Kyoto served as Japan’s capital for over a thousand years, beginning in the Heian Period (since around 794 AD), and you can still feel the legacy of that long history today. There are countless historic temples, shrines, and traditional streetscapes, making it a favorite destination for both domestic and international travelers.

Kyoto is also famous for its stunning seasonal scenery. There’s cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, colorful foliage in fall, and snowy landscapes in winter. And if you head up north, you’ll find Amanohashidate, one of Japan’s three most scenic views.


Kyoto is also known for its traditional craftsmanship and cultural experiences, not to mention its food culture, which includes Kyoto cuisine, obanzai, and matcha sweets.

In spring, you’ll want to see the bamboo groves of Arashiyama and the cherry blossoms at Kiyomizu-dera. Summer visitors can enjoy a stroll along the Kamo River or partake in the famous Gion Festival. Autumn brings unforgettable scenes of colorful leaves around Tofuku-ji, Kiyomizu-dera, and Kibune. And if the weather cooperates in winter, you may be lucky enough to see Kinkaku-ji or Ginkaku-ji dusted with snow. Year-round attractions include the thousands of torii gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine, the Kyoto Imperial Palace, and Nijo Castle.

Kyoto is packed with places that immerse you in Japan’s history and culture. Famous landmarks like Kiyomizu-dera, Kinkaku-ji, and Ginkaku-ji are registered UNESCO World Heritage Sites that attract countless visitors from all over, and in traditional districts like Gion and Pontocho, you may even catch a glimpse of a maiko or geiko passing by. Arashiyama is another favorite spot, known for stalls and strolls. You can also try hands-on experiences like traditional crafts or wearing kimono.

For a relaxing break, head to Arashiyama Onsen! It’s easy to reach from central Kyoto. Or if you prefer a more secluded spot surrounded by nature, make a trip to Yunohana Onsen.

Kyoto’s culinary scene is as diverse as it is delicious. Kyo-ryori (Kyoto cuisine) is known for delicate flavors that bring out the natural taste of the ingredients, such as tofu, yuba (tofu skins), and seasonal vegetables. Other local favorites include home-style obanzai, hamo (pike conger), and saba sushi (mackerel).

As for sweets, Kyoto also offers an endless array of tasty treats like matcha desserts from Uji, warabi mochi, and yatsuhashi. There’s something for every sweet tooth!

To Kyoto City
From Tokyo, take the Tokaido Shinkansen Nozomi train for a direct trip (approx. 2.5 hours). You can also take the Hikari or Kodama trains, but be aware that the ride will be slightly longer. You can book Shinkansen tickets to Kyoto here.

To Uji / Fushimi
From Kyoto Station, take the JR Nara Line to Uji Station (approx. 30 min).
Uji is famous for sites like Byodoin Temple and the Uji River, as well as its culture of matcha. For Fushimi Inari Shrine, take the Keihan Line. It’s just a 5-minute ride from Kyoto Station.

To Arashiyama / Sagano
From Kyoto Station, take the JR Sagano Line to Saga-Arashiyama Station (approx. 20 min). You can also use the Hankyu Line.
This scenic area is home to beautiful nature all year round, with attractions like the Bamboo Groves and Togetsukyo Bridge.

From Osaka, take the JR Kyoto Line (Special Rapid) to reach central Kyoto in about 30 minutes. From there, the Hankyu Kyoto Line, Kintetsu Kyoto Line, and JR Sagano Line will get you to other parts of Kyoto Prefecture.

For specific routes and train schedules, check our convenient LIVE JAPAN Route Search!

There are also various passes that offer great travel deals when using the JR. Be sure to check out the options that best suit your own schedule.

Spring in Kyoto is relatively mild, with average temperatures around 8°C (46°F) in March, rising to about 20°C (68°F) by May. You’ll usually be fine during the day with a light jacket or cardigan, but mornings and evenings can get chilly, so it's a good idea to have a light coat or scarf on you just in case.

Kyoto summers tend to get quite hot, with average temperatures reaching around 27–28°C (81–82°F). It’s not uncommon for daytime highs to exceed 30°C (86°F), and the humidity is intense, so heatstroke prevention is key. Wear light clothing and remember to stay hydrated. And if you're looking to escape the summer heat without leaving Kyoto, Kibune is a great choice!

