Top 20 Popular Tourist Spots In Kyoto [Definitive Edition]

23 апрель 2025 г.

Kyoto Prefecture, a city where Japanese history and culture live on.

In the capital for a thousand years, you can enjoy temples, shrines, beautiful gardens, charming streets, and gourmet food.

We have carefully selected the must-see classic sightseeing spots for beginners and repeat visitors alike!

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1. Kiyomizu-dera Temple & Kiyomizuzaka

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One of Kyoto's most popular sightseeing spots.

Enjoy the spectacular view from the "Kiyomizu Stage" and eating your way through the approach to the shrine.

- Access: About 15 minutes by bus from Kyoto Station

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2. Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

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A photo spot with a spectacular view of the thousand torii gates.
The grounds are open 24 hours a day, so an early morning stroll is also recommended.

- Access: A short walk from JR Inari Station

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3. Kinkakuji Temple

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A beautiful temple shining in gold.
The reflection of the pond in the mirror is a spectacular sight in any season.

- Access: About 40 minutes by bus from Kyoto Station

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4. Arashiyama

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A popular area where nature and history blend together, with a bamboo forest path and Togetsukyo Bridge over the Katsura River.

- Access: Right next to Arashiyama Station

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5. Ginkakuji Temple

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Simple beauty that lets you feel the spirit of Zen.

We recommend combining this with a stroll along the Philosopher's Path.

- Access: About 35 minutes by bus from Kyoto Station

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6. Nijo Castle

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A World Heritage site built by Tokugawa Ieyasu.

Enjoy gorgeous sliding screen paintings and a vast garden.

- Access: A short walk from Nijojo-mae Station

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7. Byodoin Phoenix Hall

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A beautiful temple that is also famous for its design on the 10 yen coin.

An area where you can also enjoy Uji matcha sweets.

- Access: 10 minutes on foot from Uji Station

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8. Nanzenji Temple

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A photogenic spot with its majestic Sanmon Gate and brick-built Suirokaku.

- Access: 10 minutes on foot from Keage Station

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9. Kyoto Imperial Palace

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A historical spot with the palaces of past emperors remaining on a vast site.

Open to the public for free, so you can stroll around freely.

- Access: A short walk from Imadegawa Station

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10. Nintendo Museum

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An official museum long awaited by game fans.
You can enjoy Nintendo's history and worldview all at once, with displays of past game consoles and classic software, and interactive experiences.

- Access: 10 minutes on foot from JR Uji Station or Keihan Obaku Station

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11. Kifune Shrine

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A power spot famous for matchmaking and the god of water.

Kawadoko cuisine and autumn leaves are also popular.

- Access: 20 minutes by bus and walk from Kibuneguchi Station

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12. Shimogamo Shrine

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An ancient shrine registered as a World Heritage Site, surrounded by the Tadasu Forest, it has a mysterious atmosphere.

- Access: 10 minutes walk from Demachiyanagi Station

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13. Yasaka Shrine

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A symbol of Gion.

Known as a famous spot for cherry blossoms and autumn leaves, the night illumination is also fantastic.

- Access: 5 minutes walk from Gion-Shijo Station

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14. Tenryu-ji Temple

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A World Heritage temple in the Arashiyama area.
The view from the Sogenchi Garden is spectacular no matter the season.

- Access: A short walk from Arashiyama Station on the Randen Line

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15. Shijo Kawaramachi Area

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Kyoto's premier downtown area, with shopping, gourmet food, cafes, and art all in one place.
Nishiki Market and the Gion area are within walking distance, making this a central location worth visiting during your stay.

Access: Right next to Hankyu Kyoto Kawaramachi Station or Keihan Gion-Shijo Station

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