Katsura Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
Popular places to visit
Kiyomizu Temple
This World Heritage temple is ingeniously built, without nails, and takes its name from the nearby waterfall.
Nijō Castle
This 17th-century castle complex was once a seat of unfathomable power and wealth.
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.
Kinkaku-ji Temple
This stunning temple, glittering with gold leaf, is a renowned Buddhist site, first built in the 1300s as a shogun.
Kyoto Tower
In a city known for its temples and other ancient relics, this observation point catches the eye as an example of 20th-century innovation.
Fushimi Inari Shrine
This mountain shrine is dedicated to the goddess of rice. Time your descent to coincide with the lighting of the lanterns.
Activities
Kyoto: 1 Day Traditional Japanese Kimono Rental Experience
One-Day Tour of Japan's Ancient Capitals - Kyoto and Nara
From Osaka/Kyoto: Kyoto and Nara 1-Day Bus Tour
From Kyoto / Osaka: Kyoto Must-see Spots & Nara Park One Day Tour
Kyoto: Full Course Tour: Explore 10 Must-Sees & Hidden Gems
Our pick of the best Katsura Hotel Deals
Onyado Nono Kyotoshichijo Natural Hot Springs
10/10
Reviewed on 20 Nov 2025
Hotel Gracery Kyoto Sanjo
In the heart of the shopping district. Staff was very friendly, easy access to public transportation, clean rooms. We stayed in a premium room so we had access to the premium lounge that offered free snacks and beverages.
Reviewed on 18 Nov 2025
JR WEST GROUP VIA INN PRIME KYOTOEKI HACHIJOGUCHI
Clean room with all the essentials and in a nice area for shopping and food
Reviewed on 19 Nov 2025
Hotel Emion Kyoto
The Hotel is nicely located in a quiet neighborhood and easily accessible from Kyoto station by train (1 stop) or multiple buses. However the room could have been cleaner. There was dust in the corners and behind the tv. One person of our group had a big allergic reaction.
Reviewed on 20 Nov 2025
The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Sanjo
My second time here, always friendly, attentive helpful staff. Great rooms, very clean, nice amenities and a nice breakfast. Will come again hopefully due to the kind staff and great location.
Reviewed on 20 Nov 2025
THE BLOSSOM KYOTO
Spacious clean room, large bathroom, with many amenities. Staff helpful and accommodating. Very nice modern hotel. Would definitely stay there again.
Reviewed on 19 Nov 2025
Other neighbourhoods around Katsura
Nishikyo Ward
Well liked for its mountain views and restaurants, Nishikyo Ward is worth a visit. Check out the variety of things to see and do like Katsura Imperial Villa and Bamboo Forest Muko City, and jump on the metro at Kameoka Hozukyo Station to get around the city.
Ukyo Ward
Gardens, forests and river views highlight some notable features of Ukyo Ward. Make a stop by Aeon Mall Kyoto or Shijo Street while you're visiting, and jump aboard the metro at Uzumasa Tenjingawa Station or Hanazono Station to get around town.
Shimogyo Ward
Shimogyo Ward is highly notable for its popular shops, and you might want to visit top sights like Kyoto Railway Museum and Shijo Street. See more of Kyoto by jumping on the metro at Tanbaguchi Station or Umekoji-Kyotonishi Station.
Minami Ward
Travellers choose Minami Ward for its ample dining options. Hop aboard the metro at Nishioji Station or Jujo Station and check out top sights like Kawaramachi Street.
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.
Arashiyama
You might enjoy the river views while in Arashiyama. Kyoto Arashiyama Orgel Museum is a notable sight, and you can get around town at Saga-Arashiyama Station or Torokko Arashiyama Station to see more of the city.
