Things to do with Kids in Kyoto: A Parent’s Guide

Kyoto is one of Japan’s most beautiful cities. It is a city steeped in culture and history, and a wonderful place for families to explore. Here is a guide to some of the best things to do in Kyoto with kids.

1. Visit the Kyoto Imperial Palace

The Kyoto Imperial Palace is a great place to start a visit to Kyoto with kids. The palace was once the residence of the Emperor of Japan and is now a protected historical site. Visitors can explore the palace grounds, check out the ceremonial buildings, and take a guided tour. There are also many beautiful gardens to explore, as well as a museum. Kids will love exploring the palace grounds and learning about the history of the city.

The tours are free, but you must book in advance. On the tour, kids will learn about the history of the palace, the architecture, and the culture of the city. The tour is a great way to start your day in Kyoto and learn about the city’s history.

The palace is open from 9am to 4pm and closed on Mondays and Fridays, so plan your visit accordingly.

2. Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine

Fushimi Inari Shrine is one of the most famous shrines in Japan and a must-see when visiting Kyoto with kids. The shrine is dedicated to the god Inari and is known for its thousands of red torii gates that line the path up the mountain. Kids will love exploring the pathways and taking in the amazing view of the city.

The shrine is open from sunrise to sunset and there is no entrance fee. Kids can explore the pathways and take photos of the many torii gates. There is also a small museum at the top of the mountain that is worth a visit. Be sure to bring some snacks and drinks as the walk up the mountain can be tiring.

The shrine is a great place to spend an afternoon with kids and experience the beauty and culture of Kyoto.

3. Visit the Kyoto Aquarium

The Kyoto Aquarium is one of the best places to visit with kids in Kyoto. The aquarium houses over 20,000 creatures, including dolphins, sharks, and rays. Kids will love exploring the tanks and learning about the different creatures. The aquarium also has interactive exhibits, a coral reef, and a giant fish tank.

The aquarium is open from 9:30am to 5:00pm and is closed on Mondays. There is an admission fee, but children under 3 get in for free. The aquarium is a great place to spend an afternoon with kids and learn about the ocean’s creatures.

Be sure to bring some snacks and drinks to keep kids energized throughout the day.

4. Visit Nijo Castle

Nijo Castle is a great place to visit with kids in Kyoto. The castle was once the residence of the shogun and is now a protected historic site. The castle is full of beautiful gardens and buildings, and kids will love exploring the grounds. There are also interactive exhibits and a museum where kids can learn about the history of the castle.

The castle is open from 8:45am to 5pm and closed on Tuesdays. There is an admission fee, but kids under 18 are free. The castle is a great place to spend an afternoon with kids and learn about the history of the city.

Be sure to bring some snacks and drinks to keep kids energized throughout the day.

5. Visit the Kyoto Tower

The Kyoto Tower is a great place to visit with kids in Kyoto. The tower is the tallest building in the city and offers amazing views of the city from the observation decks. Kids will love exploring the observation decks and taking in the views of the city.

The tower is open from 9am to 10pm and closed on Mondays. There is an admission fee, but kids under 6 are free. The tower is a great place to spend an afternoon with kids and experience the beauty of the city.

Be sure to bring some snacks and drinks to keep kids energized throughout the day.

6. Visit the Heian Shrine

The Heian Shrine is one of the most beautiful shrines in Japan and a must-see when visiting Kyoto with kids. The shrine is dedicated to the gods of the Heian period and is known for its beautiful gardens and buildings. Kids will love exploring the grounds and taking in the amazing views of the city.

The shrine is open from sunrise to sunset and there is no admission fee. Kids can explore the grounds and take photos of the many buildings and gardens. There is also a small museum at the shrine that is worth a visit. Be sure to bring some snacks and drinks as the walk around the shrine can be tiring.

The shrine is a great place to spend an afternoon with kids and experience the beauty and culture of Kyoto.

7. Visit the Kyoto National Museum

The Kyoto National Museum is a great place to visit with kids in Kyoto. The museum houses a large collection of artifacts and art from the Heian period. Kids will love exploring the exhibits and learning about the culture and history of the city.

The museum is open from 9:30am to 5pm and closed on Mondays. There is an admission fee, but children under 18 are free. The museum is a great place to spend an afternoon with kids and learn about the history and culture of the city.

Be sure to bring some snacks and drinks to keep kids energized throughout the day.

8. Visit the Gion District

The Gion District is one of the most famous areas in Kyoto and a great place to visit with kids. The district is full of traditional buildings, shops, restaurants, and temples. Kids will love exploring the streets and taking in the sights and sounds of the city. There are also many traditional shops and restaurants where you can find souvenirs and treats for the kids.

The district is open from 10am to 8pm and there is no admission fee. Kids can explore the streets and take photos of the traditional buildings and shops. There is also a small museum at the district that is worth a visit. Be sure to bring some snacks and drinks as the walk around the district can be tiring.

The district is a great place to spend an afternoon with kids and experience the culture and beauty of Kyoto.

9. Visit the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is one of the most beautiful places in Japan and a must-see when visiting Kyoto with kids. The grove is full of towering bamboo trees and kids will love exploring the pathways and taking in the amazing views of the city. There are also many small shops and restaurants in the area, where you can find souvenirs and treats for the kids.

The grove is open from 9am to 5pm and there is no admission fee. Kids can explore the pathways and take photos of the many bamboo trees. Be sure to bring some snacks and drinks as the walk around the grove can be tiring.

The grove is a great place to spend an afternoon with kids and experience the beauty of Kyoto.

10. Visit the Nishiki Market

The Nishiki Market is a great place to visit with kids in Kyoto. The market is full of shops, restaurants, and stalls selling food, souvenirs, and other goods. Kids will love exploring the market and trying some of the delicious food. There are also many traditional shops and restaurants where you can find souvenirs and treats for the kids.

The market is open from 10am to 5pm and closed on Sundays. There is no admission fee, but some shops may charge a fee for certain items. The market is a great place to spend an afternoon with kids and experience the culture and food of the city.

Be sure to bring some snacks and drinks to keep kids energized throughout the day.

11. Visit the Kiyomizu-dera Temple

The Kiyomizu-dera Temple is one of the most famous temples in Japan and a must-see when visiting Kyoto with kids. The temple is full of beautiful buildings and gardens and kids will love exploring the grounds. There are also many interactive exhibits and a museum where kids can learn about the history of the temple.

The temple is open from 9am to 5pm and closed on Tuesdays. There is an admission fee, but kids under 18 are free. The temple is a great place to spend an afternoon with kids and learn about the history and culture of the city.

Be sure to bring some snacks and drinks to keep kids energized throughout the day.

12. Visit the Golden Pavilion

The Golden Pavilion is one of the most beautiful buildings in Japan and a must-see when visiting Kyoto with kids. The pavilion is full of beautiful gardens and buildings and kids will love exploring the grounds. There are also interactive exhibits and a museum where kids can learn about the history of the pavilion.

The pavilion is open from 9am to 5pm and closed on Mondays. There is an admission fee, but kids under 6 are free. The pavilion is a great place to spend an afternoon with kids and experience the beauty of the city.

Be sure to bring some snacks and drinks to keep kids energized throughout the day.

Kyoto is an amazing city for families to explore and there are many great things to do with kids. From visiting the Kyoto Imperial Palace to exploring the streets of the Gion District, there is something for everyone. With its stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and rich history, Kyoto is a great place for families to experience the culture and beauty of Japan.

We hope this guide has been helpful in planning your trip to Kyoto with kids. Have a great time exploring the city!