5 fun and unusual things to do in Kyoto and where to stay

Japan’s former capital is a place steeped in history, with ancient teahouses and temples drawing curious visitors from all over the world. Once you’ve ticked off your pilgrimage to the red gated Fushimi Inari Taisha and wandered through the Arashiyama bamboo grove , here’s a few offbeat things to do in Kyoto – and some of our favourite hotels to stay at. 

1. Sagano Romantic Railway

While the shinkansen is known for its bullet-like speed, this vintage railway line takes things slow, allowing you to really soak in the beauty of Kyoto’s natural landscape. Winding through Arashiyama’s famed bamboo forest, Hozukyo Ravine and along Hozugawa River, it’s a spectacular sight in the autumn when the leaves are dusted red and gold. Hanami – or cherry blossom – hunters will want to jump onboard in the spring however, as the train chugs through a breathtaking tunnel of pink flowers at that time.

2. Starbucks Kyoto Ninenzaka Yasaka Chaya

You might not even notice this coffee shop while wandering around Higashiyama, as it blends almost seamlessly into the historical district. Housed in a former machiya, or traditional home, only a curtained entrance and a sign bearing the American coffee chain’s mermaid logo signify its current purpose – otherwise, great pains have been taken to preserve the original structure. Inside this Starbucks – the first of its kind – you’ll find guests seated on tatami mats with their shoes off as they sip on frappuccinos, or milling about its modest zen gardens when the weather is nice.

3. Gio-ji

Venture off the well-trodden Arashiyama trail and escape to Gio-ji , a temple completely overrun with verdant moss. Tucked away between walls of bamboo and red maple, only one thatched structure stands amidst a sea of green which has its own legend. Stories tell of a dancer named Gio, who fled here to become a nun after her romance with Heian-era military figure Taira no Kiyomori went south. Stopping by here in autumn is mandatory, when sunset-hued maple leaves blanket the emerald grounds. 

4. Yokai Street

Get your best monster hunting gear on and head to the shopping street on Ichijo Dori, otherwise known as Yokai (or monster) street. Down this small thoroughfare, you’ll find all the things that go bump in the night standing guard outside shops – from scaly green kappa to wide-eyed demons. Legends say that after shop owners threw away their antiques, they transformed into demons and began to haunt the neighbourhood. If you’re there in April, monsters run rampant during the Hyakki Yagyo parade as locals promenade around in costume. 

5. Nintendo Museum (Opening March 2024)

If you’re going to be in Kyoto this spring, beat the locals to this brand-new museum which celebrates all things Nintendo. Set to open in March, the museum is housed in a former Nintendo factory, perfect for all kinds of video game buffs. From its roots as a hanafuda card producer to the birth of its iconic characters Mario, Princess Peach, Link and more, early details of the new museum reveal that it’s set to combine both historical exhibitions and immersive experiences. Look out for the hidden question block on the roof, ripped straight out of the old-school Super Mario Land games. 

Where to stay in Kyoto

Hotel The Mitsui Kyoto

Pass through the traditional Kajiimiya gate nearby Nijo Castle and you’ll discover this modern Japanese oasis , built on a historic family estate. With tasteful light-filled rooms, the hotel’s gigantic courtyard and gardens provide the perfect moment of zen as you dine at their restaurants or sip on a cocktail. 

Fauchon L’Hotel Kyoto

Japan’s love affair with Parisian twee steps into the spotlight at Fauchon L’Hotel Kyoto, resulting in a luxurious fusion of Japanese sensibilities and European luxury. Inspired by the French patisserie’s penchant for pink, rose accents abound in cosy western rooms and across its afternoon tea sets – supplied with macarons and Japanese tea pairings. 

Book through Cathay Holidays and stay before 30 April to enjoy a complimentary cocktail and the run of Fauchon’s Gourmet bar for any bookings over two nights. 

Dhawa Yura Kyoto

Fans of the boutique hotel experience will fall in love with this serene spot, where Kyoto’s rich past intertwines with modern Japanese interiors. Tucked away in the historical Higashiyama district, slip past zen garden installations and vibrant kimono fabrics to your home away from home where sprawling king beds beckon you to sleep. 

Book with Cathay Holidays and a complimentary breakfast will be added to your stay, along with a late checkout time of 2pm. 

Aman Kyoto

Escape the bustle of downtown Kyoto and head to the woods, where Aman Kyoto has set up a restorative outpost. The simple ryokan serves as inspiration for its interiors and no effort has been spared to offer five-star comforts, while allowing guests to bask in the natural beauty around the property. The region’s best temples are also within a stone’s throw of this hotel, but walking through its lush gardens and meditating with monks on site provide a different kind of spiritual experience.