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Vacation rentals in Kyoto

Find and book unique accommodations on Airbnb

Quick stats about vacation rentals in Kyoto

  • Total vacation rentals

    Explore 6,220 vacation rentals in Kyoto

  • Verified guest reviews

    Over 547,270 verified reviews to help you choose

  • Family-friendly vacation rentals

    2,650 properties offer extra space & kid-friendly amenities

  • Pet-friendly vacation rentals

    Find 210 rentals that welcome pets

  • Vacation rentals with a pool

    10 properties feature pools

  • Rentals with dedicated workspaces

    2,220 properties have a dedicated workspace

  • Wi-Fi availability

    5,950 of Kyoto vacation rentals include wi-fi access

  • Popular amenities for guests

    Guests love Monthly stays, Self check-in, and Gym across Kyoto rentals

  • 4.8 Average rating

    Kyoto stays are highly rated by guests—averaging 4.8 out of 5!

  • Nearby attractions

    Kyoto's top spots, include Fushimi Inari-taisha, Nishiki Market, and Yasaka Shrine

Top-rated vacation rentals in Kyoto

Guests agree: these stays are highly rated for location, cleanliness, and more.

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Top guest favorite
A serene room features a comfortable sofa positioned beside a large glass window, offering a view of a tranquil garden with stepping stones and greenery. A small round table is adorned with two glasses of wine and a decorative plant, enhancing the relaxing atmosphere.
Townhouse in Shimogyo-ku

[Kyomachiya Rental] 115-year-old Kyomachiya · Takasegawa Shichijo

The private rental accommodation "Takasegawa Shichijo" is a fully renovated 115-year-old Machiya Townhouse. The Machiya Townhouse, which forms part of the beautiful scenery of Kyoto, has been remodeled into a building with high airtightness and thermal insulation performance while retaining its original structure, so that you can have a comfortable stay even in the humid and hot summers and harshly cold winters that are unique to Kyoto. From the Japanese-style room on the first floor, you can see the tsubo garden, which is designed in the image of a "roji" (*a garden leading to a tea room). In addition, we have provided a sofa in the hallway so that you can relax and enjoy the view of the tsubo garden. In the evening, you can spend a relaxing time while looking at the illuminated tsubo garden. There are 2 bedrooms on the 2nd floor: a Japanese-style room with 2 single beds and a Western-style room with 2 single beds. If there are 5 or more guests staying, we will lay futons in the Japanese-style room on the first floor and use it as a bedroom, though it is a bit of a hassle. The kitchen is equipped with cooking utensils and dishes for simple cooking.

LocationFamilyAmenities

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 207 reviews
Guest favorite
Hut in Shimogyo-ku

[Kyomachi House for Rent] An inn with an open-air bath and a side view of eight buildings

Relax with your family at this restful place. It is a 10-minute walk from JR Tanbaguchi Station, and appears in a quiet residential area near Shimabara Daimon, a world cultural heritage site, Nishi Hongan-ji Temple, which is a remnant of the flower town. This facility lined with eight buildings has an open-air bath and a rim side where you can see the exterior and tsubo garden with lattices and curtains that are characteristic of the Kyomachiya. Each building has been changed, and it is a wish that it is worthy of a journey where you can feel the detailed and rich sensibility unique to Japan and reflect on the scenes of the story.

FamilyLocationCheckout

4.91 out of 5 average rating, 139 reviews
Top guest favorite
Hut in Shimogyo-ku

Traditional Big house 【Machiya】 near Kyoto station

NEW OPEN! Your travel group can occupy one large house and garden. Traditional Big Houses in Kyoto.(重要伝統的建造物級) 2DK Type.(100 square meters.) Very convenient location center Kyoto. Hotel faces the wide road(Higashinotoin-dori Street). Because The house makes a fine appearance., you will not lose your way. 13 minutes walk from JR Kyoto Station. 京都駅から徒歩13分 1 minute on foot from Gojo Station 地下鉄烏丸線 五条駅から徒歩1分 (Subway Karasuma Line) It's easy to travel around in Kyoto while staying in the place.

