Kyoto family

A stunning Zen Buddhist temple whose top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf. It's set against a beautiful pond and meticulously maintained gardens, offering iconic photo opportunities.

• Arrive early to avoid the biggest crowds.
• The reflection in the pond is particularly beautiful on a sunny day.

Walk through towering stalks of bamboo that create an otherworldly atmosphere. The path is relatively short but incredibly scenic, offering a unique natural escape.

• Combine with a visit to Tenryu-ji Temple nearby.
• Consider renting a bike to explore the wider Arashiyama area.

A picturesque bridge spanning the Katsura River in Arashiyama. It offers lovely views of the surrounding mountains and is a popular spot for photos.

• Enjoy the seasonal scenery, especially during cherry blossom or autumn foliage.

Enjoy traditional Shojin Ryori (Zen Buddhist vegetarian cuisine) within the grounds of Tenryu-ji Temple. It's a serene dining experience perfect for families looking for something unique.

• Reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner.

Famous for its wooden stage that juts out from the hillside, offering panoramic views of Kyoto. The temple complex is extensive and includes various halls and pagodas.

• The approach to the temple via Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka streets is charming and full of shops.
• Visit early to experience the temple before it gets too crowded.

These beautifully preserved historic streets leading up to Kiyomizu-dera are lined with traditional wooden buildings housing shops, cafes, and restaurants. They offer a glimpse into old Kyoto.

• Look out for unique souvenirs like Kiyomizu-yaki pottery.
• Try some local snacks like matcha ice cream or mochi.

Kyoto's most famous geisha district, characterized by its traditional wooden machiya houses. Stroll through its atmospheric streets and perhaps catch a glimpse of a geiko or maiko.

• Be respectful and do not chase or photograph geiko/maiko without permission.
• Consider a guided walking tour to learn more about the area's history and culture.

Known as 'Kyoto's Kitchen,' this vibrant market street is packed with vendors selling fresh seafood, produce, pickles, sweets, and local delicacies. It's a fantastic place to sample various Kyoto foods.

• Many stalls offer free samples.
• It's a great place for a casual, food-focused dinner.

Home to Japan's most famous Zen rock garden, a minimalist masterpiece of 15 rocks arranged on white gravel. The meaning of the garden is open to interpretation, inviting contemplation.

• Sit and contemplate the garden for a while.
• Explore the temple's other grounds, including a lovely pond.

The former Kyoto residence of the Tokugawa shogunate, this castle is famous for its 'nightingale floors' that chirp when walked upon, designed to alert guards to intruders. It features beautiful gardens and ornate interiors.

• Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking.
• Listen for the 'chirping' of the nightingale floors.

A large, tranquil park surrounding the former Imperial Palace. While tours of the palace itself require advance booking, the park is a wonderful place for families to relax and explore.

• Pack a picnic to enjoy in the park.
• Check the Imperial Household Agency website for palace tour availability if interested.

Located on the 10th floor of the Kyoto Station building, this 'street' features several popular ramen shops from different regions of Japan. It's a casual and fun dining option for families.

• Each shop offers a unique style of ramen.
• Great for a quick and satisfying dinner after a day of sightseeing.

Famous for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates that wind up a mountainside. It's a visually spectacular and spiritually significant Shinto shrine dedicated to Inari, the god of rice.

• You don't need to hike the entire mountain; even walking partway through the torii tunnels is impressive.
• Go early to avoid the dense crowds, especially on the lower paths.

A large store offering a wide variety of traditional Japanese crafts, including ceramics, textiles, woodblock prints, and lacquerware. It's a convenient place to find souvenirs and gifts.

• They offer demonstrations of some crafts.
• Good for picking up unique gifts for people back home.

Located in the Fushimi sake district, this museum offers insights into the history and production of sake. Includes a tasting session at the end.

• Part of a charming sake brewing district worth exploring.
• Consider visiting a local brewery for a more in-depth experience if time allows.

A narrow, atmospheric alley running parallel to the Kamo River, lined with traditional restaurants and bars. It's a great place for an evening stroll and dinner.

• Many restaurants have riverside dining in the warmer months (Kawayuka).
• Can be a bit pricier, but the ambiance is worth it.