Kyoto Travel Guide – Must-See Spots, Hidden Gems & Local Food
Planning a trip to Kyoto? Then let’s do a little prep together! Through my trip! First things first: let’s find a good bento for the Shinkansen. Eating a bento on the bullet train is one of the best parts of traveling in Japan! I picked up a tuna and salmon roe bento, and some sushi with engawa – a rich, fatty cut of fish. So good. You can also drink beer on the train, so if you’ve got good food and drinks, the ride flies by in no time. Starts here! We’ve arrived at Kyoto Station! It’s not just a train station – it’s a futuristic building designed around the theme of “space.” There’s even a free rooftop observation deck with great views of the city! Just a heads-up – Kyoto gets super hot and humid in summer because it’s in a basin. Stay cool and hydrated! Stay cool and hydrated! Across the street is Kyoto Tower, designed to look like a lighthouse guiding the city – since Kyoto has no ocean. And don’t miss the projection mapping on the big staircase in the evening. It’s a fun way to pass the time while waiting for your Shinkansen. Now we’re at Fushimi Inari Taisha – one of the most iconic and visited shrines in all of Japan. It’s just a short walk from Fushimi Inari Station, making access super easy. In fact, it’s ranked #1 among foreign visitors’ favorite spots in Japan. And personally, this was the most memorable stop on my entire trip. This time, I came at night. The endless line of red torii gates glowing faintly in the dark creates an atmosphere that feels otherworldly – like you’ve stepped into a different dimension. While the main hall is open for ceremonies from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.,
shrine of over 30,000 Inari shrines across Japan. the mountain trail lined with torii gates is open 24/7, allowing for night hikes like this one.
shrine of over 30,000 Inari shrines across Japan. You’ll notice many fox statues around the shrine grounds.
shrine of over 30,000 Inari shrines across Japan. Foxes are considered messengers of the gods and are often shown holding rice stalks, scrolls, or sacred jewels in their mouths. Of course, what makes this shrine most famous are the thousands of red torii gates.
shrine of over 30,000 Inari shrines across Japan. They’re called the Senbon Torii, or “thousand gates,” but there are actually over 10,000 here!
shrine of over 30,000 Inari shrines across Japan. Each gate is a donation from a person or business that had a wish granted or simply wanted to express gratitude.
shrine of over 30,000 Inari shrines across Japan. If you look closely, you’ll see names and dates inscribed on the back of every gate – some are individuals, but many are companies. These gates can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars, depending on their size and location. And they’re still being added today, so the number keeps growing! Walking through the gates, you’ll notice the air shift – light filters in differently, and the sounds fade away. It’s quiet, a little eerie, and deeply calming all at once. And if you’re lucky, you might even meet one of the local cats that live around the shrines. Locals often say they’re like “divine guides”, lounging peacefully in the sun or quietly watching from a stone perch. About halfway up, you’ll reach Yotsutsuji, a popular lookout spot with stunning views over Kyoto city.
