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!
Festivals
Takekiri-eshiki (Bamboo Cutting Ritual)
Located in Kurama-dera temple in northern Kyoto, two warrior monk teams will compete in the ceremonial ritual of bamboo cutting. This temple is nestled in an ancient forest, creating a deep and abiding relationship with nature. This ritual is a homage to a legendary monk of the temple and his battle with supernatural serpents. After a memorial service expressing gratitude for nature, grains, and water, and a traditional bugaku dance, two teams of local men dressed as warrior monks compete to cut thick bamboo poles into six pieces the fastest, showcasing great strength and skill. Action-packed, Takekiri-e stands out from more sedate rituals, offering visitors a unique spectacle. Nature and culture enthusiasts will find a trip to Kurama-dera rewarding.
| Website | Kuramadera |
| Location | Maps |
| Start/End Dates | 06/20/2024 |
| Time | 14:00 |
Markets
Kobo-san Temple Flea Market
This is a great opportunity to find interesting souvenirs and enjoy popular Japanese foodstuffs while visiting one of the beautiful temples of the city. The market was established in remembrance of Japan’s most revered Buddhist Saint, Kobo Daishi who died on the 21st of March 835. It’s a great place for bargain hunting!
| Website | Kobo-san Temple Flea Market |
| Location | Maps |
| Start/End Dates | 06/21/2024 |
| Time | 7:00-16:00 |
Kamigamo Handicraft Market
Located at Kamigamo Shrine, this is a wonderful opportunity to do some shopping and sightseeing at the same time! This area is only accessible by bus or by driving here so it’s a little off the beaten path, but it makes for a great day trip if you find yourself with a free Sunday.
| Website | Kamigamo Handicraft Market |
| Location | Maps |
| Start/End Dates | 06/23/2024 |
| Time | 9:00-15:00 |
Tenjin-san Shrine Flea Market
This market highlights an emphasis on fabrics and clothing for sale. Kimono tends to be a popular item here, both new and second-hand. Also, no flea market is complete without a collection of great food as well, with yakisoba and fried corn being popular here.
Kyoto Heian Antique Market
The Heian Antique Market is an antique market held to highlight the traditional aspects of Kyoto. You’ll find over 100 stalls worth of clothing and kimono sellers. There is also a fair share of antiques and some food stalls. Whether you’re interested in traditional goods or not, it still serves as a great day trip for the sights alone.
| Website | Kyoto Heian |
| Location | Maps |
| Start/End Dates | 06/26/2024 |
| Time | 9:00-16:00 |
Museums
The Tale of Genji & Elegant Poets Special Exhibition
Written over a millennium ago in Kyoto during the Heian period, The Tale of Genji endures as a timeless classic. It offers a vivid portrayal of Heian aristocratic life through its protagonist, Hikaru Genji, exploring themes of love, ambition, and political intrigue. The story continues to inspire artists across various mediums, from manuscripts to fashion and crafts.
This exhibition features Nishijin textile works based on the Tale of Genji. Experience the elegant perspective of the world over 1,000 years ago at the Nishijin Ori Asagi Art Museum.
| Website | Nishijin Ori Asagi Art Museum |
| Location | Maps Tsukaki Square 7th Floor |
| Start/End Dates | Until 06/30/2024 |
| Time | 10:00-17:00 *Museum closed Mondays |
| Tickets | ¥500 |
You are too Beautiful – Beautiful paintings of the Fukuda Collection
An exhibition featuring 190 paintings of beautiful women from the early modern and modern eras. Here you can explore the timeless charm of beautiful women in art! Experience the beauty of ukiyo-e prints to modern masterpieces by renowned artists like Shoen Uemura and Kiyokata Kaburagi. Delve into the intricate world of beauty in every detail and take advantage of the special chance to witness many works being displayed for the first time ever!
Note: This exhibition is co-sponsored by the Fukuda Art Museum and the nearby Saga Arashiyama Bunkakan. Tickets can be purchased for individual museums or for both.
| Website | Premium Japan |
| Location | Maps Fukuda Art Museum Saga Arashiyama Bunkakan |
| Start/End Dates | Until 07/01/2024 |
| Time | 10:00-16:30 |
| Tickets | ¥1,500 (Fukuda Art Museum) ¥1,100 (Saga Arashiyama Bunkakan) ¥2,300 (both) |
Other Activities
Noh Play by Young Performers
Noh is one of the traditional performing arts of Japan. It began in the 14th century and continues to be performed to this day. These performances feature younger or newer performers. Enjoy a bit of Japan’s traditional culture.
| Website | Kyoto Kanze Kaikan |
| Location | Kyoto Kanze Kaikan Noh Theater |
| Start/End Dates | 06/22/2024 |
| Time | 11:00 |
| Tickets | ¥3,500 |
Recurring Events
Gion Corner
Daily traditional performances including Kyogen, Maiko Dance, Koto music on One Stage! See the famous Geisha of Kyoto!
| Website | Gion Corner |
| Location | Maps |
| Start/End Dates | Daily |
| Time | 18:00-19:00 |
| Tickets | ¥5,500-6,600 |
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.
Find Other Experience
▶Kimono Rental
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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