Kyoto, the ancient capital of Japan, is a city where history and modernity blend in day to day life. Renowned for its stunning temples, traditional tea houses, and breathtaking seasonal beauty, Kyoto offers visitors an unforgettable journey through time. Kyoto is home to some of Japan’s most famous attractions, from the iconic golden pavilion of Kinkaku-ji to the serene bamboo groves of Arashiyama.
Kyoto was officially founded in 794 AD when Emperor Kanmu moved the capital from Nara to a new city called Heian-kyō (平安京), which means “Capital of Peace and Tranquility.” This marked the beginning of the Heian Period (794–1185) and established Kyoto as the imperial capital of Japan for over a thousand years, until the capital was moved to Tokyo in 1868 during the Meiji Restoration.
Today, Kyoto is one of the most iconic cities in Japan, attracting millions of tourists per year. With so many things to see and do, it’s not hard to see why Kyoto is one of the most visited cities in Japan.
What to do in Kyoto
Top Attractions
Iwatayama Monkey Park
See Japanese Macaque Monkey's in Kyoto City
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Instagram Famous Bamboo Grove
Kimono Forest
Scenic art installation in Arashiyama
Fushimi Inari Shrine
Iconic shrine with torii gate lined pathway
Hokan-ji
Scenic Temple in Kyoto's Higashiyama Gion District
Kinkaku-ji (Golden Temple)
Kyoto's Famous Golden Temple
Guided Tours & Experiences
Activites & Tickets
Accessing Kyoto
From Tokyo: Kyoto is about a 2 hours from Tokyo on the shinkansen (bullet train), costing 14,170 JPY one way. The Tokaido Shinkansen (excluding Nozumi and Mizuho trains) are covered by the JR Pass.
From Osaka: From Osaka, Kyoto is about a 30 minute train ride on the JR Thunderbird or HARUKA. Depending on the the service, the fare between Osaka and Kyoto can be as cheap as 580 JPY. The JR lines are also covered by the JR Pass.
Discover Japan like never before with the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass), your ticket to seamless travel across the Japan. Unlock the full potential of Japan’s extensive rail network, renowned for its punctuality, comfort, and convenience.
Discover Japan like never before with the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass), your ticket to seamless travel across the Japan. Unlock the full potential of Japan’s extensive rail network, renowned for its punctuality, comfort, and convenience. Read More…
Forget the hassle of purchasing individual tickets for every journey. The JR Pass offers exceptional value for money, available in flexible durations ranging from 7 to 21 days, allowing you to tailor your travel experience to suit your itinerary. Read More…
Where to Stay
Kyoto Tower Hotel
The Kyoto Tower Hotel is a centrally located hotel in the heart of Kyoto. Found below the Kyoto Tower, this central location is ideal.
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Hotel Granvia Kyoto
Located within Kyoto Station, the Hotel Granvia Kyoto is a stylish and modern hotel, with super convenient access to the train lines for easy exploring in Kyoto.
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Gion Elite Terrace
The Gion Elite Terrace is located in the cultural heart of Kyoto, being on a short walk from the Famous Yasaka shrine, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Hokan-ji, and some of the historic architecture of Kyoto.
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