14 free things to do in Kyoto

One of Japan’s most beloved destinations, the historic city of Kyoto captivates with its well-preserved neighborhoods, majestic temples and all manner of photo-worthy urban tableaux.

It’s certainly easy to splash out heavily in this sophisticated place. Yet many visitors will be delighted to find that some of the most memorable experiences here don’t cost a thing.

These are the best things to do in Kyoto for free.

1. Nibble on free samples at Nishiki Market

Sometimes callek “Kyoto’s kitchen,” the five-block collection of over 100 restaurants and shops at Nishiki Market is the perfect place for sampling local specialties, including pickles, tea, crackers and fish.

Planning tip: It's best to come in the morning – the early bird gets the snacks.

2. Walk the gates at Fushimi Inari-Taisha

The 10,000 vibrant orange torii (gates) snaking up the hill at Fushimi Inari-Taisha are both the ultimate photo op and a notable exercise opportunity. Walking the entire loop takes 2 to 3 hours – or longer, if you stop to enjoy the numerous fox statues. It’s well worth making the full climb if you want to escape the crowds that usually fill up the lower levels.

Planning tip: Visit at daybreak for a more restful experience, when the local monks are making their way up the hill to work and the resident cat population is out to play.

3. Stroll the Path of Philosophy

The 2km-long Path of Philosophy winds through the Higashiyama district, linking Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion) to the Nanzen-ji neighborhood. The canal-side walkway is particularly popular during spring and fall, with sakura (cherry blossoms) and autumn colors transforming the lane into a surreal wash of color.

4. See geiko as you stroll through Gion District

Geisha – or geiko as they’re called in Kyoto – are icons of the city (their likenesses even grace the area’s vending machines). These face-paint-adorned, kimono-wearing hostesses and entertainers are usually employed in Gion neighborhood, a collection of narrow, atmospheric streets filled with teahouses and tiny restaurants.

Planning tip: For the chance to spot a geiko on her way to work, go for an atmospheric sunset stroll just as the lanterns are lit for the evening. Remember to always be respectful, and never take photos without her consent.

5. Cool off by the Kamo River

When the weather gets hot, locals head for a walk along the Kamo River, a prime place to spot the herons, egrets and cranes that call the area home. What’s more, crowds tend to naturally thin out along its banks, adding to the sense of space.

Planning tip: This is the perfect place to enjoy a vivid sunset: grab a seat on the banks and relax. There really isn’t a bad viewing location.

6. Join a hanami party when the cherry blossoms arrive

During sakura season, locals participate in hanami, or blossom-viewing parties. To get in on the action, take a stroll through Maruyama-kōen, located just next to Yasaka Shrine, when the koi-pond-dotted expanse transforms into a sea of pink.

Planning tip: Make a picnic out of it: stop at the closest FamilyMart for low-cost, high-quality egg sandwiches, pork buns and onigiri (rice-ball snacks), then enjoy them under the famed Gion Weeping Cherry Tree.

7. Visit Yasaka Shrine after dark

The guardian shrine of Gion, Yasaka-jinja is always a hub of activity. For the full effect, visit after dark, when the lanterns give the complex an otherworldly glow.

Planning tip: During the Gion Matsuri festival in July, the temple hosts massive floats in a parade tradition that dates back over 1000 years.

8. Wander the grounds of the Kyoto Imperial Palace

As an official residence of the royal family, the buildings of the grand Kyoto Imperial Palace are off limits. But visitors are free to roam the grounds, including the park – another prime picnic location.

9. Listen to the wind in the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Located in the western Kyoto district of the same name, the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is one of the most famous places in the world to hear the sound of the wind rustle through the bamboo stalks. It’s also one of the most photographed places in the city. Just remember: if you're looking for an experience more zen than “packed in with friends,” be sure to visit at sunrise.

Planning tip: There’s much to see Arashiyama beyond bamboo. Take a stroll along the Katsura River to take in Kyoto’s incredible natural landscapes.

10. Spot the monsters of Ichijō-dōri

In many ways, Ichijō-dōri looks like an average Kyoto thoroughfare – until you realize that almost every business on the street is guarded by a monster, giving the street the nickname “Yōkai” (ghost, demon or monster). Each creature was handmade by the business it protects.

11. Wander through Higashiyama district

Located at the foot of Kyoto’s eastern mountains just below Kiyomizu-dera is Higashiyama, a historic district full of shrines, temples and well-preserved wooden houses (yes, that’s a Starbucks with tatami mats on the street Masuyachō). Be sure to grab a photo down the street from Yasaka and on the Sannenzaka stairs, both beloved Kyoto landmarks.

12. Hike between Takao and Hozukyō

The path between Takao and Hozukyō is one of the city's best hikes. Follow the path along the Kiyotaki River to Kuya-no-Taki waterfall for a scenic 11km wander that can easily be completed in one day.

13. Visit the sacred Shimogamo-jinja

Adherents of Shintō consider the 2000-year-old shrine of Shimogamo one of the most sacred in the city. It sits between the Kamo and Takano Rivers, a sacred spot surrounded by the Tadasu-no-mori (ancient forest) – where it's said that all lies will be revealed.

14. Take a break at Kamigamo-jinja

Another gem in Kyoto's collection of sacred Shintō shrines is Kamigamo-jinja, a few kilometers up the road from Shimogamo-jinja. Be sure to stop by the two large tatesuna (sand pyramids) in front of the main hall, which are believed to be the spot where the deity Kamo Wakeikazuchi no Ōkami first came to Earth. Today, they’re said to have a purifying influence.