Ultimate family guide to Kyoto: 10 spots to explore with kids

Kyoto, Japan’s cultural capital, offers an incredible mix of ancient temples, scenic landscapes, and rich traditions, making it an ideal destination for a family vacation. With its peaceful gardens, historic districts, and interactive experiences, Kyoto provides a unique opportunity to immerse your family in the heart of Japan’s cultural heritage.

This guide covers the top 10 must-visit attractions and things to do in Kyoto, perfect for kids and adults alike, with detailed travel tips, entry fees, and recommendations on how to make the most of your visit.

1. Kinkaku-ji – the Golden Pavilion

Kyoto’s Iconic Golden Temple

Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion, is one of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks and a must-see for any visitor. Originally built as a retirement villa for the shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu in the late 14th century, the temple was later converted into a Zen Buddhist temple.

The pavilion is covered in gold leaf, which shimmers in the sunlight and reflects beautifully in the surrounding mirror-like pond. We spent time walking around the pond, where the girls were delighted to spot koi fish swimming close to the surface.

How to get to Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, Kyoto

From Kyoto Station, take City Bus No. 101 or 205. The 40-minute ride brings you to the Kinkakuji-Michi stop, followed by a 5-minute walk.

💡 Good to know

• Entry fee to Kinkaku-ji: ¥500 (adults), ¥300 (children)
• Time to spend: 45 minutes to 1 hour
• Insider tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially during peak seasons like spring and autumn. Don’t forget to explore the temple grounds and stop by the small tea garden for a taste of traditional matcha.

2. Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Monkey Park

Arashiyama is one of Kyoto’s most enchanting areas, known for its sprawling bamboo groves and stunning natural beauty.

We started with exploring Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama, where we watched wild Japanese macaques in their natural habitat. The hike up was manageable, even with kids, and the reward at the top — a close-up encounter with wild Japanese macaques — was unforgettable. The girls were fascinated by the monkeys and loved watching them play.

The 20-30 minute hike up to Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama not only offers a chance to see the monkeys but also rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of Kyoto.

💡 Good to know

• Entry fee (Monkey Park): ¥600 (adults), ¥300 (children), cash only
• Time to spend: 1.5-2 hours
• Insider tip: Bring water and snacks for the 20-minute hike to the monkeys. Wear comfortable shoes as the hike can be steep in places, and consider visiting early in the morning to catch the monkeys when they are most active.

💡 Good to know

There are plenty of dining options to choose from In Arashiyama and we decided to try out Arashiyama Itsukichaya with river views and the preset menu. We had to wait for around 30 minutes for our table to be ready, and surely loved the food (although, were not always sure how to cook all the ingredients 😅)

After exploring Monkey Park Iwatayama, we headed to the nearby bamboo forest of Arashiyama, which was a big hit with our entire family. The girls were especially thrilled by the towering bamboo groves, they kept looking up, amazed by how tall the bamboo grew, and we all enjoyed the soft rustling sound as the wind moved through the stalks. 

Later, we continued walking through the serene small streets on the outskirts of Kyoto (yes, Arashiyama is still considered Kyoto). Along the way, we passed some temples and shrines, making our way to a specific Temple, Otagi Nenbutsu-Ji Temple in Kyoto. Unfortunately, we didn’t realize that the temples close at 5 pm. By the time we arrived, it was 4:45 pm, and they were no longer letting anyone in.

Rule of thumb in Japan: Temples close at 5 pm, and Shrines are open for 24 hours!

How to get to Arashiyama from Kyoto Station

Take the JR Sagano Line from Kyoto Station to Saga-Arashiyama Station (15 minutes). It’s a 10-minute walk to the bamboo grove. Cross Togetsukyo Bridge to reach the Monkey Park.

3. Daigoji Temple – UNESCO World Heritage Site

Daigoji Temple is a sprawling temple complex that holds significant historical and cultural value. Founded in 874, Daigoji is known for its stunning five-story pagoda, which is Kyoto’s oldest surviving wooden structure, dating back to 951.

The temple complex is vast, featuring several sub-temples, serene gardens, and walking paths that showcase Kyoto’s seasonal beauty, from cherry blossoms in the spring to vibrant autumn foliage.

The girls sure loved exploring the gardens and finding little paths and bridges. We came in the afternoon and stayed until closing time at 5 pm, and it was our favorite spot in Kyoto – no crowds and so incredibly serene and beautiful.

How to get to Daigoji Temple, Kyoto

Take the JR Kyoto Line to JR Yamashina, then the Kyoto City Subway Yamashina to Kyoto City Subway
Daigo.

Or take a short bus ride – Kyoto St. Hachijoguchi to Daigo, or JR Yamashina to Daigoji-mae, or JR ROKUJIZOU to Daigoji-mae.

