Kyoto
Japon
Kyoto, the former imperial capital of Japan for over a thousand years, is a city where history and tradition blend seamlessly with modernity. Renowned for its numerous temples, Zen gardens, and historic districts, it offers an authentic immersion into classic Japanese culture.
The city is famous for its distinct seasons, especially spring with its cherry blossoms and autumn with its fiery foliage, attracting visitors worldwide. Kyoto is also a hub of refined gastronomy, where you can enjoy local specialties in traditional ryokans or modern restaurants.
Strolling through the cobbled streets of Gion, attending a tea ceremony, or visiting Shinto shrines are unique experiences that make Kyoto a must-visit destination for lovers of history, nature, and culture.
Whether you are passionate about architecture, spirituality, or simply seeking tranquility, Kyoto offers an unforgettable sensory and cultural journey.
Don't miss
Top 10 attractions
Kinkaku-ji (Pavillon d'Or)
Iconic temple covered in gold leaf, surrounded by a peaceful garden.
Fushimi Inari-taisha
Shrine famous for its thousands of red torii gates forming a mountain trail.
Arashiyama et sa bambouseraie
Natural area with an impressive bamboo grove and picturesque landscapes.
Gion
Historic district known for traditional houses and geishas.
Temple Kiyomizu-dera
Famous temple with a large terrace offering panoramic views of Kyoto.
Marché Nishiki
Covered market where you can discover and taste various local specialties.
Palais impérial de Kyoto
Former residence of Japanese emperors with beautiful gardens.
Chemin de la philosophie
Peaceful walk along a canal lined with cherry trees and temples.
Musée international du manga de Kyoto
Museum dedicated to the history and culture of Japanese manga.
Temple Ryoan-ji
Zen temple famous for its minimalist rock dry garden.
Weather-adapted
What to do based on the weather?
Best activities based on today's weather conditions
- Hike the torii gate trail at Fushimi Inari
- Walk through the Arashiyama bamboo grove
- Picnic in the Imperial Palace gardens
- Walk along the Philosopher's Path
- Explore the streets of Gion on foot
- Visit the Kyoto International Manga Museum
- Indoor tasting at Nishiki Market
- Visit covered temples like Kiyomizu-dera
- Experience a tea ceremony in an indoor tea house
- Morning visit to the Golden Pavilion before the heat
- Iced treat break at a traditional café
- Boat ride on the Katsura River to cool off
- Visit sun-warmed temples like Ryoan-ji
- Sample hot dishes like yudofu (hot tofu) at a ryokan
- Shopping in the covered arcades near Shijo
- Attend a geisha performance
- Take part in a traditional tea ceremony
- Discover local cuisine at an izakaya
- Visit the many Shinto shrines
- Shop for local crafts
Itineraries
How much time do you have?
