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Travel Tips

Maps & Tools

The best way to travel comfortably in Kyoto is to be aware of crowds and other conditions in the places you want to go, as well as knowing the best ways to get around.
There are a variety of free maps, tools, and smartphone applications that have been developed to support you during your time in Kyoto.
On this page, we introduce the best available options to increase your understanding and improve your travel planning.

Download, print out, and/or access these resources on your smartphone to make sightseeing a breeze!
*Data charges may apply for certain features and services.

Digital Kyoto Maps

Kyoto Smart Navi

Stay informed! Learn about the services available at Kyoto's tourist spots and check out their current congestion status for a comfortable sightseeing experience.

Main Features

01. Tourist Spots: Information on shrines, temples, and other recommended tourist spots in the city.

02. Live Camera: Real-time updates and congestion information at different tourist spots based on the Kyoto Travel Congestion Forecast.

Kyoto Travel Congestion Forecast

Avoid crowds for stress-free travel

Kyoto Travel Congestion Forecast

The Kyoto Travel Congestion Forecast provides useful information for avoiding congestion by forecasting comfort levels around popular spots and providing real-time information via live cameras.

Please enjoy sightseeing in Kyoto while skillfully avoiding crowded times and places.

Kyoto Travel Congestion Forecast

Printable Kyoto Maps

Useful Apps for Touring Kyoto

  • Arukumachi KYOTO

    Arukumachi KYOTO Route Planner is a handy search application that provides information on routes, times, and fares for buses and trains in Kyoto.

    Official Website
    Download
    Apple Store :
    Download
    Google Store :
    Download
  • ON THE TRIP

    ON THE TRIP provides invaluable information about cultural heritage sites, festivals, and other aspects of Japanese culture such as Zen and sushi.

    Official Website
    Download
    Apple Store :
    Download
    Not Available for Android

Websites & Services

  • Gurunavi

    GURUNAVI is one of Japan's leading gourmet and restaurant guides. With the GURUNAVI app, you can search for restaurants and narrow down the results with various criteria, including the type of cuisine and location.

    Official Website
  • Sharing Kyoto

    Sharing Kyoto is a service that assists in planning and organizing trips around Kyoto. It creates itineraries tailored to each customer and reserves seats at restaurants that are difficult to book for new customers. It also employs concierges that can provide in-depth explanations on how to better enjoy the special experiences.

    Official Website
  • Live Japan

    Using the Live Japan app, you can learn about Kyoto’s tourist destinations and things to do in Kyoto—even from abroad! You can also discover popular shops, events, and souvenirs.

    Official Website

Kyoto Online Tourist Information Center

Information Center Information Center

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Areas

Plan your trip around which area's sites and scenery call to you.

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Sample Itineraries

Read our ideas for how to spend time in Kyoto and find inspiration for your next journey.

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