Top Things to Do in Kyoto: Best Activities & Must-Sees

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Kiyomizu-dera Temple

With millennia-old temples perched on the hills, cobbled lanes lined with wooden houses, and geisha on every street corner… Kyoto brings together everything you come to Japan for! A former imperial capital for more than a thousand years, the city has pulled off the remarkable feat of preserving much of its historical heritage despite the country’s rapid modernisation.

Are you planning a day trip or a short city break to one of Japan’s most iconic cities? You’re in the right place!

💰 Popular Kyoto Activities, Great Prices!

  • 🚂 Arashiyama Sagano Romantic Train 🏞️ – From £4.23 – Scenic train through the gorges with spectacular mountain views
  • ⛩️ Kiyomizu-dera Temple 🏯 – A temple on stilts with a wooden terrace and panoramic views over Kyoto
  • 🦊 Fushimi Inari-taisha 🏮 – Free – Thousands of red torii gates forming tunnels up the mountain
  • 🎋 Arashiyama 🌿 – Free – Giant bamboo forest and UNESCO-listed temples
  • ⛩️ Kinkaku-ji ✨ – Golden Pavilion covered in gold leaf, has been in the rankings for 2 years

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📅 What to Do in Kyoto Based on Your Stay

How many days do you need to visit Kyoto and truly make the most of the city? As with any medium- or large city, it really depends on your pace and what you want to see. Travelling solo? With family? As a couple? Here are a few itinerary ideas based on the length and style of your trip:

Duration

Couple

Family

Friends

Solo

1 day

Kiyomizu-dera + Gion + Fushimi Inari at sunset

Arashiyama (bamboo + train) + Kiyomizu-dera

Fushimi Inari in the morning + Gion + Pontocho in the evening

Golden Temple + Gion + Fushimi Inari

2 days

Day 1: Higashiyama (temples) + Gion

Day 2: Arashiyama + Imperial Palace

Day 1: Arashiyama

Day 2: Kiyomizu-dera + Maruyama Park

Day 1: Eastern temples

Day 2: Arashiyama + Pontocho

Day 1: Higashiyama

Day 2: North (Golden Pavilion + Ryoan-ji)

3 days

Days 1-2

+ Day 3: Philosophers' Path + tea ceremony

Days 1-2

+ Day 3: Manga Museum + Arashiyama Monkey Park

Days 1-2

+ Day 3: Nara or less touristy neighbourhoods

Days 1-2

+ Day 3: secondary temples + Nishiki Market

4-5 days

Days 1-2-3

+ Day 4-5: Nara excursion, craft workshops, Kurama onsen, hidden Zen gardens

Days 1-2-3

+ Days 4-5: A day in Osaka, kimono workshops, seasonal strawberry farm, Maruyama Park

Days 1-2-3

+ Day 4-5: Kiyamachi nightlife, rooftop bars, excursion to Osaka

Days 1-2-3

+ Days 4-5: mountain temples (Kurama/Kibune), hidden cafés, writing/photography

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🏙️ Must-Visit Districts in Kyoto

The first thing that strikes you about Kyoto is its diversity. Each neighbourhood has its own identity, history and vibe. You could almost lose yourself here, there are so many neighbourhoods and they’re all so different from one another. To help you plan your stay, here are the ones you really shouldn’t miss.

Gion: Kyoto’s historic heart

Gion: Kyoto’s historic heart

Gion is THE historic district of Kyoto you see everywhere—the one that captures all the magic of the geisha era (traditional Japanese singers and dancers). Here, traditional wooden townhouses (machiya) still house ochaya, tea houses where private banquets take place, brought to life by geishas and maikos (apprentice geishas). Take the time to stop for a relaxing break in a traditional setting that whisks you back in time!

In the late afternoon, with a bit of luck, you might catch a glimpse of a maiko in a hurry on her way to an appointment, dressed in her sumptuous kimono and traditional accessories.

📌 Tips: Gion is also home to the Gion Corner theatre, where you can catch performances of traditional dances, bunraku (puppet theatre), or a tea ceremony. It’s a great way to experience several traditional arts in one evening!

Higashiyama: temples, hills and old alleyways

Higashiyama: temples, hills and old alleyways

The second must-see district is Higashiyama! It runs along the hills to the east of Kyoto and is home to several of the city’s most famous temples. Indeed, this is where you’ll find the famous Kiyomizu-dera temple, the cherry-blossom-lined Philosopher’s Path, and the Silver Pavilion, Ginkaku-ji.

