Visiting Kyoto for the First Time: Tips, Highlights and Hidden Gems (2026)
Planning your first trip to Kyoto? This enchanting city is described as the cultural heart of Japan, a place where ancient temples quietly sit beside tea houses. Geishas still glide through lantern-lit streets, and seasonal beauty transforms the city with each month.
Whether you’re here to wander through ancient shrines, immerse yourself in timeless traditions, or simply lose yourself in the charm of its historic neighbourhoods, Kyoto promises an experience that’s as unforgettable as it is unique.
I just returned from 4 days in Kyoto, and in this Kyoto travel guide, I’ll share everything you need to know before you go, from essential first-time Kyoto tips and practical planning advice to the city’s most iconic sights.
You’ll also find some of my favourite hidden gems in Kyoto that include serene gardens, secret temples, and lesser-known districts that many visitors miss.
Think of this as your insider’s guide to seeing the city beyond the surface, helping you plan an itinerary that’s rich in culture, full of character, and truly memorable, capturing both the classic spots, as well as the unknown.
Planning Your First Trip to Kyoto
When Is the Best Time to Visit Kyoto?
Kyoto is a city that changes dramatically with the seasons and that is what makes not just Kyoto, but Japan as a whole such a popular destination.
Each season offers its own magic and there is no bad time to go. I have visited Japan in winter, summer, and autumn so have a pretty good idea of how each season differs
Most travellers time their visits for spring (March–April) when cherry blossoms sweep through the temples and gardens, or autumn (November–early December) when fiery red maple leaves transform the city into a postcard scene. But these peak seasons also draw the largest crowds, and prices often rise to match.
Most recently I visited Kyoto in October, slightly earlier than the autumn leaf season. Whilst the trees were still mostly green, I was surprised by how beautiful and peaceful the city felt.
Travelling just before the seasonal rush meant fewer crowds, a more relaxed pace, and the freedom to enjoy popular spots without the usual queues. The weather was another huge bonus, warm, sunny days of around 25°C made exploring on foot incredibly pleasant. The weather forecast scared me at first, but I learnt that it was pretty incorrect most days and I enjoyed lots of sunshine!
If vibrant foliage or cherry blossoms are top of your list, plan for late October to early-December or early April. But if you’d prefer a calmer, more laid-back experience (and don’t mind missing the absolute peak of the seasons), travelling just before or after those busy weeks is well worth considering.
Pros of Visiting Kyoto in Spring (Mar–May):
Cherry blossom season: Kyoto is at its most iconic, with sakura trees in full bloom across temples, parks and riversides.
Pleasant weather: Mild temperatures and clear skies make it ideal for sightseeing on foot.
Vibrant atmosphere: The city comes alive with hanami (flower-viewing) picnics, festivals and seasonal food.
Beautiful gardens: Many temple gardens are at their most colourful and photogenic.
Cons of Visiting Kyoto in Spring:
Large crowds: This is peak tourist season, so popular spots can get very busy.
Higher prices: Flights and accommodation are more expensive due to high demand.
Short blossom window: The cherry blossom season lasts only about a week or two, so timing is crucial. It is impossible to pinpoint the peak until it happens.
Overall, spring is the most celebrated time to visit Kyoto — perfect for first-timers who want to experience the city at its most iconic, but it does require careful planning and early bookings.
Kyoto in winter
Pros of Visiting Kyoto in Winter (Late Dec–Feb):
Fewer crowds: Enjoy temples, gardens and top attractions without queues.
Better value: Hotels and flights are often cheaper in the off-season.
- Dry, crisp weather: It might be colder, but these are the sunniest and driest months in Kyoto.
Unique atmosphere: Snow-dusted temples, steaming onsen, and cosy tea houses.
Seasonal events: Experience winter festivals and New Year traditions.
Cons of Visiting Kyoto in Winter:
Cold weather: Temperatures can drop close to 0°C, pack warm layers.
Less scenery: No cherry blossoms or autumn leaves, so landscapes are more subdued.
Shorter days: Less daylight means slightly reduced sightseeing time.
Overall, winter is ideal if you prefer a quieter, more authentic Kyoto experience, just be ready for chilly days and a more subtle kind of beauty.
Pros of Visiting Kyoto in Summer (Jun–Sep):
Lush scenery: Gardens, forests and temples are at their greenest.