Autumn in Kyoto brings more comfortable weather, with average temperatures around 24°C (75°F) in September. And while the humidity can still make it feel muggy at times, by November, temperatures cool to about 12°C (54°F).

Winters in Kyoto are fairly cold, with average temperatures ranging from 4–7°C. You’ll definitely want to wear a warm coat or down jacket, along with gloves and a scarf. In northern areas like Maizuru, snowfall is common, and since temperatures drop even further at night, it’s important to bundle up. But keep in mind that many indoor places are well-heated, so we recommend wearing layers to make it easier to adjust as needed.

The Kyoto City area is one of the most popular destinations for tourists, packed with historical sites and cultural attractions. Right in the heart of Kyoto, you’ll find must-see sites like Kiyomizu-dera, Kinkaku-ji, and Gion. Other highlights like Arashiyama, Nijo Castle, and the Kyoto Imperial Palace also offer stunning seasonal scenery. We recommend using the buses and subway when exploring this part of the city.

Kiyomizu-dera, situated on the slopes of Otowa Mountain, is one of Kyoto’s most iconic temples. The view from its main hall (a designated National Treasure) is breathtaking, especially during spring sakura season and fall foliage season, when large crowds of visitors tend to flock in.

Kinkaku-ji (officially named Rokuon-ji), is famous for its three-story pavilion, covered in gold leaf. Its shimmering reflection in the mirror-like pond is one of Kyoto’s most unforgettable sights and an absolute must-see you won’t want to skip!

Gion is Kyoto’s most famous geisha district, known for its traditional charm and the sight of maiko and geiko walking the streets. With landmarks like Yasaka Shrine and Hanamikoji Street, it’s the perfect place for a leisurely, atmospheric stroll.

Arashiyama is a scenic spot known for its natural beauty. The Bamboo Grove and Togetsukyo Bridge are especially famous, with plenty of activities to enjoy like boat rides down the Hozu River and scenic rides on the Sagano Romantic Train.

Step into the world of samurai and ninjas at Toei Kyoto Studio Park, a theme park where you can explore authentic Edo-period film sets and see live jidaigeki (period drama) productions. Visitors can immerse themselves in attractions like the Ninja Mystery House, the 3D Maze Ninja Fort, and the Evangelion Kyoto Base, or transform into a geisha, samurai, or ninja with professional costumes and makeup for a truly cinematic experience.

Built by Tokugawa Ieyasu, Nijo Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has been designated a National Treasure for its historically significant palace buildings. Visitors can tour the lavishly adorned Ninomaru Palace and its expansive gardens.

The Kyoto Imperial Palace was once the residence of the emperor, its vast grounds dotted with traditional buildings and beautiful gardens. Open to the public, visitors can even take a tour of the inside.

Located in southern Kyoto, the Uji and Fushimi area offers a balance of natural beauty and historical landmarks. Notable attractions include Byodoin Temple, Fushimi Inari Taisha, and the Uji River. There’s also the Nintendo Museum, another visitor favorite! In these areas you can enjoy local specialties like Uji matcha and tour the sake breweries in Fushimi. Areas are easily accessible via the JR Line or Keihan Railway.

Byodoin Temple dates back to the Heian Period and is best known for its Phoenix Hall, pictured on the 10-yen coin. It’s also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Fushimi Inari Taisha is the head shrine of over 30,000 Inari shrines across Japan. It's most famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, which exude a mysterious, spiritual atmosphere as you walk the paths underneath them.

The Uji River, which runs through Uji City, is surrounded by beautiful scenery. Tea houses and sightseeing boats line the river, offering a relaxing way to enjoy the area while sipping famous Uji matcha.

Fushimi has long been a center of sake production, home to many breweries. Several of them offer tours and tastings, making it a great place to experience the appeal of Japanese sake for yourself.

This mountainous area in northern Kyoto is rich in natural beauty and tranquility, home to cultural and spiritual sites like Kurama-dera, Kifune Shrine, and Sanzen-in Temple. With its quiet surroundings, it’s the ideal place to relax and recharge. The area is accessible by the Eizan Railway or by bus.

Kurama-dera sits on Mount Kurama and is known for its legends of mythical creatures called Tengu. The approach from the temple gate to the main hall is surrounded by forest, making it a nice, scenic walk.

