Where to Stay in Kyoto, Japan – A Guide To The Best Hotels, Ryokans, and Neighbourhoods

Kyoto is Japan’s cultural heart and an immaculately preserved ancient city frozen in time that makes any trip to Japan incomplete without a visit here.  From bright red torii gates, imperial castles, golden gilded pavilions, wooden townhouses, Zen gardens, temples, and more, you get a real look into Japan’s past and their way of life.

As you plan your trip to this city, you’ll undoubtedly be looking for accommodations so with this guide on where to stay in Kyoto, learn about all the neighbourhoods that it consists of and what makes them desirable based on your budget and travel style.  By the end of this article, you should have a good idea of which hotel, ryokan, guest house, or hostel you want to stay at and in which district.

Where to stay in Kyoto

Kyoto might seem infinitely smaller than Tokyo with so much compressed into a smaller space but you’d be surprised to hear that there are 5 distinct neighbourhoods or districts as they call them there that are worth breaking down.

In Japan, districts can technically be broken down into smaller wards or ku but since it doesn’t make sense to get to that level of granularity, let’s just focus on the neighbourhoods.

The Different Neighbourhoods of Kyoto

As the most popular city in the Kansai region of Japan, these are five neighbourhoods, some of which have their own Japanese names but can be easily remembered by the directions of the compass.

• Central/City Centre – Anchored by Nijō Castle and Kyoto Station, there’s quite the dynamic contrast in the core between traditional palace grounds, intricately designed shrines, and lush gardens set beside vibrant restaurants, shopping, and nightlife.
• Eastern Kyoto (Higashiyama) – This name might come up later as Higashiyama is the main street where you’ll find Kyoto’s most famous temples set in front of the mountains of the same name.  You’ll be spending a lot of your time here that is also bordered by the Kamo River and geisha district of Gion.
• Western Kyoto (Arashiyama) – Famous for their bamboo forest path, monkey park, and cherry blossoms, this neighbourhood on the outskirts of the city is one that’s rich in historic wonders and a must-do.
• Northern Kyoto – In this Kyoto neighbourhood guide, this area of the city is another one that’s well known if you’ve seen any photos.  There are several World Heritage Sites located here including golden Kinkaku-ji.
• Southern Kyoto – The vermillion gates of Fushimi Inari should not be missed and is the mainstay of this part of Kyoto.  Come here to spend time taking lots of photos, walking the outdoor paths up the mountain, pay your respects, and enjoy the fresh air.

3 Quick Travel Tips About Kyoto

How to Get Around 

Kyoto’s transit system is definitely not as overwhelming as what I detailed in Tokyo’s neighbourhood guide which is a good thing.  The railway and subway lines are going to be the simplest ways to get around but it is not as comprehensive as you’d think so that’s where the bus system will come into play and worst-case the cab as well.

We’re not going to focus as much on how to get into Kyoto but if you are looking to figure out a way to get here from another part of Japan, the JR Shinkansen is going to be your best bet and that is why the JR Pass is so critical in making your life easier since a 7-day Japan Rail Pass costs about the same as regular round trip tickets.

Trains

When we say “train” in Japan, we typically mean JR and other competing train lines.  In Kyoto’s case, if you take a look at the map above, that’s any line that you see other than the ones with a K (green) and a T (orange) on them.

While primarily the train lines are useful for getting to areas farther away from Kyoto, they have their purposes as well which I’ll outline below:

• Japan Rail (JR) – If you have a JR pass, you’ll naturally be focusing here since it’s included.  The beauty is that all JR lines pass through Kyoto station.  On the Sagano Line, you can easily get to Arashiyama and on the Nara Line, it connects south which takes you quickly to Fushimi Inari.
• Onkyu Railway – This is a line that connects Kyoto with Osaka.  It’s one of the options to access the area around Katsura Rikyu and there’s also a branch that connects to Arashiyama.
• Keifuku Railway –  This is more of an old-school tram line that’s an attraction unto itself and connects to northwestern Kyoto.  It’s one of the options to access Arashiyama and areas around Kinkakuji and Ryoanji.
• Keihan Railway – Their main line runs along the Kamo River and continues to Osaka and you can also use it as an alternative to the JR Nara Line to access southern Kyoto.  Note that it does not connect to Kyoto Station.
• Eizan Railway – When the Keihan Line ends this line begins in Northern Kyoto.  One line leads to Kurama, while the other runs to the base of Hieizan.
• Kintetsu Railway – This company connects Kyoto Station to Nara if you’re headed there next.

