If you’re planning a trip to Japan’s cultural capital, this Kyoto travel guide will walk you through what to know before you go — from the best time to visit and how to get around, to currency, language, power plugs, and key cultural tips.

Whether it’s your first visit or one of many, Kyoto offers a unique mix of history and everyday life that leaves a lasting impression.

👉 If you are looking for the top things to do in Kyoto, check out my complete itinerary here: The Best of Kyoto in 3 days.

This is the list of everything you will find in this article:

A. Kyoto – Information of Interest

Location

Kyoto is located in the Kansai region of central Japan, on the island of Honshu. Nestled in a valley and surrounded by mountains on three sides.

The city is situated approximately 370 kilometres (230 miles) west of Tokyo.

Area

Population

The population of Kyoto City in 2024 was around 1.46 million people.

Demonym

Kyotoite. Less common is Kyotan.

Language

The primary language is Japanese, particularly the Standard Japanese known as hyōjungo or kyōtsūgo.

In Kyoto, locals speak Kyoto-ben, a refined version of the Kansai dialect. This dialect, known for its soft intonation and subtle expressions, reflects the city’s imperial history and culture.

While standard Japanese is commonly used in public, Kyoto-ben is still spoken daily, especially by older residents.

Remember that you can check the language spoken in each country using the tables that I attach to my posts: Countries by Language and Best Time to Go.

B. Kyoto – Practical Information

Money

The official currency of Kyoto (and the rest of Japan) is the yen, which is the third most traded currency in the foreign exchange market, after the US dollar and the euro.

Its abbreviation is JPY, and its symbol is ¥ (international) or 円 (in Japan).

For more information about money, refer to the Recommendations section in my post, Japan Tourist Information.

In my post, Currency Exchange, Cards, and Cash Abroad (Complete Guide), there is a table that allows you to view the currency used by entering the name of the country you’re interested in. Additionally, this article provides all the essential information you need to know about money and travelling.

Communications

For tips on using your phone abroad without breaking the bank, check out my article Save at the Destination. It includes a specific section on using the Internet Abroad.

🌐 Internet Connection: Stay connected abroad with Airalo eSIMs.

🔐 For safe and reliable internet access wherever you roam, I always recommend using a VPN—NordVPN is my go-to.

Plugs and Voltage

The plug used in Kyoto (and the rest of Japan) is Type A, also known as the “American” type. It features two flat parallel pins with a small hole each and lacks a ground connection.

In some places, you may also find the Type B plug, which is a variation of the Type A plug. It has three triangle-shaped pins: two are flat, and the other leg (ground) is round and slightly longer than the others.

The voltage is 100 volts, and the frequency is 50 / 60 Hz.

Please refer to my post Plug Types by Country to learn about the different types of plugs used in each country and their corresponding voltages. This will help you determine if you need an adapter and, if so, what type. 

This information is available in the Travel Logistics section, along with other essentials you need for a smooth trip.

Best time to visit Kyoto and for How long

The best time to visit Kyoto depends on the kind of experience you’re seeking. Kyoto is a beautiful city throughout the year, with each season offering its unique charm. I chose to visit during the cherry blossom season, but I must admit that it was quite overcrowded.

Here are my preferences for visiting Kyoto:

1. Spring (March to May): Ideal for enjoying the cherry blossoms.
2. Fall (October to November): Perfect for witnessing the stunning autumn foliage.
3. Winter (December to February): a good choice if you want to avoid the crowds, as fewer tourists visit during these months.
4. Summer (June to August): Ideal for experiencing the Gion Matsuri festival and the city’s vibrant energy.

If you want to pick a different travel destination based on the most suitable time to visit, see my posts Best Time to Go and Where to Travel Each Month. It will help you plan your trip better.

*️⃣ How Long to Visit Kyoto

As always, the ideal number of days in Kyoto depends on your travel pace and interests. That said, 3 to 4 days is an excellent amount of time to experience the city’s highlights without feeling rushed. If you’re looking for a more relaxed or in-depth cultural experience, adding an extra day or two is well worth it.

My itinerary, The Best of Kyoto in 3 Days, focuses on the essential sights and even includes a side trip to Nara, known for its ancient temples, the impressive Great Buddha statue, and the friendly, free-roaming deer in Nara Park.

In my posts, How Many Days I Need to Visit Each Country and How Many Days I Need to Visit Each City, I explain the number of days needed to visit each country and the most touristy cities.

