Choose from 51 Fun Things to Do in Kyoto
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Daitoku-ji Temple
A large walled temple complex, a visit to Daitoku-ji in northern Kyoto reveals ancient sub-temples and many traditional Zen gardens. The main Daitoku-ji temple sits on the eastern side of the grounds. This structure was built in 1319, although it was destroyed in a fire in the next century and rebuilt again in the 16th century. Also on the east side of the complex are the Butsuden Hall, Hatto Hall, Hojo Residence, and the famous Sanmon Gate featuring a statue of the tea-master, Sen no Rikyu.
There are many sub-temples within the complex, but only a few of these are open to the public on a regular basis, including Ryogen-in, Zuiho-in, Daisen-in, and Koto-in. Those particularly interested in Japanese gardens should not miss the beautiful Daisen-in rock gardens, which wrap around the temple building and date back to the beginning of the 16th century. Elsewhere, Koto-in was established in 1601 and features a garden considered to be a masterpiece in simplicity that is famous for its canopy of maple trees, which are particularly stunning in the fall.
There are a number ways to experience Kyoto’s ancient temples and traditional gardens, with various day trips from Osaka and Tokyo. One of the best ways to explore this side of Japan’s history and culture is on a Kyoto bike tour, where you can discover other religious shrines and temples in the area, such as Kinkakuji and the Kitano Tenmangu Temple.
Insider’s Tip: The Daitoku-ji temple complex is one of the best places in Japan to see such a variety of Zen gardens and to learn about Zen culture and architecture. Bear in mind though that Zen gardens are meant to be contemplated slowly, so a relaxed pace will mean you will appreciate the sub-temples and gardens in the complex more fully.
Practical Info
If not arriving as part of an organized tour, the best way to reach Daitoku-ji Temple is by taking the Karasuma subway line to Kitaoji Station. The complex is located around a 15-minute walk from here.
Address: 53 Murasakino Daitoku-ji-cho, Kyoto, Japan
Hours: Hours of sub-temples varies
Admission: Entry into sub-temples varies
From $ 91
Heian Shrine
No wonder this serene destination was once featured in "Lost in Translation" the Heian Shrine is easily one of Kyoto's most beautiful. Built in 1884 to mark the 1,100th anniversary of the city, and was dedicated to its first and last emporer's, it is an astounding two-thirds scale replica of the Imperial Palace of the Heian period, and is just as beautiful.
On a nice day, a tour through the stunning bridge and onto any one of its four majestic gardens will relax any weary traveler. Whether it is through the iris, filled pond of the Nishi Shin'en, writing a haiku next to one of the radiating weeping cherry trees of the Heian-style Minami Shin'en, or just taking a leisurely stroll through the magnificence of the stone pillars in the Naka Shin'en, your visit to the Shrine's gardens is a sight that will not be soon forgotten.
On a nice day, a tour through the stunning bridge and onto any one of its four majestic gardens will relax any weary traveler. Whether it is through the iris, filled pond of the Nishi Shin'en, writing a haiku next to one of the radiating weeping cherry trees of the Heian-style Minami Shin'en, or just taking a leisurely stroll through the magnificence of the stone pillars in the Naka Shin'en, your visit to the Shrine's gardens is a sight that will not be soon forgotten.
Practical Info
The Heian Shrine is quite easily reached through public transportation from Kyoto station, by taking either buses number 5 or 100. Another method is to travel via subway to the Shrine's nearest station, Higashiyama Station, on the Tozai Line, a mere 10 minutes away.
Address: Okazakinishi Tenno-cho, Kyoto, Japan
Hours: Open daily 8:30am - 5:30pm
Admission: Grounds: free; Garden: ¥600
From $ 27
Kamogawa River
Strolling along the Kamo River (also referred to as Kamogawa River) at night is a quintessential Kyoto experience. The fourth longest river in Kyoto spans from the northeastern most parts of the city southwest to the Katsuragawa River. The most popular section of the river runs through the famous geisha district of Gion. In warmer months, the river becomes a popular spot for picnics, walks, and people watching.
