples blend with modern architectural treasures while markets, museums, dining and shopping streets showcase thousands of years of Japanese traditions.
Gion
Experience a traditional tea ceremony or a night of cultural entertainment within the historic wooden teahouses of this well-preserved Kyoto district.
Shimogyo Ward
Discover bustling Shijō Street's shopping district and explore attractions like Kyoto Tower and Kyoto Railway Museum. Easily navigate the area from Kyoto Station, a major transport hub.
Karasuma
Experience sensory delights at the Kitchen of Kyoto, shop for souvenirs, take an art class and visit a sacred temple in this central neighborhood.
Higashiyama Ward
Traditional-style buildings and protected status define this part of Kyoto, with entertainment in Gion near Yasaka Shrine. Must-see attractions include Kiyomizu Temple, Kyoto National Museum, and Namikawa Cloisonne Museum.
Nakagyo Ward
Travelers love Nakagyo Ward for its popular shops, and you can see more of Kyoto by jumping on the metro at Nijojo-mae Station or Karasuma Oike Station. You might spend time checking out top sights like Sanjo Street and Nijō Castle.
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