Downtown Kyoto Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
Visit Downtown Kyoto
Popular places to visit
Nishiki Market
Come to this market in the heart of the city to experience the authentic sights, smells and sounds of the bartering vendors and their traditional food.
Kiyamachi Street
You can learn about the history of Kyoto with a trip to Kiyamachi Street. Amble around the area's riverfront or visit its shops.
Kyoto International Manga Museum
This institution is the home of manga in Kyoto. It holds exhibitions, workshops and events devoted to the promotion of Japanese literary art.
Teramachi Street
You can learn about the history of Kyoto when you stop by Teramachi Street. Visit the area's shops or simply enjoy its restaurants.
Rokakkudo Temple
After visiting Rokakkudo Temple, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Kyoto. Discover the top-notch restaurants and fascinating museums in this culturally rich area.
Mikane Shrine
Mikane Shrine is just one of the places to see in Kyoto, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Discover the top-notch restaurants and fascinating museums in this culturally rich area.
Activities
One-Day Tour of Japan's Ancient Capitals - Kyoto and Nara
Kyoto and Nara UNESCO Highlights Full-day Tour From Osaka
Kyoto: Insider Sake Experience with 7 Tastings and Snacks
Kyoto Gion Cultural Walk & Geisha Show with Dining Options
Kyoto: 1 Day Traditional Japanese Kimono Rental Experience
Historical Nara & Kyoto 1-Day Bus Tour
Our pick of the best Downtown Kyoto Hotel Deals
Hotel Gracery Kyoto Sanjo
Excellent location, within walking distance from the train station. Helpful and attentive staff, very clean room and bathroom.
Reviewed on 4 Jan 2026
Cross Hotel Kyoto
Everything very good - room/location/food/staff but check-in was a joke — electronic check-in was ridiculous and slow !!
Reviewed on 7 Jan 2026
The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Sanjo
Yes.
Reviewed on 6 Jan 2026
Hearton Hotel Kyoto
everything is well maintained and organised.
Reviewed on 5 Jan 2026
Hotel Monterey Kyoto
Spa was very nice from the lounge afterwards. Had great views. Location was pretty Central to most walkability was
Reviewed on 3 Jan 2026
SOLARIA Nishitetsu Hotel Kyoto Premier
The room was great, and the staff members were excellent. I forgot my watch at the hotel. And she called my foreign phone to tell me. I am most grateful.
Reviewed on 20 Dec 2025
Other neighbourhoods around Downtown Kyoto
Karasuma
Karasuma is popular for its popular shops. Explore top sights like Nishiki Market and Shijo Kyo Machiya, and you can get around town on the metro at Karasuma Oike Station.
Nakagyo Ward
Sanjo Street and Nijō Castle are top sights in Nakagyo Ward, and you should be sure to explore the popular shops. Hop aboard the metro at Nijojo-mae Station or Karasuma Oike Station to see more sights in the area.
Gion
Unique features of Gion include the monuments and shopping. Make a stop by Yasaka Shrine or Hanamikoji Street while you're exploring the area.
Central Kyoto
Travellers love Central Kyoto for its popular shops, and you can see more of Kyoto by jumping on the metro at Imadegawa Station or Kuramaguchi Station. You might spend time checking out top sights like Nishijin Textile Center and Kyoto Gyoen National Garden.
Komatsucho
While visiting Komatsucho, you might make a stop by sights like Kenninji Temple and Hanamikoji Street.
Kamigyo Ward
Noted for its historical sites and gardens, there's plenty to explore in Kamigyo Ward. Top attractions like Nishijin Textile Center and Kamishichiken Kabukai are major draws, and you can hop on the metro at Imadegawa Station or Kuramaguchi Station to see more of the city.
