33 Interesting and fun facts about Kyoto, Japan” will take you on a journey through the city's rich history, timeless traditions, and breathtaking landscapes. Once the imperial capital, Kyoto is a cultural treasure trove, home to ancient temples, vibrant shrines, and meticulously designed gardens that have stood the test of time.

Nestled in the heart of Honshu and surrounded by majestic mountains, this enchanting city is the embodiment of traditional Japan, where centuries-old customs blend seamlessly with modern life. Whether you're a history enthusiast or a lover of all things Japanese, Kyoto is a destination that belongs on your travel bucket list.

Where to Stay in Kyoto

As you would expect from a major travel destination in Asia, Japan has no shortage of options when it comes to accommodation. As always, I’d suggest you stay somewhere central, to make accessing all the attractions as easy as possible.

Begin your search for the perfect accommodation now while the excitement is still fresh in your mind. Discover stylish and affordable options, and find the best accommodations at the lowest prices:

Luxury Hotels in Kyoto

• The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto: A luxurious hotel blending traditional Japanese design with modern sophistication, offering impeccable service, elegant rooms, and stunning views of the city.
• Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto: An opulent hotel located in a historic district, featuring exquisite accommodations, a serene garden, and a range of upscale amenities to ensure a memorable stay.

Middle-Class Hotels in Kyoto

• Hotel Gracery Kyoto Sanjo: A comfortable and modern hotel conveniently situated in the city centre, offering well-appointed rooms, easy access to transportation, and excellent value for money.
• Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Shinmachi Bettei: A stylish and contemporary hotel blending traditional elements, providing comfortable rooms, a relaxing onsen (hot spring) facility, and a central location near popular attractions.
• Citadines Kyoto Karasuma-Gojo: A modern apart-hotel with spacious and well-equipped rooms, ideal for longer stays, featuring a convenient location, friendly staff, and a range of amenities for a comfortable experience.

Hostels in Kyoto

• Piece Hostel Kyoto: A trendy and social hostel with a sleek design, offering dormitory-style and private rooms, a communal lounge, and organized activities for guests to connect and explore the city.
• K's House Kyoto: A well-established hostel providing a cozy and friendly atmosphere, clean dormitory and private rooms, a shared kitchen, and helpful staff to assist with travel arrangements.

33 Interesting and Fun Facts about Kyoto

Kyoto’s Rich History and Cultural Significance

1. The Heart of Traditional Japanese Culture

The city has been the center of Japanese culture for over 1,000 years, shaping the country's artistic and religious heritage. It was once the imperial capital and remains a place where traditional customs thrive. From tea ceremonies to geisha performances, Kyoto embodies the essence of old Japan.

2. Kyoto Was Japan’s Second Capital

Before Tokyo, the city served as Japan’s imperial capital for more than 1,000 years, from 794 to 1868. It was home to the Emperor, the imperial court, and key political and cultural developments. Even after the capital moved, Kyoto continued to be a major cultural hub.

3. Kyoto Is Part of the Kansai Region

Kyoto is part of the Kyoto-Osaka-Kobe metropolitan area, known as the Kansai or Kinki region. Kansai is famous for its deep-rooted traditions, dialect, and strong cultural identity. Kyoto’s historical significance makes it the most visited city in the region.

4. Kyoto’s Original Name Meant “Capital of Peace”

The city was originally called Heiankyo, which means “Capital of Peace.” This name reflected the imperial court’s vision for a peaceful and prosperous Japan. Later, it was renamed Kyoto, which simply means “The Capital.”

5. Kyoto Was Once the Largest City in Japan

Today, Kyoto has a population of 1.5 million, making it Japan’s 8th largest city. However, in medieval times, Kyoto was Japan’s biggest city and one of the largest in the world. It was a major center for trade, politics, and culture.

Geography and Landmarks

6. Kyoto Prefecture Has 4.1 Million People

It isn’t just a city—it’s also a prefecture, which includes smaller towns and rural areas. The entire Kyoto Prefecture has a population of 4.1 million people. This wider area includes places like Uji, famous for its green tea.

7. The Kyoto Imperial Palace Still Stands Today

The Imperial Palace (Gosho Palace) was the official residence of Japan’s Emperor until 1868. Located in Imperial Park, the palace is a stunning example of Heian Period architecture. Today, visitors can explore its elegant halls and traditional gardens.

