About Kyoto
Discover Kyoto
KYOTO
Living Tradition
Kyoto City has a living culture that has been handed down for over a thousand years. You can feel it in how the streets, kimono, shrines, and temples make you aware of the changing of the seasons.
It is our responsibility as people living today to pass on the city that has nurtured this irreplaceable culture, so that it will flourish another thousand years.
This is a culture we want to cultivate together. It is not only for those who reside and work here, but also for those who visit Kyoto to experience the traditions that live on in this city.
What's special about Kyoto?
What makes Kyoto such a well-loved and highly regarded
city?
Here are a few points that can help in answering that question.
It was the capital for over one thousand years
Kyoto was designed to be a capital city. Emperor Kanmu transferred the imperial court here in 794, and it remained until 1869. Being the capital also made Kyoto a cultural center. You can feel the length of Kyoto’s enduring influence in everything from the continually refined cultural practices to the buildings and gardens that have stood the test of time.
It has 14 UNESCO World Cultural Heritage sites
Thanks to its long history, Kyoto is a treasure trove of historical sites. There are 14 World Cultural Heritage sites within Kyoto City limits and 3 more in nearby locations. They include an elaborate castle that attests to the power of the shoguns, and historic shrines and temples that are home to countless precious works of art. Many other sites are National Treasures or Important Cultural Properties.
It is home to traditional industries
and cultural practices
Some of the art forms developed in Kyoto are things you can hold in your hand, like lavish kimono or refined tea bowls, while others come alive through being practiced and performed, like maiko dances, Noh theater, or flower arrangement. These are only a few examples of the many traditions, crafts, and performances that have shaped both Kyoto and Japan’s identity.
It is the birthplace of “Choju Jinbutsu Giga,” Japan’s first manga
The earliest known manga (Japanese comics), “The Scrolls of Frolicking Animals and Humans", were drawn about 800 years ago. These humorous picture scrolls depict expressive animals behaving like people. The scrolls are kept at Kozanji Temple in Kyoto’s Takao area. You can also see modern manga at the Kyoto International Manga Museum.
It is a city of gastronomy,
filled with edible works of art
Kyoto was blessed with pristine groundwater perfect for brewing green tea and sake and for letting the delicate flavors of seasonal ingredients shine. The Kyoto styles of artful kaiseki haute cuisine and handcrafted wagashi confectioneries are renowned, and there are also many famous establishments for hearty dishes like sukiyaki and ramen. The city is even a major hub for coffee shops and bakeries.
There are more than 1.4 million residents
and 50 million visitors every year
Whether people are here for sightseeing or to go about their daily life, there are facets of life in Kyoto that affect everyone. We welcome you to keep exploring what attracts so many people to this city and its living traditions, and to be mindful of how you can be a part of sustaining it.
The many charms of Kyoto City
Discover which side of Kyoto is calling you.
History & Religion
A former capital steeped in history
Because Kyoto was the capital and the center of courtly life for so many centuries, many well known historical events took place here. This also gave rise to many rich cultural and religious traditions.
Go to this pageArt & Culture
The beating cultural heart of Japan
From visual arts to cultural practices like tea and dance, many historical styles and ongoing schools have found their home in the cultural stronghold of Kyoto. New art forms continue to be created and developed today.
Go to this pageFood & Drink
A rich culinary scene that brings people together
Kyoto's food culture has always been unique and stylish, whether at haute cuisine establishments or coffee shops. The venues are just as good, and are where many fantastic encounters take place.
Go to this pageMorning & Night
See Kyoto in a new light, in a new way
Make the most of your time in Kyoto with experiences that only come at these times of day. Take your best chance to appreciate the streets of Kyoto like a local does, especially when it’s quieter.
Go to this pageNature & Outdoors
Iconic scenery in and around the city
Kyoto's landscapes draw your attention to the quiet changes of the seasons. Greenery permeates the city, and deeper ventures into the heart of nature are only a short distance away.
Go to this pageAccommodations
The finest in hospitality
Stay to see more of what Kyoto has to offer, at your own pace. Traditional inns, exquisite hotels, and machiya townhouses offer a quiet respite from the stress of travel.
Go to this pagePromotional Videos
We are pleased to present our promotional videos that focus on tourism in Kyoto and introduce new activities—such as morning and night sightseeing! We hope they can help you visualize and plan your ideal trip to Kyoto.
See all videos
Travel like a local
Fit in with residents by respecting local etiquette
Home to esteemed historical sites, Kyoto is known for its profound serenity and timeless allure. The various forms of art and hospitality practiced here are intrinsically linked to Japan's culture. Understanding its value is what drives both locals and visitors to endeavor to preserve it. See what part you can play in passing down Kyoto's spirit for another thousand years.
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Sustainable Tourism
Kyoto has nurtured its aesthetics of cleanliness and purity for centuries. Show consideration for the local natural environment and scenic landscape by engaging in environmentally friendly tourism. The city of Kyoto has established guidelines to be implemented by everyone involved in the tourism industry, be they hosts or guests.
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Hidden Gems of Kyoto
Aside from Kyoto’s world-famous landmarks, there are hidden gems that are waiting to be explored. You just have to be in the know! Go beyond the traditional guidebooks to experience all that Kyoto has to offer in its quieter areas.
Keihoku Area | Takao Area | Ohara Area
Nishikyo Area | Yamashina Area | Fushimi Area
Discover Hidden Gems
Preserve Kyoto with us
Kyoto faces many challenges in maintaining what has long made the city so alluring. We invite you to help us preserve Kyoto and ensure its future. These projects especially need your help.
Learn more and explore possibilities
How would you like to craft your upcoming stay in Kyoto? These topics will help you plan where and how to spend your time, whether you are new to Kyoto or a seasoned visitor.
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