Kyoto Railway Museum (京都鉄道博物館)
Brand new museum showing off all the latest train technology, as well as in-depth exhibitions on railway history in Japan and abroad. The museum hosts plenty of hands-on experiences for all ages, from train simulators to model trains, plus visitors can ride on a steam train. Head there early in the day for a better chance of having a go on the main train simulators (visitors enter a draw on the second floor). Adults 1200 yen, children 200-500 yen (10% off with Kyoto City Bus Pass, show on entry) • Open from 9:30am, closes 4:30pm (Nov - Feb), 5pm (Mar), 5:30pm (Apr - Sept), 5pm (Oct) • Bus no. 205, 206 to Umekoji-koen-mae, or 103, 104, 110, 86 or 88 to Umekoji-koen/Kyoto Railway Museum-mae • Google Maps • http://www.kyotorailwaymuseum.jp/en/
Kyoto Aquarium (京都水族館)
Aspiring to be more than just an average aquarium, edutainment (education and entertainment) is the key word here. While there is somewhat of a focus on sea life around Kyoto, there are more exotic animals to see such as dolphins and seals. Interactive events and displays are numerous, so it’s a good place to kill a few hours with the children. Save your money for the much larger aquarium in Osaka if also visiting there. Adults 2050 yen, high school/uni students 1550 yen, junior/elementary 1000 yen, 3 and over 600 yen (10% off with Kyoto City Bus Pass, show on entry) • 10am-6pm • Short walk from Kyoto Railway Museum • Google Maps • http://www.kyoto-aquarium.com/en/
Walk it and save!
It’s possible to walk to the park in about 15-20 minutes from Kyoto station. Leave from the central exit (north side), walk over the bus terminal and take a left turn down the main road (Shiokoji Street). Walk 10 minutes to Umekoji Park (signposted along the way).
Budget food
North side of map
There are a bunch of cheap spots at Kyoto station’s underground shopping mall on the north side. All sorts of food are available, from noodles to burgers. Note that there is also a supermarket in the Yodobashi Camera listed below. Above ground are the following cheap restaurants:
1) Sukiya (すき家) - Curry and gyudon eat-in and takeaway. Meals from 360 yen • At the intersection of Shichi-jo Dori and Sarasuma Dori (north subway exits), just past the Yodobashi Camera up from the station • 24h
2) Nakau (なか卯) - Cheap rice bowl chain, also has curry, soba and udon. Bowls from 290 yen • To the west of the above Sukiya, down Shichi-jo Dori • 24h
3) Honke-kamadoya Bento (本家かまどや) - Cheap bento takeaway shop. Bento boxes from 300 yen • Down Shiokoji Dori street, after the post office and Lawson on the left • 10am-5pm
South side of map
4) Nakau (なか卯) - Cheap rice bowl chain, also has curry, soba and udon. Bowls from 290 yen. • Take the Hachijo east exit from Kyoto station, then walk across the road (opposite Kyoto Avanti shopping mall) • 24h
5) Yoshinoya (吉野家) - Gyudon eat-in and takeaway. Meals from 330 yen • From Hachijo exit take a right turn, Yoshinoya is just past 7-Eleven • 5am-2am
6) Yayoi Iken (やよい軒) - Japanese teishoku (traditional set) meals. Meals from 680 yen • Further down the road, past the above Yoshinoya • 7am-11pm
7) Tenkaippin (天下一品) - Reasonably priced ramen, with various toppings and dumplings. Ramen from 700 yen • Opposite the above Yayoi Iken • 11am-10pm
8) Marugame Udon (丸亀製麺) - Simple udon bowls with lots of topping options. Bowls from 290 yen • Aeon Mall (イオンモールKYOTO), down the road opposite the rail bridge near the above Yayoi Iken • 10am-10pm
Water bottle refill spots
Apart from the bento shops, the above all have water jugs to refill your bottle. Kyoto Railway Museum and the aquarium also have water fountains.
Shopping
PORTA underground shopping mall (京都駅前地下街ＰＯＲＴＡ)
Large choice of restaurants and shops, from cheap soba joints to discount clothes shops. Includes a 300 yen shop called 3 Coins. Head downstairs at the Karasuma (north) exit of Kyoto station.