ValueFamilyGetting around

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 546 reviews
Top guest favorite
The exterior of the traditional townhouse showcases a classic Ichimonji roof with tiled roofing and decorative elements. Wooden lattice doors lead to the entrance, with a simple wreath adorning the front. Soft lighting is provided by an exterior light fixture.
Townhouse in Higashiyama-ku

Sloom Kyoto reclusive Machiya 10 min walk to Gion

Nestled south of Shijo and along the Kamo River, you’ll find the serene retreat—Sloom Kyoto in the historic Miyagawa-cho district, one of Kyoto's five hanamachi. This area, surrounding Japan's oldest Zen temple, Kennin-ji, is renowned for its rich connection to traditional performing arts. Amidst Kyoto's traditional heritage, blending architecture, cuisine, crafts, and Zen temples garden aesthetics, a tranquil place is here for you to rest and immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of Kyoto.

LocationValueCheck-in

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 153 reviews
Top guest favorite
A serene room features large windows with a view of the Kamo river. Tatami mats cover the floor, complemented by a low wooden table and two cushions. Natural light fills the space, highlighting traditional wood paneling and shoji screens.
Townhouse in Shimogyo-ku

K's Villa Kamogawa - Excellent River View

K's Villa Kamogawa-an is an authentic Kyoto style wooden house located right beside the Kamo river only 3 mins walk from Shichijo station. Maximum 7 guests, Suitable for 2 - 5 guests Please ensure you select the correct number of guests when booking <Important> Please come to K's Villa Office (K's House Kyoto) to CHECK-IN before 20:30pm. ※Please do NOT go to K's Villa directly. ・If you arrive before 16:00, we can keep your luggage at K' s Villa Office(K's House Kyoto) anytime after 9:00am.

FamilyLocationAccuracy

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 259 reviews
Guest favorite
A Japanese-style living room features natural wooden furniture and a soft beige color palette. Two comfortable chairs and a low table are positioned on a textured rug. Sliding doors reveal a glimpse of greenery from the garden, enhancing the serene ambiance.
Villa in Shimogyo-ku

kyoto villa soso (Near Kyoto station)

《May 2019 TV can be watched.》 It is located 15 minutes on foot from Kyoto station. It will be lent to a Kyoto townhouse style building. I put the finest furniture and the finest bed. You can also use wifi. The bath is about the size of two adults and uses Japanese cypress. It will be a very beautiful room just opened in January. Please try and stay at once. The location of the hotel is in a place where you can walk to downtown area of Kyoto and famous temples. It is a very convenient place.

LocationValueCondition

4.96 out of 5 average rating, 980 reviews
Top guest favorite
A spacious living area features a low wooden table surrounded by comfortable seating. Natural light enters through sliding shoji doors, revealing a serene garden view that includes snow-dusted rocks and greenery. Traditional Japanese aesthetics are blended with modern comfort in this inviting space.
Home in Shimogyo-ku

CITY-CENTER, UNIQUE, LUXURY, HISTORICAL TOWNHOUSE

Centrally located our historic property offers a tranquil retreat just minutes from Kyoto Station and Gojo Station. You’ll be captivated by the stunning 150-year-old manicured garden that enhances the charm of the home. Our Machiya, registered as a significant historical asset, has been thoughtfully renovated by award-winning architects and retrofitted with luxurious modern amenities, including insulation, floor heating, double-pane windows, ensuring your comfort throughout your stay.