Personally, the rail system was super convenient to get out to Fushimi Inari and Arashiyama but beyond that, the rest you’ll be relying on subway and bus.

Subway

Unlike Tokyo, there are only two subway lines in Kyoto.  The Karasuma Line runs north to south along Karasuma Street (Karasuma-dori).  The Tozai Line runs east to west and intersects with the Karasuma Line at the intersection of Karasuma-dori and Oike-dori.

For me personally, I did not take the subway frequently while in Kyoto.  The only time we did was when we were by Nijo Castle and needed a quick way back to Kyoto Station.

The IC cards in Kyoto are different from Tokyo.  What they have is something called Icoca.  You can buy them at JR stations and while it doesn’t really give you any discounts, it’s one of those things where if you’er going to be in Kyoto for awhile, it’ll make things easier to take trains and busses by being able to tap and go.

TIP:  If you have a PASMO or SUICA card from Tokyo, you can use them on all subways and busses in Kyoto.

There’s a special pass called the Kansai One Pass specifically for tourists.  It gives you discounts at various attractions (i.e. Kyoto International Manga Museum).  They are for sale at the Kansai Airport and major railway stations in the region including Kyoto Station.  That said, it doesn’t provide any transit discounts and really just acts as a regular IC card.

Bus

In Tokyo, I didn’t talk about busses because it would just add a layer of complexity beyond what you needed to know.  In Tokyo however, busses are actually quite handy to take because they can get you much closer to main attractions than the train or subway.

While busses are the best way to get to the sights you want to see, it is also probably a bit more stressful and complicated for a first timer because the map is quite overwhelming.

Let’s start with the map.  Head over to the Kyoto City travel map and look at the two PDFs in English.  Focus on the front side of the map as this is what we used to figure out way around.  What you want to focus on is the table at the bottom.  For instance, if you want go from Kyoto Station to Kinkakuji, the recommended busses are 101, 111, and 205.

The key I find is to start at Kyoto Station because it’s where you’ll find other lost and confused travellers, there’ll be more signage in English, and you’ll be able to ask and follow others to make sure you’re getting on the right bus.

From an etiquette perspective, you have to know that you enter from the back door and exit through the front door.  The fare is also paid counterintuitively as you leave the bus.  The exception is Bus 100 which is the opposite – enter and paid through the front and exit through the back.

Price wise, much of central Kyoto costs a flat rate of 230 JPY.

To make things easier, I recommend that you pick up one of Kyoto’s day passes. The two good ones are the following:

• Kyoto Sightseeing Card (900 yen for one day, 1,700 yen for two days)  – You get unlimited usage of the subway lines, and busses.  It also extends all the way out to Arashiyama, Takao, and Ohara.  Discounts to selected sights are included as well.  The pass is especially worth it if you plan on visiting the farther areas of Takao and Ohara but it does restrict you to subway lines as rail lines are not included.
• Kyoto One Day Bus Card (600 yen) – You can use all busses in the city and Arashiyama within a calendar day (not 24 hours).  Contrast to the sightseeing card, this does not include Takao and Ohara but for most this should be fine.  You can buy these at bus and subway ticket counters and bus drivers but I’d recommend that you do it at a kiosk for convenience.  This card is worth it if you can plan to take it 3 times a day or more.

Personally, we took the bus to get to Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion) and back down since there is absolutely no subway or rail line that gets even close to it.

Bicycle

Since Kyoto is relatively flat, it is a city that is very convenient to explore by bike.  There are a number of rental stores scattered across the city including Kyoto Station and Arashiyama.   Rentals will typically run you 1000-1500 JPY per day for basic bikes or 1700-2000 JPY for electric bikes.

Kyoto is a bicycle friendly city but do watch out for the city core which can get congested with cars and people.  Also, keep in mind the distances.  For instance, it takes 45-75 minutes to get from Kyoto Station to Kinkakuji.

If you’re looking for more of a guided experience, there are guided bike tours offered that you should consider.   This tour is also a good one.

Uber

Heads up that there is no Uber in Kyoto.

Taxis

Taxis are a last minute resort kind of thing because they are very expensive.  That said, they do provide door to door service and can come in handy if you’re in a pinch or are just too tired to walk.