But beyond the temples, Higashiyama is also a neighbourhood of utterly charming cobbled lanes. Among the must-see streets, Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka are the most visited. Here you’ll find artisan boutiques, traditional teahouses, and little museums…

If you’re looking for a well-preserved historic neighbourhood in Kyoto with a peaceful, authentic atmosphere, Higashiyama is the dream spot! Allow a full day to explore it at a leisurely pace.

Arashiyama: Kyoto’s green heart

Arashiyama: Kyoto’s green heart

Arashiyama lies to the west of Kyoto, at the foot of the mountains. It’s pretty much the unmissable nature escape when visiting Kyoto.

The star attraction of the neighbourhood is, of course, the giant bamboo forest (we’ll tell you more just below in the unmissable activities). Arashiyama also boasts the magnificent Tenryu-ji Temple (a UNESCO World Heritage site!) with its Zen gardens, the Togetsukyo Bridge that spans the river, and the Sagano Romantic Train tourist train that winds through the gorges with breathtaking scenery.

📌 Trip.com’s recommendation: if you have time, you can also climb up to the Iwatayama Monkey Temple or head over to Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple with its 1,200 amusing stone statues. Allow at least half a day, or even a full day if you want to take your time.

Pontocho: the alley of restaurants and nightlife

Pontocho: the alley of restaurants and nightlife

Pontocho is a tiny alleyway running parallel to the Kamo River, stretching between Shijo and Sanjo streets. By day, it keeps a low profile. But as night falls, Pontocho comes alive and reveals a whole different side: red lanterns hanging from the façades, little restaurants opening their sliding doors, terraces overlooking the river in summer…

It’s one of the favourite districts for tourists in Kyoto in the evening. You’ll find all kinds of restaurants: yakitori, kaiseki (refined Japanese cuisine), ramen, izakaya… The venues are often tiny, sometimes just 6 or 8 seats at the counter, with an intimate, local and convivial atmosphere guaranteed.

📌 Tips: In summer, some restaurants set up suspended terraces above the river (called "yuka"), a truly pleasant experience for dining in the cool.

Kyoto Station neighbourhood: modern and convenient

Kyoto Station neighbourhood: modern and convenient

It’s an unusual neighbourhood to recommend—Kyoto Station! With its futuristic architecture by Hiroshi Hara, a grand staircase you can climb right up to the top floor, and a panoramic terrace with views over the city… it’s worth the detour!

Right next door is Kyoto Tower, which offers 360° views over the entire city and the surrounding mountains. The area around the station is also home to several large shopping centres (Kyoto Station Building with its shops and restaurants, Porta underground, Isetan for luxury…), making it one of the best places for concentrated shopping in Kyoto.

📌 Tips: it's also handy if you're arriving or departing by Shinkansen, or if you're looking for a spot to grab a quick lunch before heading to the temples.

Neighbourhoods for shopping, manga and local specialities

Neighbourhoods for shopping, manga and local specialities

Where to go shopping in Kyoto and enjoy local specialities? Several areas stand out depending on what you're looking for:

  • Shijo-Kawaramachi: the modern retail heart with department stores (Takashimaya, Marui…), fashion boutiques, cosmetics
  • Teramachi and Shinkyogoku: two parallel covered shopping arcades brimming with manga/anime shops, figurines, souvenirs, vintage… It’s THE anime/geek district of Kyoto.
  • Nishiki Market: the historic covered market, nicknamed "Kyoto’s kitchen", with fresh produce, local specialities, pickles, pastries…
  • Fushimi: a sake district with several breweries to visit and specialist shops
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Our Top Picks for Kyoto Hotels

