Kyoto Holidays from NZ$4,322

Things to do in and around Kyoto

Kyoto offers a diverse range of activities suitable for families and business travellers alike. Explore the vibrant Nishiki Market for local delicacies and unique shopping experiences. For a touch of adventure, engage in thrilling ninja experiences, or find your zen in a meditation studio. With its rich culture and bustling markets, Kyoto is an ideal destination for those seeking both relaxation and excitement.

Shopping

In Kyoto, explore Nishiki Market for a vibrant local atmosphere filled with food and unique souvenirs. Stroll down Kawaramachi Street for high-street retailers and family-friendly shops. For a blend of entertainment and shopping, visit Pontocho Alley, known for its lively ambiance and diverse offerings.

Recreation

Nishikyogoku Athletic Stadium offers an energising atmosphere for sports enthusiasts, perfect for engaging in various recreational activities. Funaoka Thermal Bath provides a tranquil retreat with soothing baths for ultimate relaxation. Lastly, Kyoto Concert Hall immerses you in captivating music, creating a vibrant cultural experience.

Adventure

The Mt. Otokoyama Cable Car offers a thrilling ride with stunning views, perfect for families and adventurers alike. Experience the Fushimi-Inari-Taisha Pilgrimage Circuit for a scenic hike surrounded by thousands of vibrant torii gates. For winter sports enthusiasts, Biwako Valley Ski Resort provides excellent skiing opportunities, located 24.1km from Kyoto.

Nightlife

Experience the enchanting Gion Corner theatre for a cultural evening, or gaze at the stars at the Kyoto Municipal Science Center For Youth's planetarium. For some thrills, dive into the adventure at Omiyakotsu Park's arcade zone. Kyoto's nightlife offers a delightful mix of entertainment and excitement.

Find the best attractions in Kyoto

Kyoto offers a delightful vacation experience for families and business travellers alike, with a rich array of cultural, outdoor, and urban attractions. Visitors can explore stunning temples and shrines, enjoy the serenity of urban parks, and take in panoramic views from Kyoto Tower. Key spots like Kyoto Station and nearby resorts also enhance your stay, ensuring a memorable adventure in this historic city.

• Kiyomizu Temple: This historic temple is renowned for its stunning wooden stage that juts out over the hillside, offering breathtaking views of cherry and maple trees below. The temple's architecture and serene surroundings create a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for reflecting on Japanese culture.
• Fushimi Inari Shrine: Famous for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates, this shrine dedicated to the Shinto god of rice offers a unique pathways through lush forested mountains. Each gate is a donation by individuals or businesses, creating a deeply cultural experience as you walk among them.
• Nijō Castle: This UNESCO World Heritage site showcases the beauty of traditional Japanese architecture and gardens. With its romantic nightingale floors that chirp when walked upon, it invites you to explore its rich history and artistry.

Best time to go to Kyoto

The best time to visit Kyoto can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Kyoto falls in August, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Kyoto falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	37.8°F (3.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	39.4°F (4.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	46.0°F (7.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
April	54.3°F (12.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
May	63.5°F (17.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	70.5°F (21.4°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
July	77.9°F (25.5°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
August	80.2°F (26.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
September	73.0°F (22.8°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
October	62.2°F (16.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
November	52.3°F (11.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
December	42.1°F (5.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Kyoto

When visiting Kyoto on a budget, take advantage of free attractions like the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Hanamikoji Street. For public transport, opt for the subway and buses, which are cost-effective. Plan your trip between January to February or September for lower accommodation rates, and book about a month in advance for the best deals. Tuesday is typically the cheapest day to stay, while Saturday tends to be pricier. Use Expedia to find discounted rates and consider package deals that combine flights and accommodation for additional savings.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Kyoto are January to February and September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March to April and November, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Kyoto is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Kyoto is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Kyoto is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool is designed to help you find the perfect accommodation within your budget and preferred location. You can easily arrange your search results from the lowest to the highest prices, ensuring you see the most affordable options first. Additionally, you can refine your choices by hotel type. For instance, by selecting the Eco-certified filter, you'll discover a selection of sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your hotel stay in Kyoto with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.