8. Arashiyama’s Bamboo Grove Is an Instagram Hotspot

The Bamboo Grove in Arashiyama is one of Kyoto’s most famous sights. Walking through the towering bamboo stalks feels almost otherworldly. The area is also home to Togetsukyo Bridge, Iwatayama Monkey Park, and historic temples.

9. Higashiyama District Is Full of Temples and Shrines

The Higashiyama district, located east of the Kamo River, is a spiritual center with many important temples. It’s home to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Yasaka Shrine, and Gion, the famous geisha district. This area is perfect for experiencing Kyoto’s old-world charm.

10. Kyoto’s Northern Temples Are Among the Oldest

The northern part of Kyoto is filled with some of the city’s oldest temples. Kurama-dera is known for its mystical mountain setting, while Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) is an iconic Zen temple. These historic sites offer a peaceful retreat from the city.

11. Heian Jingu Was Built for Kyoto’s 1,100th Anniversary

Built in 1895, Heian Jingu Shrine was created to celebrate Kyoto’s 1,100th anniversary as Japan’s capital. The shrine features a massive vermilion torii gate and beautiful gardens. It’s also the starting point of the Jidai Matsuri Festival, one of Kyoto’s biggest annual events.

Kyoto and War

12. Kyoto Was Almost Destroyed by an Atomic Bomb

During World War II, the city was originally chosen as a target for the atomic bomb. However, U.S. Secretary of War Henry Stimson personally removed it from the list due to its cultural importance. Thanks to this decision, Kyoto was spared from destruction.

13. The Onin War Devastated Kyoto

The Onin War (1467–1477) was a civil war between two powerful samurai families. It left the city in ruins and marked the beginning of Japan’s Warring States period. Many of Kyoto’s historic buildings were lost during this time.

14. Kyoto Has Over 1,650 Temples and 400 Shrines

Kyoto is often called the “City of Temples” because it has over 1,650 Buddhist temples and 400 Shinto shrines. From small neighborhood shrines to grand temple complexes, Kyoto’s religious sites are a key part of its identity.

Kyoto’s UNESCO Heritage and Landmarks

15. Kyoto Has 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Kyoto is home to 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, making it one of the most culturally rich cities in the world. These include Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Ryoan-ji Temple, and Nijo Castle. Each of these sites showcases the city’s rich history and architectural beauty.

16. Kyoto’s Oldest Shrine Is Over 1,300 Years Old

Shimogamo Shrine has preserved Kyoto’s spiritual heritage since 678 AD, making it one of the city’s oldest shrines. Towering trees enshroud the shrine in Tadasu no Mori, an ancient forest that has remained untouched for centuries. Pilgrims and worshippers gather here to honor Shinto traditions, seeking blessings and spiritual renewal.

17. Fushimi Inari Taisha Is Kyoto’s Most Famous Shrine

Thousands of vermilion torii gates line the pathways of Fushimi Inari Taisha, creating one of Kyoto’s most breathtaking sights. Worshippers dedicate these gates to Inari, the Shinto god of rice and prosperity, as offerings for good fortune. Stone fox statues stand guard across the shrine grounds, symbolizing Inari’s divine messengers.

Kyoto’s Unique Culture

18. Kyoto Has a Strong Geisha Culture

Gion stands as one of Japan’s last remaining geisha districts, keeping this centuries-old tradition alive. Geiko, as Kyoto’s geisha are called, perfect their craft through years of training in dance, music, and refined conversation. As dusk falls, elegantly dressed geiko and maiko (apprentice geisha) glide through Gion’s lantern-lit streets, offering a rare glimpse into Kyoto’s living history.

19. Kyoto Is the Birthplace of the Tea Ceremony

The Japanese tea ceremony, or “chanoyu,” originated in Kyoto and was perfected by Sen no Rikyu, a famous tea master. Kyoto remains one of the best places to experience a traditional tea ceremony. Many tea houses, especially in the Higashiyama district, offer authentic tea experiences to visitors.

20. Kyoto Cuisine Is Among the Most Refined in Japan

Kyoto’s food culture is known for kaiseki, a traditional multi-course meal that originated from the tea ceremony. Kaiseki meals emphasize seasonal ingredients, artistic presentation, and delicate flavors. Kyoto is also famous for yudofu (tofu hot pot), matcha desserts, and yatsuhashi (cinnamon rice crackers).

Kyoto’s Unique Traditions

21. Kyoto Prefecture Has Japan’s Highest Bread Consumption

Surprisingly, Kyoto Prefecture has the highest bread consumption in Japan! While rice is the staple of Japanese cuisine, Kyoto residents eat more bread than any other prefecture. This is believed to be influenced by the city’s past European influences and a strong local bakery culture.