5 star

8.9/10Very Good2501 Reviews
Kyoto Station Kyoto|3.13km from city centre
This is a long-established hotel, very close to Kyoto Station, the city's main transportation hub. The rooms are spacious with large windows that let in plenty of light. For breakfast, you have a choice of two restaurants: one is a rotating restaurant on a high floor with great views, offering a set menu. The other is a buffet on the first floor with a very rich selection. The downsides are the lack of laundry facilities, the bathroom isn't wet/dry separated, and the room lighting is a bit dim.
From€34
9.4/10Amazing589 Reviews
Kyoto Station Kyoto|2.98km from city centre
Outstanding experience at Hotel Granvia Kyoto. Staying here made our Kyoto trip effortless, especially with the hotel located right above Kyoto Station. Trains, buses and shopping are just steps away, which saved us so much time and energy. The hospitality was excellent. The staff were polite, attentive and very efficient, making us feel welcomed immediately. Check in was smooth and the overall service throughout our stay was consistently professional. The room was spacious, spotless and very comfortable, perfect for resting after a full day of sightseeing. This hotel combines prime location with refined service and comfort. I would gladly stay here again and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Kyoto. Truly a five star experience.
From€110
9.5/10Amazing802 Reviews
Kyoto Station Kyoto|2.87km from city centre
The hotel's location is fantastic! The design is also very modern and forward-thinking. The front desk and concierge staff were all incredibly enthusiastic and always attentive to whether we needed any assistance. It was a very satisfying stay. We stayed in Japan for 7 nights and switched between 3 hotels, and this was by far the most satisfying five-star hotel experience!
From€128
9.6/10Amazing949 Reviews
Higashiyama Kyoto|1.54km from city centre
This was our first time staying in the Gion area, and Hotel the Celestine truly elevated the experience. The atmosphere is calm, elegant and very Kyoto. From check in to departure, everything felt smooth and professionally handled. The cleanliness was impeccable. The room was thoughtfully arranged with a perfect balance of modern comfort and traditional Japanese touches. Beds were extremely comfortable and the space felt well planned, not cramped like many city hotels. What makes this hotel special is the location. Stepping outside places you immediately in the charm of old Kyoto. Walking through Gion in the early morning before the crowds arrive was unforgettable. Service deserves special mention. The team was polite, warm and always ready to assist with genuine hospitality. A beautiful property for anyone who appreciates quiet luxury in a prime cultural setting. We would gladly stay again.
From€168
9.5/10Amazing1293 Reviews
Kawaramachi Kyoto|1.01km from city centre
The hotel entrance isn't huge, but the 4th-floor reception area has a wonderful design with lots of greenery, bringing you closer to nature. It's a really comfortable spot to just sit and relax. The room itself is spacious and comfortable, and importantly, it has a small balcony that lets in natural breezes. Having fresh, circulating air in the room is incredibly important to me. There was a short-haired lady at the front desk who was exceptionally kind and thoughtful. When I checked my luggage, she noticed that what I'd bought was a cream roll and thoughtfully offered to refrigerate it for me. She also gave us a warm farewell when we left. Although I'm not entirely sure if she was trying to communicate with me in Chinese because I couldn't hear very well with her mask on. There are some downsides, though. Even on the 8th floor, I was still bothered by motorcycle noise every night. I'm a light sleeper by nature, so I didn't get good rest those two nights.
From€160
9.3/10Great517 Reviews
Higashiyama Kyoto|0.61km from city centre
The front desk staff speaks fluent English, and there were quite a few Western guests during my stay. For the cherry blossom season, the value for money was pretty good. The room was relatively spacious compared to other Japanese hotels. Rooms facing the street can be a bit noisy late at night. Breakfast leans towards a Western style. It's very close to the subway, just a short walk to the Kamo River, and a five-minute walk to the lively areas of Sanjo and Shijo. Overall, it's a decent place.
From€93