One thing you need to know about taxis in Japan is that you should have prepared the destination you want to go in Japanese characters otherwise it becomes a bit of a game of charades.  This is where having data comes in handy and being able to use Google Translate.

Neighborhood Map 

The below is a map of all the major neighborhoods of Kyoto.

Plan Your Trip To Tokyo 

There are many tips that will want to keep in mind to make your trip to Kyoto even more enjoyable including:

Tips – As with the rest of Japan, tips are not expected or wanted so keep your change!

Carry your trash – Trash cans are hard to find in Kyoto, but you will not want to litter. Instead, you are expected to carry your trash with you until you can dispose of it properly.

Keep to the left – Pedestrians on sidewalks in Kyoto walk on the left. If you decide to stop, even on an escalator, then keep to the left and walk to the right.

Get a pocket wifi – Staying connected in Kyoto is important in many ways.  As I mentioned above, it’s handy to be able to translate your language to Japanese on the fly or be able to look up directions.  I’ve been using a pocket wifi device called Skyroam for awhile so that’s something you should look into and I review it extensively.  For something local, PUPURU is one that you can pick up and drop off easily at the airport.  Their rates are also quite competitive (700 JPY = $8 USD a day).

Dress conservatively– Japanese people dress very conservatively, and men and women often dress up. Showing cleavage as a woman is something you do not want to do.

Carry your hotel’s business card – Another neat little Japan hack.  If you ever need to get a cab home, all you have to do is show your hotel’s business card and they’ll know how to bring you back.

Cash or card – Kyoto is very credit card friendly when it comes to big restaurants, stores, and attractions but if you encounter food vendors, local markets, and small establishments, you’re better off with carrying cash.

ATM fees – The best ATM’s to use in Japan are the ones found in the 7-Eleven.  They have never rejected foreign debit cards from my experience but you do have to be careful that they charge a 216 JPY fee.

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Kyoto Neighbourhood Highlights and Where You Should Stay

Now it’s time to break down where to stay in Kyoto (hotels and a feature on ryokans) and what to expect in each of the neighbourhoods.

#1 Central/City Centre

What’s there and why visit

The Central neighbourhood of Kyoto covers the core area of the city that’s considered downtown.  This is core area that is vibrant and young while also sticking to its traditional roots.  As the name describes, being here puts you in the middle of the action with access to shopping, entertainment complexes, traditional ryokans, nightlife, bars, castles, and craft stores.

Why stay here

This is a great area to be based because you have Kyoto Station which means that when you arrive by rail, you can walk to your accommodations right away instead of having to take the subway, bus, or cab.  The convenience of being next to the rain station where the Shinkansen, all bus lines, and Karasuma subway run through.

Suggested hotels and ryokans near Central/City Centre

Things to see near Central/City Centre

Nijo Castle – Built in 1603, this is the residence of the first shogun in the Edo Period.  This is a fascinating castle to explore that features stone walls, moats, gardens, gates, and the palace itself.

Kyoto International Manga Museum – If you’re a fan of manga, this is unique in Japan and features an extensive array of Japanese comic books & graphic novels, plus reading areas.

Kyoto Station – The central communication hub for the city where you can find everything from the department store Isetan, a shopping arcade, restaurants, public spaces, and rooftop plaza.

Nishiki Market – A popular and large local market where you’ll find many traditional foods.

Pontocho Alley – When it comes to nightlife, this is the street to come to.

Getting there

Nijo Castle – There is station on the Tozai line of the same name.  This is the easiest way to the castle.

Kyoto International Manga Museum – Take the subway to Oike station on the Karasuma line, use exit No 2 and turn right immediately, turn left at the Karasuma Oike crossroad, and walk for about 2 minutes.

Kyoto Station – Central and easy to find.

Nishiki Market – It is 5 minutes from Shijo Station on the Karasuma subway line.  You can also get to it from the Karasuma or Kawaramachi Stations on the Hankyu Line.

Pontocho Alley – Serviced by bus lines 17 and 205 where you will need to get off on the Shijo Kawaramachi stop.  The closest train stations are Kawaramachi Station on the Hankyu Line and Shijo Station on the Keihan Line.

Suggested activities in Central/City Centre

Kyoto Cooking Class – In this 1.5 hour cooking class, learn to cook a ‘obanzai’ vegetarian meal or a teriyaki chicken dish with soup and salad from a local in a traditional Kyoto wooden house.