22. Kyoto Holds Some of Japan’s Biggest Festivals

Kyoto hosts three of Japan’s most famous traditional festivals:

• Aoi Matsuri (May): A historical parade in Heian costumes.
• Gion Matsuri (July): Kyoto’s biggest festival, featuring massive floats pulled through the streets.
• Jidai Matsuri (October): A procession that showcases Japan’s historical eras through costumes.

23. Kyoto’s Dialect Is Unique

People in Kyoto speak a special variation of Kansai dialect, known as “Kyoto-ben.” This dialect is softer and more elegant compared to the more direct Osaka dialect. Kyoto residents also use special honorific expressions, which reflect the city's refined and historical culture.

Kyoto’s Natural Beauty

24. Kyoto Is Stunning in Every Season

Kyoto’s beauty changes dramatically with the seasons. Cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, vibrant autumn foliage, and serene snow-covered temples in winter make Kyoto a year-round destination. Each season offers a unique charm and a different way to experience the city.

25. The Kamo River Is Kyoto’s Lifeline

The Kamo River flows through the heart of Kyoto, providing a natural escape from the city’s urban landscape. Locals and tourists love to relax along the riverbanks, especially in summer, when open-air dining platforms are set up along the water. The river has been an essential part of Kyoto life for centuries.

Bamboo Groove

26. Kyoto Has Japan’s Most Beautiful Zen Gardens

Kyoto is famous for its Zen rock gardens, also called “karesansui”. One of the most famous is Ryoan-ji, where 15 carefully placed stones sit in a sea of white gravel. These gardens are designed for meditation and reflection, and their minimalist beauty has inspired artists worldwide.

27. The Golden and Silver Pavilions Are Kyoto Icons

Kyoto is home to the famous Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji) and Silver Pavilion (Ginkaku-ji).

• Kinkaku-ji is covered in real gold leaf, creating a breathtaking reflection in the pond below.
• Ginkaku-ji, despite its name, was never actually covered in silver, but its elegant simplicity has made it a cultural treasure.

Kyoto’s Infrastructure and Transportation

28. Kyoto Has a Complex Train System

Kyoto has seven different railway companies, meaning you need different tickets for different train lines. To make travel easier, visitors can use an IC card like Suica or Pasmo, which works on most trains and buses. Unlike Tokyo and Osaka, Kyoto has only two subway lines, making buses and taxis more important for getting around.

29. Kyoto Station Is an Architectural Marvel

JR Kyoto Station is a modern masterpiece, designed by architect Hiroshi Hara in 1997. The station is huge, featuring a hotel, a department store, and a rooftop observation deck. It also has the longest train platform in Japan, measuring 564 meters (1,850 feet)!

30. Kyoto’s Electric Supply Is Unusual

Unlike most places in the world, Kyoto (and Japan) uses 100 volts of electricity, which is lower than the standard 110-120V in North America and 220-240V in Europe. This means that some foreign electrical appliances won’t work properly without a voltage converter.

Fun and Surprising Facts About Kyoto

31. Bamboo Is Everywhere in Kyoto

In addition to the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, bamboo is widely used in Kyoto’s architecture, crafts, and even food. Bamboo shoots, called “takenoko”, are a seasonal delicacy in Kyoto cuisine. Kyoto’s traditional tea whisks (chasen) and chopsticks are also made from locally harvested bamboo.

32. Kyoto Is the Birthplace of Nintendo

Nintendo, one of the world’s most famous gaming companies, was founded in Kyoto in 1889—but not as a video game company! Originally, it produced “hanafuda” playing cards, a popular form of Japanese card games. Today, Nintendo remains headquartered in Kyoto, continuing to make global gaming history.

33. Kyoto Inspired the Movie “Memoirs of a Geisha”

Many scenes from Memoirs of a Geisha, a Hollywood film based on the book by Arthur Golden, were inspired by Kyoto’s Gion district. The film showcases the mysterious world of geisha, tea houses, and Kyoto’s old streets. Although some scenes were filmed in California, Kyoto remains the true heart of Japan’s geisha culture.

Final Thoughts

Kyoto is a city of endless wonders, blending ancient traditions with modern life. Whether you're fascinated by temples, geisha culture, breathtaking nature, or food, Kyoto has something for everyone. Hopefully, these 33 interesting and fun facts have given you a deeper appreciation of this incredible city!