Yodobashi Camera (ヨドバシカメラ) with in-store Uniqlo (ユニクロ) and supermarket
Huge electronics store with a Uniqlo for cheap clothes, offering tax-free shopping and with great multi-lingual support. Has a good section for foreign tourists, in case you lose that power adapter! There is also a large supermarket downstairs. 9:30am-10pm • Down Karasuma street (where Kyoto Tower is) after leaving from the Karasuma exit
Cheap chain stores
Kyoto Avanti
A GU for clothes even cheaper than Uniqlo, plus some occasional deals to be found across the mall, particularly with tax-free shopping. 10am-9pm • Just opposite the Hachijo east exit
Don Quijote (ドン・キホーテ)
This crazily arranged megastore is full of any item you could imagine, from cheap souvenirs to fancy dress costumes to travel goods. Great prices and tax-free options available. 10am-midnight • Inside Kyoto Avanti
100 yen shops
Daiso (ダイソー) - Great for cheap gifts. 10am-9pm • Kyoto Avanti
Can Do (キャンドゥ) - Larger than normal selection. 9:30am-10pm • Located in Yodobashi Camera
Pharmacy (ドラッグ ストア)
Matsukiyo (薬 マツモトキヨシ) has a branch on the south side of Kyoto station near Family Mart, while there is also a Kokumin (コクミンドラッグ) in PORTA shopping mall on the north side.
Tourist information (観光案内所)
Kyoto station has a superb information center, with helpful English speakers and a great selection of free maps and leaflets, plus a useful section showing local events and new deals. Be sure to head straight here when you arrive. There is also a Kansai tourist information center inside Kyoto Tower for more in-depth information about the wider region around Kyoto.
Walk and save: Philosopher's Walk (哲学の道)
Ginkaku-ji on the Philosopher's Walk
Kyoto’s quintessential walk, from Ginkaku-ji Temple in the north, down a quiet narrow canal and eventually to Nanzen-ji and surrounding temples. The canal is fed by Japan’s largest lake, Lake Biwa, and is lined with cherry blossom trees in spring. It’s lovely any time of the year though, with fireflies in the summer and autumn leaves in the fall. The route was given its name after Kitaro Nishida, a famous philosopher in the 19th century, who enjoyed walking through it as he developed his thoughts and theories. Difficulty: Easy • Walk time: 30 minutes
Sights along the walk
Signs along the way point out the below highlights, but don’t be afraid to head off to some of the small, usually free temples and shrines that are dotted along the route. For some people, this may mean you only feel the need to pay for one or two of the highlights to feel satisfied on the temple's front.
Ginkaku-ji Temple (銀閣寺)
Ginkaku-ji (Temple of Shining Mercy) is a stunning Zen Buddhist temple and a highlight of any trip to Kyoto. Originally a grand retirement home, the site has now become a World Heritage site, best known for its so called iconic ‘silver pavilion’. The traditional Japanese garden around the temple is full of interesting stone and gravel decorations, plus a ‘wishing stone’. This temple could be considered the greatest example of Japanese traditional architecture. Adults 500 yen, children 300 yen • 8:30am-5pm (Mar - Nov), 9am-4:30pm (Dec - Feb) • From Kyoto station, take the No.17 bus to Ginkakuji-michi. From other areas, take a bus to Ginkakuji-michi (No. 5, 17, 32, 100, 102, 203, 204) • Google Maps
Honen-in Temple (法然院)
Founded in 1680 in recognition of Honen, the founder of a sect of Buddhism called Jodo. The perfectly maintained sand mounds inside are worth a look. A tranquil site, a little away from the main path, so often missed by some tourists. FREE • 6am-4pm • Google Maps
Eikando Temple (禅林寺)
The HQ of the Jōdo-shū sect, and formally named Zenrin Temple, was an important center of learning for Buddhists in Japan. Not completely essential, but the autumn leaves here are
a must in the fall season. Adults 600 yen, children 400 yen • 9am-5pm (gates close at 4pm) • Google Maps
Nanzen-ji Temple (南禅寺)
Designated a Monument of Japan because of its beauty, Nanzen-ji Temple is one of the most well-known Rinzai Zen temple complexes in Japan. So admired by Emperor Kameyama in the 13th century, he built a palace here and after becoming a student of the local master, dedicated the palace as a Zen temple. Most of the areas in this complex have a charge, so best to just choose one or two, depending on your tastes. We recommend Nanzenin and the Hojo Rock Garden. Note that Nanzen-ji is also known as Zuiryusan. Adults 500 yen, children 300 yen • No.5 bus to Nanzenji, Eikando-michi. 5 min walk from Kaege subway station • Google Maps
Budget food
There are the odd old-fashioned cafes along the main route, and of course some vending machines (this is Japan!), but not much for budget travelers. Bring drinks and any snacks you need with you. The approach to Ginkaku-ji Temple, and to a lesser extent Nanzen-ji Temple, has plenty of small souvenir and ice cream shops, but not much in the way of cheap restaurants. There are also some convenience stores (コンビニ) near these starting points.