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Business travel

9.1/10Great525 Reviews
Kawaramachi Kyoto|0.43km from city centre
We stayed at Hotel Gracery Kyoto for two nights and overall had a very comfortable stay. The hotel has two sections, and we stayed in the South building. The room was very clean, and the space was used efficiently, which is typical for Japan. The bathroom layout was a bit unusual. The toilet and shower are separate, which is convenient, but the toilet cubicle itself is extremely small. The shower is positioned in an odd space between the bath and what seems to be the shower floor, and the shower head cannot be adjusted up or down. That said, the water pressure and temperature were excellent, which made up for the layout. Bottled water was provided on the first day, which was appreciated. The TV, however, was very limited with only Japanese channels and no access to Netflix or other streaming services. The location is excellent. The hotel is right by Nishiki Market and surrounded by shops and restaurants, with multiple subway lines nearby. There are also many fantastic local restaurants in the area, which we highly recommend, especially when the market gets overwhelmingly busy. The hotel provides a wide range of amenities in the lobby, including face wash, toner, lotion, razors, combs and mouthwash. While convenient, the large amount of individually packaged items does not feel particularly environmentally friendly. We checked out the breakfast one morning but decided not to purchase it as it was 2750 yen per person, and there are plenty of better and more affordable options nearby. The staff were very friendly and welcoming, and we also appreciated that the hotel offers free umbrella use on rainy days, which was a thoughtful touch. One downside was the room cleaning timing. We left early in the morning and only returned after 3pm, but the room was still being cleaned when we got back. We were asked to wait around 30 minutes, which was quite inconvenient after a long day when we wanted to rest, shower and freshen up before heading out again. Overall, a clean and well-located hotel with a few minor design quirks and service timing issues, but still a very pleasant stay.
From€39
9.2/10Great451 Reviews
Kyoto Station Kyoto|3.43km from city centre
Great location close to the station, with plenty of restaurants and convenience stores nearby. Check-in and check-out were both quick and smooth, and the room was clean and comfortable. Although amenities were not provided in the room, which is common in Japan nowadays, it would be nice if enough amenities were prepared for all guests. The breakfast offered a good selection of Japanese dishes and was satisfying. The hotel felt family-friendly and would be a good choice for both business trips and family travel. Overall, I had a pleasant stay and would gladly stay here again.
From€32
9.3/10Great898 Reviews
Kyoto Station Kyoto|3.47km from city centre
This hotel boasts an excellent location right near Kyoto Station. It's incredibly convenient for getting around and shopping, with Lawson, 7-Eleven, izakayas, and a large shopping mall all nearby. The hotel offers hot spring baths, along with complimentary ice cream and coffee. The rooms are clean and spacious, and the housekeeping service is fantastic, with daily room cleaning and fresh towels. Highly recommended!
From€41
9.1/10Great1220 Reviews
Kyoto Station Kyoto|3.18km from city centre
The hotel is very clean and well-maintained. The location is excellent, just a short walk from Kyoto Station, making it very convenient for traveling. It is located right opposite Kyoto Station Hachijo East Exit, with Avanti Mall just next to it, so everything you need is nearby. There is another Keihan Hotel in the same area, which may be slightly confusing at first. However, the hotel is actually very easy to find — just exit Kyoto Station, turn left, and you will see it next to Avanti Mall. The hotel also provides skincare products from KOSE, which is a very nice and thoughtful touch. Overall, I had a very pleasant stay and would definitely recommend this hotel to other travelers.
From€49
9.4/10Amazing1785 Reviews
Kyoto Station Kyoto|3.22km from city centre
This hotel is located right across the road from Kyoto Station, making it incredibly convenient for transportation, dining, and shopping. The room was clean and well-maintained, with all the standard amenities. Nothing extraordinary, but perfectly adequate. The breakfast buffet offered a wider variety of options compared to other hotels I've stayed at. I'd definitely recommend it.
From€38
9.3/10Great430 Reviews
Kawaramachi Kyoto|0.27km from city centre
This hotel is just a short walk from Karasuma Oike subway station, and about a 10-15 minute walk (roughly one kilometer) to Shijo Kawaramachi for shopping. Yet, the hotel itself is located on a quiet side street off a main road, offering a peaceful environment amidst the bustle. The soundproofing is excellent, making it perfect for light sleepers who need quiet. While the rooms are small, like many in Japan, the layout is well-designed; you can easily open two large suitcases. There's a 7-Eleven and a 24-hour Fresco supermarket just steps from the hotel, which is a huge plus. The front desk service was fantastic and super friendly, and communication in English was incredibly smooth. I needed to change a restaurant reservation, but the restaurant only spoke Japanese, making it difficult to communicate. The front desk staff were very patient and efficiently helped me sort it out—much appreciated!. The lobby offers complimentary coffee and tea, along with a co-working area. Overall, it's great value for money and a very comfortable stay. Highly recommended!
From€45

