Activities in Kyoto

There are 4 seasons in Japan.

Spring, from the end of February to the end of May, is a mild season suitable for all kinds of activities. It is of course the period when sakura (cherry trees) bloom, the perfect occasion to admire them (hanami). Their blooming period is between March 20 and April 10 for Tokyo and Kyoto areas, while it is possible to admire them earlier in the south of the country and later in the north. The cherry blossom period is very popular and generates a lot of crowds. However, there are other beautiful flowers that bloom during this season: plum blossoms, with their sparkling pink at the end of February; fabulous azaleas in April-May; hydrangeas of all colors or irises during June.

Summer, from June to August, is generally synonymous with heat with a rainy season in the last two weeks of June during which you can expect rain several days a week. During this very hot and humid season, it is possible to enjoy fireworks (hanabi) in July and August, as well as matsuri, traditional Japanese festivals. Among the most famous are the Gion matsuri, which is held in Kyoto in mid-July or the Obon Matsuri in mid-August.

Then comes the high wind season (taifu), which reaches its peak between August and September, but it is not necessary to avoid going during this period. Indeed, there is little chance that they will involve changing your travel plans, few of them even reaching the main island. 

Autumn, from September to November, is the season when temperatures are generally the most pleasant, quite similar to the continental European climate. It is also the season when the country is decorated with red tones and when one can admire the momiji (literally red leaves) which are usually visible in Tokyo, Kyoto and their region during the last two weeks of November.

Finally, winter, from December to February, is the coldest season but also the opportunity to admire the striking beauty of winter landscapes. December is a period of calm before the holiday season, while January is marked by a drop in temperature and the presence of a number of festivals. In central Japan, temperatures usually range from -4 to 10°C. In the mountains and the north of the country, temperatures drop significantly, while in Kyushu and Okinawa, winter tends to be milder.

The most touristic periods are : 

- in February, the 10 days around the Chinese New Year, which marks a strong influx of tourists from all over Asia;

- between the end of March and the beginning of April, the cherry blossom period;

- between the end of April and the beginning of May, during the "Golden Week", a period with many public holidays and during which many Japanese go on vacation;

- mid-August, during the Obon Matsuri;

- at the end of November, the best period to observe the momiji;

- early January, for the New Year, when many businesses and activities are closed.

 

So, if you want to go during a less crowded period, Japan Experience recommends you to go :

- in February, outside the Chinese New Year period, for the cool but nevertheless pleasant weather and the splendid blooming of plum trees, before the cherry trees;

- between mid-May and early June, to take advantage of the mild weather, lower traffic and the blooming of hydrangeas, azaleas and irises;

- from September to early December, to take advantage of good temperatures, a reasonable level of tourism and the momiji period in late November.

Kyoto is a multi-faceted city, with different districts each having their own character and history.

• Gion: Gion is the geisha district of Kyoto, known for its narrow streets, traditional wooden houses (machiya) and tea houses (ochaya). It is an excellent place to walk around and admire the architecture, as well as to try to spot geishas or maikos.

• Arashiyama: Located in the west of Kyoto, Arashiyama is a picturesque area famous for its bamboo forest, Togetsukyo bridge and temples. It is an ideal place for a walk in the middle of nature and to discover the beauty of the ancient capital.

• Higashiyama: Higashiyama is a historical district located in the east of Kyoto, where many famous temples and shrines such as Kiyomizu-dera and Yasaka-jinja are located. It is also famous for its sloping cobblestone streets and traditional stores.

• Nakagyo-ku: Located in the center of Kyoto, Nakagyo-ku is the modern heart of the city, with shopping malls, hotels, restaurants and bars. It is also the location of Nijo Castle and the Kyoto Imperial Palace.

• Fushimi: This district is famous for the Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, with its thousands of orange-red torii that form a path through the mountain. Fushimi is also a famous area for sake production, with several breweries that you can visit.

• Shimogyo-ku: Shimogyo-ku is a shopping and entertainment district located south of Nakagyo-ku. It is home to Kyoto Station, a major transportation hub, as well as many hotels, restaurants and stores.

• Kamigyo-ku: Located north of the city center, Kamigyo-ku is a quiet residential district with a few notable temples and shrines, such as Daitoku-ji Temple and Imamiya Shrine.

