Downtown Kyoto Travel Guide
Kyoto
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.
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.
Things to do
Kyoto Gion Geisha District Walking Tour - The Stories of Geisha
Historical Nara & Kyoto 1-Day Bus Tour
Kyoto 5-Star Geisha Night Walk: Small-Group Authentic Experience
Kyoto: Arashiyama, Nara, Fushimi Inari Tour & Lunch Option
Kyoto and Nara UNESCO Highlights Full-day Tour From Osaka
Top hotels in Downtown Kyoto
Cross Hotel Kyoto
Outstanding hotel in a great location. Room layout is among the best I've seen
Reviewed on 2 Feb 2026
Hotel Gracery Kyoto Sanjo
The room was big and the shower and bathroom were separated. Amenities were very thoughtful, like face mask and bath bubble. The location was 10 minutes away from Nishiki Market. I would go back and stay more.
Reviewed on 5 Feb 2026
Hearton Hotel Kyoto
Excellent Hotel, superb staff and great location close to subway lines, hotels and convenience stores right there at walking distance.
Reviewed on 24 Jan 2026
The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Sanjo
The hotel location is perfect and the staff are friendly. The amenities are sufficient. The washing machine and dryer facilities are very convenient.
Reviewed on 4 Feb 2026
Hilton Kyoto
Great stay! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Reviewed on 31 Jan 2026
Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Sanjo PREMIER
Superb
Reviewed on 4 Feb 2026
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
Nishiki Market and Sanjo Street 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.
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 Kyoto Gyoen National Garden.
Komatsucho
While visiting Komatsucho, you might make a stop by sights like Kenninji Temple and Hanamikoji Street.
Kamigyo Ward
Noted for its historical sites and gardens, there's plenty to explore in Kamigyo Ward. Top attractions like Nishijin Textile Center and Kamishichiken Kabukai are major draws, and you can hop on the metro at Imadegawa Station or Kuramaguchi Station to see more of the city.