💡 Good to know

• Entry fee: ¥1000 (adults), ¥700 (children), with an additional fee of ¥500 per person to enter Omote-Shoin, Drawing Room
• Time to spend: 1.5-2 hours
• Insider tip: We brought along some snacks and took a break in the garden, where the girls could run around safely. If you visit during cherry blossom season or autumn, the views are absolutely stunning

4. Nishiki Market – Kyoto’s Kitchen

Nishiki Market, affectionately known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” is a must-visit for food lovers and families looking to experience the authentic flavors of Kyoto. This bustling five-block-long market has been around for over 400 years and is home to more than 100 shops and stalls selling everything from fresh seafood to traditional sweets, pickles, and cookware.

The girls were in heaven, sampling different foods and seeing all the fresh ingredients on display. We tried everything from sweet mochi to savory tamagoyaki, and the market’s lively atmosphere kept them entertained the entire time. It was also a great way for them to experience local culture and see how food is such an important part of life in Kyoto.

How to get to Nishiki Market, Kyoto

Take the Karasuma Line to Shijo Station or the Hankyu Line to Karasuma Station. It’s a 5-minute walk from either station.

💡 Good to know

• Entry fee: Free (bring cash for food)
• Time to spend: 1-2 hours
• Insider tip: Visit mid-morning to avoid the lunch rush and explore the market at a leisurely pace. Don’t miss trying Kyoto’s famous green tea ice cream, wagyu beed black gyozas, or purchasing some unique souvenirs like handcrafted chopsticks or ceramic bowls.

5. Fushimi Inari Shrine – a hike through thousands of Torii Gates

Kyoto’s Most Iconic Shrine

Fushimi Inari Shrine is one of Kyoto’s most famous and photographed attractions, known for its thousands of torii gates that wind up the sacred Mount Inari. Dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice, the shrine’s origins date back to 711 AD. The torii gates, donated by individuals and businesses, create a stunning path that visitors can hike, offering both a spiritual journey and a physical adventure.

The trail is dotted with smaller shrines, stone fox statues (Inari’s messengers), The girls were amazed by the thousands of bright red torii gates that lined the path up the mountain. We started the hike with the intention of just walking a little way, but the girls were so excited by the atmosphere that we ended up going much farther than we planned.

The paths were shaded and cool, which made the hike comfortable even for the kids. The views as we climbed higher were fantastic, and the girls loved the sense of accomplishment when we reached a higher viewpoint at Kumatakasha.

How to get to Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kyoto

Take the Keihan Line from Kyoto Station to Fushimi-Inari Station. The shrine entrance is right next to the station.

💡 Good to know

• Entry fee: Free
• Time to spend: 1-2 hours (full hike: 2-3 hours)
• Insider tip: We brought along snacks and water, which kept the kids happy during the hike. It’s a popular spot, so go early in the day to avoid the biggest crowds. The girls enjoyed exploring the smaller shrines along the way, and we all loved the peaceful atmosphere.

6. Ninenzaka & Sanenzaka – historic streets of Kyoto

Ninenzaka and Sanenzaka are two of Kyoto’s most charming and well-preserved historic streets, offering a glimpse into the city’s past. These gently sloping lanes are lined with traditional wooden machiya houses, some of which have been converted into quaint tea shops, souvenir stores, and cafes. Walking along these streets feels like stepping back in time, as the area retains its old-world atmosphere.

Our daughters were fascinated by the traditional wooden houses and the quaint shops selling everything from tea to handmade crafts. The cobblestone paths were fun for the girls to explore, and we found plenty of places to stop and take pictures. We even stopped at a tea shop for a break, where the girls enjoyed some sweets while we soaked in the atmosphere.

How to get to Ninenzaka & Sanenzaka, Kyoto

Take Kyoto City Bus No. 100 or 206 to Kiyomizu-michi or Gojozaka. It’s a 10-minute walk to the streets.

💡 Good to know

• Entry fee: Free
• Time to spend: 1-1.5 hours
• Insider tip: Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the stone-paved streets. Take your time browsing the shops, and don’t miss trying a cup of matcha tea in one of the traditional teahouses. If you’re visiting in the evening, the streets are beautifully illuminated.

7. Kiyomizu-dera Temple – panoramic views of Kyoto

Kiyomizu-dera is one of Kyoto’s most celebrated temples, known for its panoramic views and historic significance. The temple, whose name means “Pure Water Temple,” was founded in 778 AD and offers a spectacular view of Kyoto from its wooden stage, which juts out from the hillside. The temple complex includes several buildings and shrines, with the Otowa Waterfall being a focal point.

Visitors can drink from the three streams of the waterfall, each said to grant a different blessing: longevity, success, and love. The temple was bustling with visitors, but the atmosphere was still peaceful. The girls were excited to drink from the “pure water” waterfall.

