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 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.
Seimei-Jinja Shrine
Seimei-Jinja Shrine is just one of the places to see in Kyoto, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Visit the temples and top-notch restaurants 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
Clean room, very helpful staff, hotel had a special piano performance at the lobby during Christmas holiday! Breakfast is good!
Reviewed on 10 Jan 2026
KAYA Kyoto Nijo Castle, BW Signature Collection by Best Western
One of the best hotels I’ve stayed at. The room we stayed at was spacious. Staff was was always friendly and they have complimentary juice, coffee, and alcohol at a specific time. Highly recommend!
Reviewed on 14 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
We love everything with Onyado Nono. A great experience of awesome Japanese tradition. Love doing the Onsen. And plus all the staff are so nice, accommodating and very friendly. Onyado Hotel is a great hotel welcoming, calming and relaxing. Recommendable
Reviewed on 17 Jan 2026
Nohga Hotel Kiyomizu Kyoto
Very nice
Reviewed on 13 Jan 2026
Hotel Emion Kyoto
The rooms are spacious, very clean, quiet, and the perfect place to relax after a long day exploring Kyoto. The hotel also has several restaurants in the building, making it very convenient for a quick meal. Highly recommend!
Reviewed on 13 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 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 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 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.
