Kyoto
Kyoto has over 2,000 temples and shrines, and yes, some of them get absurdly crowded. But walk ten minutes off the main tourist paths in Higashiyama and you'll find quiet back streets with old wooden machiya houses and almost nobody around. The city is flat enough to bike everywhere, and rental shops near Kyoto Station charge about ¥1,000/day.
Create itineraryQuick Facts
Top things to see in Kyoto
Book your Kyoto trip
Hotels, flights, and activities — all in one place
Bookings handled by partner sites, not by TripPlan
Kyoto travel FAQ
How many days do I need in Kyoto?
Three to four days is the sweet spot. Day one for eastern Kyoto (Kiyomizu-dera, Gion, Philosopher's Path), day two for northern temples (Kinkaku-ji, Ryoan-ji), day three for Arashiyama and Fushimi Inari (go early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds). A fourth day lets you explore Nishiki Market and smaller temples at your own pace.
What's the best area to stay in Kyoto?
Around Kyoto Station is the most practical — all bus lines start there and the JR line connects you to Osaka fast. Hotels run ¥6,000–12,000/night. Gion and Higashiyama are more atmospheric but pricier and farther from transit hubs. If you're on a budget, the area between Shijo and Kawaramachi has good options with easy subway access.
How can I avoid crowds at Kyoto's temples?
Arrive at opening time — Fushimi Inari at 6 AM is practically empty and the light through the torii gates is worth the early alarm. For Kinkaku-ji and Kiyomizu-dera, weekday mornings before 9 AM are your best bet. Skip the autumn leaf peak weeks in mid-November if you can. Also, lesser-known temples like Tofuku-ji (outside peak season) or Daitoku-ji sub-temples are just as beautiful with a fraction of the visitors.