How to access the route
You can start at either Ginkaku-ji Temple or Nanzen-ji Temple, but from Ginkaku-ji Temple is much easier. Note that signs may say “Tetsugaku no michi”, which is the Romanized version of the Japanese name for Philosopher's Walk. From Ginkaku-ji Temple, walk out of the main exit until you reach the narrow canal, which is the start of the walk. From Nanzen-ji Temple, head up Shishigatani Street (right from main entrance, then right again), and just past Eikando Temple (禅林寺) you will eventually see signs to the Philosopher's Walk (10 mins walk to start). Recommended bus pass: Kyoto City Bus One-Day Pass
Kinkaku-ji and surrounding temples (金閣寺)
Kinkaku-ji Temple (金閣寺)
If you were only going to see one temple in Japan, this World Heritage site would have to be it. Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Temple of the Golden Pavilion, has become a symbol of Kyoto. Built in the 14th century as a villa for Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, it was subsequently converted into a temple after his death, as per his will. The beautiful temple is set in the Kyoko-chi pond, which is surrounded by a peaceful Japanese garden. The garden and pond are designed in a way so that the unusual shapes of the rocks and islands provide quite unique views of the temple from various angles. Adults 400 yen, children 300 yen • 9am-5pm • Kyoto station, take the No.101 or 205 bus to Kinkakuji-michi. Also on routes 12, 59, 102, 204 • Google Maps
Ryoanji Temple (龍安寺)
Ryoanji Temple, meaning The Temple of the Dragon at Peace, is a World Heritage-listed “dry landscape” garden and temple. The mysteriously designed garden features large rock formations with pebbles raked in linear patterns to help in meditation. There are a few little temples around the large complex that are free to enter, plus a Japanese moss garden. Adults 500 yen, children 300 yen • 8am-5pm (Mar - Nov), 8:30am-4:30pm (Dec - Feb) • No.59 bus to Ryoanji-mae • Google Maps
Ninna-ji Temple (仁和寺)
The last temple in the chain, Ninna-ji was founded in 888 by the reigning emperor, but is now the headquarters of the Omuro sect of Buddhism. Highlights include a five-storey pagoda and elegantly painted Japanese doors and walls in the head priests building. The area also features buildings moved here in the 17th century from the Imperial Palace in Kyoto after a major fire, such as the Kon-do Hall (a National Treasure) and Meido Hall (an official Important Cultural Property). Adults 500 yen, children 300 yen • 9am-5pm (Mar - Nov), 9am-4:30pm (Dec - Feb) • On bus routes No.10, 26 or 59 bus to Omuro Ninnaji • Google Maps
Budget food
There are not too many budget options around the temples, apart from convenience stores or the odd mom and pop restaurant. Head downtown to the city center for more options.
How to get there and away
Use the Kyoto bus to get to the one of the bus stops mentioned above. Recommended bus pass: Kyoto City Bus One-Day Pass
Cycle it and save!
While it’s a bit of a walk, it is perfectly possible to cycle down Hontsuji Dori (Street) and Kinuake-No-Michi, which connect all these temples. The temples are listed above in order along the street, and the whole cycle route takes only 10-15 minutes along flat road. Continue another 15 minutes to the west and you will also get to Arashiyama.
Kiyomizu-dera (清水寺)
One of the most celebrated Buddhist temples in Kyoto and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its most famous section, the grand hall, is supported by 139 huge pillars overhanging a cliff. It offers great views of the city and surrounding Buddhist structures. There is a small three-storey pagoda, plus gardens and woods in the temple complex to explore. Also, try out the wish-granting Otowa waterfall! Unfortunately, in recent years the temple can seem very crowded, so come in the early morning/sunrise for a stunning photo of Kiyomizu-dera, without too many large tour groups blocking your path. Adults 300 yen, children 200 yen • Usually 6am-6pm • City Bus: From Kyoto station, take No.100 or 206 buses to Gojozaka. Also on bus no. 202, 207 • Google Maps • Recommended bus pass: Kyoto City Bus One-Day Pass
Fushimi Inari Taisha (伏見稲荷大社)
The head shrine of more than 30,000 across Japan, Fushimi Inari Taisha is an iconic shrine complex running up a steep mountain, best known for its countless number of red ‘torii’ gates. Established in 711 AD, it attracts believers who come here to pray for good harvests and prosperity in their businesses. Be sure to walk through the hundreds of red gates that take you up the mountain, giving visitors an awesome view of Kyoto from above.