Festivals and events: Summer brings traditional matsuri (festivals), fireworks displays and cultural celebrations.
Long daylight hours: More time for sightseeing and exploring at a relaxed pace.
Fewer tourists (outside peak August): Early and late summer is quieter than spring and autumn.
Cons of Visiting Kyoto in Summer:
Hot and humid weather: Temperatures often exceed 30°C with high humidity, which can make exploring tiring.
Rainy season: June and early July can see frequent downpours.
Mosquitoes and insects: Common in gardens and outdoor areas.
Overall, summer is a lovely time to experience Kyoto’s famous traditions and nature at its peak, but it’s best suited to travellers who don’t mind the heat and humidity.
Pros of Visiting Kyoto in Autumn (Oct–Nov):
Spectacular foliage: The city’s temples, parks and mountains are ablaze with red and gold leaves. I personally think this is the most beautiful season in Kyoto.
Comfortable weather: Mild, dry days make walking and sightseeing enjoyable.
Photogenic season: Autumn light and colour create stunning photo opportunities.
Cons of Visiting Kyoto in Autumn:
Busy season: Like spring, autumn attracts large crowds, especially during peak foliage weeks. Autumn in Kyoto is becoming just as popular as the city's sakura season.
Higher costs: Increased demand can push up accommodation and flight prices.
Short peak window: The most vibrant colours last only a few weeks and is hard to predict.
Overall in my experience, autumn is the most beautiful times to visit Kyoto, ideal if you want striking landscapes, crisp weather and a classic Japanese seasonal experience, but be prepared to plan ahead and fight through some crowds. The peak foliage is usually at the end of November and into early December. October is still very green in most areas.
How Many Days Do You Need in Kyoto?
Kyoto might look small on a map, but don’t be fooled, there’s so much to see and do here, I was totally overwhelmed when planning my trip at first!
Kyoto is home to world-famous temples and UNESCO-listed shrines, alongside traditional neighbourhoods, markets, and tea houses.
I spent four days exploring and still felt like I only scratched the surface. Ideally, I’d recommend staying at least five to seven days if you can, as there are plenty of day trips and beautiful spots on the edge of the city that are worth the journey.
That said, most first-time visitors spend 3–5 days in Kyoto, which is enough to see the main highlights, soak up the city’s atmosphere, and still have time for a few lesser known experiences without feeling rushed.
If you’re travelling around Japan, it’s also easy to combine Kyoto with Osaka (just 15-25 minutes away by train) or even Nara (45 minutes by train), which is home to ancient temples and friendly roaming deer.
How to Get to Kyoto
Kyoto doesn’t have its own international airport, so most visitors arrive via Osaka or Tokyo before continuing by train.
On my trip, I flew from London to Osaka via Dubai, but only because I was travelling from a job in the UAE. If you’re flying directly from the UK, I’d recommend a more straightforward route: fly from London to Tokyo (ideally Haneda Airport), then take the Shinkansen (bullet train) straight to Kyoto. The train journey takes around 2 hours and 15 minutes from Tokyo and is not only quick and efficient but also a beautiful way to see Japan’s countryside along the way.
There are no direct flights from London to Osaka, but you can connect through hubs like Helsinki or Frankfurt if you prefer to arrive closer to Kyoto. From Osaka’s Kansai International Airport (KIX), the journey to Kyoto is about 75 minutes by train (the airport is on the edge of the city).
For the best value and flexibility, consider purchasing a Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) before you travel, it covers the Shinkansen and local train journeys, which can save you both time and money if you’re planning to explore beyond Kyoto.
Whichever route you choose, travelling Japan by train is part of the experience, fast, reliable, and beautifully scenic.
Where to Stay in Kyoto
Best Areas to Stay in Kyoto for First-Time Visitors
Choosing the right area to stay can completely shape your Kyoto travel experience, especially if it’s your first visit. Each neighbourhood offers something different, from traditional charm to buzzing nightlife and riverside scenery, so it’s worth considering what kind of trip you want.
Here are the best places to stay in Kyoto based on real traveller favourites and my own experiences:
Gion & Higashiyama - Best for Traditional Culture and Temples:
I chose to stay in Higashiyama. This is one of the busiest parts of the city, but staying within walking distance meant I was able to explore early in the morning and in the evening to enjoy the streets in peace.
