Tea Offering Ritual
01 Dec 2025
Traditional Events Venue: Kitano Tenmangu Shrine
Things to Do
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.
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.
Related Travel Inspirations
Gain some insight before your trip by checking out these articles. Find new interests, and appreciate Kyoto with greater depth.
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Sustainable Tourism 2025/09/25Tours departing from Kyoto Station accompanied by The Kyoto City Visitor Host
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Cultural Sites
Festivals & Events 
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Cultural Sites
Sustainable Tourism 
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Art & Culture
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Art & Culture
Cultural Sites 2025/05/08Experience Traditional Culture in a Residence that Hosted Various Dignitaries for Over a Century
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Areas
Cultural Sites
Sustainable Tourism 
Areas
Cultural Sites See all Hidden Gems![]()
Keihoku Area
Areas
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Nature & OutdoorsNatural Experiences and Delicacies in Keihoku
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Nishikyo Area
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Festivals & EventsHappy New Year 2025! – Year of the Snake
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Nishikyo Area
Activities
Areas
Cultural SitesStress management through Zen meditation: Close your eyes and open your heart
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Nishikyo Area
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Nature & OutdoorsRakusai: A Pilgrimage to the Green of Western Kyoto
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Yamashina Area
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Cultural SitesEastern Kyoto’s Treasure Trove of Living Traditions
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Ohara Area
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Nature & OutdoorsOhara: Tranquil Getaway to the North of Kyoto
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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.
Jōdōe (Buddha’s Enlightenment Day) and Radish-Cooking Ceremony
07 Dec – 08 Dec 2025
Traditional Events Venue: Senbon Shakado (Daihoon-ji Temple)
Final Konpira Festival
10 Dec 2025
Traditional Events Venue: Yasui Konpira Shrine
Yamashina Gishi Samurai Festival
14 Dec 2025
Traditional Events Venue: Bishamon-do Temple, Iwaya-ji Temple, Oishi Shrine
Year-End Cleaning Ceremony of the Founders’ and Amida Halls
20 Dec 2025
Traditional Events Venue: Higashi Hongan-ji Temple
Year-End Cleaning Ceremony
20 Dec 2025
Traditional Events Venue: Nishi Hongwan-ji Temple
Shimai Kobo – Last Kobo-ichi Flea Market of the Year
21 Dec 2025
Traditional Events Venue: To-ji Temple
Pumpkin Memorial Service
23 Dec 2025
Traditional Events Venue: Yata-dera Temple
Picture taken during the 2024 performance Grand Kabuki Theater Kaomise Performance
01 Dec – 25 Dec 2025
Traditional Events Venue: Minamiza Theatre
Shimai Tenjin – Last Tenjin-san Flea Market of the Year
25 Dec 2025
Traditional Events Venue: Kitano Tenmangu Shrine
Kuya Dancing Nembutsu Prayer Ceremony
13 Dec – 31 Dec 2025
Traditional Events Venue: Rokuharamitsu-ji Temple
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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