FREE • 24h • Bus: No.5 bus to Inaritaisya-mae. Train: From Kyoto station, take the Nara Line to Inari station (140 yen, 6 mins) • Google Maps • Recommended bus pass: Kyoto City Bus One-Day Pass
Nijo Castle (二条城)
Built by the Shogun ruler of Japan in the 17th century, Tokugawa Ieyasu, Nijo Castle is another UNESCO World Heritage site and a must see in Kyoto. While much of it was destroyed by fire in 1750, many of the impressive structures and a lovely Japanese garden remain to this day. Also of interest are the sliding paper doors of the rooms, meticulously decorated with paintings from legendary Japanese artists. Come early in the day to avoid the tour buses. FREE • 24h • Bus: No. 9, 12, 50 or 101 to Nijojo-mae. Subway: From Kyoto station, take Karasuma Line to Karasumaoike, then the Tozai Line to Nijojo-mae (140 yen, 6 mins) • Google Maps • Recommended bus pass: Kyoto City Bus One-Day Pass
Gion (祇園)
An excellent example of downtown Kyoto, Gion is full of wooden teahouses and traditional townhouses. For people seeking the atmosphere of old Kyoto, Gion is perfect. Maiko, trainee geisha, are known to walk around the area as well, commuting to perform for the rich and famous. Even if you don’t get to see a geisha, Gion still offers a cheap afternoon or evening.
Walk it and save!
It’s a bit difficult to know exactly where to go, so follow our handy walking route on the map to see all the highlights.
Things to do
Traditional areas
As you walk around Gion, there are a few areas and streets that every visitor needs to see. The Shirakawa area has a relaxing, shallow canal running down it, with amazingly pristine and well maintained wooden stores and other establishments. Hanami-koji, on the south side, is your best bet for seeing geisha. If you are lucky you will see one walking around, but be discreet as they are often harassed by tourists. Just have that camera ready when you are walking around, just in case! Best time to see them is in the evening.
Minami-za Kabuki Theater
Performances here are quite pricey for Kabuki (ancient Japanese theater), but it’s sometimes possible to have a little look inside. Note that construction work may be in progress while you are in Kyoto, but it’s still definitely worth checking it out. The classical Japanese building is definitely worth a photo. Google Maps
Yasaka Shr
ine
Originally built way back in 876 and the headquarters for thousands of other shrines, Yasaka is a big complex of well maintained, stunning shrines, pagodas and other Shinto monuments and buildings. Locals used to refer to it as Gion-sha (meaning ‘Gion’s Shrine’), due to its significance to the area. FREE • 10am-5pm • Google Maps
Budget food
The restaurants can be expensive here, it’s best to walk for a few minutes west to the shopping district around Kawaramachi station if you want to eat inside. There is a large collection of cheap restaurants there.
Budget chain restaurants on map
1) Tenkaippin (天下一品) - ramen. Ramen from 700 yen • 11am-3am
Cheap supermarkets (スーパー)
Fresco (フレスコ 祇園店) is open 24h, near Gion-Shijo station.
Shopping
100 yen shops
Lawson 100 (ローソンストア100) - North of the Shirakawa area. 24h
Pharmacy (ドラッグ ストア)
Daikoku Drug Store also has snacks and drinks for 100 yen (11am-10pm).
How to get there and away
By bus
City Bus routes no. 12, 46, 100, 201, 202, 203, 206 or 207. From Kyoto station, take the 205 bus to Shijo Kawaramachi, then walk east across the bridge. Recommended bus pass: Kyoto City Bus One-Day Pass
By rail
The nearest train station is Gion Shijo station on the Keihan Main Line, but usually the buses are easier if traveling around Kyoto.
Tourist information (観光案内所)
Nearest is to the west in the Kawaramachi shopping district.
Arashiyama (嵐山)
A very popular tourist spot in Kyoto, probably best known for its monkey park and bamboo groves. But there is a lot more to see here, from countless temples to souvenir shops to stunning mountain scenery. You can easily spend a whole day here, and it’s all very walkable for budget travelers.
Super Cheap Japan Page 14