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Family friendly

9.3/10Great9505 Reviews
Kyoto Station Kyoto|3.27km from city centre
This hotel is conveniently located near Kyoto Station, making it super easy to get to from Kansai Airport – it's right outside the station! The soundproofing is excellent; once you close the window, you can barely hear any noise. There are plenty of convenience stores, supermarkets, and restaurants inside the station, so dining is a breeze. The room itself is quite spacious for Japanese standards. Check-in and check-out are self-service, which is convenient. It's perfect if you're planning to take the JR or Kintetsu lines to explore nearby cities. However, if you're mainly looking to explore Kyoto city, it might not be as convenient as you'll have a bit of a walk to catch a bus.
From€36
9.4/10Amazing616 Reviews
Higashiyama Kyoto|1.94km from city centre
Might be more suitable for first timers or travellers who are into Kiyomizu temple or Gion(both location walkable from hotel) I'm a frequent traveller to Japan/Kyoto thus location does not work well for me but not a deal breaker. Hotel is pretty big as I feel the distance walking from elevator to room, decent size rooms with windows that can be opened for maybe 3 inches(?) Enough pillows and quiet room for good rest and also nice public areas with lotsa greens. Rooms need to be more throughly cleaned though as I found coffee/tea stains on the table top(not acceptable for hotels of this grade) The in room water dispenser is a great idea though. There's a bakery within the hotel itself thats open from breakfast if you are into convenience, delish but there are simply too many good bakeries(or other breakfast places) in Kyoto.
From€108
9.5/10Amazing570 Reviews
Kyoto Station Kyoto|3.34km from city centre
Potel Umokoji Kyoto redefines what a hotel offers its guests. Firstly, the location is unique, an easy 5 min walk from the station ( Umokoji Kyotonishi) and 3 min train ride to the center of Kyoto. Yet this convenience is coupled with its location adjoining a large wooded park which some guest rooms overlook - a special and calm outlook right in the city centre. Rooms are large by Japan standards and both the Japanese style rooms ( super comfy ) and more traditional Western styled rooms offer a Scandanavian/ Japanese decor style which is both modern and uncluttered. In addition, guest services on offer include complementary DIY fresh brewed coffee and in the evenings, complimentary beer, wine and soft drinks . Can be taken either to your room with balcony overlooking parklands or in the guest book or music library, both offering a calm respite from a sometimes frenetic Kyoto CBD. Unique, special and largely overlooked by tourist group bookings, the Potel Umokoji manages to offer the ambience and guest experiences that many mass tourism venues have lost. Try it, you won't be disappointed.
From€74
9.1/10Great112 Reviews
Higashiyama Kyoto|0.74km from city centre
I happened to make a reservation here for a quick trip to Osaka. I really liked that it had a Japanese feel ^^ It was great that the toilet and shower room (bathtub/bathroom style) were separate!! It's not a kimono, but a long dress-like(?) nightgown is prepared haha. I was very satisfied with my one night stay in Kyoto! Breakfast is served as a full Japanese meal, but I came to find out that you have to make a reservation 3 days in advance. It's a shame I didn't get to experience it. I definitely have to come back here on my next trip to Kyoto^^ The kids also say they like it a lot~~~
From€73
8.5/10Very Good193 Reviews
Ohara/Kibune/Kurama Kyoto|5.81km from city centre
Very beautiful, hotel architecture is so unique - I love its old world charm, classic wall paper, large rooms and separate vanity area from the bathroom. It’s also conveniently located close to the convention centre with the mrt easily accessible to get you to various places. The staffs were super friendly and accommodating as well. We strolled around the nearby park, met friendly locals and visited the lake and hilltop cherry blossoms. Would definitely come back again.
From€73
9.3/10Great112 Reviews
Higashiyama Kyoto|2.59km from city centre
I stayed here 10 years ago. The hotel looked exactly the same. It is a little bit on the old school side, but everything is clean and impeccable. The first day I arrived I had a stomach issue and the hotel was really kind and helped send fresh ginger tea up to my room and requested. They went out out of their way to find me fresh ginger. The second day I strained my back from lifting heavy luggage. They are once again very kind and send a staff to help me pack all my belongings and help me coordinate sending my luggage to Tokyo so I don’t need to lift it on the train. Special thanks to Naing Thiri who is so kind and help me pack everything so neatly and even help me get dressed Honestly, when I first checked in and the hotel looks a little bit outdated I was thinking maybe next day I would not want to come back but with the great service, I would definitely stay here again if I come to Kyoto
From€204

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Breakfast

9.3/10Great2277 Reviews
Kyoto Station Kyoto|2.56km from city centre
This time, I'm only visiting Kyoto. The hotel was so comfortable that I could easily spend more time here, experiencing Kyoto's spring cherry blossoms, summer greenery, autumn foliage, and even winter snow (though I'm not sure if it snows much 😂). It's a place with beautiful natural scenery, rich historical stories, modern commercial areas, and authentic, delicious local food.
From€63
9.1/10Great822 Reviews
Kawaramachi Kyoto|1.69km from city centre
We really enjoyed our 3 night stay here. The decor really added to the atmosphere of the place and there was a lovely communal area for relaxing. This offered different seating areas with access to free tea and coffee, a microwave and mini oven. The hotel is directly above a 7/eleven so it was very convenient for bringing in food to eat. There was a laundry room but it was very busy and the washing machine didn't sound very happy and the drying seemed to take people a long time. We were glad to have done washing before arriving here. The room was quite big and the bed was on a raised platform so cases could be stored underneath. It was very dark in the room because of the decor. We did sleep well. The bathroom was very modern and clean with a wet room style shower. All areas of the hotel were very clean throughout our stay and staff were visibly working to maintain a high standard. Kyoto was extremely busy at the time of our stay (during golden week) so we focused our visits to places that could be walked to or accessed from the Kiyomizu-Gojo Station on the Keihan Line. We did one trip that involved buses and it was horrendously busy with the longest queues at bus stops we've ever seen.
From€20
8.9/10Very Good420 Reviews
Kyoto Gosyo/Karasuma Kyoto|1.53km from city centre
Stayed here for a few nights while I was in Kyoto. Overall, the service at the front desk were really helpful and kind, and I also enjoyed the bento breakfast that's served every morning, it was really fulfilling, and I still think about it now xD I got the single room, and while it was just enough to let me open up my bigger luggage that was around 24-26 inch, so I feel like if your luggage is bigger than that, it may be a little difficult. However, for someone that travelled solo, and just wants a decent place for my basic necessities (sleep, shower, eat, being in a convenient location etc), it does its job, on top of that, the price was quite affordable too! I would actually consider returning back here to stay, maybe trying out one of their bigger rooms in the future, if I ever do come back to Kyoto, would recommend :)
From€17
9.1/10Great1581 Reviews
Kyoto Station Kyoto|3.15km from city centre
Lovely hotel with ideal location in KYOTO station. Staff very helpful and welcome drink provided (juice/tea). If getting taxi have the telephone number of your destination as they appear to use this with their sat nav. Shopping mall across the street and lots of eateries in the station. Highly recommend. Activity close by: Maiko Experience at Shiki - highly recommend.
From€42
9.5/10Amazing4478 Reviews
Kyoto Station Kyoto|2.63km from city centre
Overall, my stay at the Kyoto Arala Hotel was pretty good. The hotel is conveniently located just a few minutes' walk from Kyoto Station, making it super easy to get to various attractions and transfer to other transportation. There are also plenty of convenience stores and drugstores nearby, which is very handy. The room layout was well-designed, and the bedding was comfortable, so I slept really well during my stay. The hotel's on-site hot spring was a major highlight; soaking in it after a day of sightseeing completely washed away my fatigue. The staff were friendly and helpful, and both check-in and check-out were quick. All the facilities were excellent. I particularly appreciated the front desk service that allowed me to courier my luggage from Kyoto to Tokyo, saving me from having to lug my suitcase on the Shinkansen, which was incredibly convenient. The only downside was the extremely slow and unstable Wi-Fi in the room. Streaming videos, browsing the web, and even replying to WeChat messages often resulted in buffering or no connection at all. For all four days, I had to use my own mobile data in the room, and I really hope they can improve this aspect. Putting the Wi-Fi issue aside, this hotel offers great overall value for money.
From€47
9.2/10Great394 Reviews
Kawaramachi Kyoto|0.21km from city centre
The room is spacious. Everything is great. Only they don’t have hot water dispenser. The cleanliness is superb. Location is very convenient for us, as it is near to everywhere. Not so near to the metro station but is okay, the walk is nice with beautiful surrounding with good vibes. Love Kyoto. Walkable to the beautiful karmo river
From€22

