Things to do in 

Kyoto

Step into a painting of time and tradition in Kyoto, where ancient appetite for beauty meets contemporary desire for exploration. As stone streets lead to shrine, temple, and tea house, you'll find many things to do in Kyoto. Whether nestled among cherry blossoms in the spring, or embraced by the crisp air of a vibrant autumn, Kyoto exists in a world of its own. The city hums to the rhythm of lantern light reflected in quiet waterways and the whisper of monks at prayer. Capture the authenticity and soulful quietude that is uniquely Kyoto.

Explore Kyoto off the beaten path

Slip beyond the usual sights with alternative things to do, following quiet lanes and low-key locals’ spots where you can try traditions, browse tiny museums, and catch relaxed city views.

Cultural experiences: Start early with an English-guided zazen session at Shunkoin Temple in Myoshin-ji. Midday, try a short hand-weaving session at Nishijin Textile Center, then unwind after dark at Funaoka Onsen’s retro bathhouse.

Small museums and galleries: Duck into the Kyoto Seishu Netsuke Art Museum, a tiny trove inside a wooden machiya. Then head to the Raku Museum to see centuries of hand-formed tea bowls. If you’re near Okazaki, the Hosomi Museum’s focused exhibits reward an unhurried hour.

Less crowded scenic viewpoints: Ride or hike up to Shogunzuka Seiryuden for a calm sunset over tiled rooftops and the mountains. After dinner, slip to the Kyoto Station Sky Garden for a quiet, late-night panorama.

Shop for local products & souvenirs: On the 15th, browse the Chion-ji Handicraft Market in the morning for ceramics, textiles, and warm conversation with makers. For something lasting, choose a tin tea caddy at Kaikado near Shichijo. When you want to travel light, the main Shoyeido store on Shijo has easy-to-pack incense blends.

Popular neighbourhoods

Discovering Kyoto is not just about visiting famous landmarks; it's also about immersing in its diverse neighbourhoods. Each showcases distinctive aspects of Kyoto's rich and layered history, modern advancements, unique culture, and natural beauty.

Fushimi: Step back in time in Fushimi, a district famous for its historic sake breweries. The gently sloping lanes and traditional wooden houses make for a charming stroll, allowing you a glimpse into the art of sake brewing.

Gion: Meander through the narrow, lantern-lit alleys of Gion, Kyoto's famous geisha district. The streets here buzz with the energy of new and old Japan, from beautifully-preserved machiya houses to sophisticated bars and eateries.

Higashiyama: Wander around Higashiyama, a district rich with temples and shrines. Its well-preserved historic streets, lined with crafts shops and traditional teahouses, offer a sensory journey through centuries of cultural heritage.

Arashiyama: Venture into the serene environment of Arashiyama, well-known for its famous Bamboo Grove. The rustling of the towering bamboo stalks creates an enchantingly peaceful backdrop for your exploration.

Kawaramachi: Explore the hustle and bustle of Kawaramachi, Kyoto's largest shopping district. Delight in a lively mixture of modern retail complexes, diverse dining options, and energetic nightspots.

Things to do in Kyoto by season

Spring: Cherry blossoms unfurl from late March into early April, turning riverbanks and temple paths into easygoing hanami spots in soft light. Start early at quieter gardens, then settle by the Kamogawa for picnic-style lunches that suit families and couples alike.

Summer: Humid days invite slow temple visits in the morning and cool river breezes by evening, with seasonal kawayuka dining platforms lining the Kamogawa. Watch cormorant fishing lights flicker at Arashiyama after dusk, then slip into a tea house for matcha to wind down.

Fall: Maple season peaks from mid to late November, when temple valleys glow red and gold and night illuminations cast reflection pools in deeper hues. Walk quieter hillsides in the morning and linger over warm soba as air turns crisp, a comfortable rhythm for seniors.

Winter: Short days bring calm lanes, steaming baths and an occasional dusting of snow on shrine roofs. Celebrate New Year with hatsumode shrine visits and seasonal sweets, or explore covered markets and crafts when winds nip at fingers.

Kyoto’s calendar turns on tradition: Aoi Matsuri’s Heian-era procession each May, the month-long Gion Matsuri in July with its grand yamaboko floats, and October’s Jidai Matsuri celebrating eras in costume. Summer also brings the Daimonji bonfires in mid August, while Setsubun in early February fills shrines with bean throwing and lively stage rites.