FamilyValueCheckout

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 364 reviews
Guest favorite
A serene open-air garden features carefully arranged stones and greenery, creating a peaceful retreat. Two large rocks are placed amidst small plants and moss, surrounded by a gravel pathway. Natural light illuminates the garden, enhancing the tranquil ambiance.
Townhouse in Higashiyama-ku

JIN - Cozy Spacious Machiya+UniqueGarden+FreeWIFI

Experience an unique atmosphere in Kyoto's Machiya house "Higashiyama JIN". This vertically long "Machiya" house, the genuine Kyoto wooden architecture offers you a wonderful stay. The attractive little garden "Tsuboniwa" (inner garden) is an oasis where you can feel peace and harmony after a long day in the city. The entire house is completely yours during your stay. We are very much looking forward to hosting you here. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions :)

FamilyLocationIndoor spaces

4.96 out of 5 average rating, 357 reviews
Guest favorite
Townhouse in Shimogyo-ku

Kamogawa View Machiya | Indoor Glamping | TabiTabi

TabiTabi Kamogawa is a private Machiya house for one group per day, located along the Kamogawa River in Kyoto. From the living room and balcony you can enjoy beautiful river views and the changing seasons — cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, colorful autumn leaves, and quiet winter scenery. Birds often fly across the river, creating a peaceful Kyoto atmosphere. The sunroom also features an indoor glamping tent for a unique stay with family or friends.

FamilyValueSleep quality

4.9 out of 5 average rating, 180 reviews
Top guest favorite
A serene Japanese garden, known as Tsuboniwa, features lush greenery, bamboo elements, and decorative stones. Wooden benches provide a place to relax and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. Natural materials and a well-maintained layout create a calming retreat within the densely built surroundings.
Home in Higashiyama-ku

100y/o Kyo Machiya with Cute Garden + WiFi + Bikes

100years of History - Genuine Kyo Machiya Higashiyama Ryu, renovated on March 2017 welcomes you! Ryu offers the Old&Modern Kyoto, warmth of wood and a little garden will take you to live unique Japanese aesthetic of *wabi-sabi*. Very close from Tofukuji Station (JR Nara Line & Keihan Line), easy access to Kyoto downtow, Nara & Osaka. Free Wi-Fi, towels, bodysoap, shampoo, hairdryer, toothbrush, free bikes are big plus. Happy to welcome you with your loved ones!

ValueFamilyParking

4.95 out of 5 average rating, 553 reviews
Top guest favorite
Townhouse in Sakyo-ku

Traditional Kyoto House with a Private Hinoki Bath

Welcome to Art House Shirakawa Yagi Our guesthouse is a renovated 80-year-old traditional Kyoto house where art and everyday life come together. We have welcomed over 1,000 groups of guests from around the world. Enjoy & relax in the spacious hinoki cypress bath, and experience a peaceful side of Kyoto away from the crowds. Half of the house is our family home, offering a glimpse of authentic Kyoto life while providing a spacious stay. Up to 5guests

ValueFamilyAccuracy

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 454 reviews
Top guest favorite
A serene Japanese courtyard is depicted, featuring a traditional stone lantern surrounded by pebbles and greenery. A glass-walled bathroom can be seen in the background, allowing for a view of the calming landscape while ensuring privacy.
Townhouse in Sakyo-ku

N.Machiya stay inside Chomyo temple, stay with Zen

In a perfect location, the house has all the charm of a traditional Kyoto townhouse: tatami mat, sliding wooden doors, paper doors, garden-view bathroom, all with luxurious modern facilities and comfort. The house is a 100-year-old townhouse located inside the Chomyo temple, 5mins' walk from subway Sanjo sta. Kamo river. Convenient to Gion town and Heian Shrine. The house has quiet neighborhood,supermarket and restaurants nearby.

