Kyoto京都

City guide

Kyoto in JanuaryA good time to go

Weather: Cool · 2 to 9 °C
Rain: Dry · Comfortable air
Events: New Year closures
What to pack: Layers and a jacket.

Our advice: The weather suits your trip. Book early if the dates fall in a busy week. Better months for your interests: April, May, November.

The old capital: temples, gardens, geisha districts and quiet lanes. Spring and autumn are very busy, so start early.

Make it yours

Who travels友 Friends 恋 Couples 独 Solo 家 Families

I like

食 food 夜 nightlife 寺 temples 買 shopping遊 anime and games 山 nature 湯 onsen 芸 art and design+ 4 moreShow fewer

The lists are ordered for your choices. Nothing is hidden. Clear my choices

Good fitKyoto StationA big modern hub with trains to everywhere, shops and many hotels.because shopping家Families独Solo友Friends¥¥

Good fitGion and HigashiyamaOld wooden streets, tea houses and big temples on the hill. The most traditional area.because art and design恋Couples独Solo¥¥¥

Good fitKawaramachi and NishikiThe central shopping and food area, with a covered market and many bars.because shopping友Friends恋Couples独Solo¥¥

Good fitArashiyamaA river, a bamboo grove and mountain temples at the west edge. Quiet at night.because nature恋Couples独Solo¥¥

Good fitKita: Kinkaku-ji and KitanoA quiet north side with the Golden Pavilion, small shops and local food.because art and design独Solo恋Couples家Families¥

Reading for this place

Seasons5 min readReading a sakura forecast before you bookCherry blossom forecasts change often. Learn the difference between first bloom and full bloom, when forecasts appear and how to book with flexible plans.About this place

Seasons5 min readWinter in the old cities: quiet streets and short daysWinter in Kyoto and Tokyo is cold, with short days and fewer crowds. Learn how to plan the shorter light, the cold and the quieter streets.About this place

Guides5 min readArashiyama in a half day, away from the crowdsArashiyama is busy at midday. Go early for the bamboo grove, walk the river and choose one temple garden. Here is a half day that avoids the worst crowds.About this place

Weather by season

Spring春

Mild9 to 20 °CSome rain

Summer夏

Hot23 to 31 °CWet

Autumn秋

Mild15 to 23 °CSome rain

Winter冬

Cool2 to 10 °CDry

Official climate normals (Japan Meteorological Agency), checked 2026-10-04.