If you’re dreaming of classic Kyoto, this is where you're thinking of. Both Higashiyama and Gion are filled historic streets, traditional ryokans, teahouses, and Gion is the geisha district.
Gion and Higashiyama are the most atmospheric parts of the city, with cobbled lanes, wooden machiya houses, and easy walking access to famous sights like Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Yasaka Shrine.
Best hotels in Higoshima:
Banyan Tree Higashiyama (5 stars) - This is where I stayed, and it was just as incredible as it looks. It's one of the city’s most luxurious new hotels, and has incorporated traditional Japanese aesthetics with everything you would want from a 5* hotel in Kyoto. Prices start at £550 per night.
Saka Hotel Kyoto (3 stars) - Combining authentic Japanese charm with contemporary comfort, this 3* hotel in Higashiyama offers elegant rooms, beautiful views of surrounding temples, and warm, attentive hospitality. It's the perfect base for exploring Kyoto’s cultural heart whilst enjoying modern luxuries like onsen-style baths and beautifully prepared Japanese breakfasts.
Prices start at £150 per night including breakfast.
Apartment Hotel 11 Yasaka (self catering) - One of the best apartment hotels in Kyoto, offering spacious, self-contained rooms with kitchenettes in the heart of Higashiyama. It's ideal for travellers who want space, flexibility and a home-from-home stay near the city’s most iconic temples.
Prices start at £110 per night
Downtown Kyoto (Kawaramachi & Shijo) - Great for First-Time Visitors and Convenience
For those who want a central base close to shops, restaurants, nightlife, and public transport, Downtown Kyoto, particularly around Kawaramachi and Shijo, is the most practical choice.
This area offers a great balance between traditional sights and modernity, with excellent hotel options, izakayas, and shopping all on your doorstep. It’s the best neighbourhood for exploring multiple districts with ease, and is especially easy if you’re planning day trips from Kyoto to Nara or Osaka.
Best hotels in Downtown Kyoto:
STITCH HOTEL Kyoto (5 stars) - This stylish boutique stay in Shimogyo Ward is a short walk from Kyoto Station, making exploring the city and wider area so easy. It’s a brilliant, contemporary choice for first-time visitors to Kyoto who want a convenient base without compromising on comfort.
Prices start at £160 per night.
Hotel Resol Kyoto Kawaramachi Sanjo - This hotel is a fantastic base for exploring central Kyoto and is very close to Pontocho Alley. It's surrounded by the shops, restaurants and transport links of Kawaramachi Street making it perfectly located for sightseeing. You can walk to Gion, the Nishiki Market, and many of Kyoto’s most popular temples and shrines. The rooms are comfortable and beautifully designed with touches of traditional Japanese style, and the hotel offers excellent value for such a prime location.
Prices start at £145 per night.
Arashiyama: Best for Nature and Scenery
If you’re looking for the best place to stay in Kyoto that offers peace, beauty, and a slower pace, Arashiyama is perfect.
Located on the city’s western edge, this leafy riverside district feels worlds away from central Kyoto, yet it’s still easy to reach by train.
The area is most famous for the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Togetsukyo Bridge, and a collection of stunning temples dotted amongst the hills.
Staying here means you can explore these sights early in the morning before everyone else arrives, and enjoy the area’s incredible calm.
For travellers wanting a retreat surrounded by nature, hotels in Arashiyama and along the Katsura River offer some of the most scenic stays in the city.
Best hotels in Arashiyama:
Suiran, a Luxury Collection Hotel Kyoto (5 stars) – One of the most luxurious hotels in Arashiyama, Suiran blends traditional architecture with elegant modern touches. It sits right beside the Katsura River and features private open-air onsen baths overlooking the hills, creating a truly an unforgettable Kyoto experience.
Prices start at around £450 per night.
Homm Stay Nagi Arashiyama Kyoto by Banyan Group (4 stars) - A beautifully designed boutique property set in Arashiyama’s peaceful Higashiichikawacho area, it’s in a great location for exploring the district’s most popular sights, like Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Tenryu-ji Temple. Spacious suites, natural wood finishes, and large windows frame views of the surrounding hills, a great space to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
Prices start at £85 per night
Must-See Highlights in Kyoto (First-Time Essentials)
Iconic Temples and Shrines
Kyoto is home to over 2,000 temples and shrines, and visiting a few of its most famous ones is an essential part of any first-time itinerary. Each site offers a glimpse into Japan’s spiritual and cultural heritage, but timing and planning make all the difference to your experience.
