30 Unique Things to do in Kyoto (2026)

Kyoto is one of the must-visit cities when you travel to Japan. Yes, it’s busy, and yes, parts of it can feel overtouristic, but it’s also where some of Japan’s most meaningful, hands-on cultural experiences still live. We ended up basing ourselves in Kyoto for nearly a week, and it quickly became one of the most memorable parts of our trip.

Instead of rushing between temples, we spent our time fully immersing ourselves in the city, wandering the geisha districts in kimonos, forging our own Japanese knives, exploring castles framed by cherry blossoms, and heading out on some of our favourite day trips anywhere in Japan. Every experience felt unique, personal, and gave us a deeper insight and connection to Japan.

That’s exactly why this guide is different. Rather than listing endless “things and temples to see,” we’ve hand-picked experiences that let you actively engage with Kyoto’s culture, traditions, and history. Everything here is something we’ve done ourselves or is top on our list for our next return. So without further ado, let’s get into our recommended 30 unique things to do in Kyoto! 

30 Unique Things to Do in Kyoto

Rather than providing an endless checklist of temples and locations to simply “see”, instead this curated list of experiences let you actively immerse and engage in Kyoto’s Cultures, traditions, and history. The first section covers the top things to do right in Kyoto, while the second explores our favourite day trips outside the city.

Local Experiences in Kyoto

We’ve curated 23 of the best experiences you can find within Kyoto, focusing on hands on, immersive activities. We’ve also included alternative options for places and experiences we personally found too touristy or overrated.

1) Kimono Rental + Photoshoot in Gion

Dressing up in a kimono and wandering through Kyoto’s historic streets is one of the most immersive and traditional experiences you can have in Japan. We loved it so much that we did it twice, once in Kyoto and again in Kurashiki’s Bikan Historical Quarter.

Even the process of putting on the kimono feels like a ritual in itself, showcasing the depth and detail of Japanese tradition. And of course, it doesn’t hurt that it’s also one of the most beautiful photo opportunities you’ll find in Japan.

2) Forge your own Japanese knife

When we think of Japan, images of samurai and their world-renowned swords often come to mind. While you can’t bring a katana home, the next best thing is forging your own Japanese knife. Known for being some of the sharpest in the world, this hands-on experience lets you work alongside a traditional blacksmith to forge your own blade from start to finish.

And the best part? You get to take it home with you, making it one of the most unique, meaningful, and actually useful souvenirs you can bring back from Japan.

This experience includes forging a small Japanese knife measuring around 13 to 15 cm. If you’re looking to go all in and forge a full sized kitchen knife instead, we highly recommend checking out this exclusive Historic Knife Making Workshop with Blacksmith Kanetaka, one of Kyoto’s leading makers of high end artisanal cutlery.

3) Explore the famous Hanamikoji and Sannenzaka

When you visit Kyoto, places like Hanamikoji and Sannenzaka are usually at the top of everyone’s list, and for good reason. Lined with traditional wooden homes, it is absolutely beautiful and full of history. But they are also some of the most crowded and overtouristic spots in the city. When we went during the morning, it was honestly shoulder to shoulder with hundreds of other tourists, which kind of killed the magic.

That’s why we’d recommend doing the Gion Magical Night Walking Tour instead. You still get to wander through Gion and Hanamikoji, but after dark, when the streets are quiet and the whole area feels completely different. With this tour, you’ll also learn about geisha culture and experience a side of Kyoto that most other travellers miss. 

4) Sake Tasting experience + 7 tasting and snack pairings

Sake is Japan’s traditional drink and something you absolutely have to try while you’re there. We did a sake tasting on our own, which was a lot of fun, but also a bit of an adventure since the owner spoke very little English. Between Google Translate, hand gestures, and a lot of smiling and nodding, we somehow made it work, and got to taste some seriously delicious sake along the way. We even compared the taste of drinking the same sake from a glass cup versus a ceramic cup, and the difference was shocking!

But if you’d prefer a more guided experience, we’d recommend this Sake Tasting Experience in Kyoto, which includes seven tastings plus snacks. Way less guesswork, and you’ll actually understand what you’re drinking!

Or for an even more premium experience, you can do this Sake Brewery Tour with Tasting, where you can oversee first hand the entire sake brewing process.

5) Learn Kintsugi – Art of repairing broken Ceramics

Kintsugi is a Japanese technique that doesn’t just fix broken ceramics, it turns each piece into a work of art, celebrating its cracks and imperfections.