ValueFamilyHot tub

4.94 out of 5 average rating, 441 reviews

Popular amenities for Kyoto vacation rentals

Private Kyoto vacation rentals

Top guest favorite
A traditional townhouse exterior is seen at night, featuring wooden beams and shoji screens that softly illuminate the entryway. Nearby, a small decorative lantern casts a warm glow, creating a serene atmosphere along the quiet street.
Townhouse in Higashiyama-ku

Kyomachiya Icchobu Rental Accommodation

FamilyValueParks

4.96 out of 5 average rating, 300 reviews
Top guest favorite
A traditional Goemon bathtub is positioned next to a window, with steam rising gently from the water. Outside, a serene view of a small garden can be seen, featuring lush greenery and bamboo fencing that provides privacy.
Home in Nakagyo-ku

Japanese traditional house excellent location.

FamilyLocationGetting around

4.95 out of 5 average rating, 331 reviews
Superhost
An open living space features a wooden dining table surrounded by four chairs. Sliding doors lead to a serene outdoor area with bamboo accents. The adjacent sleeping area is softly illuminated, highlighting a spacious bed and minimalist decor, promoting a relaxed ambiance.
Home in Kamigyo-ku

B:Kyoto MACHIYA with garden woodbath Barrier free

LocationFamilySolo travel

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 311 reviews
Guest favorite
A two-story townhome design features an interior garden visible through large glass panels. Wooden stairs ascend to the upper level, surrounded by dark timber walls. A welcoming entryway displays traditional footwear on a stone bench, while a serene sleeping area is showcased in the background.
Townhouse in Shimogyo-ku

Kyoto Machiya style suite entire house

LocationValueCheckout

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 366 reviews
Top guest favorite
A serene bedroom features two spacious beds with textured gray bedding. Each bed is adorned with vibrant, colorful pillows. A minimalist shelf holds small potted plants and decorative items, adding a touch of nature to the space, while a couple of small side tables complete the arrangement.
Townhouse in Nakagyo-ku

[Licensed] Traditional KYOTO Machiya House YOYO

FamilyValueAir conditioning

5.0 out of 5 average rating, 208 reviews
Top guest favorite
Home in Nakagyo-ku

Within walking distance to the center of the street! Spacious and clean Kyomachiya

ValueFamilyCondition

5.0 out of 5 average rating, 119 reviews
Top guest favorite
Villa in Higashiyama-ku

【Kyotofish·Miya】Geisha District Private Machiya

ValueFamilyHospitality

4.92 out of 5 average rating, 198 reviews
Guest favorite
A tranquil Japanese garden is depicted, featuring a stone lantern surrounded by lush greenery and small plants. A bamboo water feature gently flows, creating a serene ambiance. The garden bed is bordered by smooth pebbles, framed by high bamboo fencing for privacy.
Villa in Minami-ku

Machiya Stay | Near Kyoto Stn · Subway & Keihan

FamilyLocationAir conditioning

4.96 out of 5 average rating, 105 reviews

Kyoto apartment rentals

Guest favorite
Apartment in Higashiyama-ku

Kiyomizu Temple Pedestrian Area | 75 ㎡ New Kyoto Machiya Style 2LDK Rental | 10 min walk from Gion Shijo Station | Direct access to Kyoto Station Bus

LocationValueComfort

4.95 out of 5 average rating, 169 reviews
Top guest favorite
A bright room features two spacious beds with white linens placed side by side. A small table and chair are positioned next to a television mounted on the wall. Natural light filters in through a large window, with sheer curtains allowing for privacy.
Apartment in Minami-ku

SALES~Near Kyoto Station/Suitable for long stay

FamilyValueAmenities

4.86 out of 5 average rating, 1081 reviews
Top guest favorite
The facade of The TACTO House is illuminated at night, showcasing a blend of traditional and modern architectural elements. A logo is prominently featured at the top, while warm lighting highlights the attractive entrance and wooden screen designs, creating an inviting atmosphere.
Apartment in Nakagyo-ku

Heart of Kyoto|Spacious 100㎡|Sleeps 6

FamilyLocationLaundry

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 568 reviews
Top guest favorite
A modern living area features a light-colored sofa adorned with various cushions. A small coffee table is set atop a plush rug, and a stylish floor lamp provides soft lighting. Plants add a touch of greenery, while large windows allow natural light to illuminate the space.
Apartment in Shimogyo-ku

