Central Kyoto Travel Guide
Kyoto
Visit Central Kyoto
Popular places to visit
Nijō Castle
You can find out about the history of Kyoto with a stop at Nijō Castle. Visit the temples and top-notch restaurants in this culturally rich area.
Kyoto Imperial Palace
Kyoto Imperial Palace is just one of the places to see in Kyoto, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Discover the fascinating museums and temples in this culturally rich area.
Kitano Tenmangū
Find out about the history of Kyoto when you take a trip to Kitano Tenmangū. Visit the shops and temples in this family-friendly area.
Doshisha University
Explore the campus of Doshisha University as part of your travels around Kyoto. Amble within picturesque gardens or visit the temples in this culturally rich area.
Kyoto Gyoen National Garden
Explore the great outdoors at Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, a lovely green space in Kyoto. Amble within the gardens or visit the temples in this culturally rich area.
Shokoku-ji Temple
After visiting Shokoku-ji Temple, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Kyoto. Visit the temples and shops in this family-friendly area.
Top hotels in Central Kyoto
Kyoto Brighton Hotel
Nice, big clean rooms
Reviewed on 25 Apr 2026
KOKO HOTEL Residence Kyoto Nijo Castle
The room is bare bones. It’s for travelers who need a place to lay their head. It’s no frills. The slippers were barely more than a sheet of paper, super thin and flimsy.
Reviewed on 27 Apr 2026
HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO, a Luxury Collection Hotel & Spa
This hotel was outstanding. Beautifully designed and centered around a tranquil Japanese tea garden, peaceful, yet conveniently located. The staff was very attentive and friendly. The large onsen in the spa was gorgeous and designed with soothing lighting. The food was also very good. Their afternoon ...
Reviewed on 4 Apr 2026
Onyado Nono Kyotoshichijo Natural Hot Springs
Really cool location and especially the onsen.
Reviewed on 28 Apr 2026
THE BLOSSOM KYOTO
Very clean room. Nicely appointed with modern style. Mattresses were much too soft for my liking and actually slid around the bed. Great water pressure for shower. Complimentary beverages were great. Laundry is available on site but because of the combo washer/dryer design, clothes just didn’t come ...
Reviewed on 27 Apr 2026
Nohga Hotel Kiyomizu Kyoto
excellent food, great helpful staff
Reviewed on 27 Apr 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Central Kyoto
Kamigyo Ward
Noted for its historical sites and gardens, there's plenty to explore in Kamigyo Ward. Top attractions like Kawaramachi Street and Nishijin Textile Center are major draws, and you can hop on the metro at Imadegawa Station or Kuramaguchi Station to see more of the city.
Nishijin
Nishijin is a destination travellers like for its coffee shops, and you might hop aboard the metro at Imadegawa Station or Kuramaguchi Station to explore sights like Nishijin Textile Center.
Downtown Kyoto
While you're in Downtown Kyoto, take in top sights like Kawaramachi Street or Kyoto International Manga Museum, and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Karasuma Oike Station or Marutamachi Station.
Nakagyo Ward
Kawaramachi Street and Sanjo Street are top sights in Nakagyo Ward, and you should be sure to explore the popular shops. Hop aboard the metro at Nijojo-mae Station or Karasuma Oike Station to see more sights in the area.
Karasuma
Karasuma is popular for its popular shops. Explore top sights like Kawaramachi Street and Nishiki Market, and you can get around town on the metro at Karasuma Oike Station.
Kita Ward
The mountain views and gardens are just a few things visitors like about Kita Ward. Kamo River and Funaoka Thermal Bath are worthwhile spots to check out, and you can hop on the metro at Kitaoji Station or Kitayama Station to get around the larger area.
