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 temples and shops 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
スタッフの対応とても良かったです。 部屋も満足できました。
Reviewed on 1 Mar 2026
KOKO HOTEL Residence Kyoto Nijo Castle
Enjoyed our stay in Kyoto. Nice accommodations, good value. After checking out and getting as far as the Kyoto train station, I realized I had left my watch behind. So I called the hotel to let them know. Thankfully, I was able to go back and retrieve it from the front desk. Thank you!
Reviewed on 3 Mar 2026
KAYA Kyoto Nijo Castle, BW Signature Collection by Best Western
Very clean, nice aroma, the room was perfect with japanese decor. Very nice staff, helped me plan a surprise for my husband’s birthday and provided decorations and a cake.
Reviewed on 19 Feb 2026
Onyado Nono Kyotoshichijo Natural Hot Springs
Excellent hotel with excellent amenities the spa and massage chairs or the highlights of the hotel not to mention the wonderful breakfast You might as well have free noodles service after 9:00 p.m.
Reviewed on 4 Mar 2026
Nohga Hotel Kiyomizu Kyoto
The overall hotel is very nice with a great rooftop bar to end the night and very clean. Our room was very clean and the bed was very comfortable. It is also walking distance to some of the best shopping we did the entire trip. Will stay here again for sure.
Reviewed on 5 Mar 2026
Kyoto Umekoji Kadensho
Great hotel
Reviewed on 2 Mar 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 Nishijin Textile Center 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 Nishijin Textile Center.
Downtown Kyoto
While you're in Downtown Kyoto, take in top sights like Kyoto International Manga Museum or Teramachi Street, and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Karasuma Oike Station or Marutamachi Station.
Nakagyo Ward
Sanjo Street and Nijō Castle 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 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.