spirit.shrines. With torii gates stretching endlessly in all directions, it’s hard to tell how far you’ve come – or how far you still have to go. There’s something surreal about walking through these gates for so long… it almost feels like time stands still. But, don’t worry. Eventually, you’ll reach the summit of Mount Inari, at 233 meters above sea level. But don’t expect a grand finish – there’s just a modest sign that says, “This is the summit. No need to ask the staff.” Very Japanese. Quiet, humble, and respectful of the natural setting. Oh, and one more thing – c or that they chose a new path but ended up in a familiar spot. It’s as if the mountain itself plays gentle tricks on your sense of time and direction. But don’t worry – when you’re unsure of the way, one of those sacred cats might just guide you home. In 1868, the caiptal was moved to Edo, which was renamed to Tokyo, east capital. Before that, Kyoto served as Japan’s capital for over 1,000 years, nurturing its traditions. Tea ceremony, flower arrangement, and geisha culture all flourished here. In the film “Oppenheimer,” Kyoto was spared from bombing due to its cultural importance. Temples, shrines, and all towns escaped, remaining today. See, a variety of temples are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This is Nishiki Market, often called “Kyoto’s Kitchen.” With a history of over 400 years, it has long been a hub of local food culture. The famous Edo-period painter Ito Jakuchu was actually born right here, in a greengrocer’s family in the market. One great thing about Nishiki is that it’s covered by an arcade,
so you can enjoy exploring it comfortably, even on rainy days. The market is packed with all kinds of ready-to-eat local foods – like freshly made tamagoyaki (Japanese omelet), skewered octopus, crispy yuba croquettes, and more. It’s the perfect place to try authentic Kyoto flavors in a casual way. Just a quick reminder – eating while walking is not allowed in the market. Make sure to stop and enjoy your food in front of the shop or in designated areas. Even though Kyoto isn’t by the sea, you can still find plenty of fresh seafood at Nishiki Market. Shrimp, shellfish, and even hamo, a delicately flavored fish that’s especially popular in Kyoto. There are lots of spots where you can sit down and enjoy a meal, so it’s a great place to stop for lunch. And if you’re just in the mood for a quick bite and a drink,
you’ll also find standing bars where you can casually snack and sip. Kyoto people really love pickles, so you’ll find a huge variety of them being sold throughout the market. Many shops offer free samples, so you can try different flavors before you buy. I picked up a few myself to take home. Matcha treats are also very popular here. Matcha is a finely ground green tea powder with a rich, slightly bitter taste – and you’ll find it in ice cream, cakes, and other sweets that are a big hit with visitors from around the world. Another Kyoto specialty to look out for is yuba, or tofu skin – a delicate layer that forms on the surface when soy milk is heated. It’s used in traditional Buddhist cuisine and has a subtle, creamy texture. It’s more than just a market – it’s a place where you can truly experience Kyoto’s flavors and everyday life. And at the eastern end of the market, you’ll find Nishiki Tenmangu Shrine. It’s squeezed right between modern buildings, which makes it a fascinating contrast – a quiet spiritual spot to end your Nishiki stroll with a quick visit or a wish for good luck. Unlike Tokyo, the streets of Kyoto are laid out in a neat grid. Maybe that’s why walking here feels so calm and peaceful. Traditional buildings are everywhere. You’ll also spot people in kimono, reminding you you’re really in Kyoto. And yes, there are plenty of rental shops if you want to try one yourself! While walking around, you might notice something curious called inuyarai. It’s a wooden fence leaning diagonally in front of buildings. Originally, it was meant to keep dogs from peeing on the walls – practical, right? Today, it adds to the old-time charm of the city. Another thing that might catch your eye is the ikezu stone. “Ikezu” means “a bit mean” in Kyoto dialect, It’s placed at sharp corners to gently protect buildings from cars brushing past. Buses are the main way to travel. Because of the need to preserve the city’s historical landscape, building subway lines in some areas is difficult. As a