Things to do in Kyoto

Kyoto is famous for its traditional Japanese architecture and beautiful natural surroundings. The city is home to some of Japan’s oldest temples and offers plenty of peaceful walking routes.

Kyoto isn’t just Japan’s cultural heart — it’s where geisha culture started, where temples are older than some countries, and where thousands of red torii gates create trails like nowhere else.

But when’s the best time to visit Kyoto? Timing can make all the difference — spring brings cherry blossoms framing Kiyomizu-dera, fall lights up temple gardens with fiery foliage, and winter brings magical festivals like Hanatouro. This month-by-month guide helps you plan around seasonal highlights and find the best time to visit according to the weather, crowd levels, and your budget. Are you ready to experience Kyoto’s traditions at their peak?

With its ancient temples, iconic shrines, and geisha culture, Kyoto draws travelers from all over the world — and it can get pretty packed. Fortunately, you don’t have to follow the crowds.

With this guide, discover how to swap packed landmarks for Kyoto’s hidden gems, like the Nishijin weaving district, have entire temples almost to yourself, and when to visit the city’s most popular attractions so that you miss the tour groups. Here’s how to avoid crowds in Kyoto.

Once the imperial capital of Japan, Kyoto showcases its cultural heritage through ancient shrines and centuries-old markets that intermingle with modern everyday life. Traveling to Kyoto alone means a unique chance to embrace these various aspects of the city on your own terms.