Interesting Facts About Kyoto: Discover Japan’s Ancient Gem

Kyoto once served as Japan’s imperial capital for over a thousand years.

If you want to explore a place rich in heritage and unexpected quirks, Kyoto will captivate and surprise you.

Kyoto has beautifully preserved temples and unique cultural practices.

It’s a city full of hidden gems and intriguing stories waiting to be discovered.

⛩️ Check out some of our top Kyoto recommendations here:

1. Private Kyoto Tour with a Local, Highlights & Hidden Gems, Personalised
2. 10 Must-see Spots in Kyoto One Day Private Tour
3. Kyoto Arashiyama Rickshaw Tour with Bamboo Forest
4. Amanohashidate & Ine Funaya Kyoto Day Trip

Looking for a good place to stay in Kyoto?

1. Kyoto Plaza Hotel 
2. Oriental Hotel Kyoto Rokujo

Here are some interesting facts about Kyoto.

1) Kyoto’s Super Old Forests

Kyoto is home to some truly ancient forests.

These forests have been around for over a thousand years, providing a glimpse into Japan’s natural history.

When you visit these forests, you can see towering trees that seem to touch the sky.

2) Fushimi Inari’s Hidden Trails

You might know Fushimi Inari for its famous red torii gates, but there’s more to explore.

Hidden trails wind through the hills and offer a quieter experience.

As you hike, you’ll find smaller shrines and scenic spots away from the crowds.

The main trail can get busy, but other paths lead to peaceful corners.

You might even stumble upon a hidden waterfall.

You’ll also come across stone fox statues, believed to be messengers of the god Inari.

Keep an eye out for these fascinating sculptures as you wander.

3) The Bizarre Rokkaku-do Temple Shape

Rokkaku-do stands out thanks to its unique hexagonal shape.

Unlike many other temples in Kyoto, it’s not rectangular or square.

The word “Rokkaku” means six-sided in Japanese.

This distinctive design adds an unusual charm to Kyoto’s landscape.

4) Kyoto’s Mysterious Ghost Tunnel

There’s a spooky place in Kyoto called the Kiyotaki Tunnel.

Many locals believe it’s haunted.

The tunnel is known for its eerie atmosphere.

They say you can sometimes see ghostly figures.

Are you brave enough to visit?

5) The Dolls of Higashi Honganji

You might be surprised to find talking dolls at Higashi Honganji.

These dolls tell stories and share the temple’s history.

These interactive exhibits are enjoyed by kids and adults alike.

They make learning about Buddhism and the temple’s past fun and engaging.

Visiting Higashi Honganji isn’t complete without a stop to see the talking dolls.

6) The Kitsune Myths of Fushimi Inari

You’re in for a treat at Fushimi Inari!

This shrine is famous for its countless statues of foxes or kitsune.

Kitsune are believed to be messengers of Inari, the god of rice and prosperity.

Kitsune are often depicted holding keys to the rice granaries in their mouths.

This represents their role in protecting food.

These foxes can also shape-shift into human form.

You may hear stories of kitsune disguising themselves as beautiful women to trick humans.

7) Kyoto Station’s Rooftop Garden

Kyoto Station’s rooftop garden is a hidden gem in the bustling city.

It is on the 15th floor of the station building.

The garden offers a peaceful escape from the busy atmosphere below.

Enjoy stunning views of Kyoto all around you.

It’s a great spot to relax, take photos, or have a quiet moment.

8) Rent a Kimono for a Day

Renting a kimono in Kyoto is a fantastic way to experience the city’s rich culture.

Many shops offer beautiful kimonos and yukatas, perfect for the warmer months.

Akahime is a budget-friendly option with stores in Arashiyama.

Another great place is Rikawafuku.

It’s close to the famous Kiyomizudera Temple and has a wide selection.

9) The Secret Coffee Houses in Gion

You might think of Gion as just the place to spot Geishas, but it’s also home to some hidden coffee houses.

Picture a traditional house with tatami mat seating.

You won’t find loud noises here, just a calm atmosphere perfect for sipping a carefully brewed cup.

The setting makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

Are you ready for a quiet coffee break in the heart of Gion?