result, the bus network is super well-developed – and the best part? You get to enjoy the scenery along the way, unlike on the subway! Did you notice how Kyoto is full of charming little lanes and alleys? It starts with the city’s ancient grid. When Kyoto became Japan’s capital in 794, its streets were laid out like a chessboard – straight, wide, and easy to navigate. Centuries later, a clever tax rule changed the game: property fees were based on the width of a house facing the street. To save money, merchants built narrow fronts and very deep lots. As families divided and sold those deep plots, new homes popped up farther and farther from the main road. But every house still needed an entrance – so residents carved out slim, shared passageways called “roji.” Add a few hundred years of repeating that pattern, and Kyoto’s grid is now laced with a web of tiny lanes: some public, many privately shared, all packed with history. As you walk through the streets of Kyoto, you’ll notice that many small shops and even private homes decorate their windows with seasonal flowers, crafts, or ornaments. It’s a quiet tradition rooted in Kyoto’s appreciation for beauty and hospitality – omotenashi. These small displays are meant to bring a sense of warmth and welcome to passersby, adding a personal touch to the streetscape and reflecting the changing seasons. It’s a simple gesture, but one that makes Kyoto feel open, thoughtful, and alive. This is the Kamo River, or Kamogawa – a special river that flows north to south through the heart of Kyoto. Along the river, there’s a well-maintained walking path where both locals and visitors come to relax and enjoy some peaceful time. One interesting thing you might hear about is how couples often sit evenly spaced apart along the riverbanks. It’s said to reflect Kyoto’s unique sense of personal space and subtle manners. The name “Kamo” actually means duck in Japanese, and true to its name, the river is home to ducks, herons, kingfishers, and many other wild animals. In summer, restaurants along the river set up “kawayuka” decks – outdoor dining platforms built over the water. If you’re looking for that classic Kyoto alleyway atmosphere,
ontocho, right next to the Kamo River, is the place to go. This cute red bird is the symbol of Pontocho. It’s a narrow street packed with Kyoto-style restaurants, bars, and izakaya, all lined up tightly side by side. At night, paper lanterns light the path, giving the whole area a warm and nostalgic glow. Some of the alleys are so narrow, you can’t help but peek in and wonder what’s hidden inside. You’ll also spot little details and objects you’d never see in Tokyo – those small touches that really make Kyoto feel special. The area still holds onto its old Kyoto atmosphere, and just walking through it is a fun experience. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a maiko or geiko on their way to work. But remember – don’t chase them or take photos without asking. Since it’s just steps from the Kamo River, it’s a perfect place to visit while out on a walk. We’ve done a lot of walking today, haven’t we? Time to grab a drink and take a break. We’re here at Masuya Saketen, just a short walk from Nishiki Market. And this place is all about enjoying sake casually and comfortably. They offer plenty of Kyoto-style dishes like yuba (tofu skin), heshiko (fermented fish), and all kinds of local pickles – perfect with sake. You’ll find a huge selection of sake from all over Japan, usually priced between 500 to 1,000 yen per glass. First dish: seared duck carpaccio. Could it be the same duck we saw flying over the Kamo River earlier? …Nah, probably not! But the smoky flavor is fantastic with sake. Next up: yuba pizza! It’s thin and crispy, super satisfying. Since it’s made from soy, not wheat, it’s actually kind of healthy. The blue cheese flavor is strong, so the taste of yuba is subtle, but the texture is great. Then we have grilled namafu, or raw wheat gluten another Kyoto specialty. It’s soft and chewy like mochi, but without the sticky texture. Very simple, very Kyoto. Now, back to the sake. The staff will pour it for you with care and yes, it might overflow a little into the saucer, but that’s all part of the charm. You can pour it back in or sip from the saucer – no problem. They also leave the bottle on the table, so if you find one you like, take a photo and remember it for later. Oh look, there’s a sake called GHOST.