Fushimi Inari Taisha
Kyoto’s Most Iconic Shrine, no Kyoto travel guide would be complete without Fushimi Inari Taisha, known for its endless tunnel of bright red torii gates leading up Mount Inari.
It’s one of the best things to do in Kyoto, but also one of the busiest. I visited just after sunrise, and it completely changed the experience, the atmosphere was calm, the light was beautiful for photos, and I could hear the rustle of the forest rather than crowds of tourists.
If you’re visiting later in the day, walk a little further up the trail, the higher sections are much quieter, and you’ll still get the same magical views.
Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion): Kyoto’s Most Photogenic Temple
The shimmering Golden Pavilion, or Kinkaku-ji, is another unmissable temple in Kyoto.
Covered in gold leaf and set beside a reflective pond, it’s one of the most photographed places in the city. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon when the reflections are strongest.
The surrounding gardens are beautifully kept, and there’s a small tea house near the exit where you can enjoy matcha with a view! Whilst it can get crowded, the site is well-organised and easy to navigate.
Kiyomizu-dera - Best temple in autumn
Perched on a hillside in Higashiyama, Kiyomizu-dera offers one of the most breathtaking views in Kyoto.
The wooden terrace juts out over the city, surrounded by trees that turn vibrant red and gold in autumn and a blush pink in spring.
It’s easy to walk here if you’re staying in Higashiyama or Gion, and visiting just before sunset is the best time to see it.
Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion): Kyoto’s Most Peaceful Temple
Often overshadowed by its golden counterpart, Ginkaku-ji, or the Silver Pavilion, is one of the most tranquil and beautiful temples in Kyoto. Located in the city’s northern Higashiyama district, it’s surrounded by immaculately raked sand gardens, moss-covered paths, and views over the city from the hillside. Despite the name, it was never actually covered in silver, instead, it reflects the understated elegance of Japanese wabi-sabi design.
Traditional Neighbourhoods to Explore
Much of Kyoto’s magic lies in its traditional neighbourhoods, there are so many pockets of the city where time seems slower and daily life feels untouched by the modern world.
Wandering through them is like exploring a living postcard of old Japan: wooden machiya houses, narrow stone lanes, and the soft glow of lanterns flickering to life as evening falls.
For first-time visitors, these are the most beautiful areas to explore in Kyoto, each with its own distinct personality, from the elegance of Gion’s teahouses to the buzz of riverside dining in Pontocho and the timeless charm of Higashiyama’s temple-lined streets.
Gion: Kyoto’s Historic Geisha District
No visit to Kyoto is complete without a wander through Gion, the city’s most famous geisha district. It’s a place where traditional tea houses and wooden facades have remained unchanged for centuries, and you can tell.
Walking through Gion in the early morning is magical but it;s evening (dusk) when you might catch a glimpse of a geiko (Kyoto’s term for geisha) or maiko apprentice on her way to an evening engagement.
Hanamikoji Street is the main thoroughfare, but the smaller side alleys are just as beautiful, narrow, lantern-lit, and full of atmosphere.
Pontocho Alley: Riverside Dining and Nightlife
Running parallel to the Kamogawa River, Pontocho Alley is one of Kyoto’s most atmospheric places to spend an evening, especially if you want a traditional Japanese dinner.
The alleyway is narrow and intimate, lined with traditional wooden restaurants and bars serving everything from high-end kaiseki cuisine to casual yakitori. It’s one of the best places in Kyoto for dining, especially in spring and summer when terraces open up overlooking the water.
If you love Japanese food and want the best Wagyu Beef in Kyoto, head to Wagyu Sukiyaki, this is one of the best places I've eaten in Japan so don't miss it!
Higashiyama: Kyoto’s Most Beautiful Streets
I stayed in Higashiyama, and it was absolutely my favourite part of Kyoto.
During the day, it’s one of the city’s busiest areas, it's full of traditional streets, little craft shops, and temples like Kiyomizu-dera. But in the evening, when the tour groups disappear, it completely changes to quiet, lantern-lit, and beautifully atmospheric.
