Eastern Kyoto

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Address: 1-294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto

Hours: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Mar-Nov); 6:30 AM - 5:30 PM (Dec-Feb)

Ticket: ¥400 (Adults), Free (Under 12)

Tip: Visit early to avoid crowds; best views of cherry blossoms in April.

Ninen-zaka Street

Ninen-zaka & Sannenzaka

Address: Ninenzaka, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto

Hours: Always open (shops: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM)

Ticket: Free

Tip: Wear comfortable shoes—stone paths are steep; rent a kimono nearby for photos.

Central Kyoto

Nijo Castle

Nijo Castle

Address: 541 Nijocho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto

Hours: 8:45 AM - 5:00 PM (Mar-Nov); 8:45 AM - 4:00 PM (Dec-Feb)

Ticket: ¥1,030 (Adults), ¥200 (Children)

Tip: Listen for "nightingale floors" (squeaking floors) designed to detect intruders.

Western Kyoto

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Address: Sagatenryuji Susukinobabacho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto

Hours: Always open (best before 9:00 AM)

Ticket: Free

Tip: Combine with a visit to Tenryu-ji Temple nearby (¥500 entry fee).