Women wearing kimono in Kyoto

I often describe Kyoto as the cultural heart of Japan. But don’t think that means Kyoto is just for adults! With bamboo forests, ninja experiences, the iconic Nintendo museum, and some of Japan’s most famous temples, Kyoto is one of the best family destinations in Japan.

This guide brings together our best Kyoto itineraries, attraction reviews, and family travel tips that will help you plan the perfect trip to Japan’s former capital.

FIRST TIME IN KYOTO? START HERE

Kyoto is home to thousands of temples, historic districts, traditional experiences, and family-friendly attractions. But that means it can feel hard to know where to begin!

It doesn’t matter if you’re visiting Kyoto as part of a wider Japan itinerary or taking a dedicated trip to the city. These guides will help you decide how long to stay, what to prioritise, and how to spend your time.

Visiting Kyoto with kids for the first time? These are the guides you should start with:

Kyoto Itinerary With Kids The Ultimate 3 Day Kyoto Itinerary (2026 Guide)

Perfect
Kyoto 3 Day Itinerary With Kids

Yusuke Nishizawa making wagashi in Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto With Kids: Ultimate Family Guide

A shine in the heart of Kyoto, Japan

How Many Days Do You Need in Kyoto?

Is Kyoto Really
Worth Visiting With Kids?

BEST THINGS TO DO IN KYOTO WITH KIDS

Kyoto may be famous for its temples and traditional culture, but it’s also packed with family-friendly and unique experiences. From cultural workshops to interactive museums, themed restaurants to ancient shrines, there’s something for kids of all ages.

We’ve tried-and-tested all of these unforgettable experiences that are unique to Kyoto, creating in-depth guides to help you plan your trip:

Nintendo Museum Kyoto Review Is It Worth Visiting and How Do You Get Tickets

Nintendo Museum Kyoto Review

Wabunka Wagashi Experience Review Traditional Japanese Sweet Making in Kyoto (2026)
Fushimi inari taisha shrine in Kyoto

Best Things To Do in Kyoto With Kids

Kyoto Railway Museum, Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto Railway Museum Review

Dressing up at the Kyoto Ninja and Samurai Museum

Kyoto Ninja and Samurai Museum

Future Train Kyoto Review: An Honest Review Of This Themed Dining Experience With Kids

Future Train Kyoto Experience

Kyoto Temples and Cultural Attractions

No visit to Kyoto would be complete without exploring its famous temples, shrines, and cultural landmarks. While Kyoto is often seen as a destination for history lovers, many of its most iconic attractions are surprisingly enjoyable for families.

From walking through the thousands of red torii gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine to exploring epic bamboo forests, these guides will help you make the most of the culture in Kyoto:

Walking in the Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kyoto, Japan

Top Tips For Visiting Fushimi Inari Shrine

Women wearing kimono in Kyoto

Exploring Historic Gion With Kids

Cherry blossoms over a stream in Kyoto, Japan

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Guide

Day Trips From Kyoto

One of the biggest advantages of staying in Kyoto is its location in the heart of the Kansai region. The excellent rail connections make it easy to explore some of Japan’s most popular destinations from just one base.

Whether you want to see the deer in Nara, visit Universal Studios Japan in Osaka, or are looking for other easy excursions, these guides will help you make the most of your day:

Best Things to do in Osaka With Kids

Deer in Nara Deer Park, Nara, Japan

Nara Day Trip Itinerary For Families

PRACTICAL KYOTO TRAVEL TIPS

A little planning can make a huge different when visiting Kyoto, especially if you’re travelling as a family. From choosing where to stay to navigating the transport network, these guides cover those practical details that will make your trip a breeze!

If you’re visiting Kyoto for the first time, this is the section to bookmark before you travel:

Umekoji Park, Kyoto, Japan

Best Area to Stay in Kyoto

Metro train in Osaka

Kyoto Transport Guide

Wall of characters at the Nintendo Museum, Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto With Kids FAQs

8 Japan Travel Apps You Need Before You Visit Japan in 2026

Travel Apps You Need Before Japan

Exploring Togo Shrine, Harajuku A Break From The Chaos of Kawaii

Attractions to Book in Advance