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.
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.
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.
Activities
Kyoto: 1 Day Traditional Japanese Kimono Rental Experience
One-Day Tour of Japan's Ancient Capitals - Kyoto and Nara
Kyoto: Insider Sake Experience with 7 Tastings and Snacks
Tea Ceremony in 150 Years Old Townhouse with Tables and Chairs
Samurai Performance and Casual Experience: Kyoto Ticket
Our pick of the best Downtown Kyoto Hotel Deals
Hotel Gracery Kyoto Sanjo
Very nice hotel despite modest reception area.
Reviewed on 7 Dec 2025
The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Sanjo
Great hotel
Reviewed on 30 Nov 2025
Hotel Monterey Kyoto
First of all, the hotel was in a good location. Walking distance to popular places with an easy access and staff and services were great. Room
Reviewed on 4 Dec 2025
Hearton Hotel Kyoto
Air con was not effective, it was too hot. The rooms have bathrooms that make noise and you can hear other rooms. It was overall however a good hotel.
Reviewed on 7 Dec 2025
Hotel Resol Trinity Kyoto
Staff, amenities, lovely bed linens.
Reviewed on 10 Dec 2025
Cross Hotel Kyoto
Very nicely appointed modern design and a great location near shopping areas and Sanjo subway and bus stops. We would have liked a room with a view of the city instead of the inside parking courtyard and more vegetable breakfast options for pure vegetarian/vegan folks. For non-veg folks the breakfast ...
Reviewed on 8 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.
Komatsucho
While visiting Komatsucho, you might make a stop by sights like Kenninji Temple and Hanamikoji Street.
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 Uhoin.
Kamigyo Ward
Noted for its historical sites and gardens, there's plenty to explore in Kamigyo Ward. Top attractions like Nishijin Textile Center and Uhoin are major draws, and you can hop on the metro at Imadegawa Station or Kuramaguchi Station to see more of the city.