On this exclusive hands-on tour, you’ll learn the traditional Japanese art of repairing broken ceramics with natural materials like lacquer and gold. Apparently, many people find this process of turning something broken into something beautiful truly meditative and therapeutic.

According to Shimamoto, “Those who’ve tried kintsugi find imperfection more endearing than perfection. Many also discover the joy of embracing Japanese traditions, aspiring to become artisans.”

At the end of the workshop, you’ll take home your own finished piece. It’s one experience we can’t wait to try ourselves when we return to Japan later this year!

6) Enjoy a Bowl of Ramen or Do a Ramen-Making Class

We absolutely love noodles! From hand-pulled Lanzhou noodles in China, to Vietnamese pho, to Japanese ramen, it feels like we can never get enough. Ramen is one of Japan’s most iconic dishes — a rich pork broth, chewy noodles, and slices of grilled pork belly that are basically heaven in a bowl (other than of course the Uni Toro Bowl we had in Nara, that still stands as our favourite dish in all of Japan!).

✅ WaylessTravelers Tip: Don’t chase the Insta famous ramen spots. Out of curiosity, we checked one out and the lineup was over 1.5 hours long! We skipped it, found a small local mom and pop ramen shop instead, and it ended up being absolutely delicious. In fact, the one or two times we did chase down Insta famous restaurants in Japan, we walked away disappointed.

And if indulging in countless bowls of ramen isn’t enough, you can level up with a Ramen-making class where you’ll learn to prepare this famous dish from scratch! On our last trip to Japan, we were too busy devouring as many bowls as possible, but next time we’re back? We’re definitely signing up for this workshop!

7) Explore the Hidden side of Kyoto on this E-bike Tour

One of our favourite ways to get our bearings in a new city is a walking tour. Not only will you get the inside scoop on local customs and history, but also discover the city’s layout and its hidden gems that only locals know about.

But if you want to take it up a notch further, try this Kyoto E-bike tour! On an e-bike, you can cover way more ground and see all the highlights, from Kinkakuji Temple and Daitokuji Temple to hidden gardens and charming backstreets that most tourists miss. Plus with the experienced guides, you’ll pick up local stories, history, and fun tidbits along the way. 

8) Tea Ceremony Experience in Kyoto

A Japanese tea ceremony is so much more than just sitting down for a cup of tea. It’s a window into Japan’s traditions and values, where every movement and every step has a meaning. The ceremony itself is slow and intentional, centered around mindfulness, respect, and simplicity. When you take part, you’ll learn why each step matters, from purifying the utensils to the careful way the tea is prepared and presented.

Growing up in a Chinese family, tea was always part of our everyday life. I still remember the almost ceremonial care that went into making it, taking the time to get each step just right to bring out the perfect flavour. Japan shares that same deep respect for tea, and experiencing a traditional tea ceremony is a beautiful way to understand just how much thought and tradition goes into something that might otherwise seem so simple.

9) Kyoto Samurai Experience or Kendo Experience

Growing up, i’m sure we all watched countless movies about the Japan’s legendary Samurais. From their incredible armour, to the almost mythical Katanas, there’s something undeniably mesmerizing about their world.

So while in Japan, you don’t want to miss stepping into that history firsthand, whether it’s through the Kyoto Samurai Experience, where you can learn samurai techniques, or a Kendo Experience, where you can practice the art of swordsmanship like a true warrior.

These are fully hands-on experiences, giving you a whole new appreciation of the skill and culture behind the samurai legacy!

10) Experience a local Izakaya meal or Izakaya Cooking class!

Dining at izakayas ended up being some of our fondest food memories in Japan. Every place had its own personality, buzzing with energy, from the enthusiastic greetings of the staff to the eclectic music.

Izakayas serve small, shareable Japanese dishes, which means we got to try a little bit of everything. Often times, we were mingling shoulder to shoulder with locals, giving us an authentic perspective of the local life there. In one instance at Tempura Sushi Komefuku, we got chatting with one of the chefs who shared his personal life stories and in the end, we even made our own napkin drawing which was added to their personal wall of art.

And much like Sushi making, if you want to learn the art of Izakaya cooking, there’s a tour for that right in Kyoto! 

11) Nishiki Market Food & Culture tour

Nishiki Market often gets called one of the top things to do in Kyoto, but like many famous markets, it’s become pretty crowded and catered toward tourists, which means inflated prices.

But rather than skipping it entirely, we would recommend instead doing this Nishiki market food and culture tour where you can actually learn about Kyoto’s rich culinary history and taste specialities you’d likely miss if exploring on your own.