✈️ Flights: Compare the best prices on flights using Kayak.

C. How to Get Around Kyoto

The best way to get around Kyoto is by bus. Buses are super handy for getting to places that are harder to reach by train or subway (like Kinkaku-ji, Gion, or Arashiyama).

The “Kyoto City Bus One-Day Pass” is an excellent value if you plan to explore several temples or areas in a day. Or, you can use your IC Card to top in and out.

Other Options

Other transportation options are:

• Kyoto’s Subway: Convenient for travelling between major areas like downtown and some key attractions. The two lines, Karasuma (north-south) and Tozai (east-west), are simple to use.
• JR Trains: If you’re travelling to or from other parts of the Kansai region, the JR trains (especially the JR Sagano Line) are particularly helpful.

• Taxis. Taxis are a convenient option if you’re not in a rush and don’t mind spending a little extra. They’re helpful when you’re headed to spots not easily accessible by public transport or if you’re travelling in a group. Just make sure to have your destination written in Japanese for easier communication.

⚠️ Their licence plates have a green background and frame. If that isn’t the case, it could be a fake taxi.

• Uber. It is now becoming widespread and working as well as in Europe.
• Biking. Kyoto is a bike-friendly city, and many people cycle around the temples, shrines, and scenic areas. Renting a bike is a fantastic way to explore the city at your own pace. You can find rental spots near major attractions, and many hotels provide bikes for guests.
• Walking. Many of Kyoto’s best attractions are relatively close to each other, so walking is an enjoyable way to get around, especially if you’re exploring areas like Gion, the Philosopher’s Path, or Higashiyama. It’s also a great way to soak in the atmosphere and discover hidden gems.

D. Kyoto – Cultural Information

Cultural Etiquette

Kyoto is a city rich in traditions, and to truly enjoy your time there, it’s essential to respect the local customs. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Respectful Behaviour. Kyoto is a place for quiet reflection, so try to keep noise to a minimum, especially in temples, shrines, and peaceful neighbourhoods.
• No Touching Geisha (or Maiko). Enjoy watching Geisha and Maiko, but please make sure to admire them from a respectful distance. Don’t chase them or take flash photos.
• Shoes Off. Please remove your shoes when entering temples, ryokans, and certain restaurants. If indoor slippers are provided, use those.
• Respect Sacred Spaces. Be mindful in temples and shrines. Participate in local rituals, such as bowing or washing your hands at designated water stations.
• Stay Quiet in Public. Keep your conversations and phone chats low on public transport and in other public places.

A Brief History of Kyoto

This timeline offers a concise overview of how Kyoto evolved from an imperial capital into one of Japan’s most culturally significant and historic cities.

• 794 AD – Kyoto, formerly known as Heian-kyō, was established as Japan’s capital by Emperor Kanmu, marking the start of the Heian Period.

• Heian Period (794–1185) – Kyoto thrives as the cultural, religious, and imperial centre of Japan.

• Kamakura & Muromachi Periods (1185–1573) – While political power shifted to the shoguns, Kyoto remains Japan’s spiritual and artistic heart.

• Onin War (1467–1477) – A destructive civil war severely damaged the city, marking the beginning of the Warring States period.

• Edo Period (1603–1868) – Kyoto loses political control to Edo but stays influential as the emperor’s home and cultural hub.

• Meiji Restoration (1868) – The capital moves to Tokyo, ending Kyoto’s 1,000-year role as Japan’s seat of power.

• World War II (1939–1945) – Kyoto is spared from bombing, preserving its historic sites and architecture.

• Modern Era. Today, Kyoto is a UNESCO-recognised city that blends ancient traditions with modern life.

10 Interesting Facts about Kyoto

1. A Thousand-Year Capital. Kyoto was Japan’s capital from 794 to 1868 — that’s longer than most countries have existed!

2. A City of Temples and Shrines. With over 1,600 Buddhist temples and more than 400 Shinto shrines, Kyoto is a spiritual wonderland. Don’t miss the iconic Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and Fushimi Inari-taisha with its endless red torii gates.

3. A UNESCO World Heritage Goldmine. Seventeen of Kyoto’s historic sites — from temples to castles — are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

4. Home of the Geisha. In Kyoto’s Gion district, tradition lives on. You might catch a glimpse of a maiko (apprentice geisha) heading to her next performance.

5. Birthplace of the Tea Ceremony. Kyoto is where the Japanese tea ceremony was refined and perfected. The nearby town of Uji produces Japan’s finest matcha.

