The 5 best things to do in Kyoto

Kyoto is one of the most historical cities in Japan, with over 2000 temples and 800 shrines there. 

You will have a special and valuable experience.  

Kyoto has so many places to visit!  Just walking around and exploring the city is one of the recommendations. 

Here I will suggest 5 things to do in Kyoto.  

1. Take a walk along Kamo River. 

Kamo River, which runs from North to South, is the most famous river in Kyoto. It is a popular place for a stroll amongst locals and tourists.  You will see many people walking, exercising, and just chilling with their friends by the river. You will also find restaurants with open-air terraces overlooking the river. Spring is an especially beautiful time of the year to walk along the riverbank because you can see the Cherry Blossoms. From the CIEE Kyoto Center, it only takes 15 minutes on foot 

2.  Hike 

Kyoto is surrounded by mountains, so there are plenty of places to enjoy hiking. Although there are many places to go hiking around the city, Daimonji. Fushimi Inari, Arashiyama, Kurama (Kibune), and Hiezan (Enryakuji) provide some of the best views. My favorite is the Daimonji hike because it isn’t too long and you get one of the city's best views. From the CIEE Kyoto Center, it takes about 35min by train and bus. Subway Karasuma Oike →Kyoto Shiyakushomae→ take a bus32 to Ginkakuji 

3.  Go to the park 

The top 5 parks to visit are Umekoji Park, Okazaki Park, Maruyama Park, and Kyoto Gyoen National Garden. Each of these locations has something special. 

From CIEE Kyoto Center to Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, it’s only about 15 minutes on foot. Inside the garden, you will find the Kyoto Imperial Palace 

When the weather is good, relaxing there and enjoying a picnic with your friends is good.  You may also find people exercising and playing sports.  

Greenery Association Website

Gardens Website

4. Shop at  Markets 

Nishiki market - every day 

Toji market - on the 21st day of every month 

Kitano Tenmangu - on the 25th day of every month 

These 3 markets are famous in Kyoto. At Nishiki market, you can mainly enjoy Japanese food. Toji and Kitano Tenmangu markets are only open on specific dates. You can find antique items ( kimonos, dishes, figurines, accessories, etc.) and food. 

5.  Find your favorite ra-men restaurant 

Kyoto is one of the cities that is well-known for its ra-men, noodle soup. There are many ra-men restaurants, and each one has its original taste. You may witness long queues outside these restaurants, which tells you how popular they are.  If you like Ra-men it may be worth lining up. 

Here are some recommendations. 

Honke Daiichi Asahi (Kyoto Station 5min foot) 

Masutani ( Isetan Kyoto 10F)

Tenka Ippin ( Shinkyogoku sanjo, 10min from CIEE Kyoto)

Miyako ra-men (Gion Shijo Station 8min on foot)

There are plenty of things to do in Kyoto.  

When you have checked ALL YOUR to-do-list, 

Just pick your favorites in your plan,  

and explore your interest even deeper  

Then you will surely find your own special experience in Kyoto!