12) Nijo Castle and the Naked Sakura Festival

If you are in Japan during the Cherry Blossom season from March to April, don’t miss the Naked Sakura Festival at Nijo Castle. This immersive night time event held at the historic Nijo Castle grounds completely transforms the historic castle ground into glowing wonderland of light, colour projections, and sounds. 

The immersive projections are created by the digital art company NAKED, who do experiences similar to Team Labs. We went during our last trip to Kyoto, and honestly? The mix of the lights with the majestic Nijo Castle blew us away! In fact, we liked it way more than TeamLab Botanical Garden in Osaka!

13) Our favourite matcha dessert place at Nana’s Green tea

While in Kyoto, we discovered our love of Matcha. After doing a day trip to Uji, known as the birthplace of Matcha, we were on a quest to indulge in every Matcha dessert and latte we could find.

Although there are countless pricey options available, a local recommended we try Nana’s green tea and it did not disappoint. To this day, their Matcha parfaits filled with mochis, Matcha ice cream, red beans, jellies and more is unbeatable. And the best part? All their Matcha food and drink options are very affordable! 

We loved it so much that we went back three times during our stay in Kyoto, and even found a Nana’s green tea in Osaka! 

14) Matcha drink at Kyo Ha Matcha de Kimeru

Continuing our obsession with all things matcha, our other favorite spot (besides Nana’s Green Tea) was this tiny hidden gem called Kyo Ha Matcha de Kimeru.

This quickly became our go-to for grabbing a quick matcha drink while exploring downtown Kyoto, Nishiki Market, or strolling through Gion. Another thing that made it extra special was that you get to watch the whole matcha-making process right in front of you!

15) Experience the beauty of cherry blossom season in Kyoto

If your timing lines up, cherry blossom season is one of the most beautiful moments to experience Japan. From late March to early April, the entire country’s parks, streets, and temples are completely transformed by bursts of delicate pink blooms.

On our last trip to Japan, we timed it with the Sakura season and fortunately got to witness the beauty of it on several occasions while in Kyoto, Uji, and during our road trip to izu peninsula.

Some of the best places to see the sakuras in Kyoto include Nijo castle, along the Kamo River, on the Philosopher’s Path, and at Maruyama Park which is home to Kyoto’s most famous weeping Sakura! 

16) Learn about the Geisha culture on this Gion Walking Tour

Geishas carry an air of mystery that’s hard to forget. They are traditional female entertainers who are highly trained in the art of music, dance, and conversation, often performing at tea houses and special events. You will recognize them from their elaborate kimono attire, white makeup, and intricate hairstyles. That is, if you’re actually lucky enough to spot them at all. 

In Kyoto, glimpsing a geisha in the historic streets is a rare and special cultural moment. We only saw one by chance, when we wandered down a quiet Gion street for a photo of Nan. Suddenly, the wooden sliding door of a home opened and a geisha stepped out. Out of respect, I put my camera down and just marvelled at the experience. 

If the Geisha culture is something you’re truly fascinated by, then make sure to join this Gion Walking Tour. Not only will you experience a geisha show from an actual geisha apprentice, but also have an insider’s perspective on all the mysterious geisha traditions. This tour is a rare opportunity for you to actually meet a Geisha apprentice. 

🚨 On that note, remember to be a respectful visitor in Japan. If you do see a Geisha on the streets, don’t chase after them, point your camera in their face, or call out to them. In recent years, there have been plenty of videos of tourists behaving rudely, so make sure you enjoy the experience in a way that honours their culture and traditions.

17) Ninja Training Experience

Kyoto truly has activities for every interest and age group. One day you’re dressing up as a samurai, another you’re preparing sushi, and today you get to experience what it’s like to be a Ninja.

In this 1 hour Ninja workshop, you’ll learn how to breathe, walk, and meditate like a ninja, practice throwing ninja weapons, and learn how to use ninja swords. This small-group experience (max 6 people) is perfect for kids, but honestly, I’d be totally up for joining too!