A walking path along the river’s edge gives way to stretches of parkland, perfect for enjoying an afternoon or evening. Restaurants situated above the river light up at night, illuminating the river below. There are five bridges that span the Kamo River. More adventurous travelers may enjoy finding each of them. Along with the Seine in Paris or the Tiber River in Italy, the Kamo River is a favorite spot among locals.
Practical Info
The most frequented spot on the Kamogawa River is in the Gion district of Tokyo. Shimbashi neighborhood is on the east bank, and Pontocho neighborhood is on the west bank. The most popular time to visit is at sunset.
Address: Kyoto, Japan
From $ 63
Gion Corner
Gion Corner is a convenient place for art lovers to visit while in Kyoto, as it brings seven traditional Japanese performing arts together under one roof. Attending one of its nightly performances is an ideal way to spend an evening in the heart of the Gion entertainment district while learning about traditional Japanese culture.
The Basics
Experience seven refined performing arts through short performances at Gion Corner: Kyo-mai dance performed by geisha, tea ceremony, flower arrangement, koto musical performance, Gagaku court music, Kyogen theater, and Bunraku puppet theater. These are performed together in a “digest,” a very easy way of experiencing these arts, which would take much longer to see individually. In addition to the performances, Gion Corner has a Maiko Gallery, where visitors can see videos of dances and examine the hairpieces worn by geisha and maiko.
Visitors enjoy Gion Corner on day or night trips around Kyoto, independently or with a group. Some evening walking tours include a stop at Gion Corner, as well as a traditional Japanese dinner and drinking experience.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Performances last 50 minutes.
- Gion Corner offers tourist season discounts to encourage foreign visitors to experience Japan’s traditional arts. Check out the website for current details.
- Gion Corner has its own app for visitors to learn more about traditional arts before their visit. It can be downloaded from the Gion Corner website.
How to Get There
It’s recommended to take public transport rather than drive to Gion Corner. It’s located in the geisha district of Gion, a popular area with tourists. It’s only a short walk from Gion, Gion-Shijo, and Kawaramachi stations.
When to Get There
From mid-March until the end of November, performances are held daily at 6pm and 7pm. From December until the second week of March, performances are only held Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings, as well as some public holidays. No performances are held on select public holidays, so check the schedule online before planning a visit.
Visit Maruyama Park
Kyoto’s large Maruyama Park is a short walk northeast of Gion Corner. The park is especially famous for its cherry blossoms in spring, but it’s a serene place to walk at any time of year. It’s full of shrines, trees, and water features. An ideal Kyoto itinerary includes a visit to the park in the late afternoon, an early dinner in Gion, and a cultural performance at Gion Corner.
Address: Yasaka Hall, Hanamikoji, Kyoto 605-0074, Japan
Admission: Varies
From $ 11
Jojakko-ji Temple
Jojakko-ji Temple is not an ordinary temple; it was built on the side of a mountain in the thick of a famous bamboo grove. Finding it feels like an adventure, and climbing to the top feels like a workout. The view of Kyoto from the top of Jojakko-ji Temple rewards the effort mightily.
Located in the idyllic Arashiyama district of Kyoto, Jojakko-ji Temple was built in the 1500s, and the journey to it is all uphill from its gate. Its steep staircase leads to multiple buildings, including a main hall and a pagoda that houses a Buddha. The sites along the way offer respites from the climb, and one of the most popular of these resting points is a mossy area with the bamboos directly overhead. The top of the pagoda offers an incredible view over the city, and this hidden gem of a temple is undoubtedly worth the train ride out to Arashiyama.
Practical Info
Admission to Jojakko-ji Temple is 400 yen ($4 USD). The temple can be reached by a 15-minute walk from the JR Kyoto Station on the JR Sagano Line. The best time to visit is in the autumn, when the foliage around the temple is at its peak color.
Address: 3 Saga Ogurayamaoguracho, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan
Admission: 400 yen ($4 USD)
From $ 81
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
Also called Genbaku Dome, this landmark was the only building left standing after the Enola Gay dropped an atom bomb on Hiroshima on Aug. 6, 1945, eventually killing 140,000 people. Genbaku is the Japanese word for 'atomic bomb.'