6. Kyoto Cuisine (Kyo-ryori). Savour dishes like kaiseki (seasonal haute cuisine), yudofu (hot tofu), and shojin ryori (vegetarian temple fare).

7. Breathtaking in Every Season. Spring brings cherry blossoms, autumn offers crimson maple leaves — Kyoto is a year-round postcard.

8. Traditional Wooden Townhouses. Wander through neighbourhoods like Higashiyama and Gion, lined with machiya, charming wooden homes from centuries past.

9. Kyoto Protocol Connection. Yes, that Kyoto! The 1997 Kyoto Protocol on climate change was signed right here.

10. Spared from War. Unlike many Japanese cities, Kyoto was spared from bombing during World War II, thereby preserving its historic buildings and cultural heritage.

👉 For more information about Japan, read my post: Japan Tourist Information.

E. Ready to Book your Trip?

To help you organise your adventure, I’ve gathered the best tools I use and recommend for booking flights, hotels, local transport and more. These links support this site at no extra cost to you.

Safe travels! 🌏✈️

F. More About Japan

Planning a trip to Japan? Here are some of my top posts to help you make the most of your journey – from detailed itineraries and cultural insights to city guides and unique experiences across the country.

⭐ Itineraries & City Guides

🗾🌸 Japan in 20 Days: Cherry Blossom Itinerary & Top Cities. Plan the perfect spring getaway with this 20-day itinerary covering Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, cherry blossoms, and essential travel tips.

🗼 Tokyo 4-Day Itinerary: Best Things to Do & See. Explore Tokyo’s must-visit attractions, neighbourhoods, street food, and cultural highlights in just four unforgettable days.

🚉 Kamakura & Yokohama: Day Trip from Tokyo. A perfect day trip from Tokyo to explore Kamakura’s temples and Yokohama’s scenic bayside – history, food, and coastal charm.

🏯 Odawara, Hakone, Fujiyoshida & Nagoya: Castles, Fuji, and Onsen. Visit historic castles, soak in hot springs, and admire iconic views of Mount Fuji on this scenic multi-stop adventure.

⛩️ The Best of Kyoto in 3 Days. Discover Kyoto’s top temples, gardens, and cultural sites in just three days – includes a downloadable map to guide you.

🍜 Sumo in Osaka, Tastes of Kobe & Highlights from Himeji & Okayama. Catch a sumo match, try Kobe beef, and explore some of Japan’s best castles in this fast-paced guide to western Japan.

📍 Hiroshima & Miyajima: Top Attractions. A must-read for first-timers – explore Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park and the stunning Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island.

🏝️ Okinawa: What to See & Do. Planning a beach escape? Discover what to see, do, and know before visiting Okinawa, Japan’s tropical paradise.

⭐ Culture, Religion & Traditions

🧘 Koyasan: My Stay at a Buddhist Temple. Experience the peaceful world of Japanese Buddhism with a temple stay in Koyasan – meditation, monks, and morning prayers.

🙏 Temple Etiquette in Japan: What to Know Before You Visit. Visiting temples and shrines? Learn the dos and don’ts of temple etiquette to show respect during your spiritual visits.

☸️ Japanese Buddhism Made Simple. New to Buddhism? This beginner-friendly guide breaks down key beliefs and traditions in Japanese Buddhist culture.

🍀 Guide to Japanese Lucky Charms & Amulets. Curious about omamori, daruma, or maneki neko? Learn the meanings and traditions behind Japan’s most iconic charms.

⭐ Travel Tips & Cultural Insights

📌 Japan Tourist Information: What You Need to Know. Practical info every traveller should know – transport, money, customs, etiquette, and more to prepare you for your trip.

🚇 Practical Tokyo Guide for First-Time Visitors. Navigate Tokyo like a pro with this beginner-friendly guide to public transport, safety tips, and local etiquette.

🌆 Osaka Travel Guide: What to Know Before You Go. When to go, how to get around, what to eat, and more – your go-to guide for Japan’s most vibrant foodie city.

Additional Information

You can also check my itineraries in Itineraries. Here, you’ll find them classified in City Guides and Country Guides.

Remember to check Cook up Your Trip. There, you will find everything you need to organise your trip from start to finish.

I hope you enjoyed this Kyoto Travel Guide, which covers everything you need to know before you go. If you require any clarification, please feel free to leave a comment or complete the contact form. I will be happy to help you. 😊

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