Kyoto Tour & Travel Packages - Adventure Trip with Itinerary Cost in Japan

Kyoto Tour Overview

Kyoto, the city that we today know for the refined Japanese arts, is one of the oldest municipalities in Japan. It is situated on the most populous island in Japan, Honshu. In 794 A.D. it became the capital of Japan under King Kanmu and remained so for a century. Today, Kyoto is home to 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites including  shrines and temples that tell the tale about Japanese history. All these cultural sites should be must-dos on your Kyoto tour! 

• Kyoto Visitor Insights

  • Continent: Asia

  • Country: Japan

  • Location: Kansai region, Honshu

  • Time-Zone: Japan Standard Time (JST) - UTC+9

  • Language: Japanese, Kyoto-ben 

• Currencies Accepted in Kyoto, Japan

The official and only acceptable currency in Kyoto is the Japanese Yen (JPY). You can easily exchange USD for JPY at all international and major domestic airports and money exchange services, ATMs, and major hotels. Credit and debit cards are also widely accepted across Japan. 

Major Attractions in Kyoto

• Kinkaku-ji

Also known as the Golden Pavilion, the Kinkaku-ji (formerly called Rokuonji) is a famous Zen temple of the Rinzai sect and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was originally built to exhibit the lavish Kitayama culture with each of its floors representing a different style of architecture. Two of its top floors are covered in gold leaf. It was burnt down numerous times and what stands is a structure rebuilt in 1955. You can visit all the floors but some areas with sacred idols are restricted for public viewing. It also features a lush garden with a large serene pond. Kinkaku-ji is a must-include in your Kyoto tour package if you want to see Japanese architecture. 

• Fushimi Inari Taisha

Fushimi Inari Shrine predates the establishment of Kyoto as its capital. It is famed for its vibrant vermilion torii gates, thousands in numbers, standing across the pathways on Mount Inari. These pathways culminate in the forest of the sacred Mount Inari, which is around 764 feet (233 mt) high and is a property of the shrine grounds. It is dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice and prosperity, and is surrounded by fox statues that are considered as messengers of the deity. 

• Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Situated in western Kyoto, the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove has towering bamboo stalks swaying gently in the breeze—the reason why it is one of the most photographed sites in the city. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove offers a unique experience as its single main path lets you stroll amidst towering bamboo stalks on both sides. At the end of the road, you'll find the entrance to Okochi-Sanso Villa, a tranquil spot offering breathtaking scenery. The grove is part of a vibrant cultural area, including the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge, the serene Tenryu-ji Temple, and a monkey park. Be sure to include these highlights in your Kyoto, Japan itinerary for a truly memorable visit.

• Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Another of Kyoto’s UNESCO World Heritage sites, Kiyomizu-dera or the “Pure Water Temple”, is one of the most celebrated in the country. Established in 778, it is a masterpiece of traditional Japanese architecture. Perched on a hillside, its iconic wooden stage offers breathtaking views of Kyoto, especially during cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons. You can explore its sacred grounds, drink from the Otowa Waterfall for blessings, and enjoy the bustling streets of the nearby Higashiyama district.

• Nijō Castle

Nijō Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was the residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Edo Period. Built in 1603. It features exquisite architecture, including the famous "nightingale floors" that chirp when walked upon to prevent intruders. As you enter the castle ground through a large gate, you can hire an English guided tour from a kiosk just inside the gate. As you go further, you will reach the Chinese-style Karamon Gate which leads to the main Ninomaru Palace. 

• Gion District

Gion is Kyoto’s historic geisha district and a must-add to your Kyoto travel package if culture is what captivates you. The district is famous for its traditional wooden machiya houses, tea houses, and cobblestone streets. You will find ample opportunities for viewing cultural performances, tea ceremonies, and dining experiences, and if you’re lucky, you may also catch glimpses of geiko (geisha) and maiko (apprentices) heading to appointments. One of the most popular areas to add to your Kyoto itinerary is Hanami-koji Street. 

• Ryoan-ji Temple

Ryoan-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is famed for its minimalist rock garden, an iconic example of Zen design. The garden features 15 carefully arranged stones amidst raked white gravel, evoking a sense of tranquility and contemplation. Established in 1450, the temple’s serene grounds also include a pond and lush greenery. You can view it from the Hojo, the former residence of the head priest.