10) Kyoto’s Quirkiest Souvenirs

When you visit Kyoto, you’ll find all sorts of quirky souvenirs.

One of the most unique items is the aburatorigami from Yojiya.

It’s a traditional oil-blotting paper that you won’t find back home.

You might also enjoy Kyoto dolls, made here for over a thousand years.

They are beautifully crafted and dressed in kimonos.

Matcha green tea products are everywhere, from cookies to sweets.

You can grab unique matcha items at shops like Tsujiri Tea House.

Japanese knives from Kyoto are famous for their sharpness and craftsmanship.

They make a fantastic souvenir if you’re into cooking.

11) The Only Bamboo Forest in Japan

The Sagano Bamboo Forest, also known as Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, is in the westernmost district of Kyoto, called Arashiyama.

Walking through this forest is like stepping into another world.

The towering bamboo trees and gentle breeze create a calming atmosphere.

It’s a favourite spot for both tourists and local photographers.

12) Dine in a Samurai House

Imagine dining in a 300-year-old samurai house.

Experience a private tea ceremony and sake tasting as you immerse yourself in traditional Japanese culture.

It’s a unique way to enjoy Kyoto’s rich history while savouring authentic flavours.

13) Nijo Castle’s Nightingale Floors

Nijo Castle in Kyoto is famous for its nightingale floors.

These unique floors make a chirping sound when you walk on them.

They were built this way on purpose.

The nightingale floors acted as an alarm system.

When someone walked on them, the chirping would alert guards to intruders.

You can still hear this sound today when you visit the castle.

Part of the reason is also that the wood has aged.

Walking on these floors is a fun, interactive way to experience a piece of history.

14) The Ghost Stories of Kyoto

Kyoto is famous for its ancient temples but has a spooky side.

One chilling tale involves Minatoya Yurei Kosodateame Honpo, the oldest candy shop in Japan.

The legend tells of a ghost who buys sweets for her child.

Taking a ghost tour of the bamboo forest at night is a thrilling experience.

Your guide may share eerie stories that are often missed during daylight.

If you love exploring the unknown, Kyoto’s ghost stories will give you goosebumps!

15) The Spectral Bridge of Uji

You might find Uji Bridge enchanting but spooky, too.

Legends say spirits wander here.

One story involves Lady Hashi-hime, a vengeful ghost.

She is said to guard the bridge, making it an intriguing spot.

This blend of history and myth makes Uji Bridge unique.

16) The 24-Hour Ramen Shop

Imagine craving a steaming bowl of ramen at 3 a.m. In Kyoto, you’re in luck!

There’s a 24-hour ramen shop ready to serve you anytime.

This spot is perfect for night owls and early risers alike.

Whether you’re a tourist exploring late or hungry after a night out, this place covers you.

The shop offers a variety of delicious ramen flavours, from rich, creamy tonkotsu to light, flavourful shoyu.

There’s something for every palate.

17) Take a Tour of a Sake Brewery

If you’re in Kyoto, a sake brewery tour should be on your list.

You can visit places like the Fushimi sake district.

Here, you can taste various types of sake, often paired with snacks.

Tours also give you a peek into the brewing process.

It’s a fun way to learn about Japanese culture and enjoy some unique flavours.

18) Visit the Kyoto International Manga Museum

You can’t miss the Kyoto International Manga Museum if you love Japanese comics.

This museum houses around 300,000 manga items in a former school building.

Feel free to browse and read until your heart’s content.

19) Cherry Blossoms in Autumn

Surprisingly, you can enjoy cherry blossoms in Kyoto during autumn.

Some locations have late-blooming varieties that add a splash of pink to the autumn colours.

Visit places like the Heian Shrine or the Philosopher’s Path for this unique experience.

20) The Stone Garden of Ryoan-ji

You can’t visit Kyoto without seeing the stone garden at Ryoan-ji.

It’s one of the most famous Zen gardens in Japan.

This Buddhist temple is known for its simple yet impressive rock garden design.

The garden dates back to the 15th century.

It has fifteen carefully placed rocks set in white gravel.

The design is meant to inspire meditation and peace.

Even though it’s small, the garden’s layout is deceptive.

From any viewpoint, you can only see fourteen of the fifteen stones.