Top Things to do in Kyoto
Top Things to do in Kyoto…
If I had to pick, Kyoto is probably my number one for Japan. This city presents the Japanese culture through its rich history, beautiful sceneries, and amazing food. In this travel guide, I will share my favorite attractions, hotels, and restaurants that will hopefully allow you to experience Kyoto for what it really is!
If you are traveling from Tokyo to Kyoto, or vice versa, the high speed Tokaido Shinkansen or “bullet train” is your best option. The Nozomi trains take about 140 minutes to reach Kyoto from Tokyo, and the Hikari trains take about 160 minutes (remember if you have the JR Pass, take the Hikari line). If you are not purchasing a JR Pass, a one-way ticket between Tokyo/Kyoto is 13,320 yen (about $120) for a non-reserved seat and 14,000 yen for a reserved seat (about $128). Keep in mind, purchasing the JR Pass is about the same price as a roundtrip ticket to/from Kyoto and Tokyo.
TOP ATTRACTIONS
Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine
Sitting at the base of Mount Inari, this shrine spans across 4 kilometers up the 233 meter (764 ft) mountain in Kyoto. Each gate throughout the shrine has been donated by a Japanese business, named in black, in hopes of receiving good luck and fortune. Founded in 711, this shrine is one of the oldest and most historic throughout Kyoto. I highly recommend visiting early in the morning, right when it opens, to avoid the crowd. There are also many food vendors outside of the shrine with delicious street food so go hungry!
Kinkakuji Temple
Built in 1397, this temple is covered completely in gold leaf, giving it the nickname of “Golden Pavilion”. This temple sits in the middle of a pond and is surrounded by beautiful gardens full of smaller shrines and breathtaking views. There is an entrance fee which costs 400 yen ($3.68) for adults and 300 yen ($2.76) for children up to the age of 16 so come with some cash.
Kiyomizu-dera Temple
If you want an AMAZING view this is a must do!! Kiyomizu-dera Temple is a buddhist temple in eastern Kyoto and is part of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto UNESCO World Heritage site. The temple is surrounded by beautiful gardens and is easily accessible by public transportation. Again, this can get crowded as the day goes on so visit early in the morning for the best experience.
Monkey Park Iwatayama
Iwatayama Monkey Park is located in Arashiyama in Kyoto, Japan and is inhabited by a over 170 Japanese macaque monkeys. If you are wanting to interact with these monkeys, you are able to purchase food onsite to feed them. This is a great place to visit if you are looking to do something a little more adventurous.
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
If you have never seen a bamboo forest, I highly recommend visiting this one in western Kyoto. This forest is located near the entrance to the Tenryu-ji Temple so it is also easily accessible by public transportation. There is no entrance fee to visit the forest.
WHERE TO STAY
If you are looking for a more modern (and cheaper) capsule hotel, this is the place for you. It’s in a great location with free wifi and amazing amenities. This is a great budget friendly option as well.
Located right in the middle of the city center, Hotel Monterey Kyoto, is the top rated hotel in the area. If you are looking for more of a family hotel, rather than a capsule, definitely check this place out. The price varies depending on time of year so keep that in mind.
If you are looking for more of a cultural experience, I highly recommend Arashiyama BENKEI. This hotel is on the pricer side, and is out of the city center, but you can’t beat the breathtaking views and experiences.
Hostels
If you are a solo traveler, or just looking for a more budget friendly option, hostels are the way to go. Centurion Cabin & Spa, Comicap – Comics & Capsule Hotel, and Mosaic Hostel Kyoto are three of the best!
KYOTO’S BEST EATS
If you are on the hunt for some AMAZING food, Kyoto is the place to find it! Here are some of my favorite restaurants/street vendors in the city.
This little restaurant is called Gion Tanto and it’s located right in the city center. You are seated on the floor, and once you order, your food is served on the hot stove in front of you that acts as your table. There are only about 3 tables inside so it can get a little crowded.
I know what you’re thinking… and yes, those are french fries on my ice cream! I don’t think I need to tell you, but this is definitely a MUST in Kyoto. Their desserts will blow your mind! KARAFUNEYA COFFEE SHOP
Sweet potato heaven! The street food around Kyoto was probably some of the best throughout Japan. This sweet potato stand was located outside of the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove but there are also a TON of amazing ones outside of the Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine. Don’t be afraid to try something new!!
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