Nishiki Market and Gion Cultural Walking Food Tour – This is a small group walking tour where you’ll walk through the 400 year old Nishiki Market where you’ll get to sample foods followed by a visit to a shrine dedicated to the god of education.

Private Walking Tour with a Local – Get orientated in Kyoto with a friendly and passionate walking tour with a local resident.  Through your guide, learn the secrets about where to buy groceries, how to get around and much more.

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#2 Higashiyama (East)

What’s there and why visit

The reason why you come to Kyoto is to spend time in the Higashiyama neighbourhood.  Bordered by the Kamo River and Higashiyama mountains, you’ll find the most number of temples and shrines concentrated in one area.  You’ll be taking a step back in time with their perfectly preserved cobblestone streets that give you a look into what it was like in Japan during an age of shoguns and samurais.  You’ll easily spend a full day in Higashiyama.

If that wasn’t enough, the district named Gion is here where you might be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of a real-life geisha.  Don’t expect to take any photos of them but this is a fascinating neighbourhood to stroll through.  It may seem sketchy but these old wooden houses tell the story of how this became an exclusive and expensive area.

Why stay here

You want to stay in the Higashiyama neighbourhood because you want to be in the centre of the cultural action.  By being out here it means that you’re pretty much walking distance to all of the primary attractions in Kyoto so you don’t necessarily have to take a bus from Kyoto Station or take the subway.  You wake up, head out, and explore.

Suggested hotels and ryokans near Higashiyama

Things to see near Higashiyama

Kiyomizu-dera Temple – This is a an iconic temple perched on a hill with epic views of Kyoto down below.  This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site as of 1994.

Kodai-ji Temple – While this may not be as popular as others, this is a beautiful temple example of Zen Buddhism that features richly decorated interiors and jaw-dropping zen gardens.

Chion-in Temple – A Japanese Buddhist temple, this massive temple covers spacious grounds and large buildings.  The first thing you’ll notice is the Sanmon gate located between Maruyama Park and Shorenin Temple stands 24 metres tall and 50 metres wide.

Maruyama Park – This public park is a popular spot for those wanting to catch cherry blossoms in the Spring.  Outside of Sakura season, it’s a great place to relax and for people watching.

The Kyoto National Museum – Opened in 1897, this is one of Japan’s oldest museums that features Japanese treasures including relics, sculptures, calligraphy, costumes, paintings, and ceramics.

The Path of Philosophy – This is a beautiful strolling path that follows the canal and connects Ginkaku-ji Temple in the north with Eikan-do Temple in the south.  It’s most well known during cherry blossoms in the spring but is also incredibly colourful in the fall.

Gion – The entertainment district that is famouly known as “geisha district”.  Come here to see if you can sneak a peek at geishas silently shuffling around.  Beyond this, you’ll find a ton of shops, teahouses, restaurants, and traditional wooden machiya houses.

Getting there

Kiyomizu-dera Temple – It’s easiest to get here from Kyoto Station by bus 100 or 206.  Get off at Gojo-zaka or Kiyomizu-michi stop and walk uphill from there.

Kodai-ji Temple – It’s 5-10 minutes away from Higashiyama Yasui bus stop which you can get to from bus 100 or 206 from Kyoto Station.

Chion-in Temple – Get to the temple from the Higashiyama Station on the Tozai Line.  Alternatively, it’s a 5 minute walk from the Chionin-mae bus stop on Bus 206.

Maruyama Park – Take bus 100 or 206 and get off at the Gion bus stop.  You can also take a 15 minute walk from Kiyomizudera through the streets of Higashiyama.

The Kyoto National Museum – If you’re interested in Japanese art, make sure to spend some time here

The Path of Philosophy – This path runs through a big part of the neighbourhood and is probably easiest to access from Ginkakuji.

Gion – Get off at the Gion stop with bus 100 or 206 from Kyoto Station or go to Gion Shijo Station on the Keihan Line and Kawaramachi Station on the Hankyu Line.

Suggested activities in Higashiyama

Samurai Performance – This is a 1-hour Kembu show where you’ll learn the art of the samurai.  See the intricate movements of a sword performance and hear the stories of Japan’s feudal period.

Maiko Performance with Kaiseki Dinner – Maiko’s are apprentice geisha and this is your chance to have an exquisite evening of watching traditional performances and traditional ‘kaiseki’ cuisine.

