Kyoto Tour Packages

Kyoto, Japan’s heart of culture, tradition, and timeless beauty, is all set to welcome you! The city, with its ancient temples, peaceful gardens, and rich heritage, is a destination that will fill your soul and leave you mesmerised. With its cherry blossoms in spring and the fiery foliage that covers the entire city in autumn, Kyoto truly leaves visitors awestruck with its charm and the various historical treasures it houses.

We, at Thomas Cook, offer thoughtfully curated Kyoto tour packages starting from just ₹1,99,900*. We provide you with a hassle-free way to explore the city, featuring spiritual getaways, cultural adventures, and even romantic escapes on your itinerary. In every package on offer, we ensure that you get to experience the best Kyoto tourist attractions, enjoy delicious local food, and immerse yourself in everything that is authentically aligned with Kyoto’s traditions.

Here is everything you need to know about the city, the tour packages on offer, what to eat, where to go, and the like! Get set to discover the magic of Kyoto like never before.

Popular Kyoto Tour Packages

Here is a look at our top-selling Kyoto holiday packages, which are specifically designed to provide you with an unforgettable experience in Japan’s cultural heartland. Doesn’t matter if you are planning a short city escape or a multi-city adventure, our Tokyo packages work brilliantly for all kinds of travellers, including families, couples, and backpackers.

Every package includes essentials like accommodation, local transportation, guided sightseeing, traditional meals at select places and even entry to major Tokyo attractions. Think of the historical streets of Gion and the tranquil bamboo groves of Arashiyama, and you will understand the kind of life-changing experience you might have here.

Best Time to Visit Kyoto

One of the best things about Kyoto is that the city is an all-season destination. However, it is essential to note that your travel experience will vary depending on when you choose to visit the city. Kyoto undergoes a remarkable transformation with each passing season. Think cherry blossoms in spring, festivals in summer, dense, vivid foliage in autumn, and snow-covered peace in winter.

When you understand how each season affects the city, you will be better able to pick the best time to visit Kyoto based on your interests.

Spring (March to May)

Spring is, without a doubt, the most magical time in Kyoto. You can easily spot cherry blossoms or sakura blooms across the city from parks and temple gardens to along riverbanks as well. If you are fascinated by flowers, then spots like Maruyama Park, Philosopher’s Path and Heian Shrine might just be ideal for you.

The spring temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C, which makes it ideal for walking tours and temple visits. Do remember, though, that spring is the peak season, so it is important to book your Kyoto tour packages well in advance.

Summer (June to August)

Summer can be quite hot and humid with temperatures staying between 25°C and 35°C. However, summers are also about festivals and cultural activities in Kyoto. It is in July that you will get to experience Gion Matsuri, one of Japan’s largest and most colourful festivals. It is all about massive floats, street food, and traditional performances.

If you are looking for a respite from the heat, though, then evenings by the Kamogawa River are pleasant, especially in June when the hydrangeas are in bloom.

Autumn (October to November)

Many travellers swear by visiting Kyoto in autumn, calling it the best season to visit. Imagine the city glowing with red, orange, and golden hues as the leaves change colour. To take in the true beauty of these colours, spots like Tofuku-ji, Eikan-do, and Arashiyama are popular among travellers.

The air is crisp, and the temperature is pleasant, ranging from 10°C to 18°C, making it perfect for hiking and sightseeing.

Winter (December to February)

Winter just might be the most peaceful season to visit Kyoto during. Though cold, there is less crowd and the occasional snowfall. Temples like Kinkaku-ji under a layer of snow look picture perfect, while winter festivals, hot springs, and seasonal cuisine make it a worthwhile time to visit.

How to Reach Kyoto?

Another advantage of visiting Kyoto is that it is one of Japan’s most accessible cities. This is mainly due to the country’s efficient and world-renowned transportation network. Even though Kyoto doesn’t have its own international airport, it is connected to cities like Osaka and Tokyo through air, rail, and road. Here’s how you can reach the city, whether you're coming from overseas or another part of Japan

By Air

Yes, Kyoto does not have an airport, but it is well-connected to two domestic airports nearby:

• Kansai International Airport (KIX): The airport is located in Osaka and is about 75–90 minutes from Kyoto by train or airport limousine bus. JR Haruka Express also offers a direct and comfortable ride to Kyoto Station from and to KIX.
  
  
• Osaka Itami Airport (ITM): ITM primarily serves domestic flights and is situated around 50 km from Kyoto. There are direct limousine buses connecting Itami to Kyoto, and they take approximately 60 minutes to complete the trip.

By Train

One of the best ways to reach Kyoto is to travel by Japan’s high-speed Shinkansen, or bullet train.

