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+44 207 384 2332 Plan your trip

Japan

Kyoto Holidays

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Why Visit kyoto

Kyoto is a city that is rich in history, culture and tradition, with so much to offer. Home to more than 1,600 Buddhist temples and 400 Shinto shrines, it is one of Japan’s most culturally significant destinations. Wander through the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, admire the golden pavilion of Kinkaku ji, explore the thousands of vermilion torii gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha, or stroll through the historic streets of Gion, where you may even catch a glimpse of a geiko or maiko.

Kyoto is renowned for preserving many of Japan’s centuries old traditions, from tea ceremonies and Zen gardens to skilled artisans practising crafts that have been passed down through generations. The city is also known for its exceptional cuisine, whether that is exploring the stalls of Nishiki Market, enjoying an elegant kaiseki dinner, or discovering family run restaurants tucked away down narrow streets. Surrounded by mountains and beautiful temple gardens, Kyoto is a city that invites you to slow down and appreciate Japan’s rich cultural heritage.

Did you know?

Kyoto was Japan’s capital for over 1,000 years. From 794 until 1868, Kyoto served as the imperial capital of Japan, shaping the city’s deep connection to traditional arts, architecture and culture.

Did you know?

Kyoto is home to thousands of temples and shrines. The city has around 2,000 Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines, including famous sites such as Fushimi Inari Taisha, known for its thousands of vermilion torii gates.

Highlights of Kyoto

Ancient Temples And Shrines: Kyoto is home to more than 1,600 Buddhist temples and 400 Shinto shrines, including Kinkaku ji, Fushimi Inari Taisha and Kiyomizu dera. These sacred sites have shaped the city’s identity for centuries.
Traditional Neighbourhoods: Wander through Kyoto’s beautifully preserved districts, from the historic streets of Gion and Higashiyama to the atmospheric alleyways of Pontocho, where traditional wooden machiya townhouses, tea houses and centuries old customs can still be discovered.
Japanese Gardens And Natural Beauty: Kyoto is renowned for its peaceful Zen gardens, temple grounds and seasonal landscapes. Explore the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, stroll along the Philosopher’s Path or admire the city’s spectacular colours.
Japanese Arts And Crafts: Kyoto has long been a centre for traditional craftsmanship, with centuries old skills still practised today. Discover Nishijin textiles, Kiyomizu pottery, lacquerware, calligraphy and the art of the Japanese tea ceremony.
Exceptional Cuisine: Kyoto’s food scene is rooted in tradition, from elegant kaiseki dining and Buddhist shōjin ryōri to Nishiki Market and family run restaurants serving seasonal regional specialities.
A Rich Legacy: As Japan’s imperial capital for more than 1,000 years, Kyoto has an extraordinary cultural legacy. Ancient festivals, geiko and maiko traditions, historic architecture and centuries old customs continue to define the city today.

Where to stay

Best hotels in Kyoto

Nothing but the best. Browse our handpicked, tried-and-tested luxury hotels.

Boutique Hotel

The Shinmonzen, Kyoto

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Boutique Hotel

Hotel Kanra, Kyoto

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Luxury Hotel

Hotel The Mitsui, Kyoto

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Luxury Hotel

Six Senses, Kyoto

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Luxury Hotel

The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto

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Good to know

Getting to kyoto

Kyoto does not have its own airport, with most journeys beginning at Kansai International Airport in Osaka, which is around 75 minutes away by private transfer or train. From the UK, flights connect via Osaka, Tokyo or other major Asian hubs.

Kyoto is also easily reached by Shinkansen bullet train, with the journey from Tokyo taking around 2 hours 15 minutes and from Osaka around 15 minutes. This makes it a simple addition to a wider Japan itinerary.

When to go

Best time to visit

Good time to visit

Average time to visit

OUR FAVOURITE TIME TO VISIT

Kyoto is a year round destination, with each season bringing a different atmosphere to the city. Spring (March to May) is a particularly special time to visit, but also the most popular, as cherry blossoms line the streets, gardens and temple grounds with delicate shades of pink. Autumn (October to November) is equally captivating, when the city’s maple trees turn fiery shades of red and gold, creating a beautiful backdrop for Kyoto’s historic temples and gardens.

Summer (June to August) brings warmer weather and lively celebrations, including the famous Gion Matsuri festival in July, while winter (December to February) offers a quieter side of Kyoto, with crisp days, fewer crowds and the chance to see traditional architecture dusted with snow.