Asia-Pacific

Kyoto

Welcome to Kyoto, where over a thousand years of Japanese history and culture come alive in this former imperial capital. From stunning temples and shrines to traditional tea ceremonies, from beautiful gardens to geisha districts, this cultural treasure offers the perfect blend of tradition, spirituality, and Japanese heritage. Let our AI-powered planner help you discover the best experiences this incredible destination has to offer.

Kyoto

Why Visit Kyoto?

Over 1,600 Buddhist temples

400 Shinto shrines

Traditional Japanese culture

Beautiful seasonal gardens

UNESCO World Heritage sites

Perfect blend of history and spirituality

Getting Around

Excellent public transportation including buses and trains. Walking and cycling are perfect for exploring temples, and organized tours include transportation.

Prefer renting a car? See options here.

Must-See Attractions

  • Fushimi Inari Shrine - Famous red torii gates
  • Kinkaku-ji - Golden Pavilion
  • Arashiyama Bamboo Grove - Stunning bamboo forest
  • Gion District - Traditional geisha area
  • Kiyomizu-dera - Historic temple
  • Ryoan-ji - Famous rock garden

Best Time to Visit

Weather

Kyoto enjoys four distinct seasons. Spring (March-May) brings cherry blossoms, summer (June-August) is hot and humid, autumn (September-November) has beautiful fall colors, and winter (December-February) is cool.

Best Months

March to May and October to November offer the best weather and scenery.

Peak Season

March to May brings cherry blossom season with beautiful weather, larger crowds, and higher prices.

Off Season

June to August offers lower prices but hot, humid weather.

Popular Kyoto Tours & Activities

Discover the best tours and activities in Kyoto with our AI-powered recommendations

Tours are loading or no tours found at the moment.

Try browsing all tours to see what's available.

Browse All Tours & Activities

Top Restaurants in Kyoto

Reserve a table at our hand-picked local favorites and plan dinner around your tours in Kyoto.

SUI Fine Dining Restaurant

Japanese Restaurant · Restaurant · Food

Experience exceptional Japanese cuisine in Kyoto's Gion district. This highly-rated (4.9/5) restaurant offers an intimate dining experience. Reserve your table.

View Restaurant

Pound Sanjo-Kiyamachi

Japanese Restaurant · Restaurant · Food

Experience exceptional Japanese BBQ in Kyoto with a 4.9/5 rating. Savor expertly grilled meats and enjoy a fantastic atmosphere. Highly recommended for an unforgettable dining experience.

View Restaurant

MABRUR HALAL DINING Kyoto

Restaurant · Food

Experience exceptional Halal dining in Kyoto with a 4.9-star rating. Savor authentic flavors and enjoy fantastic service. Discover your next favorite meal.

View Restaurant

Kyoto Tempura Tententen Kyoto Station

Japanese Restaurant · Restaurant · Food

Experience authentic tempura in Kyoto! Enjoy a 4.9-star dining experience with delicious, perfectly fried dishes. Book your table today.

View Restaurant

Kyoto Tempura Ten no Meshi Gionhonten

Japanese Restaurant · Restaurant · Food

Experience exquisite tempura in Kyoto's Gion district. This highly-rated restaurant (4.9/5) offers a delightful dining experience. Reserve your table today.

View Restaurant

A5 Wagyu Sukiyaki Kyoto Panga | Kyoto Halal restaurant

Restaurant · Food

Experience Kyoto's finest A5 Wagyu Sukiyaki. Highly-rated (4.9 stars) halal dining with exceptional service. Book your table for an unforgettable meal.

View Restaurant

More Restaurants in Kyoto

View All

Discover 14 more curated dining experiences

Yakimeshi to Men Kyoto

Ramen Restaurant · Japanese Restaurant · Restaurant

Experience exceptional ramen and yakimeshi in Kyoto at Yakimeshi to Men Kyoto. This popular spot boasts a 4.8-star rating. Discover their delicious offerings.

1,300 reviews14-1 Ishibashichō

GYUKATSU Kyoto Katsugyu Teramachi Kyogoku

Japanese Restaurant · Restaurant · Food

Experience exceptional gyukatsu in Kyoto's Teramachi Kyogoku. This highly-rated Japanese restaurant offers a delicious dining experience. Discover why locals love it!

8,798 reviews529-2 Higashigawachō

Chuka-Soba Rantan

Ramen Restaurant · Japanese Restaurant · Restaurant

Savor exceptional ramen in Kyoto with a 4.8/5 rating at this popular spot. Discover rich broths and perfectly cooked noodles.

1,716 reviewsJapan

Kyoto Dining

Restaurant · Food

Experience exceptional Japanese cuisine in Kyoto. This highly-rated (4.8/5) restaurant offers a memorable dining experience. Reserve your table today.

202 reviews32 Kinugasa Goshonouchichō

GYUKATSU Kyoto Katsugyu Kyoto Ekimae

Japanese Restaurant · Restaurant · Food

Experience Kyoto's highly-rated Japanese cuisine at 4.7 stars. Discover delicious gyukatsu sets and efficient, friendly service. Perfect for a satisfying meal near Kyoto Station.

11,960 reviews211 Maoyachō

Nakashimaya

Japanese Restaurant · Restaurant · Food

Discover a traditional Kyoto dining experience with a 4.6-star rating. Savor outstanding Japanese cuisine in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Book your table today.

1,033 reviews115 Butsukōji Higashimachi

KYOTO ENGINE RAMEN

Ramen Restaurant · Japanese Restaurant · Restaurant

Discover exceptional ramen in Kyoto. This popular spot boasts a 4.5-star rating and a vibrant atmosphere. Experience delicious bowls, perfect for refueling after exploring the city.

3,506 reviews580-2 Nakanochō

Itoh Dining

Restaurant · Food

Experience exceptional fine dining in Kyoto at Itoh Dining. With a 4.5-star rating, savor exquisite multi-course meals. Reserve your table for an unforgettable culinary journey.

808 reviewsJapan

Katsukura Tonkatsu Sanjo Main Store

Japanese Restaurant · Restaurant · Food

Experience Kyoto's highly-rated 4.5-star tonkatsu. Savor tender pork and fresh accompaniments in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Discover a local favorite.

2,101 reviewsJapan

Plan Your Kyoto Trip

Transportation Tips

Excellent public transportation including buses and trains. Walking and cycling are perfect for exploring temples, and organized tours include transportation.

Car Rental Deals in Kyoto

Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.

Where to Stay

Find the perfect accommodation for your Kyoto adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.

Best Hotel Deals in Kyoto

Discover top-rated hotels with exclusive rates and special offers on Expedia USA.

Ready to Explore Kyoto?

Discover the best tours and activities in Kyoto with AI-powered recommendations tailored just for you.