• From Tokyo, you can take the Tokaido Shinkansen on either the Nozomi, Hikari, or Kodama lines. The fastest it will take you to Kyoto is 2 hours and 20 minutes.
  
  
• From Osaka, Kyoto is just 15 minutes away by the Shinkansen. If you take a regular JR Special Rapid service, it might take around 30 minutes.
  
  
• From Nagoya, you can reach Kyoto in 35–40 minutes by Shinkansen.
  
  
• Once you are at Kyoto Station, you can use local buses, taxis, and subways to make city navigation easy.

By Road

Kyoto is also accessible through long-distance buses and car rental options.

• From Tokyo, you can opt for overnight highway buses. These are budget-friendly and usually take around  8–9 hours to reach the city.
• From Osaka, many intercity buses run to Kyoto, taking about 90 minutes to reach the city.

If you are looking to Kyoto, though not an impossibility, the narrow streets and limited parking do make public transportation the best option for most travellers.

Best Places to Visit in Kyoto

Kyoto is a truly timeless city that is famous for its temples, gardens, shrines, etc. With over 1,600 Buddhist temples and 400 Shinto shrines, most of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the city truly has a deep cultural tie. Here is a look at some of the best places to see in Kyoto to help you understand the true essence of the city.

Iconic Kyoto Tourist Attractions

• Fushimi Inari Taisha: One of the most photographed sites in Kyoto, the place is popular for its seemingly endless path of 10,000 vermilion torii gates. The shrine is located at the base of Mount Inari and is dedicated to the god of rice and commerce.
  
  
• Kinkaku-ji or the Golden Pavilion: The Golden Pavilion is a Zen Buddhist temple and is a treat to anyone’s eyes. With its shimmering gold leaf and perfect reflection in the surrounding pond, it is one of the most visited Kyoto tourist places. Those who are interested in photography will find this spot a true delight.
  
  
• Kiyomizu-dera Temple: The temple is a UNESCO-listed site and offers panoramic views of Kyoto from its famous wooden terrace. You need to check the temple out during cherry blossom season and autumn. Remember to try your luck at the Otowa Waterfall or explore the historic Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka streets nearby.
  
  
• Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: Think of walking through towering green bamboo stalks and experiencing a surreal, calming aura. Located near the scenic Togetsukyo Bridge, the grove also has a monkey park, riverboat rides, and peaceful temples for you to explore.

Temples, Shrines, and Spiritual Sites

• Ryoan-ji Temple
  The temple is home to Japan’s most famous rock garden and is known to promote meditation and introspection. The temple is minimally designed, making it both spiritual and symbolic.
  
  
• Yasaka Shrine
  The shrine is located between Gion and Higashiyama, and it is the spiritual centre of the Gion Matsuri, which is held every July. You need to have a look at the shrine at night as it gets illuminated beautifully.
  
  
• Sanjusangen-do Temple
  The temple is known for housing 1,001 statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. It’s undoubtedly one of the most unique things to see in Kyoto and is a great place to visit for art lovers and history buffs.
  
  
• Tofuku-ji Temple
  Popular during autumn, this temple is famous for its dramatic display of red maple leaves and picturesque bridges.

Cultural and Historical Experiences

• Gion District
  Kyoto’s geisha district takes you back in time with its wooden teahouses, traditional eateries, and occasional geisha sightings. This is one of the most culturally rich places to visit in Kyoto.
  
  
• Philosopher’s Path
  The Philosopher’s Path is a tranquil stone path that follows a cherry tree-lined canal. The path is named after Nishida Kitaro, a Kyoto University professor who was known to meditate on this path during his walks.
  
  
• Kyoto Imperial Palace
  The palace is the former residence of the Japanese emperor, and here visitors can explore beautifully manicured gardens and the grand traditional architecture.
  
  
• Nishiki Market
  The market is also known as Kyoto’s kitchen and is filled with local snacks, fresh seafood, pickles, and handmade crafts. 

Natural Attractions and Outdoor Spaces

• Mount Kurama
  Situated in the north of Kyoto, the mountain is known for its scenic hiking trails and the Kurama Onsen hot spring. It is a brilliant way to escape from the city’s bustle.
  
  
• Kyoto Botanical Garden
  The Kyoto Botanical Garden is a lush garden featuring more than 12,000 plant species. It is a great place to visit year-round, but it is even more beautiful in spring and autumn.

Offbeat Places of Interest in Kyoto

• Eikan-do Temple
  Though slightly less known to first-time visitors, this temple is a true miracle to behold during autumn when its hillside location is ablaze with colour.
  
  
• Kyoto International Manga Museum
  If you are a manga lover, you are not going to want to leave the museum. With thousands of manga volumes and exhibitions, this will indeed be a paradise for you.
  