祇園・河原町徒歩圏|3F|1フロア貸切2部屋|子連れ長期滞在歓迎|任天堂スイッチ|荷物預かり&EV

LocationValueCleanliness

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 131 reviews
Superhost
Apartment in Higashiyama-ku

Double Room/Kyoto/Gion Festival/Shijo

ValueLocationCleanliness

4.77 out of 5 average rating, 104 reviews
Top guest favorite
Apartment in Shimogyo-ku

Walking distance to Shijo, Kawaramachi, and Gion | 1st floor | Long-term stays | Luggage storage available | Nintendo Switch | For couples

ValueLocationGetting around

4.96 out of 5 average rating, 120 reviews
Superhost
A spacious bedroom is furnished with a comfortable bed dressed in crisp white linens. A wall-mounted television is visible, along with a small desk and chair positioned by a window. Natural light enhances the serene atmosphere of the room.
Apartment in Shimogyo-ku

Naomi's apartment: All rooms equipped with washing machines, 10-minute walk to Kyoto Station, double bed apartment

ValueFamilyWalkability

4.79 out of 5 average rating, 1864 reviews
Superhost
A spacious room features a king-sized bed in a neutral color scheme, complemented by decorative wall art and a cozy seating area. Large windows allow natural light to fill the space. The entrance showcases a modern design, blending seamlessly with the ambiance of the inn.
Apartment in Shimogyo-ku

[EIK] Matatabi 7-minute walk from Gojo station, [EIK-A] King bed apartment

ValueLocationShared spaces

4.8 out of 5 average rating, 898 reviews

Kyoto villa rentals

Superhost
Villa in Shimogyo-ku

Authentic Machiya•3minJR•BathTub•Garden・Kyoto Sta

LocationValueIndoor spaces

4.92 out of 5 average rating, 449 reviews
Guest favorite
A traditional tatami room features a low wooden table surrounded by two chairs. Natural light filters in through large glass doors, offering a view of a private courtyard with greenery. A decorative kimono is displayed against the wall, adding to the cultural ambiance.
Villa in Higashiyama-ku

Machiya Guesthouse / Gion · Kiyomizu Temple area

LocationValueTV

4.89 out of 5 average rating, 368 reviews
Top guest favorite
A wooden table is positioned in the foreground, facing expansive glass doors that provide a view of a serene Japanese garden. Natural greenery is visible through the glass, creating a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.
Villa in Higashiyama-ku

Reikaku Yasaka | Gion | Historical Machiya

ValueFamilyAccess

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 210 reviews
Top guest favorite
Villa in Kamigyo-ku

Chanchan Machiya | 20㎡ Zen Garden|pax5

ValueFamilyNearby

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 161 reviews
Guest favorite
A welcoming entrance features a traditional wooden gate illuminated softly by exterior lights. The stone pathway leads to a well-maintained garden area, where a lantern adds a touch of warmth. The surrounding walls provide privacy, while windows above hint at the home's spaciousness.
Villa in Higashiyama-ku

Walk to Kyoto Sta! Large 90㎡ for Groups | Sleeps 9

LocationFamilyWalkability

4.86 out of 5 average rating, 189 reviews
Top guest favorite
A corridor reminiscent of a spaceship environment is presented, featuring sleek walls with dynamic lighting. A futuristic door stands prominently at the end, offering an inviting entryway. Control panels are integrated into the walls, enhancing the immersive sci-fi theme.
Villa in Minami-ku

Spaceship/Cruise House for 9! Near Sta + Free Pkg

FamilyLocationTV

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 685 reviews
Top guest favorite
A traditional two-story Japanese townhouse is illuminated at dusk, revealing a warm atmosphere through large glass doors. The exterior features wooden beams and a tiled roof, complemented by greenery in the foreground. Air conditioning units are visible on the side wall.
Villa in Shimogyo-ku

