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  1. Japan 🎫
  2. Kyoto

Discover Kyoto

About Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto is a city located in the Kansai region of Japan's Honshu island and serves as the capital of Kyoto Prefecture. With a population exceeding 1.4 million, it is renowned for its historical significance as Japan's imperial capital for over a millennium. As a travel destination, Kyoto offers a rich tapestry of ancient temples, traditional wooden houses, and classical gardens, providing visitors with an immersive cultural experience.

Main Points of Interest in Kyoto
  • Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion): A Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf, surrounded by beautiful gardens and a tranquil pond.
  • Fushimi Inari Taisha: Famous for its thousands of red torii gates leading up Mount Inari.
  • Kiyomizu-dera: A historic temple known for its wooden stage offering panoramic views of Kyoto.
  • Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: A scenic forest path lined with towering bamboo stalks.
  • Gion District: Traditional geisha area with preserved wooden machiya houses.
Climate and Best Times to Visit Kyoto

Kyoto experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. The best times to visit are in spring (March to May) and autumn (October to November), when temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F) and the city is adorned with cherry blossoms or vibrant fall foliage. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters are cold with occasional snow.

Budget and Travel Costs in Kyoto

Kyoto offers a range of options for various budgets. Prices are estimates (approx. 110 JPY to 1 USD).

  • Accommodation:
    • Hostel Dorm Bed: $20 - $40 USD (2,200 - 4,400 JPY) per night.
    • Mid-range Hotel: $80 - $150 USD (8,800 - 16,500 JPY) per night.
  • Food & Drink:
    • Casual Ramen Meal: $8 - $12 USD (880 - 1,320 JPY).
    • Traditional Kaiseki Dinner: $100+ USD (11,000+ JPY).
  • Activities:
    • Entrance to Temples: $3 - $6 USD (330 - 660 JPY) per site.
    • Kimono Rental: $30 - $50 USD (3,300 - 5,500 JPY) per day.
Transportation To and From Kyoto

Kyoto is a central transport hub, easily accessible by various modes of transport:

  • Airports: Osaka's Kansai International Airport (KIX) and Itami Airport (ITM) are the nearest major airports.
  • Rail: The Tokaido Shinkansen connects Kyoto Station with Tokyo and Osaka, offering efficient travel.
  • Local Transport: Visitors can utilize buses, taxis, and bicycles for convenient travel within the city.

Kyoto Train Operators

OperatorDestinationsOffersMin PriceRating
5
136
$14.27
  4.6

Bus from Kyoto

DestinationOperatorsOffersFirst DepartureLast DepartureDurationMin PriceRating
1
80
12:10
23:59
7h55m
$13.56
  5.0
1
2
23:18
23:33
9h5m
$45.02
  4.3
2
4
09:15
22:30
2h28m
$10.07
  4.9
3
4
08:30
23:30
4h42m
$25.01
  5.0
1
3
09:50
16:45
3h56m
$40.65
  4.6
2
3
20:20
20:30
10h50m
$50.03
  4.0
4
6
22:40
23:55
6h50m
$36.33
1
2
17:10
18:30
2h54m
$27.20
1
1
08:10
08:10
2h35m
$17.51
  5.0

Train from Kyoto

DestinationOperatorsOffersFirst DepartureLast DepartureDurationMin PriceRating
2
44
05:45
20:30
1h15m
$13.32
  4.7
1
15
06:59
21:23
2h15m
$39.36
  4.4
2
775
06:14
21:44
2h19m
$87.68
  4.6
1
90
07:00
22:00
0h40m
$11.51
  5.0
1
224
06:00
23:42
0h35m
$7.87
  4.5
1
52
08:17
21:16
1h39m
$70.89
  5.0
1
4
08:31
08:34
3h41m
$65.76
3
820
06:14
22:46
0h38m
$29.67
1
9
06:00
19:00
0h40m
$16.96
2
46
06:00
19:00
1h30m
$16.96
  5.0
1
54
08:17
21:16
2h45m
$101.37
1
92
07:53
19:52
1h1m
$47.00
3
117
06:35
21:23
0h59m
$16.96
  5.0
1
8
07:24
19:51
3h20m
$45.42

Bus to Kyoto

DestinationOperatorsOffersFirst DepartureLast DepartureDurationMin PriceRating
1
79
08:40
23:55
7h55m
$23.62
  5.0
1
2
20:32
20:32
9h25m
$45.02
  4.3
1
2
08:10
10:10
2h30m
$11.51
  4.4
1
3
08:00
13:40
4h15m
$43.77
  4.7
3
4
07:20
22:55
5h6m
$24.33
  4.5
2
3
21:15
23:15
10h45m
$37.52
2
12
09:50
23:30
7h2m
$25.43
2
2
20:20
23:56
7h32m
$46.71
1
37
09:00
21:40
1h35m
$18.43
2
3
22:01
23:00
7h27m
$47.52