1 day
The essentials
9:00
Visit the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji)
Arrive early to avoid the crowds
11:00
Walk through the Arashiyama bamboo grove
Wear comfortable shoes
13:00
Lunch at Nishiki Market
Try local specialties like skewers and fresh sushi
15:00
Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Enjoy the panoramic view over Kyoto
19:00
Dinner in Gion
Try a traditional restaurant overlooking the historic streets
Weekend
3 days
Day 1 morning
Visit the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji)
Avoid peak hours
Day 1 afternoon
Walk through the Arashiyama bamboo grove and visit Tenryu-ji
Combine nature and a zen temple
Day 1 evening
Dinner in the Pontocho district
Lively atmosphere and local cuisine
Day 2 morning
Hike through Fushimi Inari Shrine
Wear sturdy shoes for the climb
Day 2 afternoon
Visit the Kyoto International Manga Museum
Ideal for fans of Japanese pop culture
Day 2 evening
Geisha performance in Gion
Book in advance for an authentic experience
Day 3 morning
Walk along the Philosopher's Path
Perfect for a peaceful stroll at sunrise
Day 3 afternoon
Visit Ryoan-ji Temple
Contemplate the minimalist zen garden
Day 3 evening
Dinner at a traditional izakaya
Discover local cuisine in a convivial atmosphere
1 week
Full immersion
Day 1 morning
Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji)
Arrive early to avoid the crowds
Day 1 afternoon
Arashiyama bamboo grove and Tenryu-ji
Combine nature and spirituality
Day 1 evening
Dinner in Pontocho
Local cuisine and traditional atmosphere
Day 2 morning
Fushimi Inari Shrine
Hike through the red torii gates
Day 2 afternoon
Kyoto International Manga Museum
Manga culture and history
Day 2 evening
Geisha performance in Gion
Reservation recommended
Day 3 morning
Philosopher's Path
Walk along the canal
Day 3 afternoon
Ryoan-ji Temple
A zen garden to contemplate
Day 3 evening
Izakaya dinner
Convivial atmosphere and varied dishes
Day 4 morning
Kyoto Imperial Palace
Guided tour recommended
Day 4 afternoon
Nishiki Market
Tasting and local shopping
Day 4 evening
Evening stroll through Gion
Watch for geishas and admire the traditional architecture
Day 5 morning
Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Panoramic view over the city
Day 5 afternoon
Visit traditional craft workshops
Discover pottery and textiles
Day 5 evening
Kaiseki dinner at a ryokan
A refined dining experience
Day 6 morning
Visit Nanzen-ji Temple
Architecture and zen gardens
Day 6 afternoon
Walk through Maruyama Park
An ideal spot for hanami in spring
Day 6 evening
Discover sake bars
Sample local sake
Day 7 morning
Visit Nijo Castle
History of the Tokugawa shoguns
Day 7 afternoon
Shopping in the covered arcades of Shijo
Souvenirs and local crafts
Day 7 evening
Dinner at a tempura restaurant
A crispy local specialty
Getting around
Transport & Getting Around
Metro / Subway
The fastest underground network to get around the city.
Bus & Tram
Ideal for areas not served by the metro, with city views.
Tourist pass
Combined transport + museum card, often worthwhile from 2 days.
Bike / Scooter
Self-service bike stations available in most major cities.
Airport → City center
Shuttle, express train or taxi depending on local availability.
Recommended app
Download the local transport app or Google Maps for schedules.
Local tip
Transport: Kyoto is well served by buses and subways, but cycling is also an excellent way to explore the city. Use IC cards like ICOCA to ease your travel.
Before you go
Practical info
Budget & Payment
Bank cards accepted everywhere in major cities
Local currency: Yen (JPY)
ATMs available in city centers
Tipping: 5-10% recommended in restaurants
Budget: Expect a medium to high budget, especially for traditional meals and typical accommodations.
Safety & Tips
Keep a copy of your passport on your phone
Wear shoulder bags in front in tourist areas
Leave valuables in the hotel safe
Share your location with someone you trust
Language & Phrases
Language(s): Japonais
Expert tips
Safety: Kyoto is very safe, but stay alert in crowded tourist areas.
Food: Don't miss kaiseki, refined seasonal cuisine, and try local specialties like yudofu (boiled tofu).
Shopping: Focus on artisanal products such as Kiyomizu-yaki pottery or traditional fans.
Tipping: Tipping is not customary in Japan and may be considered rude.
Plan your trip
When to visit Kyoto?
Score /10 based on weather, crowds and events
Jan
5°C
5/10
Feb
6°C
6/10
Mar
11°C
★
Apr
16°C
★
May
21°C
7/10
Jun
24°C
4/10
Jul
29°C
3/10
Aug
31°C
3/10
Sep
26°C
6/10
Oct
19°C
★
Nov
13°C
★
Dec
8°C
5/10
Real-time weather in Kyoto
15-day forecast · AI analysis · Activities adapted to the weather of the day
View full forecast