First Timers Guide to Kyoto, Japan

Nishiki Market

Unlike Tokyo’s Tsukiji Market (which opens very early), Kyoto’s very own Nishiki market opens around 9 am. Nishiki market is a covered market (so you can even comfortably go during rainy days!) full of delicious food and artisanal stores. You’ll be able to try everything from wagyu skewers to sashimi to Takoyaki to fresh fruit. Nearby, you will stumble upon Daishodo, a unique bookstore and print shop with tons of unique art.

Golden Pavilion

The Golden Pavilion, also known as Kinkaku-ji, is a Zen Buddhist temple renowned for its stunning exterior covered in gold leaf. Originally built in the 14th century, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site and attracts visitors from around the world.

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Home to the infamous red arches, Fushimi Inari Taisha is one of Kyoto's main attractions. This 2.8-mile hike is incredibly unique because you're surrounded by 1,000 torii gates for almost the whole length of the hike. Make sure to bring proper clothes and shoes and go early to avoid crowds. The hike is open 24 hours a day.

Johangu Shrine

Johangu Shrine was built in the 8th century for protection from bad spirits. It’s situated among gorgeous gardens that are home to some events and festivals throughout the year. During the spring, the plum blossoms make this shrine one of the most beautiful places in Kyoto.

Omakase

Wandering through Gion, if you look closely, you’ll find a ton of hidden restaurants. At first, you may think everything is closed, but on further inspection you’ll find that many of these places are completely full and offer omakase courses, a unique culinary experience. It’s common for there to only be a few seats per restaurant, so make sure to book ahead if you want to experience Japanese omakase for yourself.

Arashiyama & Bamboo Grove

Spend an afternoon wandering around Arashiyama. Here, you’ll find cute cafes and restaurants along with boutique shops and places that you can pick up souvenirs to bring home. You can rent canoes and paddle along the river or rent Kimonos and spend the day in traditional attire (many Japanese people actually do this). Bamboo Grove is one of the main attractions in this area. There, you’ll find yourself on a serene walking path surrounded by a forest of towering bamboo.

Day Trips:

Nara

Less than an hour by train, Nara is most well-known for its population of wild deer. Steps from the station, you’ll find deer roaming about in parks, crossing the street, you name it. Street vendors sell biscuits you can feed the deer- and be careful because they are VERY comfortable around humans. These deer are thought to be messengers from the gods and have been in Nara for many years. A few other things to do while you’re here: see the Great Buddha at Todaiji Temple, visit Isuien or Yoshiken Garden or watch dramatic mochi pounding at Nakatanidou.

Hiroshima

The historic town of Hiroshima is around an hour from Kyoto by train. Here, you can visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to learn about the city's history and pay respects to the victims of the atomic bombing. You can also explore Miyajima Island, renowned for its iconic "Floating Torii Gate" at the Itsukushima Shrine and consider hiking Mount Misen for beautiful panoramic views.

Osaka

Japan's foodie capital is under an hour by train from Kyoto. Head to Dotonbori to try Osaka's famous Takoyaki and okonomiyaki, izakaya hop in Amerikamura and see the famous Osaka Castle and its surrounding park.

Uji

Uji is the matcha capital of the world. It’s a little town in the southern part of Kyoto, and you can find all the matcha souvenirs (and foods) your heart desires here. If you’re interested in learning more about how matcha is made, consider taking a matcha making workshop at Fukujuen Uji Tea Factory, where you’ll be able to grind down your own matcha and then enjoy it over ice cream or as a tea. Reservations should be made in advance.

Arishyama Itsukichaya

This charming little restaurant has gone viral for their seasonal set menu. Reservations are required and I suggest making them on the riverside so you can enjoy this beautifully prepared meal with an equally gorgeous view. The quality of the food here really shows, when I visited my meal included tempura, beef, a bite of sushi, a hot pot with fish and tofu, a golden egg rice bowl and snow crab.

Kichi Kichi Omurice

Omurice is essentially a fried rice dish topped with an egg omelet. At Kichi Kichi Omurice, their now infamous chef Motokichi puts on a great show when making this dish- it’s both an experience and a delicious spot to try something new. You’ll need a reservation to get a seat here, and they are in the process of changing their system to only allow same day reservations after scanning the QR code at their restaurant.

Gion Nishikawa

Gion Nishikawa's Omakase, led by Chef Masayoshi Nishikawa, offers a harmonious blend of traditional and innovative Japanese cuisine and holds two Michelin stars. Guided by his culinary journey and respect for tradition, Chef Nishikawa's meticulously crafted dishes, priced at 25,300 yen for the light Omakase and 33,000 yen for the lavish Omakase, promise a unique culinary experience. Reservations aren’t as impossible as other omakase here, but I do recommend booking at least a week in advance if you can.

Gion Komori

Gion Komori is the perfect place for an afternoon treat. It specializes in dessert, which includes their famous warabimochi. Located in the heart of the Gion district, this is a fun experience because you’ll be sitting on tatami mats and (if you’re lucky) looking out at the river while eating your delicious treats. During peak hours, you will most likely have to wait in line, but it moves fast!

Umineko

Umineko is located in the Gion district and offers an extensive list of Japanese craft beers. They have a standing bar but also a small lounge section. If you’re a lover of craft beer, give this spot a try.

Bar Ixey

The owner/bartender of Bar Ixey is so incredibly nice AND talented. It’s a small cocktail bar known for its bespoke cocktails. You tell the bartender what you like, and they deliver something special.

Bees Knees

A moody cocktail bar with rotating lead bartenders. The cocktail menu is full of delicious drinks, and you really can’t go wrong here. They do fill up (especially on weekends) so you may need to put your name in and come back when your seat is ready.