Originally built in 1910 as the Hiroshima Commercial Exhibition Hall, in 1933 it was renamed the Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall. The five-story building, its exterior faced with stone and plaster, was topped with a steel-framed, copper-clad dome. The bomb blast shattered much of its interior, but the majority of its frame, as well as its garden fountain, remain.
The area around the building was re-landscaped as a park between 1950 and 1964; when complete, it was formally opened to the public as a museum. Since 1952, an annual peace ceremony has been held here on August 6, and in 1996, it was declared a World Heritage site.
Originally built in 1910 as the Hiroshima Commercial Exhibition Hall, in 1933 it was renamed the Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall. The five-story building, its exterior faced with stone and plaster, was topped with a steel-framed, copper-clad dome. The bomb blast shattered much of its interior, but the majority of its frame, as well as its garden fountain, remain.
The area around the building was re-landscaped as a park between 1950 and 1964; when complete, it was formally opened to the public as a museum. Since 1952, an annual peace ceremony has been held here on August 6, and in 1996, it was declared a World Heritage site.
Practical Info
It costs 50 yen to enter the site, which is open from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. (until 7 p.m. in August and until 5 p.m. from December to February). From Hiroshima Station, take tram line 2 or 6 to Genbaku-Domu mae station. The ride takes 15 minutes and costs 150 yen.
Address: Japan
Hours: 8:30am - 6pm (until 7pm in Aug, until 5pm from Dec-Feb)
Admission: 50 yen
From $ 32
Chion-in
The classically curved eaves, ceremonial steps and oversized two-story gateway mark Chion-in Temple as something special, even in temple-filled Kyoto.
The main temple of the Jodo school of Buddhism, Chion-in is a very grand affair, focusing on the huge main hall and its image of the sect’s founder, Hōnen. Another building houses a renowned statue of the Buddha.
The beautiful temple gardens are a sight in their own right, threaded with stone paths, steps and Zen water gardens. The view from the Hojo Garden is particularly worth catching.
Practical Info
Chion-in is north of Maruyama Park in southeast Kyoto. Buses run to Chion-in from the city center, and the closest train station is a 10-minute walk away at Higashiyama.
Address: 400 Hayashi-shita-cho 3-chome, Kyoto 605-0062, Japan
Hours: Open daily Mar - Oct: 9am - 4:30pm; Nov - Feb: 9am -4pm. Not all buildings open to the public
Admission: ¥400
From $ 27
Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum
Just because it is a museum does not mean that the Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum is not functional. This operational sake brewery introduces visitors to the history and technical components of sake brewing. Located in the heart of an old sake brewing district, many of the buildings and breweries have been standing since the Edo era. Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum itself was founded in 1637, making it one of the region’s oldest breweries.
The charm of this Museum is its attention to detail. The brewery is in an old-fashioned, traditional sake house. Japanese songs about sake and sake brewing play throughout the museum. One of the main displays features over 6,000 brewing tools, considered by many to be cultural relics. Of course, the highlight of the tour is the sake tasting itself, where some of the area’s best is on display.
Practical Info
The Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum is located within a five-minute walk from Chushojima Station on the Keihan Subway Line. The museum is open from 9:30am to 4:30pm every day. It is closed on New Year holidays and for the O-Bon Festival in August. Admission fees are 300 yen ($3) for adults with discounts for children.
Address: 247 Minamihama-cho, Fushimi-ku, Kyoto 612-8660, Japan
Admission: 300 Yen
From $ 77
Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum
Kobe, particularly the Nada District, has long been a sake-brewing center of Japan, with the Hakutsuru brewery as a dominant presence. The Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum, operated by the Hakutsuru company, teaches visitors just about everything there is to know about sake, including the 2,000-year-plus history of the beverage, traditional sake-making methods, the modern brewing process and tasting hints for enjoying sake.
The museum occupies two floors of a former Hakutsuru brewery and features several live-size dioramas showing the steps in the traditional brewing process. At the end of a free self-guided tour (brochures are available in English), guests enjoy free samples of the sake from the new Hakutsuru brewery across the street in the museum shop.
Practical Info
The Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum is located a 5-minute walk from Hanshin Sumiyoshi Station and a 15-minute walk from JR Sumiyoshi Station. The last entry is at 4pm.
Address: 4-5-5 Sumiyoshi Minamimachi Higashinada Ward, Kobe, Japan
Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with the last entry at 4pm.
