Need to get some inspiration for what to do this week in Tokyo? Say no more and check out this weeks Highlights of Kyoto.
Updated Weekly!
Meigetsu Kangen-sai
The Meigetsu Kangen-sai festival at Shimogamo Shrine celebrates the harvest moon with traditional Japanese court music, featuring instruments like the koto, biwa, and shakuhachi, accompanied by a bugaku dance in elaborate costumes. The festival is set in the historic Hashi-dono halls, surrounded by the tranquil Tadasu no Mori forest, creating a serene and noble atmosphere. Before the main performance, a Shinto ritual with prayers and offerings is conducted to honor the shrine’s deities. The festival begins at 5:30 P.M., and visitors can also participate in a famous Kyoto tea ceremony. It’s a rare opportunity to experience a blend of ancient music, dance, and culture, so arriving early is recommended.
| Location | Shimogamo Shrine |
| Date | September 17 |
| Time | 17:30 |
| Tickets | Free |
Seimei Festival, Reisai
On the weekend of the 21st of September the Seimei shrine holds some great cultural experiences that are wonderful for those who would like to see traditional Japanese performances
9/21 at 19:00
This day you will be able to see a procession of welcoming lanterns and a tradtintional dance called “Kagura.”
9/22 at 13:00
this day starts a bit earlier and you can see a procession of a portable shrine called “Mikoshi”, boys playing drums with a fife band as well as people in costume.
| Location | Seimei Shrine |
| Start/End Dates | September 21-22 |
| Time | See above |
| Tickets | Free |
Kyoto International Manga & Anime Fair 2024
Kyoto is a blend of tradition and modernity, especially during the Kyoto International Manga Anime Fair (KYO-MAF) held in mid-to-late September. This two-day event at the Miyako Messe convention center is one of Kansai’s largest anime and manga celebrations. Tickets cost ¥1,200 in advance or ¥1,500 at the door, with a ¥200 discount for foreign passport holders. Attendees can enjoy cosplay displays, a character café, job fairs, and the Kyoto International Manga Awards, along with workshops and stage performances. It’s a family-friendly event with something for every anime and manga fan.
| Location | Miyako Messe |
| Start/End Dates | September 21-22 |
| Time | 9:00-17:00 |
| Tickets | \1,000-\1,500 |
Zen Night Walk Kyoto
Illumination is only during the winter times, right? Wrong! Be sure to enjoy this deluxe illumination display at Kenninji Temple in Kyoto!
| Location | Kenninji Temple |
| Start/End Dates | September 8-22 (Closed on the 14th) |
| Time | 19:00 – 21:00 |
| Tickets | \2,200 at the door |
Houtosai Festival and Light up
Enjoy some more vibrant lights as well as traditional elements! This event is complete with Shinto performances like music and dance!
| Location | Hirano Shrine |
| Start/End Dates | September 14 |
| Time | 18:00 |
| Tickets | Free |
Seiryu-e Dragon Festival 2024
The Seiryu-e festival at Kiyomizu-dera in Kyoto celebrates the arrival of autumn with a vibrant display of tradition and nature. Since 2000, a blue dragon, believed to protect the city, parades through the streets accompanied by warriors, music, and dancing.
| Location | Kiyomizu-dera |
| Start/End Dates | September 14 and 15 |
| Time | 14:00 |
| 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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