How to get there to Kiyomizu-Dera Temple, Kyoto

Take Kyoto City Bus No. 100 or 206 to Gojozaka or Kiyomizu-michi. It’s a 10-minute uphill walk to the temple.

💡 Good to know

• Entry fee: ¥500 (adults), ¥200 (children)
• Time to spend: 1.5-2 hours
• Insider tip: The climb is worth the effort for the breathtaking views. Visit in the late afternoon for fewer crowds and a beautiful sunset view. For a memorable experience, try the temple’s evening illumination events, which are held during certain times of the year.

8. Gion District – Kyoto’s famous district

Gion is Kyoto’s most famous geisha district, known for its traditional wooden machiya houses, narrow alleyways, and vibrant cultural scene. The district is filled with teahouses where geiko and maiko entertain guests with traditional music, dance, and games.

Gion comes alive in the evening. We stopped by Yasaka Shrine, beautifully lit at night, and then wandered through the streets.

How to get to Gion District, Kyoto

• Bus: Take Kyoto City Bus No. 100 or 206 to Gion, a 5-minute walk.
• Train: Take the Keihan Line to Gion-Shijo Station, then walk 5 minutes.

💡 Good to know

• Entry fee: Free
• Time to spend: 1-2 hours
• Insider tip: For a deeper experience, consider booking a guided walking tour of Gion to learn more about the history and culture of Kyoto’s geisha (we have not tried it ourselves, though). Yasaka Shrine is especially beautiful when illuminated at night.

9. Walk along the Kamo River

Stroll by Kyoto’s Most Beloved River

The Kamo River is one of Kyoto’s most beloved natural features, offering a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. The riverbanks are popular spots for walking, cycling, and picnicking, especially during cherry blossom season when the riverside is lined with blooming sakura trees.

After a busy day of sightseeing, taking a leisurely walk along the Kamo River was the perfect way to unwind and let the girls burn off some energy.

How to get to Kamo River, Kyoto

Access the river from Sanjo Station (Keihan Line) or Gion-Shijo Station. The riverbanks are just a few minutes away.

💡 Good to know

• Entry fee: Free
• Time to spend: 1-2 hours
• Insider tip: Visit during cherry blossom season for a picturesque walk. If you’re visiting in the summer, look out for the traditional kawayuka dining platforms that are set up along the riverbanks, where you can enjoy a meal with beautiful views.

10. Day trip to Nara – feed the deer and visit Todaiji Temple

Family Day Trip from Kyoto

Our day trip to Nara was one of the highlights of our journey, especially for our daughters, who were thrilled to meet the famous friendly deer of Nara Park. The park covers an area of about 660 hectares (1,630 acres) and is one of the oldest parks in Japan.

The girls had a blast interacting with these gentle creatures, who are so accustomed to people that they sometimes bow their heads in greeting! Note we do not advice to feed them – they can get pretty aggressive and even bite!

Now, Nara Park is so much more than just the friendly deers, and we kept walking further to visit the giant temple. Todaiji Temple in Nara, Japan is home to the Great Buddha statue, known as the Daibutsu. It was founded in the 8th century and is famous for being one of the country’s most significant Buddhist temples. The temple’s main hall, the Daibutsuden (Great Buddha Hall), is an impressive wooden structure. Todaiji is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a major tourist attraction.

The sheer size and grandeur of the temple left us all in awe, and the girls were fascinated by the history and the massive bronze Buddha. We also enjoyed exploring the beautiful temple grounds and nearby gardens, making it a truly enriching and fun-filled day.

How to get to Nara from Kyoto

Take the JR Nara Line from Kyoto Station to Nara Station (45 minutes). It’s a 20-minute walk or short bus ride to Nara Park.

💡 Good to know

• Entry fee (Todaiji Temple): ¥600 (adults), ¥300 (children), the Deer Park is free to visit
• Time to spend: 4-5 hours (including travel)
• Insider tip: Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes as there’s quite a bit of walking involved. Arrive early to avoid the larger crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience.

Bonus: Dining recommendations in Kyoto

1. Nishiki Market
2. Ramen Sen-no-Kaze Kyoto
3. Gion Kankanderi Rei
4. Ramen Miyako – Gion Main Shop
5. Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu – Gion Yasaka
6. うなぎのしお冨, Unagi Restaurant
7. Arashiyama Itsukichaya, Kyoto (Arashiyama)

Bottom line

Traveling through Kyoto with kids was an unforgettable experience. Each attraction offered something unique and engaging for both adults and children, from the shimmering beauty of Kinkaku-ji to the playful interactions with monkeys and deer. The rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural landscapes of Kyoto provided the perfect backdrop for family bonding and creating lasting memories.

Whether you’re exploring ancient temples, enjoying delicious food at Nishiki Market, or simply taking a leisurely stroll by the Kamo River, Kyoto truly has something to captivate every member of the family. We hope our experiences inspire you to embark on your family adventure in this magical city.