From $ 132
Kennin-Ji Temple
The oldest and one of the most important Zen temples in Kyoto, Kennin-Ji was founded in the year 1202 by a monk. Situated near the famous Geisha district of Gion, Kennin-ji attracts Buddhist monks on pilgrimage, as well as religious locals and tourists, and curious explorers.
The main hall is a bastion of solemnity. The architecture features rooftops that curve upwards toward the sky, as if in prayer. The original temple complex contained seven buildings, but fires throughout the centuries destroyed many. The temple was rebuilt in the mid-thirteenth century and again in the sixteenth century. Today three outstanding buildings remain: the Dharma Hall, the principal building; a tea house; and the Imperial Messenger Gate. Interestingly, the gate dates back to the 12th or 13th centuries, and today marks from stray arrows during battles can still be seen.
Kennin-ji boasts a stunning Zen garden. Like most Zen gardens, Kennin-ji's is defined by its simplicity and beauty. An aesthetically pleasing placement of rocks, trees, and grassy areas create a calming, peaceful atmosphere for strolling or simply sitting and thinking.
Practical Info
Like many temples in Kyoto, Kennin-ji's hours vary between seasons. The temple is typically open between 10 a.m. and 4:30 p.m, with slightly longer hours in March through October. The temple is closed from December 28-31. There is an admission fee of 500 yen ($5 USD) for adults, and there are discounts for students. The temple is a 10-minute walk from Gion Shijo Station on Kyoto's Keihan line.
Address: 584 Komatsu-cho, Kyoto, Japan
Hours: Daily 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Admission: 500 yen
From $ 41
Itsukushima Shrine
Itsukushima Shrine, a Shinto holy site on Miyajima Island in the Seto Island Sea near Hiroshima, has a history dating back to the sixth century, when the first shrines were likely erected on the island, believed to be the above of gods. The iconic red torii, or shrine gate, that appears to float on the surface of the water just of the shores, guards the UNESCO-listed shrine. At the time the shrine was built, commoners weren’t allowed to step foot on the island due to its holy status, so the gate and temple were constructed in the water to allow visitors to approach by boat.
The entire Itsukushima complex, which in its present form dates back to the twelfth century, comprises several buildings connected by boardwalks, including a prayer hall and a performance stage.
Practical Info
For the best views of the shrine and its torii, plan to visit Miyajima Island during high tide when they’re both surrounded by water instead of mud.
Address: 1-1 Miyajimacho Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima, Japan
From $ 41
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
Few will forget the fateful events of Aug. 6, 1945, when the United States dropped an atomic bomb on the city, effectively ending World War II and costing the lives of some 80,000 residents, and Hiroshima will forever be tied to its tragic past. Despite its losses, the overwhelming sentiment in Hiroshima is of peace and wandering around the poignant memorials and tributes is an emotional experience, made all the more powerful by the moving exhibitions at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum.
Both a fascinating insight into the pre-war city and a harrowing glimpse into the horrors of the bomb’s aftermath, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum is surely one of Japan’s most important museums and it’s compelling, if uncomfortable, viewing. Exhibitions chronicle the lives of Hiroshima residents during World War II and after the bombing, and depict the graphic reality of the bomb’s destruction, while simultaneously retaining a sense of hope for the future through the rebuilding of the city and the consequent efforts for international peace.
Practical Info
The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum is located next to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and is open daily from 8:30am-5pm in winter or 7pm in summer. Adult admission is 50 Yen.
Address: 1-2 Nakajimacho, Naka-ku, Hiroshima, Japan
Admission: 50 yen
From $ 91
Arashiyama Park
For classic Kyoto in a nutshell, head to Arashiyama Park. The perennially popular area is rich in temples and a riot of fall colors in November, with pink cherry blossoms in April.
The park area embraces several major sights, including Tenryu-ji Temple, founded in 1339. The main temple of the Rinzai school of Zen Buddhism, Tenryu-ji is a UNESCO World Heritage Site surrounded by tranquil Zen gardens and bamboo forest.
There are many other temples in Arashiyama, including the Gio-ji, Jojakko-ji and Daikaku-ji temples. Another highlight is walking across the Moon Crossing Bridge, with views over to Mt Arashiyama.