Train to Kyoto

DestinationOperatorsOffersFirst DepartureLast DepartureDurationMin PriceRating
2
797
06:00
21:30
2h18m
$87.68
  4.5
2
39
06:00
22:16
1h22m
$13.32
  4.6
1
13
06:45
20:47
2h24m
$39.36
  4.3
1
208
06:00
22:00
1h30m
$7.87
  5.0
1
96
07:00
22:00
0h40m
$11.51
  4.0
1
44
06:54
19:46
1h39m
$70.89
  4.0
3
843
06:20
23:07
0h38m
$29.67
  5.0
1
47
07:01
18:58
2h29m
$94.92
1
2
15:34
15:34
3h43m
$65.76
  4.0
1
115
06:13
21:37
2h6m
$87.68
3
113
06:00
22:05
1h4m
$16.96
1
7
07:33
19:21
3h20m
$45.42
2
48
06:35
19:35
1h22m
$16.96
1
139
06:24
21:49
1h55m
$83.27

Popular Questions

What are the special days in Kyoto?

Kyoto hosts a variety of traditional festivals and events throughout the year that offer insight into its rich cultural heritage.

Gion Matsuri: Held every July, this is one of Japan's most famous festivals. It features grand processions with elaborate floats and various events over the entire month.

Aoi Matsuri: Taking place on May 15, this ancient festival involves a historical parade from the Kyoto Imperial Palace to the Kamo Shrines, with participants dressed in traditional Heian period clothing.

Jidai Matsuri: Celebrated on October 22, this festival commemorates the founding of Kyoto with a procession showcasing costumes from various eras of Japanese history.

Hanami: During cherry blossom season, usually in early April, locals and tourists gather in parks like Maruyama and Kyoto Imperial Park to enjoy the blooming sakura.

Obon: In mid-August, Kyoto observes this Buddhist event with the Gozan no Okuribi, where giant bonfires are lit on the mountains surrounding the city.

These events provide opportunities to experience Kyoto's historical and cultural traditions firsthand.

How can I be safe in Kyoto?

Kyoto is generally a safe city, but it's wise to take standard precautions.

Transportation and Navigation: Use well-lit streets and popular routes when walking at night. Public transportation, including buses and trains, is reliable and secure. Taxis are safe, with fares starting around 600 JPY ($4).

Personal Belongings: Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas like markets or tourist sites. Petty theft is rare, but it's best to remain vigilant.

Cultural Etiquette: Respect local customs, such as removing shoes when entering homes or certain traditional accommodations. Being polite and respectful will help you avoid misunderstandings.

Emergency Services: In case of emergencies, dial 110 for police or 119 for fire and ambulance services. English-speaking operators are available.

Water Safety: Tap water in Kyoto is safe to drink. If visiting nearby lakes or rivers, check local advisories for swimming conditions.

By observing these guidelines, you can enjoy a safe and pleasant stay in Kyoto.

What do you wear to a night out in Kyoto?

For a night out in Kyoto, attire can vary based on the venue and season. In general, smart casual is appropriate for most occasions. Men might choose trousers or dark jeans with a button-down shirt, while women could opt for a dress or a nice blouse with a skirt or pants. When visiting upscale restaurants or traditional kaiseki dining establishments, consider wearing slightly more formal attire.

Seasonal Considerations:

  • During the summer, lightweight fabrics are advisable due to the humidity.
  • In winter, layers are essential as temperatures can drop significantly.

Footwear:
Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially if planning to walk around in areas with cobblestones like Gion. However, for more formal dining, dress shoes are suitable.

Cultural Respect:
Avoid overly revealing clothing, as this may be considered disrespectful in some traditional settings. Always be mindful of the dress code if visiting places like temples or shrines in the evening, even if just for a stroll.

Can you drink the tap water in Kyoto?

Tap water in Kyoto is generally safe to drink, as it meets high-quality standards set by local authorities. However, some visitors may prefer the taste and convenience of bottled water, which is widely available throughout the city.

For those interested in swimming, Kyoto is not directly by the sea, but nearby Lake Biwa is a popular spot. The water quality is monitored and usually considered safe for swimming, especially in designated areas.

What part of Kyoto is best to stay in?

Kyoto offers several great areas for accommodation, each with its own appeal.

Central Kyoto (Downtown and Kawaramachi): This area is ideal for those who want easy access to shopping, dining, and public transportation. It’s a convenient base for exploring the city, with many hotels and ryokan (traditional inns).

Gion and Higashiyama: Known for its historic charm, staying in Gion allows you to experience traditional Kyoto with its teahouses and geisha culture. Higashiyama offers proximity to famous temples like Kiyomizu-dera. Accommodations here range from luxurious ryokan to budget hostels.

Arashiyama: Located on the western outskirts, Arashiyama is perfect for those seeking a more tranquil setting. It's known for the Bamboo Grove and scenic views, with a few boutique hotels available.

Kyoto Station Area: Convenient for travelers using the Shinkansen, this area offers modern hotels and easy access to transportation, making it suitable for those planning day trips outside the city.

Each area provides a different experience, so your choice depends on personal preferences and travel plans.