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Gym

9.1/10Great825 Reviews
Kyoto Station Kyoto|2.36km from city centre
Facilities: My only complaint is that the king-size bed in the king room is made of two single mattresses pushed together, and after sleeping on it for a while, a gap forms between them. Hygiene: The hygiene is excellent. Environment: The surrounding area is very quiet, and there are convenience stores not too far away. Service: The service attitude is great, and the hotel even offers free shuttle service to Kyoto Station.
From€36
9.1/10Great1293 Reviews
Kawaramachi Kyoto|0.49km from city centre
loved this place! really accessible with multiple train stations and bus stops nearby that leads to the main tourist spots. even if you’re done with those, there are a lot of restaurants / drugstores / gacha places / shopping malls to entertain yourself in the vicinity. high traffic area, so it feels really safe! the heater was really warm and the rooms were well-equipped. there is a free microwave and paid laundry room that is easy to use on the first floor. the front desk staff were all fluent in english so that was really helpful. do note that the space is a bit small - we weren’t able to open two cabin-sized luggages fully, and there is no table, chair, or proper wardrobe space. but if you’re not fussed about that, everything is perfect! would definitely come back and stay here if i ever visit kyoto again.
From€25
9.2/10Great333 Reviews
Kyoto Station Kyoto|3.1km from city centre
The room isn't very big, and the decor is quite traditional for a star-rated hotel. It's quite close to Kyoto Station, about a five-minute walk, just three traffic lights away. However, the hotel next door is under renovation, and the construction team was banging away all morning, starting at 8 AM. The soundproofing of the windows isn't great. The overall soundproofing of the hotel isn't good. While we were getting our child ready for bed in the evening, an elderly foreign lady from the room opposite knocked on our door and said, ”Your child is noisy.” I was so mortified! We were constantly trying to remind our child to be quiet. We stayed at four hotels of a similar standard during this trip to Japan, and this was the only one where we experienced this.
From€83
8.6/10Very Good1401 Reviews
Kyoto Gosyo/Karasuma Kyoto|1.72km from city centre
The room was quite spacious, and the bathroom was clean. There's a microwave and a dining area on the first floor. The only downside is there's no luggage rack. The location is super convenient, very close to Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Sannenzaka/Ninenzaka. There are also bus, tram, and JR stations nearby.
From€31
8.8/10Very Good651 Reviews
Kyoto Gosyo/Karasuma Kyoto|2.13km from city centre
We absolutely loved the facilities and location of Kyoto Gojo Premium Hotel. It is incredibly convenient—just a 5-minute drive to Kyoto Station, and only one train stop away, making it very easy to get around. The hot spring facilities were especially comfortable and relaxing, and it was such a wonderful experience for our whole family. We also really enjoyed the breakfast provided by the hotel, which was delicious and a great way to start each day. The staff were warm, friendly, and always helpful. Overall, we had a truly enjoyable stay and a very memorable experience.
From€27
9.5/10Amazing1309 Reviews
Kyoto|1.81km from city centre
The hotel's location is quite good, and watching the sunset from the courtyard is truly beautiful. Perhaps because it was the off-season, the entire hotel felt very quiet, comfortable, and relaxing. The staff at reception were all very welcoming, and their attention to detail was excellent. Breakfast was relatively average, nothing special but perfectly adequate. The hot springs were quite comfortable, and not crowded at all. There are both indoor and outdoor options, and soaking in the outdoor springs when there's a big temperature difference is really pleasant. The only downside was that after a day of activities, I wanted to take a bath, but found a very noticeable hair from a previous guest in the bathtub that hadn't been cleaned. I contacted the front desk, and they sent someone up to clean it, which took about 20 minutes to resolve.
From€185

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🏯 Top 5 Activities and Landmarks in Kyoto

Now that we’ve covered the neighbourhoods, let’s dive into the city's must-see attractions. Here are five must-see attractions in Kyoto that you absolutely shouldn't miss:

Top 5 Activities and Landmarks in Kyoto 🏯Now that we’ve covered the neighbourhoods, let’s dive into the city's must-see attractions. Here are five must-see attractions in Kyoto that you absolutely shouldn't miss:5 attraction lists

Kinkaku-ji: the glittering Golden Pavilion

Kinkaku-ji: the glittering Golden Pavilion

Kinkaku-ji (or the Golden Pavilion) is probably one of the most iconic monuments in all of Japan. This pavilion covered in gold leaf stands at the edge of a pond. On clear days, when the sunlight strikes the gold leaf, the effect is truly striking. You’ll almost certainly find plenty of photographers and artists there!

📌 Trip.com’s recommendation: please note, the place is always crowded, especially around midday. Try to go as soon as it opens (9 am) to enjoy a quieter atmosphere. The visit is one-way along a designated route — allow around 45 minutes to an hour to complete the full circuit.

Kiyomizu-dera Temple: the temple on the hill

Kiyomizu-dera Temple: the temple on the hill

Kiyomizu-dera is probably Kyoto’s most iconic temple. Perched on a hill in the Higashiyama district, it offers a spectacular view over the city from its wooden terrace supported by towering pillars.

The temple is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts large crowds all year round. In the evenings, special illuminations are organised several times a year, creating a unique atmosphere.

💡Trip.com fun fact: The most impressive part? Not a single nail was used to build this terrace—an architectural feat dating back to the 17th century!

Fushimi Inari-taisha: the torii tunnels

Fushimi Inari-taisha: the torii tunnels

Fushimi Inari Shrine is without a doubt the most photographed spot in all of Kyoto. Thousands of vermilion-red torii (sacred gates) form tunnels that snake along the slopes of Mount Inari. The full walk to the summit takes two to three hours, but even just tackling the first part of the trail is already well worth it.

The site is free and open 24/7, making it a great option for an early-evening activity after 5 pm (or early in the morning to avoid the crowds!).

Along the way, you’ll come across dozens of small secondary shrines, fox statues (messengers of the god Inari), and viewpoints over Kyoto. If you make it all the way to the summit, you’ll almost certainly find yourself among only small groups: most tourists stop at the first third of the way!