Practical Info
Arashiyama Park is north-west of central Kyoto, by the Oi River. Buses run to Arashiyama from the city center, and the closest train station is JR Saga Arashiyama.
Address: Arashiyama, Kyoto 616-8385, Japan
Hours: Open daily
Admission: Free
From $ 41
Horino Memorial Museum
The Horino Memorial Museum is about more than tasting sake. This traditional sake-brewing house in Kyoto honors the legacy of Machiya culture, a style of wooden townhouse best exemplified in Kyoto. The house formerly belonged to the Horino family, founders of the craft beer company Kinshi Masamune, but has since been converted into a museum that is open to visitors interested in learning about the history of Japanese architecture and sake brewing.
Visiting the Horino Memorial Museum provides a unique look into the art of brewing sake. The museum has an exhibit on sake brewing tools, and travelers are invited to taste three different kinds of Japanese sake, all made with water from a well on the premises. The well-water is still used today to make beer. and visitors get the chance to make their own label for a bottle of sake to take as a souvenir.
Practical Info
The Horino Memorial Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets cost 300 yen ($3 USD). The museum is within a 10-minute walk from the Karasuma Nijo stop by bus or a 10-minute walk from Marutamachi Station on Karasuma Line.
Address: 172 Kameyacho, Sakaimachidori Nijo-agaru, Kyoto, Japan
Hours: Tues-Sun 11am-5pm
Admission: 300 yen
From $ 55
Byodo-in Temple
If you think this classic furled-roof temple looks familiar, take a look at a 10-yen coin, and you’ll see why. One of Japan's most famous temples, and a World Heritage Site, the image of its 11th century Phoenix Hall graces the coin and the 10,000-yen note.
The reason why this Buddhist temple is so famous is because it is one of the few remaining examples of Heian-era architecture, a textbook example of Japanese perfection.
Take a tour to see the famous statue of Amida and 42 Bodhisattvas from the 11th century. The surrounding gardens are also justly famous, with tranquil water gardens reflecting the temple's surrounding pines.
Practical Info
Byōdō-in is in Uji, 18 km (11 mi) from central Kyoto on its southeastern outskirts. Take a tour to get here or ride the train to Keihan Uji Station (around a 40 minute trip).
Address: Uji-shi Uji renge, Kyoto 611-0021, Japan
Hours: Open daily 9am - 5pm (until 4pm in Winter)
Admission: ¥600; ¥500 more for admission to Phoenix Hall
From $ 81
Ginkaku-ji Temple (Silver Pavilion)
The Silver Pavilion temple in Kyoto’s eastern mountains has no silver on it at all. Legend has it that when Shogun – or military ruler – Ashikaga Yoshimasa built his retirement villa in 1482 on the grounds where Ginkaku-ji stands today, he grandly stated he wanted the entire pavilion covered with silver to imitate the Golden Pavilion (Kinkakuji), built by his grandfather. The villa was converted to a Buddhist temple after Yoshimasa’s death in 1490, and the shining nickname persists today.
The circular route around the Silver Pavilion begins in a dry sand garden, named the “Sea of Silver Sand,” where a cone-like representation of Mt. Fuji has been dubbed the “Moon Viewing Platform.” The grounds open up to a moss garden featuring ponds with islands and short bridges, streams, and a variety of foliage. The path snakes up a hill leading to a viewing point of the entire temple grounds and the city beyond. The path comes full circle with up-close views of the Silver Pavilion itself. Unlike some of Kyoto’s famous temples, none of the buildings at the Silver Pavilion can be viewed from the inside.
The circular route around the Silver Pavilion begins in a dry sand garden, named the “Sea of Silver Sand,” where a cone-like representation of Mt. Fuji has been dubbed the “Moon Viewing Platform.” The grounds open up to a moss garden featuring ponds with islands and short bridges, streams, and a variety of foliage. The path snakes up a hill leading to a viewing point of the entire temple grounds and the city beyond. The path comes full circle with up-close views of the Silver Pavilion itself. Unlike some of Kyoto’s famous temples, none of the buildings at the Silver Pavilion can be viewed from the inside.
