Kyoto (prefecture) Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Kyoto with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, things to do, local culture, safety tips, and logistics.


Introduction to Kyoto (prefecture)

Kyoto is a stunning prefecture located in the Kansai region of Japan, famous for its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and mouth-watering cuisine. Known as the capital of Japan for over a thousand years, this prefecture has served as the center of politics, culture, and religion for centuries.

Now, Kyoto is a hub for tourism both nationally and internationally, attracting millions of visitors from all around the world every year. From tranquil temples to bustling streets, Kyoto has something to offer everyone, and this guide aims to help you explore the best of what this prefecture has to offer.

List of Places to Visit in Kyoto (prefecture)

Kyoto prefecture is home to a plethora of attractions for travelers of all types. In this section of the guide, we’ve curated a comprehensive list of places to visit in Kyoto.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Here are some of Kyoto’s most culturally significant attractions:

  • Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
  • Fushimi Inari Shrine
  • Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion)
  • Kiyomizu-dera
  • Nijo Castle
  • Toji Temple
  • Sanjusangendo Temple
  • Kyoto National Museum

Natural Attractions of Kyoto (prefecture): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Kyoto is famous for its natural beauty and outdoor attractions. Check out these must-visit natural destinations in Kyoto:

  • Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
  • Sagano Scenic Railway
  • Tofuku-ji Temple
  • Philosopher’s Path
  • Mount Kurama
  • Kurama-dera Temple
  • Kibune Shrine
  • Shogunzuka Seiryuden Observatory

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kyoto (prefecture)

Kyoto has a ton of hiking and biking routes that offer stunning views of nature and are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some popular trails:

  • Kiyotaki Todoro-kyo Valley Trail
  • Kyoto Trail
  • Mount Atago
  • Daimonjiyama Hiking Trail
  • Hozukyo Gorge
  • Lake Biwa Shoreline Trail

Best Things to Do in Kyoto (prefecture): Activities and Tours

There are many activities and tours to choose from in Kyoto. Here are some of our top picks:

  • Tea ceremony
  • Kimono experience
  • Sake tasting
  • Samurai and Ninja experiences
  • Bike tours
  • Kyoto food tours
  • Arashiyama rickshaw tours
  • Traditional craft workshops

Week-Long Itinerary for Kyoto (prefecture)

Planning to spend a week or longer in Kyoto? Here’s an itinerary to make the most out of your trip:

Day 1: Explore the temples and shrines of eastern Kyoto, including Kiyomizu-dera and Ginkaku-ji. Day 2: Visit the downtown area of Kyoto, including Nishiki Market and the Kyoto Imperial Palace. Day 3: Head to Arashiyama and Sagano, visit the bamboo grove, and take a scenic train ride. Day 4: Enjoy hiking, biking or kayaking in Hozukyo Gorge and the surrounding area. Day 5: Explore western Kyoto, including Toei Uzumasa Eigamura (film studio), Katsura Villa, and Kitano Tenmangu Shrine. Day 6: Take a day trip to Nara, visit the Todai-ji Temple and Nara Park. Day 7: Explore Fushimi Inari Shrine, one of Kyoto’s most famous landmarks, and nearby attractions such as Tofuku-ji Temple and the Philosopher’s Path.

Food and Drink Scene of Kyoto (prefecture)

Kyoto’s food scene is diverse and offers something for every palate. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kaiseki Ryori (traditional Japanese multi-course meal)
  • Yudofu (tofu hotpot)
  • Obanzai (Kyoto-style home-cooked cuisine)
  • Soba noodles
  • Matcha sweets
  • Nikuman (steamed pork buns)

Local Beverages

  • Sake (Japanese rice wine)
  • Uji tea (green tea from Uji, Kyoto)
  • Yuzu-shu (citrus liqueur)
  • Japanese whiskey
  • Craft beer

Where to Stay in Kyoto (Prefecture): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Kyoto offers a range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to affordable hostels and guesthouses. Here are some of our top picks:

  • The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto
  • Hotel Granvia Kyoto
  • Capsule Ryokan Kyoto
  • Guesthouse Kotoya Kyoto
  • The Millennials Kyoto