Traditional machiya townhouse on a tree-lined street - 10-minute walk to Kyoto Station (Shichijoan)

LocationFamilyHospitality

4.91 out of 5 average rating, 286 reviews
Superhost
A modern kitchen features a long wooden counter with seating for five. The space includes stainless steel appliances, open shelving, and large windows that provide a view of a serene garden area. The warm wood tones create a welcoming ambiance.
Villa in Shimogyo-ku

Kyoto's Renovated Machiya - Ieno House

ValueFamilyCondition

4.83 out of 5 average rating, 136 reviews

When is the best time to visit Kyoto?

MonthJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg. priceﺩ.ﺇ 378ﺩ.ﺇ 349ﺩ.ﺇ 510ﺩ.ﺇ 569ﺩ.ﺇ 459ﺩ.ﺇ 356ﺩ.ﺇ 437ﺩ.ﺇ 422ﺩ.ﺇ 422ﺩ.ﺇ 580ﺩ.ﺇ 606ﺩ.ﺇ 459
Avg. temp6°C7°C10°C15°C20°C24°C28°C30°C26°C20°C14°C9°C

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What are the best places to stay in Kyoto?

    Many travelers choose accommodations around Gion for its historic streets, Arashiyama for a scenic atmosphere, or near Kyoto Station for convenience. Each area has distinct character, from tranquil temples to lively markets.

  • What are the best things to do in Kyoto with kids?

    Families often explore Fushimi Inari Taisha’s famous shrine paths, stroll bamboo groves in Arashiyama, and discover interactive exhibits at local museums. Parks and riverside areas also provide space to unwind together.

  • What are some of the best things to do in Kyoto?

    Explore the historic temples of Kiyomizu-dera and Kinkaku-ji, wander traditional streets in Gion, and stroll through Arashiyama's bamboo groves. Markets and gardens showcase Kyoto’s blend of old and new.

  • How is the weather in Kyoto?

    Kyoto has cool winters around 37–54°F (3–12°C) and warm, humid summers reaching 93°F (34°C). Spring and autumn are often praised for comfortable temperatures and pleasant weather.

  • What are the best places to visit in Kyoto?

    Kinkaku-ji, Fushimi Inari Taisha, and the Philosopher’s Path are among the most popular sites, known for beautiful architecture and seasonal scenery. Nishiki Market and Nijo Castle also invite exploration.

  • What are some hiking trails in Kyoto?

    Explore scenic routes like the Philosopher’s Path, climb the steps at Fushimi Inari Taisha, or wander the gentle trails of the Arashiyama hills. Trails often pass shrines, forests, and peaceful viewpoints.

  • What are some family activities we can do in Kyoto?

    Families frequently enjoy visiting Kyoto Aquarium, exploring animal encounters at city zoos, and making crafts in local workshops. Strolling riverside parks or discovering cultural festivals together can create lasting memories.

  • What are some of the best day trip ideas from Kyoto?

    Many visitors take day trips to Nara for historic sites, the Uji area for tea culture, or explore nature and temples around Lake Biwa. Each destination invites a deeper look at the Kansai region’s traditions.

  • Are there any pet friendly accommodations available in Kyoto?

    Kyoto has pet-friendly rentals in neighborhoods such as Higashiyama, Gion, and around the riverfront. Local parks and walking areas can make it comfortable for guests traveling with animals.

  • What are some local tips for visiting Kyoto?

    Explore quieter temples in the early morning, and try public transportation for getting around dense areas. Many tea houses and side streets reveal local character away from main thoroughfares.

  • What is Kyoto known for?

    Kyoto is known for its historic temples, traditional neighborhoods, and rich food culture, as well as annual festivals. The city holds centuries of artistic and spiritual traditions that continue today.

  • What are the best hidden gems to explore in Kyoto?