I loved wandering through Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka after sunset, when you can take it all in without the crowds and see the Yasaka Pagoda glowing.
It’s also one of the best areas to stay in Kyoto. You can walk to many of the city’s highlights and experience the old town at its most peaceful, both early in the morning and after dark.
Cultural Experiences Worth Booking in Kyoto
Beyond temples and gardens, some of the most memorable things to do in Kyoto come from experiencing its living traditions first-hand. These cultural activities help you connect with the city’s history and spirit and they’re some of the best experiences in Kyoto for first-time visitors.
Book a Traditional Tea Ceremony:
Taking part in a Japanese tea ceremony is one of the most authentic experiences you can have in Kyoto. Rooted in centuries of ritual and etiquette, it offers a quiet moment to slow down and appreciate Japan’s deep sense of hospitality.
Look for small, traditional tearooms rather than touristy venues, places like Camellia Flower Tea House in Higashiyama or En Tea Ceremony in Gion are excellent choices. Both are led by professional tea masters who explain each step, from the whisking of matcha to the precise movements of the host.
Kimono Rental in Kyoto: How to Do It Respectfully
Wearing a kimono in Kyoto is a beautiful way to immerse yourself in local culture, especially when exploring the historic streets of Gion or Higashiyama. There are many rental shops around these districts, but it’s important to choose one that treats the garments and traditions with care.
I’d recommend Okamoto Kimono Rental, which offers professional dressing, hair styling, and a respectful introduction to the cultural significance of the attire. When taking photos, avoid blocking streets or entering private property, the best spots for kimono photoshoots in Kyoto are around Yasaka Pagoda, Ninenzaka, and Maruyama Park early in the morning.
Zen Meditation and Calligraphy Workshops:
For something quieter and more immersive, try a Zen meditation class or Japanese calligraphy workshop. These are often held inside temple grounds, offering a glimpse into daily life for Kyoto’s monks and artisans.
I joined a meditation session at Korin In Temple, which was led in English and offered a fascinating look at mindfulness in Japanese Buddhism. You can book a similar session here.
Calligraphy workshops, meanwhile, are perfect for travellers wanting a creative and meaningful souvenir, you’ll learn the brush techniques used to write kanji and take home your own artwork. You can book a 5* rated Kyoto calligraphy class here.
Kyoto’s Hidden Gems and Lesser-Known Spots
Whilst Kyoto’s famous temples and shrines often steal the spotlight, some of the city’s most rewarding experiences are found away from the crowds.
These hidden gems in Kyoto capture the quiet, contemplative side of the city that so many visitors miss, peaceful gardens, moss-covered temples, and secret corners that feel completely unchanged from centuries before.
If you’re looking for the best lesser-known places to visit in Kyoto, start with these three.
Honen-in: A Peaceful Temple Near the Philosopher’s Path
Just a short walk from the Philosopher’s Path, Honen-in remains blissfully under the radar compared to its more famous neighbours.
Surrounded by towering trees and mossy stone steps, it’s a temple that invitea reflection. The entrance gate, flanked by sand mounds symbolising purification, is one of the most photogenic spots in northern Kyoto, yet few tourists make it this far.
I came here after exploring Ginkaku-ji and was amazed by how quiet it was; I sat for almost half an hour listening to the sound of water trickling through the garden. If you’re looking for a moment of calm between sightseeing, this is one of the best hidden temples in Kyoto to escape the crowds.
Saiho-ji (Kokedera or Moss Temple): Kyoto’s Most Enchanting Garden
One of the most unique temples in Kyoto, Saiho-ji, often called the Moss Temple, is a place of extraordinary tranquillity.
The temple grounds are carpeted in more than 120 varieties of moss, creating an ethereal green landscape.
Visiting requires advance booking through the temple’s official website or by postcard, but it’s well worth the effort, visitor numbers are limited, keeping the atmosphere quiet and deeply serene.
I visited in October, when the moss was a vibrant shade of green, and found it one of the most peaceful experiences of my trip. It’s a must for anyone seeking hidden gardens in Kyoto or a deeper connection with Japanese Zen aesthetics. It is also a great opportunity to participate in traditional religious ceremonies.
