Things to do in Kyoto

Kyoto feels like an artist woke up from a fever dream to paint a scene where antiquity and modernity dance a pas de deux. Everything tells a story in Japan’s former capital, and it has been weaving its tales for a millennium and then some.

But Kyoto isn't merely the patchwork of postcard-perfect temples and dazzling shrines. It's the symphony of silk kimonos rustling down stone-paved streets. The anticipatory hush that blankets a room as a tea ceremony commences. The electrifying chance of spotting a geiko (the Kyoto word for geisha) in Gion, her old-world elegance contrasting the modern cityscape. And the slow-burning warmth of sake trickling down your throat, or the explosion of umami from almost every precisely prepared dish. In essence, the city is a curated carnival of the senses.

Looking for the very best things to do while you’re in Kyoto? Consider this guide your golden ticket for an exhilarating carousel ride through Kyoto’s greatest experiences, both celebrated and hidden.

By Paul Jebara