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.
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.
Honnoji Temple
After visiting Honnoji Temple, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Kyoto. Amble within picturesque gardens or visit the temples in this culturally rich area.
Things to do
Kyoto Gion Geisha District Walking Tour - The Stories of Geisha
Kyoto: Kimono Rental with Hairstyling and Accessories
Eikando Temple Kyoto Kimono Rental with Hair Styling Experience
Kyoto 5-Star Geisha Night Walk: Small-Group Authentic Experience
10 Must-see Spots in Kyoto One Day Private Tour
Kyoto Traditional Kintsugi Workshop in Gion Gold Repair Art
Top hotels in Downtown Kyoto
Hotel Gracery Kyoto Sanjo
Great location. Rooms decent sized.
Reviewed on 9 May 2026
Cross Hotel Kyoto
Not great service , the staff was unhelpful. Good location and clean.
Reviewed on 10 May 2026
Hotel Monterey Kyoto
Great buffet breakfast. Decent sized room and the onsen was great
Reviewed on 8 May 2026
The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Sanjo
Lovely hotel and staff. Spotlessly clean and comfortable room. Good location near Sanjo station.
Reviewed on 10 May 2026
LOISIR HOTEL CLASSIC GARDEN KYOTO SANJO
I only booked for 1 night during my overnight port at Osaka for my Japan cruise. We decided to spend the night here in Kyoto. The hotel is beautiful and the location is convenient. I wish I have more time here to explore the neighborhood. Will come back here again in the future
Reviewed on 9 May 2026
Hotel Musse Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi Meitetsu
Excellent location and great service. Good size room.
Reviewed on 10 May 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
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.
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 Kawaramachi Street and Nishijin Textile Center are major draws, and you can hop on the metro at Imadegawa Station or Kuramaguchi Station to see more of the city.