• Sakyo-ku: This district is located in the northeast of Kyoto and is home to Kyoto University and many temples, including the famous Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion). Nature lovers can enjoy hiking trails and parks, such as Maruyama Park.

Each of these areas of Kyoto offers a unique and different experience, reflecting its diversity and cultural richness.

The culinary and cultural activities take place in our premises near the silver pavilion.

For outdoor activities, the meeting point is communicated to you by your Travel Angel upon your arrival at Kyoto. 

As the ancient capital of Japan, Kyoto offers a multitude of activities. Among the most popular are

1. Gion Night Tour: Take a guided night tour of the famous Gion district, where you can learn about geisha culture, admire the traditional architecture and maybe even spot a geisha or maiko on her way to an appointment. This night walk is very popular with visitors because of its unique atmosphere.

2. Kimono rental in Kyoto: Rent a traditional kimono and wander the streets of Kyoto to soak up its atmosphere. Several stores offer kimono rentals, including advice on how to choose and put on your kimono. Traveler reviews are generally very positive about this authentic experience.

3. Kyoto Full Day Tour: Take a full day tour of Kyoto and explore the must-see sites such as Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine. Organized tours usually include a professional guide who will help you learn more about the history and culture of Kyoto.

4. Zen Garden Tour: Immerse yourself in the serenity of Kyoto's Zen gardens by visiting temples such as Ryoan-ji or Daitoku-ji. Guided tours will give you a better understanding of the art and philosophy of Japanese gardens.

5. Tea Ceremony: Attend a traditional tea ceremony to learn about the art and rituals of Japanese tea. Experiences including matcha green tea tasting and Japanese pastries can be booked.

6. Bento Cooking Workshop: Sign up for a Bento Cooking Workshop to learn how to prepare and assemble a delicious Japanese Bento, consisting of various dishes such as rice, vegetables, fish or meat. Participants in these workshops often enjoy the friendly and informative aspect, as well as the opportunity to learn how to create aesthetically pleasing and balanced presentations typical of Japanese Bentos.

Booking activities is a straightforward process. Simply go to the activity page of the desired experience, follow the steps to book and pay for the activity online.

After booking, you will receive instructions about the meeting place, the time and the tickets via email. Depending on the activity, you may receive your tickets via email or through the post office. Be sure to check the instructions carefully to ensure that you have all the necessary information before your activity.

If you have any questions or concerns about booking activities, do not hesitate to reach out for assistance.

The best way to get around Kyoto depends on your preferences and budget. Here are some popular options:

• Subway and bus: Kyoto's subway and bus system is well-developed and provides easy access to major tourist attractions. Buses are often more convenient for getting to historical sites, while the subway is ideal for getting around downtown. Consider getting a Kyoto City Bus & Subway One-Day Pass or an ICOCA card to save on transportation costs.

• Biking: Kyoto is a great city to explore by bike, thanks to its relatively flat terrain and numerous bike paths. Renting a bike is affordable and allows you to explore Kyoto at your own pace while enjoying the fresh air and beautiful scenery.

• Walking: For those who enjoy walking, Kyoto is a very pedestrian city and many attractions are within walking distance. Walking in the streets of Kyoto allows you to discover hidden treasures and enjoy its special atmosphere.

• Cab: If you prefer convenience and comfort, cabs are an available transportation option in Kyoto. Although more expensive than public transportation, cabs can be convenient, especially if you are traveling with luggage or want to get to a specific destination quickly.

Each mode of transportation has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences to make the most of your stay in Kyoto.

Japan is known for its low crime rates. The cities are generally considered a safe destination for tourists due to its low crime rates and well-maintained public spaces. Visitors can explore the city's vibrant neighborhoods and attractions with peace of mind. You can feel secure while sightseeing, shopping, or dining in the city. The public spaces, including streets, parks, and transportation facilities, are kept clean and in good condition, ensuring a pleasant and safe experience for visitors. Moreover, the people in Japan are generally friendly and helpful, making it easy for tourists to ask for assistance or directions when needed.

While it is a safe destination, it's still important to follow basic safety precautions, such as keeping an eye on your belongings and being aware of your surroundings.

Yes, there is a general dress code that is best for visitors to follow when visiting a shrine or a temple in Japan.