Night Walk in Gion – Gion is best seen at night and with your local guide, learn about the history of and lives of the geisha.  This a best-seller you don’t want to miss.

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#3 – Arashiyama (West)

What’s there and why visit

On the western outskirts of Kyoto, there’s a zen quality to being set near the Arashiyama Mountains, and being surrounded by picturesque rivers, cherry blossoms, bamboo forests, and temples.  The pace seems to slow a little more out here despite being still quite a popular destination for tourists.

With stalks of bamboo that soar the sky, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is the most popular attraction here and probably the most photographed in all of Japan.  Once you’re done that, rent a rowboat to cruise, have a delicious vegetarian meal, catch a glimpse of wild monkeys, and explore a few Zen temples.

Why stay here

While Arashiyama still gets pretty busy during peak season, it is still a bit of a getaway from Central Kyoto and will definitely feel much more peaceful.  With the bamboo forest, high concentration of parks, and beautiful temples, this is not a bad place to be waking up to.  It is worth staying here if you’re looking to spend at least a full day in Arashiyama or if you want to make sure you start exploring early in the morning.

Suggested hotels near Arashiyama

Things to see near Arashiyama

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove – This iconic walking path that cuts through the tall bamboo groves that gently sway with the wind.  This is a great spot to go for a casual stroll, cycle through, or have an Instagram photo shootout.

Tenryu-ji Temple – The most important temple in the region, it was built in 1339 by the ruling shogun at the time and dedicated to Emperor Go-Daigo.  It’s ranked as the top of the Arashiyama’s five Zen temples and is also a World Heritage Site.

Kameyama-koen Park – Get away from the big crowds here and head up to a hidden gem of a hilltop park where it’s a perfect spot for cherry blossoms viewing March to April.  There’s also a chance of seeing wild monkeys that often patrol the park.

Arashiyama Boat Rental – A great way to see Arashiyama by rowing and drifting down the lower Hozu-gawa area especially when it is Sakura season.  It costs 1400 JPY per rowboat with a maximum capacity of 3 people.

Shigetsu – Within the Tenryu-ji Temple, you’ll find this restaurant which is the place to try traditional Japanese Buddhist cuisines known as shojin-ryori.  Make sure to make reservations online and try the 5,000 JPY set meal.  Read the reviews before going!

Getting there

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove – There are a number of ways to get out here.  The fastest is by JR Sagano Line from Kyoto Station to Saga-Arashiyama Station (15 minutes).  There’s the Keifuku Railways that connect Omiya Station in Kyoto with Arashiyama (20 minutes).  Hankyu Railways can take you as well from Kawaramachi or Karasuma Station, transfer at Katsura Station from the Hankyu Main Line to the Hankyu Arashiyama Line (20 minutes).  Lastly, there are bus options but I don’t recommend this because it’s too slow and there’s a chance of getting stuck in traffic.

Tenryu-ji Temple – The temple is a short walk from Keifuku Arashiyama Station.  If you’re taking JR, it’s 5-10 minutes from the JR Saga-Arashiyama Station.

Kameyama-koen Park – This is a short 9 minute walk from Arashiyama Station, 15 minutes from the JR Saga-Arashiyama Station or 11 minutes from the Henkyu railway’s station.  Reach the park from the main street of Arashiyama and either up the river on the north bank and up a flight of stairs or by walking through the Bamboo Grove followed by a left at the fork at the top of the hill

Arashiyama Boat Rental – Simply walk upriver on Hozu-gawa River beyond the Togetsu-kyo Bridge and you’ll see all the rowboats coming out from the shack.  This is 10 minutes walk from Arashiyama Station on the Keifuku line.

Shigetsu – This is inside the Tenryu-ji Temple so keep in mind that you’ll still have to pay the 500 JPY entrance fee.

Suggested activities in Arashiyama

Arashiyama and Sagano Walking Food Tour – Get to know Kyoto by spending some time in both Arashiyama and Sagano with this small group tour.  Along the way you’ll be able to try rice crackers, fried Yuba cake, Yuba soup, leek pancakes, and traditional Japanese sweets.

