Need to get some inspiration for what to do this week in Tokyo? Say no more and check out this week’s Highlights of Kyoto.
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Zuiki Matsuri festival at Kitano Tenmangū shrine
The five day Zuiki Matsuri has a thousand-year history, to express gratitude for bountiful harvests. The festival begins with a procession from Kitano Tenmangū shrine, featuring omikoshi (portable shrines), neighborhood rounds and the Yaotome Dance. After three days, the shrines return to Kitano Tenmangū in a parade with ox-drawn carts, and the ceremonies conclude with a final dance offering. The festival’s highlight is the omikoshi decorated with vegetables, including taro stems for the roof and dried greens, marigolds, and tofu skin adorning the surface. This vegetable-themed shrine makes Zuiki Matsuri one of Kyoto’s most iconic autumn festivals.
| Location | Kitano Tenmangū Shrine |
| Start/End Dates | October 1st – 5th |
| Time | October 1st: Departure Ritual at Kitano Tenmangū, 9:30am Omikoshi Depart Kitano Tenmangū (Shinkō-sai), 1pm Arrival at Otabisho & Yaotome Dance, 4pm October 2nd: Ritual Tea Offering at Otabisho, 10am October 3rd: Kabuto no Gokuhōsen, 3pm October 4th: Departure Ritual at Otabisho, 10am Omikoshi Depart Otabisho (Kankō-sai), 1pm Arrival at Kitano Tenmangū, 4pm Arrival Ritual at Kitano Tenmangū, 5pm October 5th: Goen-sai & Yaotome Dance, 15:30pm |
| Tickets | Free |
Kawadoko dining along the Kamogawa River
For those looking for a unique dining experience, Kawadoko dining along the Kamogawa River offers a chance to enjoy a meal while sitting on platforms built over the water, providing a refreshing escape from the summer heat. It’s a quintessential Kyoto experience that combines nature and cuisine.
| Website | Kawadoko dining |
| Location | Restaurants along the River |
| Date | Check out the Restaurants |
Nidec Kyoto Tower
Enjoy the highest view in all of Kyoto. Over 100 meters above the ground, this is one of the best night views in all of Japan.
| Website | Nidec Kyoto Tower |
| Location | Maps |
| Start/End Dates | Daily |
| Time | 10:00 – 20:30 |
| Tickets | ¥900 |
Toei Kyoto Studio Park
Japan’s Jidaigeki Theme Park feels like a perfectly themed set of historical Japan. Enjoy shows and attractions based around Ninja for both adults and children.
| Website | Toei Kyoto Studio Park |
| Location | Maps |
| Start/End Dates | Daily |
| Time | 9:00 – 16:30 |
| Tickets | ¥2400 |
Japan Wonder Travel Tours in Kyoto
When you are visiting Kyoto and you need some help organizing your trip, you came to the right place. We’re happy to help you make your trip to Kyoto the best trip ever. We can advise you on where to go or even better, show you around with a local, English speaking guide. Let us help you create safe, comfortable, and unforgettable memories in Kyoto!
▶Kyoto 8h Private Custom Highlight Tour with Licensed Guide
On this full-day private tour of Kyoto, you will be able to see the highlights of Kyoto in just one day and at the same time develop a deeper understanding of both the culture of the area and Japan as a whole.
▶Kyoto Arashiyama Best Spots 4h Private Tour with Licensed Guide
If you only have a day or two in Kyoto, we offer a half-day tour combined with must-visit spots in one of the most popular areas in Kyoto – Arashiyama. A knowledgeable bilingual guide will make sure that you can get the full experience in just a half-day!
▶Explore Nishiki Market: Food & Culture Walk
If you’re looking to learn more about the culture and the local cuisine of Kyoto, this is the perfect tour for you! Take part in this Kyoto food and drink tour and explore the 400-year-old market and the famous surrounding areas.
▶Kimono Experience
Kyoto is the best city to explore in kimono, Japanese traditional clothing. You can choose the one you like the most from several patterns and colors at the rental shop. In Kyoto, two locations are both accessible from the main tourist attractions which makes it easy to try it on and explore the city for a day!
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Happy traveling!
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