As a sign of respect, visitors should dress modestly and avoid wearing clothing that is too revealing, such as shorts or sleeveless tops. It is also recommended to remove hats and sunglasses when entering a shrine or temple. Shoes must be taken off before entering the main hall of a shrine or temple. Visitors are usually provided with slippers or shoe storage facilities, and it is important to follow the instructions on how to use them.

In addition, visitors should be mindful of their behavior and keep noise levels to a minimum. Photography is usually allowed, but flash photography is often prohibited, and visitors should always respect any signs or notices posted in the area.

By following these guidelines, visitors can show their respect for the cultural and religious significance of the shrines and temples they are visiting.

Yes, Kyoto is famous for its many festivals and events throughout the year. Here are some of the most popular ones:

• Aoi Matsuri (Hydrangea Festival): This festival is held on May 15 every year and is one of the three major festivals in Kyoto. The procession of this festival, made up of people in Heian era costumes, crosses the city to the shrines of Shimogamo and Kamigamo.

• Gion Matsuri: Taking place throughout July, Gion Matsuri is the most famous festival in Kyoto. Highlights of the festival include the decorated float processions (Yamaboko Junko) and the night festivities (Yoiyama).

• Jidai Matsuri (Festival of Ages): This festival takes place on October 22 and celebrates the history of Kyoto. A big procession crosses the city, with participants dressed in costumes representing different periods of Japanese history.

• Daimonji Gozan Okuribi (Mountain Fire Festival): On August 16, five large fires are lit on the mountains surrounding Kyoto to guide the spirits of the ancestors during the Obon Festival. It is an impressive spectacle, visible from many places in the city.

• Hanami (Cherry Blossom Festival): Between the end of March and the beginning of April, cherry blossoms (sakura) attract crowds to Kyoto's parks and temples. Locals and tourists alike gather to picnic and admire the blossoms during this festive period.

These festivals and events are just a few of the many celebrations that take place in Kyoto throughout the year. If you have the opportunity to visit the city during one of these events, you will enjoy a unique and memorable cultural experience.

Among the places that are a must on a first visit to Kyoto, we recommend:

• Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion): This magnificent Buddhist temple is covered in gold leaf and surrounded by a charming Japanese garden. It's one of Kyoto's most famous landmarks and a must-see for visitors.

• Kiyomizu-dera: This temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a panoramic view of Kyoto. The main temple's wooden platform and three-storey pagoda are particularly impressive.

• Fushimi Inari-taisha: This Shinto shrine is famous for its thousands of orange-red torii (porticos) that form a path through the mountain. Hiking through the torii is an unforgettable experience.

• Arashiyama: This picturesque district to the west of Kyoto is famous for its bamboo forest, Togetsukyo Bridge and temples. It's an ideal place to stroll and enjoy nature.

• Gion: Kyoto's geisha district is a fascinating place to explore, with its narrow lanes, traditional wooden houses (machiya) and tea houses (ochaya) where you might catch a glimpse of a geisha or maiko.

• Nijo-jo (Nijo Castle): This historic castle, built for the shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu, is an impressive example of Edo period architecture. Don't miss the castle's murals, carved gates and gardens.

There are several exciting excursions you can take from Kyoto to explore the surrounding areas. Here are some suggestions:

• Nara: Located about an hour from Kyoto, Nara is an ancient capital of Japan and home to many historic sites that are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Don't miss the Nara Park, where you can meet the famous deer in the wild.

• Osaka: Only 30 minutes by train from Kyoto, Osaka is Japan's third largest city and offers a vibrant urban atmosphere. Visit Osaka Castle, explore the shopping districts of Dotonbori and taste the delicious local cuisine.

• Mount Koya: This sacred mountain is home to a complex of Buddhist temples and is the birthplace of Shingon Buddhism. You can spend the night in a temple and enjoy a unique cultural and spiritual experience.

• Hiroshima and Miyajima Island: Although this tour requires a full day, it is well worth it. Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial and the park of the same name, then cross to Miyajima Island to see the famous Itsukushima Shrine and its floating "torii".

• Arashiyama: Located west of Kyoto, this area offers beautiful natural scenery and historical sites. See the bamboo forest, visit Tenryu-ji temple and cross the Togetsukyo Bridge.

These tours offer a variety of experiences to complement your stay in Kyoto and allow you to discover the rich culture and history of Japan.