We noticed that you're using an unsupported browser. The TripAdvisor website may not display properly.
We support the following browsers: Windows: Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox. Mac: Safari.
Free Newsletter

Interested in Kyoto?

We'll send you updates with the latest deals, reviews and articles for Kyoto each week.

Things to Do in Kyoto


Flights: Cheap airfare to Kyoto (arriving in Osaka, Japan - All Airports)

Find the Best Things to Do

[ Popularity ] [ Alphabetically ]
TripAdvisor Traveler Rating: 4.5 of 5 stars
TripAdvisor Popularity Index: #1 of 216 attractions in Kyoto

This most-visited temple in Kyoto was built to honor Kannon, the goddess of mercy. It's beautiful hillside location offers spectacular views of the city and valley below.

Attraction type: Religious site; Town center/square/plaza; Lookout
Traveler Reviews:
Read all reviews »
TripAdvisor Traveler Rating: 4.5 of 5 stars
TripAdvisor Popularity Index: #2 of 216 attractions in Kyoto

One of Kyoto's most famous attractions, this temple was originally built in 1397 as a residence for shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu. The structure was completely covered in gold leaf, earning it the name Golden Pavilion.

Attraction type: Religious site
Traveler Reviews:
Read all reviews »
TripAdvisor Traveler Rating: 4.5 of 5 stars
TripAdvisor Popularity Index: #3 of 216 attractions in Kyoto

This world heritage site was the home of Tokugawa leyasu, one of the most powerful men in Japan. The castle was built as a residence and not for defense purposes. However, to protect the shogun from enemies, special creaky floorboards were installed to warn of anyone approaching.

Attraction type: Castle
Traveler Reviews:
Read all reviews »
TripAdvisor Traveler Rating: 4.5 of 5 stars
TripAdvisor Popularity Index: #4 of 216 attractions in Kyoto

Originally named Rengeoin Temple, this site has taken on the name of the great hall within which houses 1001 life-sized, wooden statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy.

Attraction type: Historic site; Religious site
Traveler Reviews:
Read all reviews »
TripAdvisor Traveler Rating: 4.5 of 5 stars
TripAdvisor Popularity Index: #5 of 216 attractions in Kyoto

Arashiyama is a small town on the Oi River. Its moon-crossing bridge, Togetsu-kyo, is a beautiful, much-beloved wooden structure. Arishiyama also has Tenryu-ji temple, one of the 14 World Heritage Sites in Kyoto.

Attraction type: Other; Landmark/point of interest; Park
Traveler Reviews:
Read all reviews »
TripAdvisor Traveler Rating: 4.5 of 5 stars
TripAdvisor Popularity Index: #6 of 216 attractions in Kyoto
Attraction type: Religious site
Traveler Reviews:
Read all reviews »
TripAdvisor Traveler Rating: 4.5 of 5 stars
TripAdvisor Popularity Index: #7 of 216 attractions in Kyoto
Attraction type: Religious site
Traveler Reviews:
Read all reviews »
TripAdvisor Traveler Rating: 4.5 of 5 stars
TripAdvisor Popularity Index: #8 of 216 attractions in Kyoto

This beautiful home belonged to members of the Katsura family, one of the Imperial families of Japan. The home displays some very traditional Japanese architecture and landscape design.

Attraction type: Historic village; Garden
Traveler Reviews:
Read all reviews »
TripAdvisor Traveler Rating: 4.5 of 5 stars
TripAdvisor Popularity Index: #9 of 216 attractions in Kyoto

This shrine is one of many located throughout Japan that was built to honor Inari, the Shinto god of rice.

Attraction type: Historic site; Religious site
Traveler Reviews:
Read all reviews »
TripAdvisor Traveler Rating: 4.5 of 5 stars
TripAdvisor Popularity Index: #10 of 216 attractions in Kyoto
Attraction type: Religious site
Traveler Reviews:
Read all reviews »
TripAdvisor Traveler Rating: 4 of 5 stars
TripAdvisor Popularity Index: #11 of 216 attractions in Kyoto

This location was the home of the Imperial Family until 1868 when the formal residence was relocated to Tokyo. Free, guided tours are given daily but only to those who have made reservations in advance.

Attraction type: Historic home; Government building; Park
Traveler Reviews:
Read all reviews »
TripAdvisor Traveler Rating: 4.5 of 5 stars
TripAdvisor Popularity Index: #12 of 216 attractions in Kyoto

This Zen Buddhist temple was converted from a former residence of Emperor Kameyama upon his death. The beautiful grounds include several buildings, hiking trails and a classic Zen garden.

Attraction type: Religious site; Garden
Traveler Reviews:
Read all reviews »
TripAdvisor Traveler Rating: 4.5 of 5 stars
TripAdvisor Popularity Index: #13 of 216 attractions in Kyoto
Attraction type: Religious site
Traveler Reviews:
Read all reviews »
TripAdvisor Traveler Rating: 4.5 of 5 stars
TripAdvisor Popularity Index: #14 of 216 attractions in Kyoto
Attraction type: Spa; Onsen; Onsen resort
Traveler Reviews:
Read all reviews »
TripAdvisor Traveler Rating: 4.5 of 5 stars
TripAdvisor Popularity Index: #15 of 216 attractions in Kyoto
Attraction type: Religious site
Traveler Reviews:
Read all reviews »
TripAdvisor Traveler Rating: 4.5 of 5 stars
TripAdvisor Popularity Index: #16 of 216 attractions in Kyoto

The most famous neighborhood in Kyoto is also known as the Geisha district. It is here, among the teahouses and private clubs that you can catch a glimpse of a geisha in full dress including white makeup.

Attraction type: Neighborhood
Traveler Reviews:
Read all reviews »
TripAdvisor Traveler Rating: 4.5 of 5 stars
TripAdvisor Popularity Index: #17 of 216 attractions in Kyoto
Attraction type: Religious site
Traveler Reviews:
Read all reviews »
TripAdvisor Traveler Rating: 4.5 of 5 stars
TripAdvisor Popularity Index: #18 of 216 attractions in Kyoto
Attraction type: Religious site
Traveler Reviews:
Read all reviews »
TripAdvisor Traveler Rating: 4 of 5 stars
TripAdvisor Popularity Index: #19 of 216 attractions in Kyoto
Attraction type: Religious site
Traveler Reviews:
Read all reviews »
TripAdvisor Traveler Rating: 4.5 of 5 stars
TripAdvisor Popularity Index: #20 of 216 attractions in Kyoto
Attraction type: Religious site
Traveler Reviews:
Read all reviews »