10 Unique Things To Do In Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto, Japan is a city that is steeped in history and tradition. It is a city of temples, gardens, and geishas, where ancient culture meets modern technology. While there are plenty of traditional things to do in Kyoto, such as visiting temples and eating delicious Japanese cuisine, there are also some unique experiences that you won’t find anywhere else. Here are some of our recommendations for unique things to do in Kyoto, Japan.

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1. Take a Zen Meditation Class – Unique Things To Do In Kyoto

Zen meditation is a traditional Japanese practice that focuses on mindfulness and achieving a state of mental clarity, which is a really unique thing to do in Kyoto. You can take a class to learn the techniques of Zen meditation, as well as the history and philosophy behind the practice. Some classes may even take place in a temple or garden setting, adding to the serene atmosphere.

Here are a variety of different places to try zen meditation in Kyoto:

1. Shunkoin Temple – This temple has Zen meditation classes and offers both introductory and advanced courses.
2. Kennin-ji Temple – Located in the Gion district of Kyoto, Kennin-ji offers a variety of Zen meditation classes, including zazen (sitting meditation) and kinhin (walking meditation).
3. Taizo-in Temple – Taizo-in is a sub-temple of the famous Myoshinji Temple and offers Zen meditation classes to visitors. They also offer the opportunity to stay overnight and participate in longer meditation retreats.
4. Tofukuji Temple – Tofukuji is a large temple complex with several sub-temples, some of which offer Zen meditation classes. The classes are usually in the mornings and require prior reservation.
5. Kyoto Kokusai Zendo – This is a Zen meditation center that offers daily meditation sessions for visitors. They offer instruction in English as well as Japanese.
6. Daitokuji Temple – Daitokuji is a large temple complex with several sub-temples that offer Zen meditation classes. The classes are usually in the mornings and require prior reservation.
7. Shorin-ji Temple – Shorin-ji is a small temple located in the Higashiyama district of Kyoto that offers Zen meditation classes to visitors. The classes are in the evenings and require prior reservation.

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2. Visit a Traditional Japanese House – Unique Things To Do In Kyoto

Kyoto is home to several traditional Japanese houses that have been preserved for visitors to explore. These houses offer a glimpse into what life was like in Japan centuries ago, with their tatami mat floors, sliding doors, and beautiful gardens. You can tour the houses and learn about the architecture and lifestyle of the time.

These houses are known as Machiya houses. Machiya houses are traditional Japanese townhouses that are commonly found in Kyoto and other historic cities in Japan. They were originally built as homes for merchants and craftsmen during the Edo period (1603-1868) and feature a distinctive architectural style that reflects the culture and history of the region. Machiya houses have narrow, elongated layouts that are designed to maximize space in crowded urban environments. They are built with traditional materials such as wood, paper, and plaster, and feature latticed windows, sliding doors, and inner courtyards or gardens. Today, many Machiya houses have been preserved and converted into museums, shops, restaurants, and other cultural attractions that offer visitors a glimpse into traditional Japanese architecture and lifestyle.

Here are some traditional Japanese houses to visit during your trip to Kyoto:

1. Nishijin Textile Center – This is a museum and workshop that showcases traditional Nishijin weaving, a type of Kyoto textile. The center also features a preserved Machiya house that visitors can explore.
2. Naramachi Koshi-no-Ie – This is a restored Machiya house that was built in the late 1800s. It now serves as a museum and features exhibits on traditional Kyoto life.
3. Kyoto Samurai & Ninja Museum – This museum offers interactive exhibits on samurai and ninja history and culture. It is housed in a preserved Machiya house and features traditional Japanese architecture.
4. Kikokuso – This is a traditional teahouse located in a preserved Machiya house in the Gion district. Visitors can enjoy traditional Japanese tea ceremonies and learn about tea culture.
5. Machiya Museum – This museum features several preserved Machiya houses that showcase traditional Kyoto architecture and culture. Visitors can explore the houses and learn about life in old Kyoto.
6. Honke Owariya – This is a traditional soba noodle restaurant located in a preserved Machiya house. Visitors can enjoy delicious Japanese noodles while experiencing traditional Kyoto architecture.
7. Yoshida-ke House – This is a restored Machiya house that was once the residence of a wealthy Kyoto merchant family. Visitors can explore the house and see how traditional Kyoto merchants lived.

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3. Attend a Kabuki Performance – Unique Things To Do In Kyoto

Kabuki is a traditional Japanese form of theater that dates back to the Edo period. It has elaborate costumes, makeup, and exaggerated acting style. You can attend a kabuki performance, either with subtitles or an English-speaking guide, to witness this unique form of theater. Some theaters also offer behind-the-scenes tours to learn more about the production process.

