Kyoto review
Kyoto and Nara shine at the top of nearly every Japan travel wish list, drawing crowds as the country’s most beloved destinations. A quick scroll online reveals a cascade of iconic images, along with endless debates about over-tourism, visitor taxes, and the true cost of popularity.
Kyoto is also a top pick for JET Program applicants, who dream of living in the heart of tradition. During Obon, I explored the city myself, and I am excited to share my adventures and a glimpse into the rich history of Japan’s former capital.
Kyoto served as Japan’s capital as far back as 794 and has undergone a few name changes. It served as the country's capital until 1869 and has seen many fierce battles and wars over the centuries. After the Meiji restoration period, the capital was finally moved. Today, Kyoto is home to over 3.8 million people and is considered part of the Keihanshin metropolis area, which also encompasses Osaka. Due to its long, rich history, Kyoto is home to many UNESCO-protected sites. It is famous for the old imperial palace, a vast number of temples and shrines, bamboo forests, old samurai residences, geisha and traditional theatres, and much more.
Kyoto boasts a centuries-old culinary tradition and breathtaking scenery, as well as the distinction of hosting Japan’s second-oldest university. With so much heritage woven into its streets, it is easy to see why travelers are drawn here in search of authentic, time-honored Japan. With all this anticipation, I wondered what it would truly feel like to step into Kyoto, especially knowing I was about to enter one of the country’s liveliest destinations outside of Japan Expo and Tokyo’s bustling districts.
Before my visit, I spent an afternoon researching alternative places to visit in Kyoto in hopes of avoiding some of the hottest tourist areas and researched as best as I could what times were least busy to some of the bigger sites. I made a list of places and even swapped some sites for quieter, prettier alternatives. The bottom line with Kyoto will always be that there will be crowds no matter what the time.
My journey began at Kennin-ji, where I found myself nearly alone in the tranquil morning light. The pagoda-style temple stood quietly, its beauty undisturbed. Around nine, I wandered over to Entoku-in, a spot that often appears on must-see lists. Exploring took a bit longer, but the peacefulness remained, with only a few visitors scattered about. The temple complex boasts a bamboo forest that easily rivals the more famous ones. After patiently waiting for a few people to move along, I managed to capture photos with no one else in sight. It was here that I witnessed my first cringeworthy tourist moment, and I suddenly understood the locals’ frustrations. A couple began shaking the bamboo, moving from stalk to stalk as if testing their strength. This went on for quite some time. Such behavior is risky; bamboo is hollow and can collapse, sometimes causing a domino effect that endangers anyone nearby. If you visit the grove, remember the bamboo is sturdy enough for admiration, but it does not need testing. Let them be and enjoy the beauty through your lens, no touching required.
After hours spent soaking in the tranquil beauty of the temple complex and swaying bamboo groves, I set off toward my next stop, Kiyomizu-dera. There, I was swept into a tide of people, just as the photos had promised—a dense, restless crowd under the blazing Obon sun. The crush made even finding a cold drink a challenge, with vending machines picked clean and long lines snaking from every corner. Vendors lined the main street, but their prices soared with the demand. Once I finally broke free from the throng and wandered into quieter corners, my spirits lifted, and the city’s magic returned. Crowds in Kyoto are a fact of life, but you can shape your own adventure by seeking out less-traveled paths. Expect slow progress along the main routes and keep water handy, the crowds move at their own pace.
My last few stops were Yasaka Koshin-do and a stop near the old imperial palace area. I was able to also take some completely empty images at a few pagoda style shrines along this walk to proving you can take empty images in Kyoto, but it needs patience and going off the over trodden path.
I visited the Pokémon Centre and enjoyed two nights in an amazing hotel in the area. Whilst I was unable to tick off the Inori shrine on every visitor’s list. I don't feel as bad because I discovered a beautiful alternative during my Wakayama adventure. I also think there are beautiful, if not better, shrines in other prefectures that will allow for entirely clear images and better experiences.
When planning your Kyoto adventure, I recommend wandering off the beaten path and discovering lesser-known sights. The charming towns around Kyoto offer a window into the heart of historic Japan. If you have extra time, consider exploring some of the awe-inspiring shrines scattered across the Kansai region, where you can soak in the atmosphere at your own pace. Remember to plan and stay mindful of the unique layout of Kyoto’s old streets. As a UNESCO site, the city’s narrow lanes were never meant for crowds, and efforts to ease congestion are limited. In my Nara blog, I mentioned how the deer park felt less crowded, even though Nara has surpassed Kyoto in visitor numbers this year. The open spaces there make it easier to find peaceful corners away from the crowds.
My time in Kyoto was deeply rewarding. Even though I skipped some of the major hotspots, my adventures around the prefecture let me experience the spirit and history of Japan in unexpected places. With 47 prefectures across the country, countless hidden gems are waiting to surprise travelers who are willing to explore beyond the usual routes. Your own Japan story is ready to unfold.
