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.
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.
Kitano Tenmangū
Find out about the history of Kyoto when you take a trip to Kitano Tenmangū. Visit the temples and shops 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
Great service, extremely helpful and friendly staff Spacious comfortable and very clean room Located in a very quiet neighborhood, but free shuttle available to access subway or busses to downtown Highly recommend this property for a stay in Kyoto
Reviewed on 24 Jan 2026
KAYA Kyoto Nijo Castle, BW Signature Collection by Best Western
Nice spacious room and the breakfast buffet was Delicious
Reviewed on 22 Jan 2026
KOKO HOTEL Residence Kyoto Nijo Castle
The room was prefect, great location and the staff were very helpful!
Reviewed on 21 Jan 2026
RESI STAY JISCO HOTEL Kyoto Gosho Nishi
The shared kitchen is good for making simple and healthy meal
Reviewed on 15 Dec 2025
Onyado Nono Kyotoshichijo Natural Hot Springs
I accidentally booked the wrong kind of room, but the staff there was quick to fix my mistake and put us in a room that could accommodate 2 people. The lobby is huge, which is nice because there were so many people coming in/out. They give you a locker to put your shoes in, as you cannot wear shoes ...
Reviewed on 23 Jan 2026
Nohga Hotel Kiyomizu Kyoto
Great location for what we had planned, hotel is stunning, great food and bakery and the staff for the roof top lounge were fantastic. Would stay here again gladly
Reviewed on 24 Jan 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 Kamishichiken Kabukai and Kitano Tenmangū 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 Funaoka Thermal Bath.
Downtown Kyoto
While you're in Downtown Kyoto, take in top sights like Nishiki Market 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
Nishiki Market 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 Nishiki Market and Shijo Kyo Machiya, 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 Shrine and Kamo River 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.