Arashiyama Rickshaw Tour with Japanese Foot Massage Combo – You’ll see these ninjas with rickshaws on the street of Kyoto but perhaps the best place to do it is in Arashiyama where the crowds are a bit more thin which really allow you to see Kyoto’s elegant temples, quiet gardens, and serene shrines.  When you’re done, soak your aches away at a Japanese foot soak and massage where a drink is included as well.

Private Highlights of Kyoto Tour – Looking for a tour that covers everything in Kyoto including Arashiyama, this is a well-packaged private tour that allows you to see everything in the short span of a day.  It includes, lunch, snacks, drinks, admission, and also a one day city bus pass after you’re done the 7 hour tour.

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#4 – Northern Kyoto

What’s there and why visit

Despite what seems to be further away from the action, there is plenty to fall in love with Northern Kyoto.  The star attraction is the strikingly beautiful Golden Pavilion named Kinkaku-ji.  The perfect balance of delicate architecture, reflection lake, green leaves, moss gardens, and balanced rocks, get a full 360 degree view of the villa that was built as a retirement villa for a shogun.  Nearby is Ryaon-ji which has 15 carefully placed rocks on a perfectly raked sea of gravel – a must-see rock zen garden.

Beyond these two big attractions, you’ll find yourself wandering amongst locals as there are a the city’s best family-run restaurants, hot springs, and of course more temples.

Why stay here

One reason to stay here is to situate yourself closer to Kinkaku-ji which isn’t necessarily the easiest to get to but that also means it’ll be harder to get to the downtown of Kyoto and Higashiyama.  However, that is a blessing in disguise because by staying here, you’re further away from the busy streets and crowds which is why you’ll find some of the city’s best ryokans in this neighbourhood.

Suggested hotels near Northern Kyoto

Things to see near Northern Kyoto

Kinkaku-ji – The gilded Golden Pavilion is reason alone to visit Kyoto.  Yes, the crowds do get pretty thick here but there are still ways to get magical and clean photos of this stunning Zen temple.

Ryoan-ji Temple – Housing Japan’s most well-known rock garden, this was originally an aristocrat’s villa but later converted into a Zen temple.

Enryaku-ji – This is a monastery on the eastern mountain range of Mount Hieizan.  It’s a bit of a hike to get to but there is an Eizen Cablecar and ropeway from the Kyoto side.

Kyoto Gosho (Kyoto Imperial Palace) – This used to be the residence of the Imperial Family until 1868 before the capital was moved to Tokyo.  It was burnt down at one point but reconstructed in 1855.  Here you’ll find the Kyoto Imperial Park, Sento Imperial Palace, and a few other historical sights.

Getting there

Kinkaku-ji – Take bus number 101 or 205 from Kyoto Station for roughly 40 minutes.  Alternatively, you can also take the Karasuma subway line to Kitaoji Station and then  either taxi or bus (101, 102, 204, 205) to cut down the commute to 25-30 minutes.

Ryoan-ji Temple – There’s a JR bus that can take you here but you need a JR Pass or buy a ticket on the bus.  It is not covered by the city bus day pass.  You can also take a 5 minute bus ride from Kinkakuji.  You can also take a Keifuku train on the Kitano Line, get off at Ryoanji-michi Station and from there walk 10 minutes.

Enryaku-ji – Ride the train on the Eizan Main Line from Demachi-yanagi Station in northeastern Kyoto to Yase-Hieizan-guchi Station.  From there, take the ropeway and cablecar to the top of Hieizan.  At the summit you’ll need to take a 5 minute bus to the Todo area where the monastery is.  There’s also a direct bus you can take from Kyoto Station.  This takes an hour and there are 4-6 busses per day.  Don’t plan on coming here during December – March where the busses and cablecar/ropeway shuts down.

Kyoto Gosho (Kyoto Imperial Palace) – Take the Karasuma subway line to Imadegawa station where you’re close to the doorsteps of the Imperial Palace.

Suggested activities in Northern Kyoto

Private Tea Ceremony Experience and Japanese Lunch – 1 minute away from Kinkaku-ji, learn the artistry and movements of a traditional Japanese tea ceremony.  In this 90 minute experience, you’ll be led by a lecturer at Urasenke, one of the country’s most famous tea schools.  Finish with a traditional Japanese lunch.

Kyoto Cultural Forest, Shrine and Temple Tour with Options – A guided tour that takes you to all of the most popular sights in a span of  up to 11 hours where you’ll be shuttled around in an air-conditioned and wifi-included coach.  Highlights include Kinkaku-ji, Kiyomizu-Dera Temple, Fushimi Inari Shrine, Sagano Bamboo Forest, and Tenryuji Temple.  The benefit is that admission is included and guaranteed skip-the-line access.

