Top Things To Do In Kyoto

Tailoring each experience to your wishes by locals who love their city

Group of tourists posing with their local guide at a popular temple in Kyoto

Top things to do in Kyoto

From exploring cool neighborhoods to eating with the locals to seeing iconic sites, these are some of our favorite experiences

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Wondering what to do in Kyoto?

Kyoto at its core is a perfect pocket of Japanese history and culture, and many of the most memorable things to do in Kyoto offer an authentic glimpse into the Japan of centuries ago. Whether you explore 1200-year-old Kiyomizu-dera Temple, walk the wood-built streets of fairytale Higashiyama, or marvel at geishas in twinkling Gion, the city narrates Japan’s history beautifully. But Kyoto certainly hasn’t lagged behind in the modern aspects of Japanese life. In fact, the things to do in Kyoto span centuries, and the other side of the city is an exhilarating world of late-night karaoke bars, draft beers at intimate izakayas, and fluorescent 100-yen sushi restaurants.

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Tess

Kyoto

Cultural enthusiast with an insider's knowledge of Kyoto's traditional neighborhoods, tea ceremonies, and all the amazing cultural and historical spots.

Japan’s historic heart

Kyoto is a perfect snapshot of old Japan brimming with ancient temples, traditional teahouses, and narrow streets leading to centuries-old shrines tucked between modern storefronts. Many of the things to do in Kyoto today are the same things locals would have been doing centuries ago. From catching a streetside performance put on by a geisha to sitting down for the 1000-year-old experience of traditional Kaiseki dining, the things to do in Kyoto can take its visitors on a mesmerizing trip through time. It may be small in size, but the city is infinitely vast in cultural heritage.

Locals enjoying a meal with tourists while exploring the izakayas of Kyoto

Food fit for royalty

There’s a reason Kyoto was nicknamed the “kitchen of the Imperial Court” – the food here is spectacular. From traditional tea ceremonies with sweet wagashi confections to snacking on gyoza dumplings at Kamo River, many of the best things to do in Kyoto revolve around food. You could sample street food in the crisscrossing lanes of centuries-old Nishiki Market, the crowded “kitchen of Kyoto”, or experience the opulent epitome of Japanese haute cuisine, Kaiseki, a traditional multi-course menu. As long as you have an appetite, you certainly won’t struggle for things to do in Kyoto.

A Geisha posing in at night in Kyoto with a Shingon Buddhist temple in the background

Kyoto by night

Nights in the city are the stuff of magic, and some of the most exciting things to do in Kyoto only appear when the sun goes down. Kyoto’s traditional entertainment district, Gion, wakes up, and quiet streets packed with restaurants, vibey local haunts, and tucked-away shrines become crowded. The cobbled streets, bathed in the golden glow of paper lanterns, take on an ethereal appeal made even more bewitching by geishas floating by. Catch a traditional performance at Gion Corner, belt out a song at a karaoke bar, or have a drink at a quiet bar away from the madness – the night is yours.

Kyoto travel tips and inspiration from our Travel Magazine

Find essential city info, travel tips and the best things to do in Kyoto and around the world recommended by our local hosts

Latest reviews from our guests

Excellent experience with Hanna! She was very knowledgable and worked on the itinerary with me ahead of time. Immediately recommended to our friends as well!

February 2025

Robin S
Milo was incredibly friendly and informative. Would absolutely recommend this to anyone looking to see the highlights of Kyoto

February 2025

John P
Great experience, great tour guide. Toga has an in-depth understanding of Japanese history and was able to easily translate that to us, an American audience. We could not have been more happy with our tour.

February 2025

Markus W
If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience in Kyoto, look no further than a tour with Ryuki! We had the absolute pleasure of exploring Gion with him, and it was hands down one of the highlights of our trip. Ryuki is not only incredibly knowledgeable about Kyoto’s rich history, but he also has a gift for storytelling that brings the past to life. As we wandered through the charming streets of Gion, he shared fascinating insights about the area’s geisha culture, historical landmarks, and hidden gems that we never would have found on our own. Beyond his expertise, Ryuki is a joy to be around—warm, engaging, and genuinely passionate about what he does. He made us feel welcome and ensured that every moment was enjoyable. Whether you’re a history buff or just want a deeper appreciation of Kyoto, Ryuki is the guide you need. This tour was worth every moment, and we can’t recommend Ryuki highly enough. If you’re visiting Kyoto, make sure to book with him—you won’t regret it!

February 2025

Briana B