The Best Things to Do in Kyoto: Our Favorite Temples and Hidden Gems

Kyoto felt like stepping into another world, where centuries-old traditions blend seamlessly with everyday life. During our stay in a beautifully restored Machiya, a traditional Japanese wooden townhouse, we explored peaceful temples, wandered through bamboo groves and historic neighborhoods, admired colorful shrines, and discovered charming streets lined with teahouses and local shops. Every corner seemed to reveal another glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural heritage. If you’re planning a visit to Japan, these are some of the unforgettable places and best things to do in Kyoto that made our trip in April one we’ll always remember.

We decided to stay in a Machiya in the Higashiyama Ward near the Gion District (where you’ll see a lot of Geisha) in order to better experience the culture of historic Kyoto. We slept on mattresses on the floor in tatami rooms which was surprisingly comfortable. Our Airbnb had a courtyard garden along with a beautifully restored interior.

 

Every morning we walked to a local coffee shop (you’ll do a lot of walking in Japan). My favorite by far was Ichikawaya Coffee where we sat at the counter in order to watch coffee and breakfast being prepared. A courtyard garden provided pretty views while eating our egg sandwiches, which is more like a warmed egg salad sandwich.

 

The Viennese coffee was my favorite morning beverage, made with siphoned coffee and homemade whipped cream. Food preparation is an art form in Japan and is worth the wait.

 

Best Things to Do in Kyoto: Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Another one of our best things to do in Kyoto was a visit to Kiyomizu-dera, a Buddhist temple just a short walk from our Machiya. Walking closer, we could see the peak of the Three Story Pagoda.

 

You’ll find several Japanese buildings and temples on the grounds. This is the colorful main hall.

 

Looking through the opening of the hall, you can see the beautiful city of Kyoto below.

 

Also on the grounds of Kiyomizu-dera is the Thousand Stones Buddha group which were brought here during the anti-Buddhist movement. The residents didn’t want to lose them or their cultural history and meaning.

 

Exploring Fushimi Inari Taisha

This beautiful mountainside Shinto shrine features hundreds of Torii gates throughout the property. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes since half of your walking will be uphill. You can wander paved paths and steps or …

 

… take the lesser traveled path with scenic views of bamboo forests. You’ll come across a variety of smaller shrines, more Torii gates, and even gift shops and refreshment stands.

 

We were lucky to see a young woman perform a handwashing ritual at one of the shrine locations. Respect and courtesy are valued throughout Japan and left me wishing the U.S. practiced the same level of dignity and thought for others and public places. Watch the video to see the shrine ritual in action.

 

The Fun of Nishiki Market

We had one rainy day in Kyoto, which presented the perfect opportunity to explore the Nishiki Market which is open air, but mostly under the protection of a roof between all the market booths. You’ll find farmer’s markets with the juiciest strawberries ever, small restaurants, and little stalls selling a variety of goods. The market is 400 years old, and in my opinion, is something you must experience when visiting Japan.

 

While my daughter and grandson were getting tattoos during the rain, I grabbed grilled shrimp skewers for lunch in this stall. So good!

 

Exploring Kyoto at Night

Kyoto, Japan is especially intriguing at night. One evening I explored by myself while my daughter and grandson enjoyed a late steak dinner. When you view the photos, you’ll see why this activity made my list of the best things to do in Kyoto.

 

Lanterns line the quiet streets and light up the night with magical appeal.

 

Walking down the streets of historic Kyoto, you’ll come across restaurants and shops that feel peaceful and serene. We ate at several establishments, and I can’t really choose a favorite.

 

 

 

 

I highly recommend taking a stairway from the street down to the path on either side of the Kamo River. It’s peaceful during the day, and enchanting at night.

 

 

I found Kyoto to be perfectly safe in the evening. Here’s a view of one of the many buildings along the river.

 

The Yasaka Shinto Shrine is also fun to visit at night, and less crowded than daytime visits.

 

And finally, here’s the street to our Machiya at the end of the evening. Despite being a busy city, Kyoto is relatively peaceful – not at all like the buzz and energy of Chicago.

 

This little cafe with a rental unit above was next to our Airbnb.

 

Kyoto is a place that stays with you long after you’ve returned home. We left with wonderful memories, a deeper appreciation for Japanese culture and craftsmanship, and a promise to return someday. If Kyoto is on your travel wish list, I hope my list of best things to do in Kyoto inspires you to experience its timeless charm for yourself. I’ll soon share our experience in Tokyo, too.