Since first-time travelers to Japan have asked me about my time there and what I would recommend doing, I thought I would share with you a few cool things to do in Kyoto (one of my favorite Japanese cities I visited!) As the imperial capital of Japan from 794-1868, Kyoto is filled with rich history and culture and countless temples and shrines. If you are looking for things to do in Kyoto, from iconic temples to fun street food, here are five things to try!
1. Explore Fushimi Inari Shrine
This famous and vibrant shrine known for its orange/vermilion gates is a must-see when in Kyoto. Although there are several thousand shrines throughout Japan dedicated to Inari, the god of rice, this is the most important of the thousands and existed prior to the capital’s move to Kyoto in 794. With shrine buildings as well as hiking trails, there’s plenty to see here; however, the largest draw is the extensive network of trails covered with torii gates–black and orange gates that have been donated by various merchants, manufacturers, and individuals (the name of the donor and date of donation are inscribed on each gate). When you visit, keep an eye out for the Komainu–although Komainu are frequently dogs or lions that guard the shrine, Fushimi Inari’s guards are foxes and you can spot them all over the trails and grounds!
2. See Kinkakuji (The Golden Pavilion)
Although the current Kinkakuji was rebuilt in 1955 after a monk burned the building down in 1950, this Zen temple is still worth a look and is one of seventeen places designated as World Heritage Sites for the list of Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto. Standing at three stories tall and with the second and third floors gilded with gold leaf, Kinkakuji thrills and impresses with its glowing hue, beautiful pond, and its charming situation within beautiful gardens and mountains. Spend some time admiring the building, then enjoy strolling through the garden with its design from the Muromachi period. On your stroll, look for different views of Kinkakuji as well as watching for Anmintaku Pond–said to never dry up–and for a group of statues that you can toss coins at for good luck.
3. Visit the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
If you’ve been searching Pinterest for ideas in preparation for your trip, it’s likely you’ve seen images of the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. It’s a popular site, and for good reason! After all, at least for most of us, how many places are there where you can wander while bamboo towers over your head like giant asparagus stalks? With easy access and trails cutting through the groves that are perfect for walking or biking, Arashiyama makes for a pleasant place to wander and listen as the wind gently sways the bamboo back and forth. But arrive early to avoid the crowds, or you’ll end up spending your quiet walk with hundreds of your “closest friends”…
4. Eat Taiyaki
A classic street vendor snack across Japan, Taiyaki is a fish-shaped cake that is frequently filled with red bean paste from sweetened azuki beans. Reminiscent of pancake or waffle batter, these cakes are also sometimes filled with custard, chocolate, or a variety of other sweet and savory fillings. I recommend trying red bean paste at some point during your trip, but if you try it and it is not to your taste then the custard makes a pleasant secondary option!
5. Wander on the Philosopher’s Walk
The Philosopher’s Walk is so named because of Nishida Kitaro, a 20th-century Japanese philosopher who walked this route while meditating during his daily commute to Kyoto University. The stone pathway follows a canal and is lined with cherry trees that burst into bloom in late March or early April, making this a beautiful path to stroll in spring. If you are an animal-lover you will appreciate that there is a community of cats that live in the area and enjoy the attention of locals and visitors alike, with many locals even bringing food to feed to the cats as if they were a group of pigeons in the park. Along the route you can also find smaller temples and shrines to visit on the way plus plenty of restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy refreshments if you want to take a break.
Bonus: Eat at Omen Udon Restaurant
I know I said five things to do in Kyoto, but this one technically goes along with number five since it is along the Philosopher’s Walk. This is where I ate after wandering the path, and it ended up being an excellent dining choice! The sashimi was mouthwatering, the udon was to die for, and their presentation of food was impeccable. If you want to eat in the tatami mat section, I recommend calling ahead to reserve as it is unlikely you will be able to sit there as a walk-in. But if you don’t mind sitting at tables, feel free to show up and see if they have room as it is likely they can squeeze you in!
Address: Japan, 〒606-8406 Kyoto Prefecture, Kyoto, Sakyo Ward, 銀閣寺バスプール南隣
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