Kyoto’s Top Tourist Attractions: Which Ones Are Actually Worth Visiting?
Kyoto’s Top Tourist Attractions: Are They Worth Visiting?
After spending time exploring Kyoto, we visited many of the city’s most famous tourist attractions. While some completely lived up to the hype, others were much busier than expected or didn’t quite live up to our expectations.
In this guide, we’re sharing our honest opinions on Kyoto’s most popular tourist attractions and whether we think they are actually worth adding to your itinerary.
Kinkaku-ji (The Golden Pavilion) – Is It Worth Visiting?
Verdict: Yes, absolutely.
Kinkaku-ji was hands down one of my favourite temples in Japan so far. It felt so unique and different from many of the other temples we had visited, largely because of its striking golden exterior reflected in the surrounding pond.
Although your visit is relatively short, the scenery makes it well worth adding to your Kyoto itinerary.
Fushimi Inari Taisha – Is It Worth Visiting?
Verdict: Yes, but go further up the mountain for a more quiet experience.
Fushimi Inari is one of Kyoto’s most iconic attractions, famous for its thousands of bright red torii gates winding up Mount Inari. It is one of those places that truly looks just as impressive in person as it does in photographs.
The main downside is the crowds. Arriving early in the morning is the best way to enjoy the torii gates with fewer people or ensure you go further than the first section of gates.
Kiyomizu-dera Temple – Is It Worth Visiting?
Verdict: Yes, especially for the views.
Kiyomizu-dera is one of Kyoto’s most famous temples and offers beautiful views across the city. The temple itself is impressive, but the surrounding traditional streets also make the visit worthwhile.
I recommend combining your visit with a walk through Higashiyama and the traditional streets surrounding the temple.
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove – Is It Worth Visiting?
Verdict: Yes, but manage your expectations.
The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is one of Kyoto’s most photographed attractions. The towering bamboo is undeniably beautiful, but the walkway can become extremely crowded.
It is still worth visiting, especially if you combine it with other attractions in Arashiyama, such as Tenryu-ji Temple and the surrounding area.
Kyoto’s Traditional Streets – Are They Worth Exploring?
Verdict: Absolutely.
Some of our favourite moments in Kyoto came from simply wandering through its traditional neighbourhoods. Areas such as Gion and Higashiyama offer beautiful wooden buildings, narrow streets and a glimpse into Kyoto’s historic atmosphere.
Unlike some of the major attractions, exploring these areas can feel much more relaxed if you visit early or wander away from the busiest streets.
Which Kyoto Attractions Are Most Worth Visiting?
If you are short on time, I would prioritise:
- Kinkaku-ji (The Golden Pavilion)
- Fushimi Inari Taisha
- Kiyomizu-dera Temple
- Kyoto’s traditional streets
- Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Which Kyoto Attractions Can You Skip?
If you are visiting Kyoto during a busy period and only have limited time, you may want to skip attractions that don’t personally interest you rather than trying to visit everything.
The biggest tip is not to judge an attraction solely by how popular it is. Some of Kyoto’s most memorable experiences can come from exploring quieter temples, gardens and neighbourhoods away from the main tourist hotspots.
Final Verdict: Are Kyoto’s Top Tourist Attractions Worth Visiting?
Yes, most of Kyoto’s famous attractions are popular for a reason. However, the experience can vary dramatically depending on the time of day and how busy the attraction is.
Our advice is to visit the most popular attractions early in the morning, avoid trying to see everything in one day and leave time to simply wander through Kyoto’s beautiful streets.