    Seek out lesser-known temples tucked into residential areas, artisan studios in Nishijin, or narrow alleys lined with small cafés near Miyagawacho. Botanical gardens and riverside paths can bring a peaceful break from busy sites.

  • What are the best foods to try in Kyoto?

    Kyoto’s favorites include delicate kaiseki meals, yudofu (tofu hot pot), and matcha sweets. Nishin soba, pickled vegetables, and seasonal wagashi reflect local ingredients and tradition.

  • What should I bring for a trip to Kyoto?

    Pack comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing—layers are useful for changing temperatures—plus slip-on shoes for temple visits. An umbrella or rain jacket helps in spring and early summer, when rainfall is more common.

  • What is the nightlife in Kyoto like?

    Kyoto has a mix of relaxed bars, intimate izakaya, and jazz lounges, with lively pockets in Pontocho and Kawaramachi. Some neighborhoods feature traditional entertainment, while others draw visitors with creative drinks and music.

  • What are the most popular events or festivals in Kyoto?

    Gion Matsuri in midsummer, Aoi Matsuri in late spring, and Jidai Matsuri in autumn are among Kyoto’s most well-known festivals. These events feature traditional parades, performances, and seasonal celebrations.

  • Are there family friendly vacation rentals in Kyoto?

    Kyoto has family-friendly rentals, especially in neighborhoods like Arashiyama, Higashiyama, and near city parks. Many hosts provide extra space, kid-friendly amenities, and local tips for exploring together.

  • When is the best time to visit Kyoto?

    Late spring and autumn are frequently suggested for visiting Kyoto, when cherry blossoms or vibrant foliage create striking seasonal scenery. These periods are popular for outdoor activities and cultural festivals.

All about Kyoto

Kyoto is one of the most charming cities in the world. For more than a millennium — until 1868 — it was the imperial seat of Japan, and all that power was a magnet for opulence, artists and artisans, and religion. Today, the city remains at the heart of the country’s cultural traditions, with thousands of palaces, temples, and shrines, not to mention its famous geisha districts.

Wandering through Kyoto can mean stopping at every turn, delighted by the curve of a rooftop or the ancient timbers framing a shop. Despite 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the gilded Kinkakuji (Gold Pavilion), and districts like Higashiyama, whose streets could double as the set for a historical epic, Kyoto is not a living museum. With more than 1.5 million residents, the city boasts countless cocktail bars, chic restaurants, and street-food stalls, and a thriving music scene.

What are the top things to do in Kyoto?

Nishiki Market

Visiting this five-block-long covered food market in central Kyoto, which is open from midmorning to early evening, is a must for food lovers. Picture barrels of pickles and dried vegetables, display cases of exquisite wagashi (sweets), and heaps of frilly dried fish. You can snack on meat skewers or crackly senbei as you wander through the market, or pore over the shelves of cooking implements and jarred preserves, looking for gifts to bring home. Afterward, peek in at the nearby Tenmangu Shrine or wander over to the Gion, the city’s most famous geisha district.

Arashiyama

On the west side of Kyoto, just as the dense inner city gives way to the slopes of the surrounding mountains, this charming district thrums with tourists — with pockets of serenity nearby. Wander along the wide, shady paths that snake through the famous bamboo grove. Visit a host of temples, from the tiny thatch-roofed Gio-ji through the expansive Tenryu-ji, with its showstopper garden and majestic views of the mountain peaks. Spend a few hours at the Fukuda Art Museum admiring paintings from the Edo Period.

Philosopher’s Path

This mile-long path, located in the northern part of the Higashiyama district, leads between two of Kyoto’s best-known sites — Ginkakuji (the Silver Pavilion) and the neighborhood surrounding Nanzenji Temple — and the journey is just as rewarding as either destination. The paved walkway traces the route of a narrow canal, shaded by thousands of cherry trees, and offers plenty of reasons to detour in the form of temples, cafes, and boutiques.

Destinations to explore