Best Places to Visit in Kyoto (Top 6 Must-See Sights)
If you’re planning a trip to Japan, one question always comes up:
“What are the best places to visit in Kyoto?”
The truth is, Kyoto isn’t easy to summarise.
It’s a city where history and modern life blend seamlessly, offering a glimpse into Japan’s past through temples, shrines, and traditional districts.
To keep things simple, here are 6 must-visit places in Kyoto — all of which you can realistically cover in a day with good planning.
Visit this website for an English guide on how to purchase your one-day bus pass.
Getting Around Kyoto
Before you start:
I recommend getting a one-day bus pass
It’s affordable and covers most of the major attractions listed below.
Kinkaku-ji
Also known as the Golden Pavilion, this is Kyoto’s crown jewel.
Covered in gold leaf and reflected in a tranquil pond, it’s one of Japan’s most photographed locations.
Best visited on a sunny day for the full effect.
📍 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Address: 1 Kinkakujicho, Kita-ku, Kyoto 603-8361, Kyoto Prefecture
Fushimi Inari Taisha
One of the most iconic sights in Japan.
Famous for its thousands of red torii gates, forming a path up the mountain.
Tips:
- Go early in the morning to avoid crowds
- Allow 1–1.5 hours if you plan to hike
📍 Open 24 hours
Address: 68 Fukakusa Yabunouchicho, Fushimi-ku, Kyoto 612-0882 Kyoto Prefecture
Gion
Kyoto’s famous Geisha district.
Walking through Gion feels like stepping back in time:
- Traditional tea houses
- Wooden buildings
- Occasional sightings of geisha
Also home to great restaurants — including Kobe wagyu spots if you’re lucky.
Address: Kyoto 605-0074 Kyoto Prefecture
Nijō Castle
Once home to Tokugawa Ieyasu.
Famous for its:
- Detailed woodwork
- “Nightingale floors” that chirp when walked on (a security feature)
📍 8:45 AM – 4:00 PM
Address: 541 Nijo-jo-cho, Horikawa-nishi-iru, Nijo-jo-dori, Nakagyo-Ku, Kyoto 604-8301 Kyoto Prefecture
Kiyomizu-dera
A stunning temple built on a hillside overlooking Kyoto.
Offers:
- Panoramic city views
- Beautiful seasonal scenery
Best time to visit: Early morning
📍 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Address: 1-294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama-Ku, Kyoto 605-0862 Kyoto Prefecture
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Slightly further out, but absolutely worth it.
Highlights include:
- Bamboo forest walk
- Riverside views
- Traditional tea houses
A perfect place to slow down and relax after a busy day.
Suggested One-Day Kyoto Route
If you want to do this efficiently:
- Fushimi Inari (early morning)
- Kiyomizu-dera
- Gion (lunch + explore)
- Nijo Castle
- Kinkaku-ji
- Arashiyama (if time allows)
Final Thoughts
Kyoto is one of those places that you don’t just visit —
you experience it.
Even if you only have one day, these locations will give you:
- Culture
- History
- Natural beauty
And trust me — you’ll want to come back.
For more on life in Japan please check out some of my other posts and to stay updated on weekly posts please sign up to my weekly newsletter:
