5 Amazing Things to DO in Kyoto

Kyoto Imperial Palace

I had a few days off work so what better way to spend it than visiting ‘old Japan’ or what people call the ‘real Japan’ which is Kyoto. 

Rented a bike on the first day and just roamed around discovering little nooks and non-touristy places on my own. Whenever I felt like getting lost, I’d just head to the direction of the Kamo River as it leads to the town center and train station (my hostel is near there too). But yeah, the river is a good landmark if you ever get lost.

The next day, due to poor weather I used the city bus. One has the option to go through all the sights and stops on the tourist trail or just select the ones you want to see. I chose the latter and ventured out again on my own after a few touristy temples.

Watashi wa O-susume  (My Recommendations)

Where to stay?

If on a budget, there are plenty of affordable hostels / guesthouses / backpackers scattered all over Kyoto. If not then hotels are abundant and there is also the ‘ryokan’ (traditional Japanese inn) to experience authentic Japanese lodging.

Whatever you choose, I recommend staying on the East side of the Kamo River as most of the temples you want to visit and the bus route for these are located there.

I stayed at K’s Backpackers and I had a great time. Apart from it being very convenient to the train station (about 3-5 min. walk), it is near all the temples and the Kyoto National Museum. It also has everything you need in a guesthouse: free drinks, internet, hot shower, kitchen, garden, etc. I remember paying Y2,500 (~$25) / night for a dorm room with 4 beds. 

This is already cheap here. It’s Japan, people.

5 Things to DO and SEE:

1. Rent a bicycle and bike along the Kamo River. It’s gorgeous with a scattering of Sakuras in the right season. It beats traffic and you get to go wherever your legs can pedal you. Note on biking  to Sannen-zaka, it’s an uphill climb so, prepare for some exercise and bust a sweat! Most hostels rent out bicycles for about  Y500 (~$5)/day.

2.    Get a map, it’s free and follow the temple trail or you can venture out on your own. It’s very safe in Kyoto so no problem if you go out even at night.

3.    These are my sightseeing spots I truly enjoyed:

Kinkakuji Temple

Kyoto National Museum

Sanjusan-gendo  Temple: choose your fortune from the bowl at the temple shop. Maybe it’ll be your lucky year!

Ginkakuji (Silver) Temple

Kinkakuji (Gold) Temple: the most famous temple in all of Japan.

Sannen Zaka Dori (street): the souvenir shopping street, everything from kimonos to food to novelty items are here. There are restaurants here too.

Kyomizudera Pagoda

Kawaramachi Sando: for more shopping and eating

Yasaka Pagoda

Kodaji Temple

Kyoto Imperial Palace

Gion – the historic Geisha town. They still live here at Geisha houses (Okiya) with the Geisha’s in training (Maiko). The Maiko are usually visible around town but the Geisha are more private. Perhaps you’ll chance upon a senior Geisha on her way to the temple and be lucky enough to get a photo!

Important: Do respect it when a Geisha refuses her photo be taken. They are highly celebrated in Japan and often stalked and chased. Any ounce of privacy they ask for should be granted.

4.    Try the freshly made Kyoto Okashi (sweets) like Wagashi - made from either rice (mocha), azuki (bean paste), or fruits from the different shops on Sannen Zaka Dori. They usually have free samplings to try. Sugoii desho!

5.    Enjoy the nature that surrounds you.

How to get around?

Bicycle – explained above.

City Buses – these are also a convenient way to move around the city. They have 1 or 2 day passes. Choose the bus that will take you to the sites you want to see. For fares and schedules (link).

Taxi – unfortunately you can’t hire a cab privately and pay him by the day. Cabs are government owned and having one wait for you as you go around town will cost you a big fortune!

Walk – If you have the energy and time, this is good exercise but probably best done in spring  and fall as summer can get too hot for walking and winter, too cold.

How to get to Kyoto?

If coming from Tokyo, the famous ‘Shinkansen’ Bullet Train operated by JR Line is the way to go. It’s a bit pricey but you’ll get here on time and not tired like if you took the overnight bus or regular train.

JR RAIL

Japan Guide on Shinkansen

From within the Kinki Chiho (Kansai Region), TRAINS are the way to go.  Apart from being the quicker way, it is more affordable too.

Kansa Railwway (Train) Route

Osaka to Kyoto (and back)

by Bus: not ideal unless you have a lot of time as it takes 7-8 hours from Kyoto. Online reservation may not be possible and it’s not necessarily a cheaper option either.

Hi-way Buses Information

Willer Express Company
  

If you are just to breeze through the different places in the Kansai Region, there are passes available to help you save money from buying different train tickets.

JR WEST KANSAI PASSES