Full Day Kyoto Private Walking Tour – Take control of your Kyoto sightseeing and only see the things you want to in this private walking tour.  You can customize a 2, 4, or 7 hour tour and put together a package of places that can include the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), Fushimi Inari Shrine, Nijo Castle, or elect to see something off-the-beaten-path.

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#5 – Southern Kyoto

What’s there and why visit

There’s nothing more iconic and internationally recognized than this neighbourhood in Kyoto.  In this southern district, you’ll find the mesmerizing Fushimi Inari-Taisha Shrine and its tunnel of vermilion red torii gates.  Dedicated to the Japanese fox goddess, you’ll find thousands of gates that make its way 230 metres up the mountain.  It’s something that almost feels unreal.  With the light seeping in reflecting off of the rea, the black Japanese carvings, paved paths with stone shoulder flanking each side on the ground, there’s a perfect balance of tranquility, spirituality, and child-like wonder.

There’s more to see beyond Fushimi Inari-Taisha as Tofuku-ji Temple is also a bit of a secret gem while you’re here as a perfect companion since it is next door.  Since you’re away from the city core, it’s usually quieter and calmer which most travellers love.

Why stay here

Simply put, the main reason to stay here is to be able to visit Fushimi Inari-Taisha earlier in the day or late in the day to avoids the hoards of tourists.  The nice thing about Southern Kyoto is that there are two rail station that service this area which makes it easy to get into Central Kyoto and also Arashiyama.

Suggested hotels near Southern Kyoto

Things to see near Southern Kyoto

Fushimi Inari-Taisha Shrine – This is an important Shinto shrine that is perhaps the most photogenic spot in the city with its tunnel of torii gates that straddle a network of trails that lead up a mountain.  Memoirs of a Geisha was also filmed here.

Tofuku-ji Temple – This temple is extremely popular in the autumn with all of their lush maple trees especially from Tsutenkyo Bridge.  This is a large Zen temple that was founded in 1236 and is a head temple of one of the schools of the Rinzai sect of Zen Buddhism.  Make sure to check out the Sanmon Gate, Hojo Garden, and Kaisando Hall.  Note that some areas are paid.

Sennyu-ji Temple – This is a hidden temple up on the top of Sennyu-ji Michi Street that most don’t know about but at the end you’ll find a complex of Buddhist halls that are quite stunning and unique.

Getting there

Fushimi-Inari-Taisha Shrine – The shrine is located just across from the JR Inari Station and is only 5 minutes from Kyoto Station.  It’s also a short walk from the second Fushimi Inari Station along the Keihan Main Line.

Tofuku-ji Temple – This is a 10 minute walk from Tofokuji Station on the JR Nara Line and the Keihan Main Line.  You can also get to the temple from Kyoto Station with Bus 208 (15 minutes).

Sennyu-ji Temple – This is 10 minutes walk from Tofuku-ji Station on the JR Nara Line or Keihan Main Line.  Find Sennyu-ji Michi Street and keep walking south east.

Suggested activities in Southern Kyoto

Kyoto Full Day Sightseeing Tour – This tour is extremely well reviewed on Viator for its excellent tour guides.  This is 9 hour tour will take you through Kiyomizu-dera Temple, the Imperial Palace, Kinkaku-ji Temple, and Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine.

Half Day Small Group Cultural Tour – In this 3.5 hour tour, another very well rated tour on Viator thanks to their …  At 3.5 hours and a maximum of 12 people, you’ll see everything from Tofukuji, Fushimi Inari-Taisha, and Gion.

Kyoto Sake Brewery Tour with Lunch and Fushimi Walking Tour – Start your tour with a visit to Kizakura Kappa Country Sake Brewery where you’ll be able to sample a variety of sakes.  Visit the Gekkeikan Okura sake museum to learn more about the brewing process.  A yakitori lunch is included and close off with a stroll in the Fushimi area in Southern Kyoto.

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So there you have it.  These are my choices for where to stay in Kyoto.  What about you?  Do you have suggestions from your experience?  Drop a comment below.  The more ideas the better!  If you’re headed to Hiroshima as well, make sure to learn what the top 5 things in Hiroshima are.