Kyoto
Kyoto is old Japan writ large: atmospheric temples, sublime gardens, traditional teahouses and geisha scurrying to secret liaisons.
Rintaro Kanemoto for Lonely Planet
Latest Stories
- Ashley Owen | Jun 26, 2026Best museums in Kyoto for contemporary art, traditional sake and popular manga
- Laura Studarus | Jun 19, 202615 of the best things to do in Kyoto
- Kathryn Wortley | Jun 8, 2026The best time to visit Kyoto
- David McElhinney | May 24, 2026The best neighborhoods to visit in Kyoto
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14 days / 13 nights
Japan’s Golden Route: Tokyo, Kanazawa, Kyoto, and Fuji in 14 Days
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Japan’s Golden Route: Tokyo, Kanazawa, Kyoto, and Fuji in 14 Days
14 days / 13 nights
highlights
- 1 Savor Uji matcha from the source during a traditional tea ceremony
- 2 Meander among peaceful bamboo groves and orange-hued torrii shrines in Kyoto
- 3 Cross the famous Shibuya Crossing on a four-day tour of Tokyo, past and present
from $6,820
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Travel Guides
Kyoto travel tips from Lonely Planet experts
Find practical guidance from our team of contributors around the world who bring their decades of first-hand travel experience to your next trip.
Best Things to Do
Kyoto is packed with magnificent temples and shrines. Read about the best ones to visit, plus access details and etiquette tips for a smooth visit.
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Best Time to Visit
Kyoto presents a new face with each changing season, from snowy temples to summer parades. These are the best times to visit Kyoto.
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Things to Know
From planning your trip to local etiquette, here are the most important things to know before going to Kyoto.
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Transportation
Here's everything you need to know about getting around Kyoto by bus, train, and subway, and on wheels and on foot.
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Free Things to Do
Some of the best things to do in magical Kyoto are free – from shrine visits and riverside walks to markets, bamboo groves and atmospheric old streets.
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Best Neighborhoods
Venture across Kyoto's distinctive neighborhoods and unwind the tales of this storied Japanese city.
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Day Trips
Get a real taste of Japan with these easy and exciting day trips from Kyoto.
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Money and Costs
Even in an expensive city like Kyoto, you can find deals to help you enjoy your trip. Here are our top tips for a budget-friendly experience.
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Traveling with Kids
A trip to Kyoto will make unforgettable memories for little one. Here’s a full guide to family-friendly Kyoto activities and traveling to Kyoto with kids.
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Kyoto and beyond
- destinationDowntown Kyoto
- destinationSouthern Higashiyama