• To-ji Temple

To-ji or the “East Temple” is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site built in the beginning of the Heian period in the late 700s. Renowned for its towering five-story pagoda, the tallest wooden structure in Japan, To-ji is also one of Kyoto’s oldest temples and a center of Esoteric Buddhism. And if you’d like some low-priced shopping, the monthly flea market, Kobo-san is for you. 

• Nishiki Market

Your trip to Kyoto, Japan is incomplete without a visit to the Nishiki Market, which is also popularly known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen.” It is a bustling five-block-long marketplace, offering a vibrant selection of local delicacies, fresh produce, and traditional goods. can sample unique foods like yatsuhashi (cinnamon-flavored sweets), pickles, and sushi while exploring the lively atmosphere. The market also features shops selling kitchenware, souvenirs, and artisanal crafts, making it a must-visit spot to experience Kyoto’s culinary and cultural richness.

Best Time to Visit Kyoto

• March–May (Spring): Peak season. Mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 46°F to 68°F (8°C to 20°C). The cherry blossoms (sakura) bloom from late March to early April. Extremely popular due to the cherry blossoms. Major attractions like Kiyomizu-dera and Arashiyama are crowded. 

• June–August (Summer): Shoulder season. Hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 73°F to 91°F (23°C to 33°C). June and July see significant rainfall due to the rainy season. Moderate crowds, except during festivals like the Gion Matsuri in July, which draws large crowds. Ideal for experiencing cultural events and vibrant festivals.

• September–November (Fall): Peak season. Cool and crisp, with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 73°F (10°C to 23°C). The fall foliage peaks in November, painting the city in red and gold. Popular spots like Tofuku-ji and Kiyomizu-dera are crowded, but the views are worth it.

• December–February (Winter): Low season. Cold and dry, with temperatures ranging from 34°F to 50°F (1°C to 10°C). Snowfall is rare but adds charm to attractions like Kinkaku-ji. Ideal for those who prefer fewer crowds. The serene atmosphere and winter illuminations offer a unique Kyoto experience.

Essential Advice and Tips for Kyoto Tour

• Trip Planning: Planning your trip around what you want to see in Kyoto. Peak seasons offer breathtaking sceneries but are crowded. 

• Shoes: Wear slip-on shoes, especially if the day’s trip includes shrines, temples, or tatami mat rooms. You will need to take them off as a custom. 

• Cultural Etiquette: Politeness is extremely valued in Japan. Always be polite especially to staff at all establishments

• Language: Learn basic Japanese to have a good experience. Most people speak only Japanese of the Kyoto dialect. 

• Tipping: Tipping is not a custom and sometimes, may be taken as an insult. So, refrain from tipping. 

Kyoto Tour Cost

If you’re on a budget, you could find Kyoto trip packages starting at $600. A mid-range package is likely to start at $1,800, while luxury trips may start at $6,000. AdventureTrips offers Kyoto tour packages at affordable costs to suit your budget and preferences.

Kyoto Accommodation

• Traditional Ryokan Inns: Accommodations offering tatami floors, futons, and onsens. Perfect for those seeking a cultural and serene Japanese experience. 

• Modern Hotels: Hotels catering to luxury and comfort, with a focus on international standards. Best for travelers who value convenience and modern comforts.

• Boutique Hotels: Stylish, smaller hotels focusing on design, local experiences, and personal service. Perfect for tourists looking for a more intimate and personalized stay.

• Guesthouses & Hostels: Budget-friendly options that provide a more social environment with shared spaces and a relaxed atmosphere. Great for solo travelers, backpackers, and young tourists on a budget.

• Machiya Houses: Restored traditional wooden townhouses offering a home-like feel, with kitchenettes and private gardens. Perfect for families or groups looking for an authentic, self-contained experience.

• Luxury Resorts & Spas: Accommodations offering comprehensive wellness and spa facilities, these cater to those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation amidst natural beauty. 

• Capsule Hotels: Compact pods providing essential amenities for short stays, often in a high-tech setting. Ideal for solo travelers or those with limited time wanting a unique, efficient stay.

The price of your Kyoto, Japan tour package changes depending upon the accommodation you choose. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1: Do accommodations in Kyoto provide Wi-Fi?

Answer 1: Most modern hotels, guesthouses, and even Ryokans offer free Wi-Fi for guests.

Question 2: Are capsule hotels safe for women traveling alone?

Answer 2: Many capsule hotels have women-only floors or sections for added security and privacy. If you are a woman traveling solo, this can be a great option.