Cute label, right? Next, we’re having namero – finely chopped sashimi mixed with seasonings and herbs. This is a perfect match with sake. So good. And now that we’re getting full, how about something light? This one’s a pâté made with dried persimmons, walnuts, and cream cheese. It has a Western vibe, but using hoshigaki (dried persimmon) gives it a very Japanese twist. Apparently, Masuya has several branches with slightly different styles. If you like it here, why not check out the others too? Cheers, everyone! This is Kinkaku-ji, one of the most iconic landmarks in Kyoto. But did you know that “Kinkaku-ji” isn’t actually its official name? It’s not just the pavilion itself—the surrounding garden and natural scenery at Kinkaku-ji are also incredibly beautiful. It’s not just the pavilion itself – the surrounding garden and natural scenery at Kinkaku-ji are also incredibly beautiful. You’ll likely see many Japanese students visiting on school trips, as Kinkaku-ji is a popular destination for learning about Japan’s history. The nickname “Kinkaku-ji” comes from the temple’s most striking feature: a pavilion with its second and third floors completely covered in gold leaf. The original structure was built in 1397 by Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu as his retirement villa. It’s said that if the same building were constructed today, it would cost around 60 billion yen – a testament to how luxurious it was, even by today’s standards. In 1950, however, the pavilion was tragically destroyed in a fire caused by arson. The current building is a faithful reconstruction, completed in 1955,
and later underwent major restoration in 1987, including a full reapplication of gold leaf. In 1994, Kinkaku-ji was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the “Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto.” It was recognized for its architectural beauty, its harmonious garden design, and the spiritual presence of Zen Buddhism. Next up is Ginkaku-ji, also known as the Silver Pavilion. Just beside the temple, you’ll find the Philosopher’s Path – a peaceful 2-kilometer walkway along a canal. It’s said that a Kyoto University philosopher often strolled here in quiet contemplation, which is how the path got its name. The path is a favorite among visitors who often combine it with a trip to Ginkaku-ji. At the end of the path, you’ll reach the approach to the temple, lined with small food stalls and souvenir shops. Although it’s a bit removed from the busy city center, the area offers a calm but lively atmosphere. It was originally built in 1482 as a retirement villa for Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa, and was later converted into a Zen temple. The name “Ginkaku-ji” (Silver Pavilion) came later, as a counterpart to Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion. There are stories suggesting that silver leaf was originally planned for the exterior, but due to war and financial difficulties, it was likely never applied. As a result, the pavilion’s bare wooden exterior stands in quiet contrast to the opulence of Kinkaku-ji. This subdued look has come to be highly regarded as an expression of wabi-sabi – the Japanese appreciation of simplicity and imperfection. In front of the pavilion, you’ll find two unique sand formations:
the Ginshadan, a flat bed of raked white sand, and the Kōgetsudai, a conical mound said to represent Mount Fuji. These elements create a tranquil and symbolic garden landscape. Throughout the temple grounds, you’ll also notice a variety of mosses, carefully maintained to complement the aesthetic of the garden. In fact, the temple intentionally selects and manages different species based on what fits the scenery. If you continue toward the back of the grounds, a hillside path takes you up to a scenic viewpoint – offering a sweeping view of the temple below and the Kyoto cityscape beyond. While both Kinkaku-ji and Ginkaku-ji are named after precious metals,
their character couldn’t be more different. Kinkaku-ji shines with grandeur, while Ginkaku-ji offers a quiet, introspective beauty, capturing the spirit of Zen and wabi-sabi in its most elegant form. Tonight, let’s stop by this cozy little place called Bonbori for a casual drink. The first dish I tried was smoked mackerel, I believe. The smoky aroma and rich flavor of the fish were just amazing. Next up was black soybean okara. Okara is the soybean pulp left over from making tofu. The delicate dashi flavor and the richness of the black beans made it really tasty. Then came pork cartilage. I often eat it stir-fried with beer, but here it was simply simmered – highlighting the natural taste. It felt very Kyoto: modest, but delicious. This kind of standing bar is perfect for a quick stop after dinner – for slowly sipping