Kifune Shrine is dedicated to a water deity who is also revered as a god of matchmaking. Seasonal attractions include dining on the kawadoko (platforms over the river), and a walk along the beautifully illuminated approach.

Located in Ohara, Sanzen-in Temple is known for its exquisite gardens, steeped in serenity for the perfect, peaceful stroll.

The Tango and Maizuru areas lie along the Sea of Japan in northern Kyoto, and is home to scenic spots like Amanohashidate, Maizuru Bay, and the boathouse-lined coast of Ine. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood while taking in the natural beauty and historical sites. The area is accessible by the JR Line and by bus.

Amanohashidate is one of Japan’s top three scenic spots, known for its natural sandbar that stretches across the bay like a bridge to the heavens. Activities include a ride on a cable car or sightseeing boat.

Maizuru Bay offers stunning coastal scenery and port town charm, with notable sites like Maizuru Brick Park and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Memorial Hall.

Tucked along the scenic coast of northern Kyoto, Ine is a picturesque fishing village known for its unique “funaya” boat houses that sit right on the water. With its tranquil bay views and timeless charm, it’s a perfect escape for travelers seeking a quiet slice of traditional Japan.

Yudofu
Yudofu is one of Kyoto’s signature dishes. In fact, you’ll find lots of well-known restaurants specializing in this hot tofu dish right around Nanzen-ji Temple. Simmered in kelp-based broth, this delicious tofu is silky and melt-in-your-mouth soft.

Kyo-kaiseki Cuisine
Kyo-kaiseki is a traditional multi-course cuisine from Kyoto. It features beautifully plated seasonal ingredients in elegant dishware, offering a refined dining experience for both the eyes and the palate.

Matcha Sweets
Kyoto is famous for matcha sweets, often made with high-quality Uji matcha and loved for their rich flavor and refined sweetness. The matcha parfaits and ice cream from Tsujirihei Honten and Nakamura Tokichi Honten are especially popular with locals and tourists alike.

Nishin Soba
Nishin soba is a traditional Kyoto soba dish featuring buckwheat noodles, and topped with sweet and savory simmered nishin (herring). It’s known for its rich, flavorful broth, making it an especially comforting dish during the colder months.

Obanzai
Obanzai is a style of home cooking from Kyoto, known for its simple yet nourishing dishes of seasonal vegetables and tofu. Served in an assortment of colorful small bowls, obanzai is appreciated as a healthy, well-balanced meal.

Yatsuhashi
Yatsuhashi is one of Kyoto’s most iconic traditional sweets. Varieties include nama-yatsuhashi, made with cinnamon-flavored dough wrapped around sweet red bean paste, and yaki-yatsuhashi, which are baked to a crunchy texture. The soft, chewy nama-yatsuhashi is especially known for its delicate sweetness, making it a favorite Kyoto souvenir.

Kyo Baum
Kyo Baum is a Kyoto-style baumkuchen cake made with layers of matcha and soy milk. It has a moist texture and rich flavor, offering a modern twist on Kyoto tradition. Its stylish packaging also makes it a great gift!

Chirimen Sansho
Chirimen sansho is a preserved, Kyoto-style simmered dish made with tiny dried fish (chirimen jako) and Japanese peppercorns (sansho). It goes great with rice and has a uniquely Kyoto flavor. And with a rather long shelf life, it also makes a great souvenir!

Kyoto Tsukemono
Kyoto tsukemono (pickled foods) are made with traditional methods passed down for generations, with different varieties available throughout the year. Popular ones include senmaizuke, shibazuke, and sugukizuke, each with their own distinct Kyoto taste. They're also a great gift for your health-conscious friends and family!

Kiyomizu Wares
Kiyomizu wares are a traditional form of Kyoto pottery, known for its delicate craftsmanship and hand-painted designs. Teacups, bowls, and vases are not only practical but also make thoughtful gifts that reflect Kyoto’s history and artistry, with every piece holding the warmth of handmade tradition.

Kyoto is home to an abundance of attractions, no matter the season! So if you're planning your trip, all you need to do is check which events and seasonal activities are happening during your visit, and have fun!

(Information in article as of April 2025. Please see official sites for the latest updates and information.)