Kyoto is a city that perfectly blends traditional Japanese culture with modern amenities, making it a must-visit destination for travelers. To make the most of your trip to Kyoto, here are some travel tips to keep in mind:
- Pack comfortable walking shoes, as Kyoto is a city best explored on foot.
- Make sure to try some of the delicious local cuisine, such as Kyoto-style sushi and matcha-flavored sweets.
- Purchase a Kyoto City Bus Pass to easily navigate the city’s public transportation system.
- Visit popular attractions early in the morning to avoid crowds.
- Respect the local customs and traditions, such as removing your shoes before entering a temple or shrine.
- Learn a few basic Japanese phrases to help you communicate with locals.
- Consider renting a bike to explore Kyoto’s beautiful parks and gardens.
- Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery and historic sites.
Don’t forget to get Travel Insurance Before You Travel
If you’re looking for travel insurance, we recommend the following travel insurance provider:
World Nomads Travel Insurance | Find the Perfect Insurance Plan for Your Trip with Travelex | Cancel for any reason with Travel Guard |
Our Top Travel Gear and Equipment Recommendations: Best Camera, Photo and Video Equipment for Your Travels
If you’re interested in our recommended travel gear and photo/video equipment:
- Best and Most Useful Travel Gear:
- Best photo / video cameras and equipment for Travel:
- Best Action Cameras and Portable Cameras
- Best Full-Frame DSLR Cameras and DSLR Cameras for Amateur and Professional Photographers
- Best Drones and Aerial Photography Cameras
- Best Tripods, Monopods and Selfie Sticks for Photography and Videography
- Best Mobile Phones and Cell Phones, Best Laptops and Computers for Travel:
3 Days in Kyoto / Things to do in Kyoto Top sites and monuments to visit in Kyoto:
- Kiyomizu-dera Temple: A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its wooden stage and stunning views of the city. Admission: 400 yen. [Link: https://www.kiyomizudera.or.jp/en/]
- Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine: Famous for its thousands of vermillion torii gates leading to the mountaintop. Free admission. [Link: https://inari.jp/]
- Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: A serene bamboo forest in the Arashiyama district. Free to visit. [Link: https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e3912.html]
- Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion): Iconic golden temple set in a picturesque garden. Admission: 400 yen. [Link: https://www.shokoku-ji.jp/k_about.html]
- Nijo Castle: Former residence of the shogun with beautiful gardens and historic buildings. Admission: 600 yen. [Link: https://nijo-jocastle.city.kyoto.lg.jp/en/]
- Gion District: Famous district in Kyoto
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Where to Stay in Kyoto / Top hotels in Kyoto
Highest Rated Kyoto Hotels priced over $200 per night:
- Sora Niwa Terrace Kyoto Bettei
- Toshiharu Ryokan
- Seikoro Ryokan – Established in 1831
- Kyo no Yado Sangen Ninenzaka
- Hotel Vischio Kyoto by GRANVIA
Best Rated Kyoto Hotels priced between $100 to $200 per night:
Top Hotels in Kyoto priced between $50 to $100 per night:
Best Kyoto hotels below $50 per night:
Please note that ratings and prices may vary depending on the season and availability. Make sure to check the current rates and availability through the provided links.
For more about Japan, Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Chiba, Fukuoka and other travel destinations in Japan, read the travel tips and see all travel stories, videos, photos and writing on Rolling Coconut’s Travel section.
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