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History & Religion

History & Religion

Living Traditions and Ongoing History

Kyoto was the capital of Japan for over a thousand years, starting when it was chosen as the home of Emperor Kanmu's court in 794. This is where many cultural customs and religious traditions got their start, and historical events that unfolded here affected the entire country. The city is home to over a thousand shrines and temples, about 20 percent of Japan's National Treasures, and 15 percent of its Important Cultural Properties. However, that is not to say that all of Kyoto's culture is a relic of the past. Many innovations are continually developed based on the foundations of this illustrious history. It's the perfect city in which to explore Japan's living history, spiritual culture, and bright new ideas.

Nijo-jo Castle
Shugakuin Imperial Villa
Nanzen-ji

Explore different sites

You'll never run out of destinations in Kyoto. Explore these examples of places you can go on your upcoming visit and see what fits your interests.

Gio-ji Temple

Gio-ji Temple

Temples & Shrines
Saga & Arashiyama
Kifune-jinja Shrine

Kifune-jinja Shrine

Temples & Shrines
Kurama & Kibune
Daitoku-ji Temple

Daitoku-ji Temple

Temples & Shrines
Sanzen-in Temple

Sanzen-in Temple

Temples & Shrines
Ohara
Shugakuin Imperial Villa

Shugakuin Imperial Villa

Historic Sites
Nanzen-ji Temple

Nanzen-ji Temple

Temples & Shrines
Philosopher’s Path & Okazaki
See all destinations

Related Travel Inspirations

Gain some insight before your trip by checking out these articles. Find new interests, and appreciate Kyoto with greater depth.

41 Results

  • Activities Art & Culture Cultural Sites
    2026/05/11

    Conversation and Contemplation at a Temple

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  • Art & Culture Cultural Sites Festivals & Events
    2026/03/18

    Kabuki Theater

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  • Cultural Sites Food & Drink
    2026/01/22

    A Classic Kyoto Café and Its Famous Custard Pudding – François Kissashitsu

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  • Cultural Sites Festivals & Events
    2025/11/21

    Kyoto Winter Special Openings 2026

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  • Activities Cultural Sites Sustainable Tourism
    2025/09/25

    Tours departing from Kyoto Station accompanied by The Kyoto City Visitor Host

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  • Cultural Sites Festivals & Events
    2025/09/09

    Chrysanthemum Festival – Choyo no Sekku

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  • Activities Cultural Sites Sustainable Tourism
    2025/08/01

    Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine Guided Tour by DMO KYOTO

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  • Activities Art & Culture Cultural Sites
    2025/07/04

    Japanese Musical Instruments Show: Tales from the 1,000-Year Capital

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  • Cultural Sites Festivals & Events
    2025/06/04

    Kyoto Summer Special Openings 2025

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Discover Kyoto's Hidden Gems

Learn more about six beautiful, uncrowded areas you can discover around the outskirts of Kyoto: Fushimi, Ohara, Takao, Yamashina, Nishikyo, and Keihoku.

Saga & Arashiyama Area
  • Areas
  • Cultural Sites
  • Festivals & Events

    • Happy New Year 2026! – Year of the Horse

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    Keihoku Area
  • Areas
  • Cultural Sites
  • Nature & Outdoors

    • Natural Experiences and Delicacies in Keihoku

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    Nishikyo Area
  • Areas
  • Cultural Sites

    • Nishikyo’s Shrines and Vibrant Nature

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    Keihoku Area
  • Areas
  • Cultural Sites
  • Nature & Outdoors

    • Keihoku in Spring

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    Nishikyo Area
  • Areas
  • Cultural Sites
  • Festivals & Events

    • Happy New Year 2025! – Year of the Snake

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    Yamashina Area
  • Areas
  • Cultural Sites
  • Nature & Outdoors

    • Yamashina in Spring

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    Fushimi Area
  • Areas
  • Cultural Sites
  • Food & Drink

    • Fushimi in Winter

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    Yamashina Area
  • Areas
  • Cultural Sites
  • Food & Drink

    • Yamashina’s Sweets and Attractions

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    Nishikyo Area
  • Activities
  • Areas
  • Cultural Sites

    • Stress management through Zen meditation: Close your eyes and open your heart

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    Fushimi Area
  • Areas
  • Cultural Sites
  • People

    • Ryoma-dori arcade street

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    Nishikyo Area
  • Areas
  • Cultural Sites
  • Nature & Outdoors

    • Rakusai: A Pilgrimage to the Green of Western Kyoto

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    Yamashina Area
  • Areas
  • Art & Culture
  • Cultural Sites

    • Eastern Kyoto’s Treasure Trove of Living Traditions

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    Takao Area
  • Areas
  • Cultural Sites
  • Nature & Outdoors

    • Escape to the Outdoors in Takao

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    Ohara Area
  • Areas
  • Cultural Sites
  • Nature & Outdoors

    • Ohara: Tranquil Getaway to the North of Kyoto

    Read article
    See all Hidden Gems

    Upcoming traditional events

    Festivals, rituals, and special events are filled with experiences you can only have in Kyoto. Learn more about them and how to fit them into your upcoming journey.

    The 11th Tadasu Kanjin Noh Theater Performance (PR)

    The 11th Tadasu Kanjin Noh Theater Performance (PR)

    23 May 2026

    Traditional Events

    Venue: Shimogamo-jinja Shrine's Maidono Hall (Dance Hall, Important Cultural Property)

    Official Website See details (Japanese)
    Saga Festival: Departing and Returning Float Processions

    Saga Festival: Departing and Returning Float Processions

    17 May – 24 May 2026

    Traditional Events

    Venue: Departing Procession (May 17): Otabisho (Temporary Shrine) in front of Seiryō-ji (Saga Shakadō) Temple / Returning Procession (May 24): Otabisho at 10 AM -> North Saga area -> Arrival at Daikaku-ji Temple at 11:30 AM -> Departure from JR Saga-Arashiyama Station at 3:00 PM -> Arrival at Arashiyama Nakanoshima Park at 3:30 PM -> Departure from Nonomiya-cho -> Arrival at Otabisho around 4:55 PM *Scheduled departure and arrival times of the floats. They might vary slightly on the day.

    Official Website See details (Japanese)
    The 75th Kyoto Takigi Noh (Main Performance)

    The 75th Kyoto Takigi Noh (Main Performance)

    01 Jun – 02 Jun 2026

    Traditional Events

    Venue: Heian-jingu Shrine *In case of rain, the event will be held at the ROHM Theatre Kyoto's Main Hall.

    Official Website See details (Japanese)
    See all events

    Responsible Travel

    Keep Kyoto Open for Your Next Visit

    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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    Explore other interests

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