Here’s a list of theaters featuring Kabuki performances in Kyoto:

1. Minamiza Theatre – This is the oldest Kabuki theater in Kyoto, with a history dating back to the 1600s. It is located in the Gion district and features traditional architecture and performances.
2. Shochiku Kyoto Theatre – This theater is located in the heart of Kyoto and has modern productions of Kabuki performances.
3. Kyoto Gion Kaikan – This theater is located in the Gion district and features traditional Japanese architecture. It hosts a variety of cultural performances, including Kabuki.
4. ROHM Theatre Kyoto – This modern theater is located in the Okazaki area of Kyoto and hosts a variety of cultural performances, including Kabuki.
5. Kyoto Art Theater – This theater is located in the Sakyo ward of Kyoto and hosts a variety of cultural performances, including Kabuki.
6. GEAR Theatre Kyoto – This modern theater is located in the Shijo Karasuma area of Kyoto and hosts a variety of cultural performances, including Kabuki.

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4. Take a Soba Noodle-Making Class – Unique Things To Do In Kyoto

Soba noodles are a traditional Japanese dish and made from buckwheat flour. You can take a class to learn how to make soba noodles from scratch, using traditional techniques and equipment. After the class, visitors can enjoy their homemade soba noodles with a variety of toppings, such as tempura or pickled vegetables.

Sound intriguing? Check out one of these places to book your soba noodle-making class!

1. Yoshimura Soba – This restaurant in Kyoto offers soba noodle-making classes that allow visitors to learn how to make soba noodles from scratch. The classes include instructions on preparing the dough, cutting the noodles, and cooking them to perfection.
2. Sakai Shokai Soba – This traditional Japanese restaurant in Kyoto offers soba noodle-making classes that allow visitors to learn the art of soba noodle-making in a traditional Japanese setting.
3. Tsuruya Yoshinobu – This historic soba noodle restaurant in Kyoto offers soba noodle-making classes that allow visitors to learn the art of soba noodle-making from experienced soba masters.
4. Cooking Sun – This cooking school in Kyoto offers a variety of classes, including soba noodle-making classes. Experienced chefs teach and include instructions on preparing the dough, cutting the noodles, and cooking them to perfection.
5. WAK Japan – This cultural experience company in Kyoto offers a variety of classes, including soba noodle-making classes. Experienced instructors teach and include a visit to a local soba restaurant to taste the finished product.
6. Mamezen Soba – This traditional soba noodle restaurant in Kyoto offers soba noodle-making classes that allow visitors to learn the art of soba noodle-making in a traditional Japanese setting.

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5. Explore the Fushimi Inari Shrine – Unique Things To Do In Kyoto

The Fushimi Inari Shrine is one of the most iconic landmarks in Kyoto, with thousands of torii gates leading up the mountain. The shrine is dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice, fertility, and prosperity, and was founded in the 8th century. While it is one of the more touristic places in Kyoto, it is well worth the visit and a unique place not to be missed!

What makes Fushimi Inari Shrine so special is its distinctive aesthetic and spiritual significance. The thousands of torii gates that line the paths up the mountain are each donated by individuals, families, and businesses as a way of expressing gratitude or seeking blessings from Inari. Walking through the gates feels like entering a sacred space, as the vibrant orange color creates a feeling of energy and vibrancy. Visitors can follow the paths up the mountain to various sub-shrines, each with its own unique characteristics and rituals. Along the way, they can also enjoy stunning views of Kyoto city and the surrounding mountains. Fushimi Inari Shrine is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Kyoto, and its blend of natural beauty and spiritual significance makes it a truly unique and special place.

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6. Visit the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove – Unique Things To Do In Kyoto

Another touristy spot, the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is a peaceful and serene natural attraction in Kyoto and unlike any other place in the world! You will only find this in Kyoto! You can walk through the towering bamboo stalks, which create a unique sound as they rustle in the wind. The grove also includes several temples and gardens, making it a great spot for a peaceful afternoon stroll.

There are several places near the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove that visitors should not miss. The first is the Tenryu-ji Temple, which is one of the most famous temples in Kyoto and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple’s garden is particularly beautiful, with a large pond and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Another must-see attraction is the Okochi Sanso Villa, a traditional Japanese garden that was once the home of a famous Japanese actor. You can explore the beautiful gardens and enjoy a cup of tea in the teahouse while taking in the stunning views. For those interested in Japanese history, the Saga Arashiyama Museum of Art and Culture is another great attraction to visit. The museum showcases the history and culture of the Arashiyama area and has a collection of artifacts and exhibits that provide insight into the region’s rich cultural heritage.