Please note you cannot take photos in the temple, but you are allowed to snap away in the garden. You can book tickets in advance here.
Shisen-do: A Hidden Gem with Kyoto’s Most Beautiful Garden Views
Tucked away in a quiet residential area in northeastern Kyoto, Shisen-do is one of the city’s true hidden treasures. Its small, perfectly framed garden bursts with colour through the seasons, bright azaleas in spring, lush greens in summer, and deep crimson maples in autumn.
The temple’s main hall opens directly onto the garden, where you can sit on tatami mats and watch the the trees in complete silence.
Few visitors make it here, which makes the experience even more special. It’s also close to Enko-ji Temple, another lesser-visited gem worth pairing in the same afternoon.
Unique Experiences in Kyoto You Might Miss
Some of the most memorable moments in Kyoto aren’t found inside temples or gardens, but in the everyday experiences of local life.
Beyond the city’s main sights, there are countless ways to experience authentic Kyoto, from local markets and riverside paths to age-old public baths still frequented by locals.
These are the unique things to do in Kyoto that often slip under the radar but give you a richer, more personal sense of the city.
Cycle Along the Kamo River:
The Kamo River runs through the centre of the city, and cycling along its banks is one of the best free things to do in Kyoto. The pathways are flat and easy to follow, stretching from Fushimi Inari in the south to Demachiyanagi in the north.
I rented a bike from a local shop near Kyoto Station and spent an afternoon riding between tea houses, temples, and tree-lined parks, it’s a beautiful way to see how locals live, jogging, picnicking, or simply sitting by the water.
The riverside paths are particularly stunning in spring and autumn, offering some of the best views in Kyoto without the crowds.
Nishiki Market and To-ji Flea Market:
If you want to experience Kyoto through its food, start your day at one of the city’s bustling markets. Nishiki Market, in central Kyoto.
It is known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen”, a narrow, covered arcade packed with over 100 stalls selling everything from matcha sweets and pickles to skewered seafood and handmade ceramics.
For something more traditional, the To-ji Flea Market, held on the 21st of each month, is a treasure trove of vintage kimono, antiques, and street food , set against the backdrop of Kyoto’s oldest temple pagoda.
Relax at Tenzan-no-yu Onsen - A Local Kyoto Bathhouse Experience:
For an authentic and restorative experience, head to Tenzan-no-yu Onsen, one of the best public bathhouses in Kyoto.
Located in the Arashiyama area, this modern onsen is one of the only open-air baths in Kyoto fed by natural hot spring water. It’s popular with locals but rarely crowded with tourists, making it a great introduction to Japanese bathing culture.
The onsen includes both indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, and a relaxation lounge, an ideal way to end a day trip to Arashiyama.
Cultural Etiquette and Kyoto Travel Tips
Understanding local etiquette is an important part of any trip to Japan, and in Kyoto, being respectful goes a long way. Whether you’re visiting temples, exploring geisha districts, or dining at a local restaurant, following a few simple customs will help you blend in and make your experience more authentic. These Kyoto travel tips cover everything first-time visitors should know before arriving.
Key Dos and Don’ts at Shrines and Temples
Kyoto is home to some of the most beautiful temples and shrines in Japan, and visiting them respectfully is essential.
Do bow slightly when entering or leaving temple grounds.
Do purify your hands and mouth at the water basin before approaching the shrine (there are signs showing how).
Do move quietly and avoid blocking pathways or taking photos during prayer.
Don’t touch religious statues, altars, or sacred objects.
Don’t eat, drink, or use your phone inside temple buildings.
If you’re photographing famous places like Fushimi Inari Taisha or Kiyomizu-dera Temple, try visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon to enjoy a calmer atmosphere and take photos without disturbing others. Respectful behaviour at these sites is one of the most common Kyoto etiquette tips travellers search for and it truly enhances your visit.
How to Behave in Kyoto’s Geisha Districts
Areas like Gion and Pontocho Alley are among the most fascinating parts of Kyoto, known for their historic teahouses and geiko (Kyoto’s word for geisha). However, these are working neighbourhoods, not tourist attractions.
Do walk quietly and be mindful of residents and businesses.
Do not photograph geisha or maiko (apprentice geisha) without their permission, it’s considered disrespectful.