18) Visit Kyoto’s Famous Temples

Honestly, we got totally templed-out during our trip to Japan, but I must admit that they are spectacular to see. So no list of ‘best things to do in Kyoto’ would be complete without sharing some of the best temples to visit. Here are the standout temples of Kyoto and a what makes each of them unique: 

• Kiyomizu-dera Temple: Iconic wooden stage & panoramic city views. One of the most photographed spots.
• Kinkaku-ji Temple: the famous Golden Pavilion reflected in serene pond
• Heian Jingu Shrine: vibrant vermilion gates, massive torii entrance, and sprawling gardens
• Ninna-ji Temple: known for its beautiful cherry blossoms (Oshino Sakura) that bloom later than most Kyoto spots, and its traditional wooden architecture, pagoda, and quiet atmosphere. Quieter than the other temples in Kyoto.

This post is part of our series about Japan. If you want to learn more about Japan, planning your trip, and some of the best experiences there, check out the guides below:

2 Days Kyoto Itinerary: Exploring off the Typical Tourist Trail

32 Unique Things to do in Tokyo: Complete Travel Guide (2026)

Day Trip to Nara, Japan: Ultimate Travel Guide (2026)

11 Unforgettable Day Trips from Osaka or Kyoto

Hidden Fushimi Inari Route: How to Explore Without the Crowds

One day in Osaka: Itinerary Guide (2026)

10 Days in Japan: Complete Itinerary for First-Time Visitors (+ 2 Week Options)

33 Fun Things to Do in Japan: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

Izu Peninsula Itinerary: Planning & Tips for the Perfect Izu Peninsula Road Trip

9 Unique Things to Do in Uji, Japan: A Perfect One-Day Itinerary

19) Craft your own Washi Journal

At this Kyoto workshop, you can craft your very own Washi Journal using paper-making techniques that date back 14 centuries.

Washi is registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Japan. Handmade by artisans, it is internationally acclaimed for not only its beauty but also its strength and durability. There’s something magical about working with washi paper, and even more satisfying knowing you made and designed the Washi journal yourself.

It’s not only a beautiful souvenir to take home, but the perfect place to capture your Japan travel memories!

20) Hike the Philosopher’s path

One of the best ways to escape the city bustle in Kyoto is strolling along the Philosopher’s Path (also known as Tetsugaku no michi).

This peaceful 2 kilometres stone walkway takes around 45 minutes to complete and follows a canal lined with cherry trees, quaint cafés, and tiny temples tucked into local corners. It’s the perfect spot to wander slowly, take in the beauty, and reflect, hence the name Philosopher’s path.

No rushing, no crowds, just tranquility. If you’re here during cherry blossom season from Late March to early April, it’s even more impressive and feels like walking through a tunnel of pink petals.

21) Kyoto Chopstick making class

Rather than coming home with just a suitcase full of cute Japanese action figures and candy, one of the most meaningful souvenirs you can bring back from Japan is something you make yourself. Crafting your own Japanese knife is one of the most meaningful souvenirs you can bring home, blending traditional Japanese craftsmanship with something you’ll actually use at home. With that said, it does come with a hefty price tag.

If you’re traveling on a tighter budget, we highly recommend a Kyoto chopstick making class instead. You’ll choose from nine different types of wood, then carve, shape, and smooth your chopsticks until they fit perfectly in your hands. To make them even more special, you can have your name engraved on them.

22) Sumo Show with unlimited food and drinks!

Last time we travelled to Japan, with all the day trips we were doing from Kyoto, we missed out on the chance to witness a Sumo Wrestling show.

Historically, sumo dates back over 1,500 years, originally performed as rituals to entertain the gods and pray for good harvests. But over time, it evolved into Japan’s national sport. On this tour, you can enjoy a live Sumo wrestling show while savouring unlimited food and drinks including Chanko Hotpot!

And after the show, if you’re feeling brave enough, you can even enter the ring and challenge one of the sumo wrestlers!

23) Learn Wagashi Confection

Dive into the enchanting world of traditional Japanese wagashi sweets with renowned confectioner Ms. Miyazaki.

In this hands-on experience, you’ll craft stunning Nerikiri creations inspired by seasonal flowers and elegant Heian-era kimono colors. The Nerikiri dough is wrapped around a bean paste filling to create a sweet that looks like kiku, a flower chrysanthemum.

In this workshop, you’ll get to make two types of Nerikiri sweets using some traditional Wagashi tools! And while you’re hard at work, you’ll get to savour some of Uji’s finest green tea, which pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the Wagashis.

Best Day Trips from Kyoto

Beyond the incredible experiences within Kyoto itself, there are so many unforgettable day trips to nearby towns that are well worth adding to your itinerary. We based ourselves in Kyoto for six days, spending half our time soaking up the city’s local experiences and the other half venturing out to places like Arashiyama, Fushimi Inari, Nara, and beyond!