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7. Take a Traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony – Unique Things To Do In Kyoto

The Japanese tea ceremony, or “chanoyu,” is a centuries-old practice that involves the preparation and presentation of matcha tea in a highly ritualized manner. You can participate in a traditional tea ceremony at one of Kyoto’s many tea houses, where they will learn about the history and symbolism behind the practice.

Where to take a traditional Japanese tea ceremony? We got you covered, here is our list of recommendations:

1. Camellia Tea Ceremony: This tea ceremony house is located in the Gion district of Kyoto and offers an authentic tea ceremony experience in a traditional Japanese setting.
2. En Tea Ceremony: Located near the famous Kiyomizu-dera Temple, this tea ceremony house offers a variety of tea ceremony experiences, including matcha tea and wagashi (Japanese sweets).
3. Maikoya Tea Ceremony: This tea ceremony house is located in the center of Kyoto and offers a range of traditional Japanese experiences, including tea ceremonies and kimono dressing.
4. Uji Tea Ceremony: This tea ceremony house is located in the historic Uji district of Kyoto, which is famous for its green tea. Visitors can enjoy a traditional tea ceremony using Uji green tea, which is one of the best in Japan.
5. Tea Ceremony Room Ju-An: This tea ceremony house is located in the Higashiyama district of Kyoto and offers a range of tea ceremony experiences, including private sessions with a tea master.
6. Tea Ceremony Koto: This tea ceremony house is located in the Arashiyama district of Kyoto and offers a variety of tea ceremony experiences, including a matcha tea and wagashi tasting.

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8. Visit the Kyoto International Manga Museum – Unique Things To Do In Kyoto

Kyoto is home to the Kyoto International Manga Museum, a unique museum that celebrates the art of manga, or Japanese comics. The museum houses a vast collection of manga, including rare and vintage titles, and visitors can browse the shelves and read to their hearts’ content. The museum also hosts regular events and exhibitions.

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9. Take a Nighttime Walk through Pontocho Alley – Unique Things To Do In Kyoto

Pontocho Alley is a narrow street in Kyoto that has traditional restaurants and tea houses. At night, the alley comes alive with lanterns and the sounds of traditional music and performances. You can take a stroll through the alley, sampling the local cuisine and soaking up the atmosphere.

Here are just a few highlights of Pontocho Alley:

1. Kamogawa Noryo Yuka: This restaurant offers a unique dining experience where guests can enjoy traditional Japanese cuisine while sitting on a wooden deck overlooking the Kamogawa River.
2. Pontocho Kaburenjo Theater: This traditional theater hosts daily performances of Kabuki, Bunraku, and other Japanese theatrical arts.
3. Issen Yoshoku: This popular restaurant serves traditional Japanese-style western food such as okonomiyaki and takoyaki.
4. Gion Nishikawa: This traditional Japanese confectionery shop has been in business for over 100 years and offers a variety of delicious sweets and snacks.
5. Pontocho Tea House: This traditional tea house offers a serene and peaceful atmosphere to enjoy a cup of tea and traditional Japanese sweets.
6. Shirakawa Minami-dori: This picturesque street with traditional Japanese-style buildings and is especially beautiful during the cherry blossom season in the spring.

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10. Experience a Japanese Onsen – Unique Things To Do In Kyoto

An onsen is a traditional Japanese hot spring, and Kyoto is home to several onsen resorts and bathhouses. You can relax in the hot mineral water and enjoy the serene surroundings, often including beautiful gardens and views of the surrounding mountains. Many onsens also offer traditional Japanese meals and accommodations for a complete Japanese-style retreat.

Get your relaxing on and visit one of these onsens in Kyoto:

1. Funaoka Onsen: This historic onsen has been in operation since 1923 and features natural hot spring water with healing properties. The complex includes several indoor and outdoor baths as well as a sauna.
2. Kurama Onsen: Located in the mountain village of Kurama, this onsen has natural hot spring water which has therapeutic effects. The outdoor bath offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
3. Arashiyama Onsen: This onsen is located in the scenic Arashiyama district and features indoor and outdoor baths as well as a sauna. The outdoor bath overlooks the Katsura River and the surrounding mountains.
4. Goko-no-yu Onsen: This onsen is located in the northern part of Kyoto and features indoor and outdoor baths with natural hot spring water. The outdoor bath offers stunning views of the surrounding forest.
5. Higashiyama Onsen: Located in the historic Higashiyama district, this onsen offers indoor and outdoor baths as well as a sauna. The outdoor bath offers beautiful views of the surrounding temples and mountains.

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