Arashiyama: the famous bamboo forest

Arashiyama: the famous bamboo forest

As we briefly mentioned earlier, the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is one of the city’s must-see highlights. Picture towering bamboo stalks rising 20 to 30 metres high, packed so closely they form a green tunnel overhead. The whisper of the wind through the leaves, the dappled light, the feeling of being completely cut off from the world… it’s a truly special place you won’t want to miss!

The main walk takes around 15–20 minutes, but you can easily extend it by visiting the nearby temples: Tenryu-ji, the Okochi Sanso garden perched on the hillside, or the Iwatayama Monkey Temple if you love animals.

📌 Tips: it's best to head there early in the morning (around 7–8 am) or towards the end of the day to avoid the tourist groups.

Arashiyama Sagano Romantic Train: the city's iconic train

Arashiyama Sagano Romantic Train: the city's iconic train

The Sagano Romantic Train links Arashiyama to Kameoka, tracing the Hozugawa River through spectacular gorges. The journey takes around 25 minutes, and the carriages (some open-air) offer breathtaking views of the mountains, forests and the river flowing below.

It's a perfect activity for families and couples alike, especially in autumn with the mix of colours, and in spring with the cherry blossoms in bloom. The train departs several times a day, but tickets sell out quickly, especially in peak season.


🌸 Best Time to Visit Kyoto

Kyoto is a joy to visit year-round, but as with everywhere in Japan, some seasons are undeniably more spectacular than others.

Season

Weather

Highlights

Spring (March–May)

Mild, pleasant

Cherry blossoms (sakura), delicate foliage, ideal temperatures

Summer (June–August)

Hot and humid

Summer festivals, yuka terraces by the river in Pontocho, fireworks

Autumn (Sep–Nov)

Pleasant temperatures

Red foliage (momiji), clear skies, night-time illuminations in temples

Winter (Dec.–Feb.)

Cold but dry

Fewer crowds, snow-covered temples, peaceful atmosphere

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🚄 Day Trips from Kyoto

Best Day Trips from Kyoto

Spending a few days in Kyoto and fancy straying a little off the beaten track? Great idea! Kyoto is perfectly placed for exploring authentic spots all around, far from the tourist crowds in the city centre.

Starting from Kyoto, Trip.com recommends three unmissable excursions:

🍵 Uji: The green tea capital

Uji is the undisputed home of Japanese green tea! If you love matcha, this is the place to come. Beyond tasting the country’s finest green teas (yes, really!), be sure to visit Byōdō-in Temple, whose Phoenix Hall is reflected in the pond. It’s also one of Japan’s most beautiful sights!

Journey time: 20-30 minutes by train (17 km to the south)

Transport: JR Nara Line train from Kyoto Station

Must-sees:

  • Byōdō-in Temple (UNESCO-listed, on 10-yen coins)
  • Matcha tasting and green tea pastries
  • Stroll along the Uji River
  • Fukujuen Tea Museum

🍜 Kibune: noodles by the river and fresh mountain air

Kibune is the summer retreat for Kyotoites. In July and August, when the city’s heat turns stifling, everyone heads up to Kibune to eat noodles on terraces set directly above the river.

The restaurants serve nagashi-sōmen (cold noodles that flow down bamboo channels filled with icy water). It’s refreshing, and the mountain atmosphere is truly soothing. In autumn, the red maples are stunning too!

Journey time: 30-40 minutes by train (15 km to the north)

Transport: Eizan Train from Demachiyanagi Station

Must-sees:

  • Nagashi-sōmen (noodles served in flowing river water in summer)
  • Kifune-jinja Shrine (romantic, for love wishes)
  • Hiking in the forest
  • Traditional onsen (hot springs)

🎣 Ine: The fishing village with floating houses

Finally, make sure to visit Ine. It’s a little hidden gem on the northern coast. This fishing village has preserved its funaya, houses built directly on the water with a boat garage downstairs and the living quarters above.

Ine Bay is calm and sheltered, and the village has preserved its authentic charm. Very few foreign tourists make it here — it’s truly off the beaten track. If you love quiet spots and maritime scenery, Ine is definitely worth the detour.

Journey time: 2–2.5 hours by train + bus (90 km north)

Transport: Limited Express train + local bus via Amanohashidate

Must-sees:

  • Funaya (traditional fishermen’s houses on stilts)
  • Boat trip in the bay
  • Ultra-fresh seafood tasting
  • Panoramic view from the Ine Bay viewpoint

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Kyoto opens the doors to its more than a thousand years of history, its refined traditions, and its unforgettable experiences! With its majestic temples, Zen gardens, historic districts like Gion, and delicious Japanese specialities, the former imperial capital is sure to amaze you.

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