Downtown Kyoto
- Kyoto
- 29 Aug, 2025
Downtown Kyoto is loaded with hotels, shops, restaurants, bars and clubs. It’s not a main sightseeing destination, but there are some good sights scattered about.
[Nishiki Market — image © marukopum /
Shutterstock.com]
Downtown Kyoto Area Description
Downtown Kyoto is a square area bounded on the east by the Kamo-gawa River, on the west by Karasuma-dori, on the north by Oike-dori, and on the south by Shijo-dori. Because of its small size, it lends itself to exploration on foot. And, with lots of covered arcades, this is one of the best places to spend a rainy day in the city.
Downtown Kyoto Highlights
[Tourist at Nishiki Market: PR Image Factory / Shutterstock.com]
Things To See And Do In Downtown Kyoto
- Nishiki Market
Known to locals as “Kyoto’s pantry”, Nishiki Market is easily the best traditional food market in the city.
[Pontocho Alley in the evening: 7maru / Shutterstock.com]
- Pontocho Alley
Arguably the single most atmospheric street in all of Kyoto, Pontocho Alley is a great place to do some geisha spotting in the evening.
[International Manga Museum: cowardlion / Shutterstock.com]
- The Kyoto International Manga Museum
The Kyoto International Manga Museum is the best manga museum in the entire country. If you’re a fan of Japanese comics, don’t miss it! - GEAR Stage Show
If you’re looking for something to do in the evening that the whole family will enjoy, do not miss this fantastic stage show held in downtown Kyoto. - Kyoto Cinema
If you love independent movies and want to take in a flick while you’re in Kyoto, you’ll love this little arthouse cinema in downtown Kyoto.
Getting To Downtown Kyoto
- From Kyoto Station: Take the Karasuma Subway Line to Shijo Station (preferred) or Karasuma-Oike Station.
- On foot from Kyoto Station: Walk straight north on Karasuma-dori or along the Kamo-gawa River for about 20 minutes.
- By Hankyu Line (from Osaka etc): Get off at Karasuma or Kawaramachi stations.
- By Keihan Line (from Osaka etc): Get off at Gion Shijo or Sanjo Keihan Stations.
Kyoto Vacation Checklist
- For a quick overview, see my First Time In Kyoto guide.
- Check if a visa is required for Japan
- Check Kyoto accommodation availability on Booking.com and Agoda.com.
- Buy Japan Rail Tickets and Shinkansen Tickets Online.
- For tips on where to stay, see Where To Stay In Kyoto.
- See my Packing List For Japan.
- Purchase an eSim or SIM card for Japan.
- Compare flight prices on Skyscanner.
- Consider a Japan Rail Pass - see if it’s worth for you.
- Consider a travel insurance.