Here are some of the best day trips from Kyoto, but if you want the full list, you can check out our Osaka & Kyoto Day Trips guide!

24) Day Trip to Osaka (30 minutes from Kyoto)

Osaka is absolutely worth spending a few days in if you have the time, but it also makes a fantastic day trip if you’re on a tighter schedule. Known as one of Japan’s food capitals, Osaka served some of the best street food we had on our entire trip. We also rented kimonos and explored Osaka Castle, which turned out to be one of the most impressive castles we saw in Japan.

If you’re wondering how to plan the perfect Osaka day trip, we break everything down step by step in our One Day in Osaka Guide.

25) Arashiyama (1 hour from Kyoto)

Arashiyama is best known for the bamboo forests, but in recent years it’s become extremely popular and often overcrowded. We were a little hesitant to visit at first, but we’re so glad we did. Not because of the bamboo forest itself which was honestly smaller and more chaotic than we expected but because of everything you can discover beyond the main tourist hotspots. 

We wandered through quiet local neighborhoods, stumbled upon vintage craft shops, enjoyed one of the best (and most affordable) wagyu meals of our trip, and even relaxed in an onsen. It ended up being the perfect day trip. For more details, check out our Kyoto Travel Guide, where we share our exact Arashiyama itinerary.

26) Fushimi Inari secret side (10 minutes from Kyoto)

When we think of Kyoto, one of the first images that comes to mind is the iconic red torii gates of Fushimi Inari. Knowing it would be crowded, we reached out to a local friend to see if there was a way to experience Fushimi Inari off the beaten path. And it turns out, there is.

Tucked away from the main route is a quieter, more authentic side of the shrine, where moss covered paths wind through forested trails and the atmosphere feels timeless. We had the place almost entirely to ourselves and it turned out to be one of our favourite day trips from Kyoto. If you want to experience this hidden side of Fushimi Inari, we share all the details in our Fushimi Inari Without the Crowds Guide.

27) Uji Day Trip (20 minutes from Kyoto)

If you love matcha, a day trip to Uji is an absolute must. Located just 30 minutes from Kyoto, this small town is all about matcha, from silky matcha desserts and noodles to even matcha beer! It’s also the perfect place to escape the crowds and slow down for a bit.

There’s a scenic river that runs right through town, and we ended up picking up local strawberries and a few matcha treats to enjoy a relaxed picnic along the riverbanks. For a full breakdown of the best things to do in Uji and how to plan your day trip, check out our Uji Travel Guide.

28) Nara Day Trip (45 minutes from Kyoto)

Nara, best known for its famous bowing deer, ended up being one of our favourite day trips from Kyoto. Surprisingly, it wasn’t because of the deer, but because of the relaxed local atmosphere, beautiful gardens, and hands down the best uni toro bowl we had in all of Japan.

While the bowing deer are popular, we personally felt the experience was a bit questionable in terms of ethicality. Some of the deer looked unhealthy and behaved quite aggressively. With that said, Nara has so much more to offer beyond the deer alone, and it would be a mistake to skip it entirely. Especially when there’s an unforgettable uni toro bowl waiting for you.

For all the details, check out our Nara Day Trip Guide.

29) Kurama Shrine Hiking Trail

The Kurama Shrine Hiking Trail, located just 30 minutes from Kyoto, is one of the most scenic and peaceful hikes you can do in the area. Here, you’ll find forest paths winding through mountain temples, and is considered a spiritual journey. 

The route is 4km long and takes around 2-3 hours to complete. Along the way, you’ll pass towering cedar trees, moss covered stone paths, and historic temples, all tucked deep within the mountain forest. The route is also deeply rooted in Japanese spirituality and legends giving it a mystical atmosphere. 

To reach the trail, simply take the Eizan Railway from Demachiyanagi Station to Kurama Station. From there, the trailhead is just a short walk away.

30) Day trip to Kobe for kobe beef

If you are an aficionado of steaks, then a day trip to Kobe is a must! There you can try out the famous wagyu beef of Kobe, known to be one of the most delicious and expensive types of steak in the world! Wagyu is a specific breed of cattle, distinctive for it’s superior marbling, exceptional flavour, and tenderness.

We got to taste it on three separate occasions during our trip through Japan and the meat is so buttery tender that it almost melts in your mouth! You can find Wagyu beef in all the main cities but for the most authentic experience, we would recommend heading over to Kobe, one of the most famous regions for Wagyu.

