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Kyoto Attractions

Places to Visit in Kyoto - Kyoto Must-See Attractions

Things to Do in Kyoto

Check out must-see sights and activities:
Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, Kinkakuji Temple, Cultural Tours, Scenic Walking Areas. For personalised recommendations, try our AI trip-planning product.
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Book these experiences for a close-up look at Kyoto.

Top Attractions in Kyoto

These rankings are informed by Tripadvisor data—we consider traveller reviews, ratings, number of page views, and user location.

Iconic vermillion torii gates line the paths through this serene shrine, adorned with intricate wood carvings and fox statues, set against the tranquility of mountain trails.
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Zen temple adorned in gold leaf with serene gardens and reflective lake, ideal for tranquil moments and photogenic views amidst historical ambiance.
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Serene temple complex with stunning architecture and panoramic views, known for its pure water streams and tranquil gardens. Features unique "single nail" construction and cultural experiences.
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Interactive samurai and ninja museum with history lessons, costume try-ons, and hands-on activities like ninja star throwing and blow darts. Ideal for cultural insights and family fun.
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Traditional neighborhood with a blend of historic temples, shrines, and modern shops amid narrow streets. Enjoy the ambiance, cultural sites, and chance to spot geishas in a historic setting.
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Points of Interest & Landmarks

Restored Edo palace with "nightingale" floors and fusuma paintings, reflecting shogun wealth. Historical murals and tapestries line the rooms for a walk through Japan's past.
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Moderate 20-30 minute hike through bamboo forests with rest areas en route to a monkey habitat. Enjoy interaction and feeding opportunities in a natural setting with panoramic views.
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Historic temple featuring a collection of 1001 lifelike Kannon statues within a long wooden hall, surrounded by tranquil gardens.
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Bustling market featuring a cornucopia of street food, from local snacks to fresh seafood skewers, alongside a selection of Japanese crafts and wares.
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Historic temple with tranquil gardens, unique sand sculptures, and panoramic views. Ideal for a peaceful stroll and reflection, especially along the nearby Philosopher's Path.
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*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.

What travellers are saying

  • Amouage1399
    Melbourne, Australia403 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Beautiful shrine lined with hundreds of Tori gates as you walk through to the top. Lots of huts selling tea and souvenirs along the way. No fee is required. Takes about 40 minutes to hike to the top on well paved pathways.
    Written 10 December 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Amouage1399
    Melbourne, Australia403 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Fabulous temple in a beautiful lake . Very serene atmosphere and precinct. The pavilion is made up of gold . There is a fee to enter the premise. Not far from Kyoto station bus 205 takes you there.
    Written 10 December 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • CanuckJames
    Nishinomiya, Japan1,774 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    This place is a must-go when you are in Kyoto - no doubt about it. What everyone has already said about the beauty of this place is correct.

    It is one of the places that people recommend to see the Autumn colors. It was breathtaking.

    The cost of ¥500 to get inside and to be able to wander the back lot is well worth the price of admission.

    However, there were so many people crammed into this location that it was a major detraction from the beauty. Trying to take a photo WITHOUT other people in the photo is almost an impossibility. You are shoulder to shoulder from the bottom of the street to inside the temple property, winding up and down the path. You need to jostle and push your way to a remotely suitable place to take a photo.

    Full disclosure: we probably went on one of the busiest days of the year. It was the day that people said the Autumn colors would be at the brightest. It probably was.

    We want to go back to enjoy the temple without the overcrowded visitors.
    Written 11 December 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Dree L
    3 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    We went to Arashiyama for the first time. We started a trip from Osaka and came Kyoto but it was totally different atmospheres ! Arashiyama is clam, relaxing, and very Japanese modern vibes, which is what we expected to feel the most! Kyoto is a must try city in Japan.
    Written 8 December 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Ben W
    Langport, UK95 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    It’s a good balance of history, facts, a bit of silly fun (plastic ninja star throwing competition was surprisingly enjoyable and addictive), dressing up for photos and looking at some cool swords and armour (if you like that kind of thing).

    The basic experience lasts about 45 minutes which feels about right but that means the price makes it one of the more expensive things to do in Kyoto. It is worth it if you’re vaguely interested in samurai. It’s also good for kids

    We were with group of about 20 others too so it gets busy.

    The ‘dress up’ armour is foam rubber so if you really want a more authentic experience there’s a 9000yen upgrade to real historic armour that looks awesome, particularly if your wear black clothes that day.
    Written 19 November 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • HonestTel
    Leicester, UK264 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Very interesting to walk round. We saw lots of great restaurants and also tiny shops up narrow alleys.

    Gives a real taste of Japan.
    Written 26 November 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • selamawit s
    Addis Ababa, Ethiopia15 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    This place is absolutely breathtaking in its beauty and grandeur. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time exploring and appreciating the entire compound.
    Written 10 December 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • tvvvv2016
    Los Angeles, CA135 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Worth it once you get to the top, but it’s a long steep climb. I’m 75 years old and had I known how steep the trail was, I never would have done it.
    Monkey’s are cool and the scenery is amazing, but way too steep a climb for this senior.
    Written 3 December 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • 649001
    Springfield361 contributions