Stay on public streets and avoid entering private alleys or tea houses unless invited.
Many visitors aren’t aware that Kyoto has introduced local fines for harassing or photographing geiko without consent, so keeping your distance is not only polite but required by law. If you want to see a performance respectfully, book a traditional tea house experience or attend a cultural show at Gion Corner, where photography is permitted.
General Etiquette and Everyday Travel Tips in Kyoto
Small gestures make a big difference in Japan.
Shoes: Always remove your shoes when entering homes, ryokans, and some temples. If slippers are provided, use them and remember to take them off before stepping onto tatami mats.
Noise: Keep voices low on public transport and in shared spaces. Kyoto is a quiet city, and being discreet is appreciated.
Cash vs. Cards: While cards are accepted at most hotels and larger restaurants, many smaller cafés, shrines, and local markets are cash-only, so it’s smart to carry yen. You’ll find 7-Eleven ATMs throughout the city that accept foreign cards.
Tipping: Japan has a no-tipping culture, exceptional service is expected as standard. Simply say “arigato gozaimasu” (thank you very much) when you leave.
If you’re planning your first trip to Japan, a little cultural awareness not only shows appreciation for local traditions but also makes your journey through Kyoto far more meaningful.
Sample 3-Day Kyoto Itinerary
If you’re planning your first trip to Kyoto, three days gives you enough time to experience the city’s major landmarks, traditions, and a few of its lesser-known spots.
This 3-day Kyoto itinerary has been designed to make the most of your time, helping you see the highlights without feeling rushed. It’s ideal for first-time visitors looking for a balance of famous temples, authentic local experiences, and peaceful moments away from the crowds.
Day 1: Kyoto’s Icons
Start your trip with the most famous sights in Kyoto, focusing on the city’s southern and eastern districts.
Fushimi Inari Taisha: Begin early at this iconic shrine, known for its thousands of red torii gates winding up Mount Inari. Arriving before 8am means you can enjoy the atmosphere before the tour buses arrive, it’s one of the best photo spots in Kyoto.
Kiyomizu-dera Temple: Head next to Higashiyama, where Kiyomizu-dera offers sweeping views over the city and beautifully preserved streets below. The surrounding lanes, Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka, are filled with small shops and cafés perfect for a short break.
Evening in Gion: As the sun sets, stroll through Gion, Kyoto’s historic geisha district. The lantern-lit wooden teahouses and quiet cobbled alleys are some of the most atmospheric places in the city. If you’re lucky, you might spot a maiko on her way to an evening appointment.
Day 2: History and Tradition
Spend your second day on a day trip to Arashiyama, one of the most scenic and peaceful parts of Kyoto.
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: Arrive early to walk through the famous bamboo forest before it gets busy. The tall, swaying stalks are one of Kyoto’s most photographed sights.
Tenryu-ji Temple: Just next door, this UNESCO World Heritage site has stunning Zen gardens designed to frame the surrounding hills. It’s one of the top temples to visit in Kyoto for first-timers.
Riverboat Cruise: Take a relaxing Hozugawa River boat ride, drifting between forested mountains and small fishing villages. It’s a scenic way to see Kyoto from a new perspective.
Traditional Tea Ceremony: Finish the day with a Kyoto tea ceremony experience, perhaps at Camellia Garden or Tea Ceremony Koto, both of which offer small, authentic sessions with English-speaking hosts.
Day 3: Hidden Kyoto
Your final day focuses on Kyoto’s lesser-known attractions, ideal for those who want to explore beyond the major sights.
Philosopher’s Path: Start your morning with a peaceful walk along this scenic canal route lined with cherry trees and small temples. It’s especially beautiful in spring and autumn.
Honen-in Temple: Just off the Philosopher’s Path, this under-the-radar temple is one of Kyoto’s best-kept secrets. I loved how quiet it was when I visited — you can often hear nothing but the sound of running water.
Local Neighbourhood Stroll: Wander through Higashiyama’s backstreets or head to Nishijin, Kyoto’s textile district, to find artisan workshops and small cafés.
Nishiki Market: End your trip at Nishiki Market, the perfect spot for local food and souvenirs. Try fresh sushi rolls, sweet soy doughnuts, or Kyoto-style pickles — it’s one of the most popular food markets in Kyoto and a must for any itinerary.