Practical Info
City buses 5, 17, and 100 travel directly from Kyoto Station to Ginkaku-ji in about 35-40 minutes for 220 yen ($3USD) one way. Some pilgrims and visitors choose to walk along the Philosopher’s Path; the walk is 30-45 minutes from Nanzen-ji. The temple is open from 8:30am-5:00pm from March through November and 9:00am-4:30pm from December to February, and there are no closing days. The entrance fee is 500 yen ($5USD).
Address: 2 Ginkakujicho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan
Hours: 8:30am - 5pm Mar - Nov and 9am-4:30pm Dec - Feb
Admission: 500¥
From $ 588
Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji)
With its gleaming gold tiers reflected in the lake below and a backdrop of forests and twisted pines, the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji) is an enchanting sight. Dating back to the 14th century, the UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of Kyoto’s most popular attractions and among Japan’s most visited temples.
The Basics
You can’t enter the pavilion itself, but crowds come to admire its stunning architecture, enjoy views of the temple across the mirror pond, and stroll around the temple gardens.
Tours of Kyoto’s shrines and temples stop at the Golden Pavilion. A temple tour generally includes a visit to Fushimi Inari Shrine, Sagano Bamboo Forest, and Kyoto Cultural Forest. Alternatively, take the scenic route on a bike tour, visit with a professional photographer guide to maximize your chances of capturing postcard-worthy shots, or combine it with Kyoto attractions, such as Kyoto Imperial Palace and Nijo Castle. It’s also possible to visit on a day trip from Osaka or Nara, or as part of a multi-day Japan itinerary from Tokyo.
Things to Know Before You Go
- There is an admission fee to enter the temple grounds.
- Plan between 30 minutes and an hour to admire the temple, take photos, and explore the gardens.
- A traditional Japanese teahouse is in the temple grounds, and souvenir shops, food vendors, and restaurants are just outside the gates.
- The temple grounds and walkways are wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The Golden Pavilion, at the foot of Kinugasa Hill in northwest Kyoto, is a short taxi ride from downtown Kyoto. Bus 100 and 205 run there from Tokyo Station, and it’s a brief bus or taxi ride from the closest subway, Kitaoji Station (Karasuma Line).
When to Get There
The Golden Pavilion can get extremely crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. Get there before tour buses show up or before closing for the best chance of a crowd-free view. For the best photos, avoid the midday sun, visit in autumn for a colorful and interesting backdrop, or be there on one of the year’s coldest days to snap a shot of the snow-covered temple.
Golden Pavilion Architecture
The Golden Pavilion began as shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu’s 14th-century villa and transformed into a Zen Buddhist temple after his death. Numerous wars over the years have burned down and destroyed it, but the current temple, rebuilt in 1955, retains unique architectural details. Each floor showcases a different style: the Shinden-style first floor, the Bukke-style second floor, and the Chinese Zen hall-inspired top two floors.
Address: Kita-ku Kinkaku-ji-cho, Kyoto 603-8361, Japan
Admission: Varies
From $ 50
Fushimi Inari Shrine
One of Kyoto’s most sacred temples and among the oldest Shinto shrines in Japan, the Fushimi Inari Shrine is dedicated to Inari, the God of rice. The shrine’s five magnificent temples lie at the foot of the Inari mountain, and thousands of red torii gates (the Senbon torii) mark the forested trails to the top.
The Basics
While it’s easy to explore the shrine on a self-guided walking tour, a tour guide can help you learn more about the historic temples, the Senbon torii, and the shrine’s many fox statues. A full-day Kyoto tour typically includes a stop at Fushimi Inari, along with other highlights like the Kinkaku-Ji temple (Golden Temple), Kiyomizu Temple, Gekkeikan Sake Brewery, and the Gion Tanto geisha district. It’s also possible to visit Kyoto and its shrines on a day trip from Osaka or Nara, or as part of a multi-day Japan itinerary from Tokyo.
Things to Know Before You Go
- If you plan on hiking to the mountaintop, wear comfortable shoes and bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water.
- The shrine is free, but carry cash if you want to leave a donation, make a wish, or have your fortune told.
- Some parts of the shrine are wheelchair accessible, but the climb to the mountaintop is via several flights of steps.