Additionally, Kobe is a vibrant port city that offers a blend of modern attractions, historical sites, and nature! It’s the ideal place to explore on foot, helping you burn off all the delicious Kobe beef you’ll indulge in along the way!

If you prefer a guided experience to Kobe, you can check out this Private Charter Tour to Kobe from Kyoto.

Where to stay in Kyoto

When choosing where to stay in Kyoto, we highly recommend picking a spot that is central and near the subway/train stations since you will be taking them daily. Some of the more popular areas to stay at include Gion for a more traditional experience, Kyoto Station if you want quick access to transportation, or downtown/Nishiki Market for those who want to be close to shopping/food/nightlife.

Here are the best areas to stay in Kyoto depending on your travel style:

🌸 Gion / Higashiyama – Traditional & Charming

• Best for: First-time visitors, culture lovers, and those seeking a classic Kyoto experience.
• Why stay here: You’ll be steps from temples, tea houses, geisha streets, and photogenic alleys.
• Top sights nearby: Kiyomizu-dera, Yasaka Shrine, Gion District, Philosopher’s Path.
• Recommended stays:
  ✅ Kyoto GranBell Hotel (Modern Architecture in Traditional Japanese Design Ryokan)
  ✅ Rinn Miyagawacho Grande (budget-friendly modern hotel)

🚆 Kyoto Station Area – Most Convenient for Transport

• Best for: Travelers using JR Pass, short stays, or day-tripping to other cities.
• Why stay here: Easy access to subways, buses, and trains (including to Nara, Osaka, Arashiyama).
• Top sights nearby: Kyoto Tower, Nishi Hongan-ji, and Tofuku-ji.
• Recommended stays:
  ✅ REF Kyoto Hachijoguchi by Vessels Hotel (located right next to Kyoto Station, Spacious modern hotel)
  ✅ The Thousand Kyoto (Luxury 4-star Architectural hotel with gym, sauna, pool, Kaiseki meal plans)

🛍️ Downtown / Nishiki Market – Best for Shopping, food, & Nightlife

• Best for: Foodies, shoppers, and night life.
• Why stay here: Central and walkable, with easy access to restaurants, bars, and shops. Also walkable to Gion and Historical District.
• Top sights nearby: Nishiki Market, Pontocho Alley, Teramachi Street, 15 min walk from Gion
• Recommended stays:
  ✅ Inn Kawashima (budget-friendly, local, traditional tatami room hotel)
  ✅ Tokyu Stay Kyoto (Modern hotel with balcony garden terrace with outdoor seating area, spacious relaxation lounge, Kaiseki breakfasts)

We stayed at Inn Kawashima and loved our experience in their cozy tatami rooms. They are also one of the more affordable options all while being very centrally located.

Using WISE card in Japan

When taking cash out of an ATM while abroad, you will most likely be charged both a foreign exchange fee and a foreign transaction fee by that country’s ATM. With my Canadian card, this can easily be 3-4$ + 2.75% + a markup on the exchange rate charged by my bank, and then another 3-5$ charged by the foreign ATM.

This can be really costly. For this reason, we recommend using WISE card which has only minimal fees and just about no foreign currency exchange markup. This helps me save at least 5-7$ every time I take out money from an ATM. If you want to see our full review of the card showing exactly how WISE can help you save, check out our WISE Travel card Review post.

More Helpful Guides on Japan

Japan is filled with so many incredible experiences! If you need help getting an overall idea of how to travel through the country, check out our 10 days Japan travel Itinerary Guide!

There we delve into some of the highlight spots of Japan including exploring Kyoto, day trip to Nara, experiencing the best that Osaka has to offer, indulging in matcha desserts in Uji, going off-the-beaten path road tripping through the Izu Peninsula and seeing some of the most amazing coastal views and having Ryokan experiences, and much more in-between before finally arriving in Tokyo!

Also, don’t forget to check out our essential travel tips in Japan so you can make sure your trip goes as smoothly as possible!

Recap: 30 Unique Things to do in Kyoto

Even with Kyoto’s crowds, our time there was truly unforgettable. From wandering the quiet streets of Gion and spotting a Geisha, to trying our hand at crafting an authentic Japanese knife, and taking scenic day trips to Nara and Fushimi Inari, every experience there felt immersive and memorable.

These 30 recommended activities are just a starting point to help you see Kyoto beyond the usual tourist spots and connect with its culture in a meaningful way. And what we’ve realized is that no matter how long you stay, there’s always more to discover, which is exactly why we can’t wait to return!

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