What to Buy in Kyoto (Prefecture): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Kyoto has a lot of unique and interesting souvenirs for travelers to take back home. Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to buy in Kyoto:

  • Traditional Japanese sweet treats
  • Kyoto-style pottery and ceramics
  • Japanese knives and cutlery
  • Japanese green tea and accessories
  • Handcrafted textiles and fabrics, such as yukata and furoshiki
  • Japanese wooden crafts
  • Uji matcha tea

Local Culture and Customs of Kyoto (Prefecture)

Visitors to Kyoto should be aware of local customs and etiquette. Here are some essential things to know:

  • Remove your shoes when entering someone’s home, temple, or shrine.
  • Bow slightly when greeting someone.
  • Do not tip in restaurants or cafes.
  • Be respectful when visiting temples or shrines, dress appropriately and be quiet, and refrain from taking photographs where prohibited.
  • Respect the environment by avoiding littering and following waste disposal guidelines.
  • Take care not to bring shame or disrespect to yourself or others.

Best Time to Visit Kyoto (Prefecture)

Kyoto is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is either in the spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November). Spring offers cherry blossom season, while autumn has stunning foliage. Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid, while winter (December to February) can be chilly and snowfall is rare.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kyoto (Prefecture)

Do:

  • Respect local customs and etiquette.
  • Try local cuisine, including traditional kaiseki cuisine
  • Visit temples and shrines, but be respectful.
  • Explore Kyoto’s natural beauty by taking a hike or bike ride.
  • Take a guided tour or attend a cultural workshop.
  • Learn a few essential Japanese phrases.

Don’t:

  • Litter or disrespect the environment.
  • Wear inappropriate clothing to places of worship.
  • Be loud or disruptive in public places.
  • Photograph people or places without permission.
  • Tip in restaurants or cafes.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kyoto (Prefecture)

Kyoto is a safe destination with extremely low crime rates compared to other major cities. However, visitors should still be aware of their surroundings, take care of their belongings, and be mindful of the following:

  • Beware of pickpockets in crowded areas.
  • Secure your belongings while using public transportation.
  • Be cautious while cycling on roads and sidewalks.
  • Wear a mask during the pollen season (February to April).

Health in Kyoto (Prefecture)

Kyoto is a generally safe and clean city, but visitors should still take preventative measures during their trips. Here are some health tips:

  • Drink bottled or filtered water.
  • Protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
  • Take necessary precautions during seasonal outbreaks of illnesses, such as the flu or hay fever.
  • Seek medical attention at a hospital or clinic if necessary.

Getting to Kyoto (Prefecture): Transportation Options and Logistics

Kyoto is well connected to other cities in Japan, making it easy to get to by various modes of transportation.

Airports Near Kyoto (Prefecture)

The nearest airport to Kyoto is Osaka International Airport (Itami Airport). Alternatively, Kansai International Airport is approximately 100 kilometers away with shuttle buses and trains connecting to Kyoto.

Bus Stations Near Kyoto (Prefecture)

The main bus terminal in Kyoto is Kyoto Station. From here, you can take a bus to other destinations in Kyoto and neighboring prefectures.

Other Options

Another great transportation option is the shinkansen (bullet train), which links Kyoto to major cities such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Hiroshima.

How to Get Around in Kyoto (Prefecture)

Kyoto has an excellent public transportation system, including buses, subway, and trains. You can also take taxis or rent a bike to explore the city at your own pace.

Where to Go Next from Kyoto (Prefecture): Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have extra time during your trip to Kyoto, consider heading to these nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Osaka
  • Nara
  • Kobe
  • Hiroshima
  • Koya-san

Conclusion

Kyoto prefecture is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Japan. With its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and mouth-watering cuisine, Kyoto will captivate any traveler. We hope this comprehensive travel guide will help you plan your trip to this extraordinary destination and make the most of your stay.

Location of Kyoto Prefecture Location of Kyoto Prefecture Joruriji Temple in Kizugawa Joruriji Temple in Kizugawa


    Amanohashidate
    Kyotanabe
    Kyoto
    Maizuru
    Uji