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.
Honnoji Temple
After visiting Honnoji Temple, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Kyoto. Amble within picturesque gardens or visit the temples in this culturally rich area.
Activities
Kyoto: Kimono Rental with Hairstyling and Accessories
Kyoto Gion Geisha District Walking Tour - The Stories of Geisha
Kyoto 5-Star Geisha Night Walk: Small-Group Authentic Experience
10 Must-see Spots in Kyoto One Day Private Tour
Kyoto Top Four Highlights Day Trip from Osaka or Kyoto
Our pick of the best Downtown Kyoto Hotel Deals
The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Sanjo
"Excellent stay. Very convenient location. Comfortable room and good breakfast buffet"
Reviewed on 11 June 2026
Hotel Gracery Kyoto Sanjo
"Great stay and amazing location"
Reviewed on 9 June 2026
SOLARIA Nishitetsu Hotel Kyoto Premier
"Super great experience! Super convenient the location for all the main attractions in town"
Reviewed on 9 June 2026
Oakwood Hotel Oike Kyoto
"Great location and friendly staff."
Reviewed on 2 June 2026
Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Sanjo PREMIER
"Very clean and the staff were very professional and inviting. Private onsen was fantastic. Room was spacious, clean, and modern. Loved that all lights were controlled by a center console. Definitely a must stay when you are in Kyoto. It was also walking distance to the markets."
Reviewed on 8 June 2026
Hotel Monterey Kyoto
"Very clean very nice."
Reviewed on 11 June 2026
Check Downtown Kyoto hotel availability
Our guide on where to stay in Downtown Kyoto
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 Kawaramachi Street and Kyoto Gyoen National Garden.
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.
Shimogyo Ward
Shimogyo Ward is highly notable for its popular shops, and you might want to visit top sights like Kawaramachi Street and Sumiya Pleasure House. See more of Kyoto by jumping on the metro at Tanbaguchi Station or Umekoji-Kyotonishi Station.
Higashiyama Ward
Consider a visit to Three-Year Slope and take some time to enjoy the abundant dining options during your time in Higashiyama Ward. If you want to see more of the city, jump on the metro at Higashiyama Station or Sanjo Keihan Station.
Karasuma
Karasuma is popular for its popular shops. Explore top sights like Kawaramachi Street and Nishiki Market, and you can get around town on the metro at Karasuma Oike Station.