while nibbling on small bites. Some people were sitting too, so if you ask, they might bring out a stool for you. It’s a small place, and you can hear the comforting murmur of locals chatting around you. Very relaxing. Then I tried a small side dishi – I think it was Manganji miso. Just the kind of delicacy that goes so well with sake. Next was sanma no yūan-yaki – grilled saury marinated in soy sauce and yuzu. It was packed with flavor and honestly hard to cut with one hand. I ended up using both – excuse the bad manners. Totally worth it though. And the drink that came next was served in a wine glass with beautiful Japanese patterns. Such a thoughtful detail. Since it’s Kyoto, I also tried a green tea liqueur – rich and aromatic, just as expected. It’s moments like these – wandering into a small, local place – that make traveling truly memorable. Next up is Kennin-ji Temple – a lesser-known spot among international travelers, but one that’s quietly growing in popularity. Located right near Kyoto’s famous Gion district, it offers a peaceful escape just steps away from the city’s bustling streets. It’s a place where you can slow down and truly connect with your surroundings. Founded in 1202, Kennin-ji is Kyoto’s oldest Zen temple. It was established by the monk Eisai, who also introduced the custom of drinking tea to Japan – a figure deeply connected to both Zen Buddhism and tea culture. What makes Kennin-ji so special is its balance of simplicity and quiet beauty. It’s not flashy, but it leaves a lasting impression – a space where the essence of Zen and Japanese aesthetics is quietly present. Scattered throughout the temple grounds are dry rock gardens and moss-covered courtyards, each carefully designed and deeply meditative. One of the highlights is the replica of the famous “Wind and Thunder Gods” folding screen by Tawaraya Sōtatsu – a classic of Japanese art. And don’t forget to look up. Though Kennin-ji isn’t as widely known among tourists,
it’s slowly gaining attention as a quiet and meaningful alternative to Kyoto’s more crowded temples. Next up is Tō-ji Temple, just a 15-minute walk from Kyoto Station. It’s surprisingly easy to get to, but once you’re inside, it feels like you’ve stepped into another world. Tō-ji is part of the UNESCO World Hnd its history dates all the way back to 796, when it was founded as an official temple to guard the city’s east side. This temple is deeply connected to Kūkai – also known as Kōbō Daishi – the monk who brought Esoteric Buddhism to Japan. Tō-ji became the center of his teachings and remains a spiritual hub for the Shingon sect to this day. The highlight here is the Five-Story Pagoda, which stands about 55 meters tall – making it the tallest wooden pagoda in Japan. Although it’s usually closed to the public, there are special occasions when you can see inside and view the sacred statues. Inside the main hall (Kondō) and lecture hall (Kōdō), you’ll find an impressive display of 21 Buddhist statues, arranged according to Kūkai’s teachings. The centerpiece is the Three-Dimensional Mandala centered around Dainichi Nyorai – a stunning, immersive experience that feels like walking through a cosmic vision of Buddhism. Every month on the 21st, the temple hosts the lively Kōbō-ichi flea market, with antiques, local crafts, and food stalls.
It’s a favorite event among locals and travelers alike. And since it’s so close to Kyoto Station, it’s perfect for a quick visit before or after your Shinkansen ride. Definitely a hidden gem worth exploring. In this trip, I explored Kyoto through my own eyes, sharing its history, mystery, and charm. From cutting-edge tech to timeless traditions, from delicate Kyoto cuisine to hearty ramen – Kyoto truly has it all. There’s so much more I can’t wait to share, so if you want to discover more of Japan’s culture and cities, don’t forget to subscribe!
Join me, a Tokyo local, as I explore Kyoto — from iconic spots like Fushimi Inari, Kinkaku-ji, and Ginkaku-ji to lesser-known gems like Kennin-ji and To-ji.
We’ll stroll through Nishiki Market, wander along the Kamo River and Pontocho, and enjoy Japanese sake at cozy local standing bars.
Experience Kyoto’s rich history, culture, and flavors from a uniquely Japanese perspective.
00:00 Departing for Kyoto
01:15 Fushimi Inari Shrine – Japan’s Most Iconic Shrine
04:23 Kyoto’s 1,000-Year History
04:56 Nishiki Market – Kyoto’s Kitchen
07:20 Kyoto Streets and Alleys
09:52 Kamo River & Pontocho – Romantic Riverside Walk
10:36 Pontocho – Kyoto’s Historic Dining Street
11:41 Sake Tasting – Kyoto Cuisine at a Local Bar
13:42 Golden Splendor of Kinkaku-ji
15:11 Zen Serenity at Ginkaku-ji
17:30 Local Standing Bar
19:15 Kennin-ji – Kyoto’s Rising Star Temple
20:32 To-ji Temple – A Mystical Landmark Near the Station
AloJapan.com