How to Get There
The Fushimi Inari Shrine is located in south-eastern Kyoto, around 2 miles (3.5 kilometers) south of Kyoto Station. The closest subway station, just a few minutes’ walk, is Fushimi Inari Station on the JR Nara Line.
When to Get There
Fushimi Inari is hugely popular and can get very crowded, especially on weekends and during holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit on a weekday in the late evening or an early morning.
Hiking to Mt. Inari-san
The dramatic red walkway of Senbon torii, which leads to the 764-foot (233-meter) peak of Mt. Inari-san, is one of Kyoto’s most impressive walks. Although the total distance is only 3 miles (5 kilometers), the path is mostly uphill and has lots of steps, so leave yourself plenty of time—around two or three hours is enough for the round trip. It’s a scenic route, dotted with shrines, prayer stacks, and other monuments, but the biggest reward is the view from the top, which looks out over southern Kyoto.
Address: 68 Fukakusa Yabu-no-uchi-cho, Kyoto 612-0882, Japan
Admission: Free
From $ 54
Himeji Castle
If you only have time for one day trip from Kyoto or Osaka, make it Himeji Castle, renowned as Japan’s most beautiful historic citadel. Also known as White Heron Castle, the UNESCO-listed hilltop structure was built in 1580 and features a five-story central tower with surrounding moats, walls, and pagodas.
The Basics
Take an organized tour to learn about the Himeji Castle’s history and many nuances, such as the numerous openings in the defensive walls that were used for pouring boiling oil onto intruders. Many tours of the castle—available from both Osaka and Kyoto—also include a stop at Akashi Kaikyo Bridge. The castle grounds are flanked by the ponds and tea rooms of Koko-en Gardens, a welcome retreat for a stroll or lunchtime stop.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The castle is a must-see for history buffs and first-time visitors.
- Visit the site on a day trip from either Kyoto or Osaka.
- Slopes and steep, narrow stairs make the castle inaccessible to wheelchairs.
- Drone photography is not permitted.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.
How to Get There
Himeji is about 31 miles (50 kilometers) west of Kyoto. To get here, either take an organized tour or jump on a shinkansen bullet train (under an hour) or slower JR Tokaido train (a bit more than 90 minutes) to Himeji City. Himeji Station is a short walk from the castle along Otemae-dori Street.
When to Get There
Expect lines to enter the main keep during Kyoto’s high seasons, particularly the spring cherry blossom season, Golden Week, and the summer months. Tickets to the main keep are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, so it’s a good idea to show up first thing in the morning before the ticket office opens to buy your numbered tickets.
Other Attractions in Himeji
If you’re visiting Himeji independently, the region has a few other attractions worth checking out while you’re in the area. The beautiful, walled Kokoen Garden sits adjacent to Himeji Castle and makes a nice place for a stroll. Engyo-ji temple, located about 30 minutes outside Himeji City, was a filming location for the movie Last Samurai.
Address: 68 Honmachi, Himeji 670-0012, Japan
Hours: Open daily. Sept - May: 9am - 5pm; May - Aug: 9am - 6pm. Closed Dec 29 & 30
Admission: Adults: ¥800
From $ 172
Akashi Kaikyo Bridge
The Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, also known as the Pearl Bridge, spans the Akashi Strait from Kobe to Iwaya on Awaji Island. Since its completion in 1998, it has held the record of having the world’s longest central span in any suspension bridge, measuring 1.2 miles (1.9 kilometers). In total, the bridge extends 2.4 miles (3.9 kilometers).
Located at the foot of the Kobe side, the Bridge Exhibition Center displays information on the planning and construction of the bridge, as well as on other suspension bridges around the globe. An elevator at the base of the Kobe side takes visitors to the Maiko Marine Promenade, a pedestrian hallway beneath the main platform that offers views of the bridge’s interior.
Bridge World tours take visitors to the very top of one of the 984-foot (300-meter) towers, and when the weather is right, the views extend all the way to Osaka.
Practical Info
Access the Maiko Marine Promenade and Bridge Exhibition Center by taking the JR Sanyo Line to Maiko Station or the Sanyo Railway main line to Maiko-Koen Station.
Address: Japan
Hours: Daily
From $ 154