  
• Uji
  A small town near Kyoto, Uji is known for its matcha green tea, the Byodo-in Temple, and serene riverside tea houses.
  
  
• Ohara and Takao Villages
  The villages make for a perfect day trip, and are home to quiet temples, forest trails, and give you a glimpse into Kyoto’s countryside charm.

Kyoto’s diversity indeed makes it an unforgettable destination for most travellers. Whether you want to explore ancient shrines, enjoy scenic rivers, or discover hidden alleyways, there are several best things to do in Kyoto. 

Food to Eat in Kyoto

Kyoto also happens to be a foodie’s paradise. The city’s culinary heritage is as rich and refined as its temples and traditions. Being Japan’s ancient capital, Kyoto’s style of cooking is a balance between subtle flavour, seasonality, and presentation. It does not matter whether you're dining in a multi-course restaurant or sampling street food at a local market, Kyoto food offers a sensory experience you won’t forget.

Traditional Kyoto Cuisine

• Kaiseki Ryori: This is Kyoto’s signature haute cuisine, which is typically served in traditional restaurants. With beautifully plated seasonal dishes such as sashimi, simmered vegetables, the cuisine also features tofu and grilled fish.
   
• Yudofu: This is a simple dish made of boiled tofu in broth and is usually served with dipping sauces. Commonly eaten near Zen temples such as Nanzen-ji, the dish reflects the quiet atmosphere around them.
  
  
• Obanzai Ryori: This is a traditional home-style Kyoto cooking that uses seasonal and locally sourced vegetables. Most dishes are miso-based and include pickles, simmered greens, and small bites. Try Obanzai Takashimaya or Manzara-tei to get a taste of what we are talking about.
  
  
• Shojin Ryori: This is a vegetarian Buddhist meal that is served at temple lodgings and features tofu, pickled vegetables, and rice, prepared with balance and mindfulness.

Sushi with a Kyoto Twist

Since the city is not sea-facing like Japan, Kyoto had to develop certain unique sushi styles.

• Saba-zushi: These are pressed mackerel sushi that are slightly pickled and often wrapped in kelp.
  
  
• Inari-zushi: This type of sushi features rice-filled fried tofu pouches, and is sweet and great for vegetarians.

Sweets & Snacks

• Matcha Treats: Kyoto is world-famous for its matcha. You can enjoy matcha parfaits, soft serves, lattes, and wagashi, which are traditional sweets at most cafés across the city.
   
• Yatsuhashi: This is a local sweet made of rice flour, sugar, and cinnamon, available both baked and raw, and has fillings made with red bean paste.
  
  
• Mochi Skewers & Takoyaki: You can easily find these in Nishiki Market, and they make for great on-the-go snacking during sightseeing.

Where to Eat in Kyoto?

• Pontocho Alley: Enjoy high-end dining experiences as you overlook the river on this narrow lane.
  
  
• Nishiki Market: This is the best place to try authentic Kyoto street food.
  
  
• Gion District: The spot offers both fine dining and traditional tea houses.

From refined meals to humble tofu dishes and sweets, Kyoto cuisine will prove to be a wonderful way to explore the city during your Kyoto travel experience.

Kyoto Currency

It is very important to understand the local currency when you are planning your Kyoto trip. This helps make the travel convenient and helps you understand the budget better.  Kyoto’s official currency is the Japanese Yen (JPY), so anytime that you shop for souvenirs in Nishiki Market or enjoy a matcha in Gion, you’ll need Yen in hand for the transactions.

Denominations

The Yen comes in both coins and notes:

• Coins: ¥1, ¥5, ¥10, ¥50, ¥100, ¥500
  
  
• Notes: ¥1,000, ¥2,000, ¥5,000, and ¥10,000

Though the ¥2,000 note is rarely used, it does remain legal tender. The use of ¥1,000 and ¥5,000 bills is most common, especially for food, local transport, and small purchases.

Currency Exchange & ATMs

• Exchange Options: You can easily exchange your home currency at airports like the Kansai International Airport, major banks, post offices, and even currency kiosks that are located near Kyoto Station and Gion. Rates may vary, so it is important to compare before exchanging large amounts.
  
  
• ATMs: You can find ATMs across convenience stores like 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart. These ATMs usually accept international cards and offer instructions in English.
  
  
• Cards vs Cash: Most credit and debit cards are accepted at hotels, department stores, and restaurants. However, smaller shops, temples, and local eateries will sometimes accept only cash. This is why it is advisable to carry a sufficient amount of Yen at all times.

Exchange Rate

As of June 2025, the exchange rate is approximately:

• 1 INR ≈ 1.80 JPY

However, it is important to check the current rates before your trip.

Once you better understand how the Kyoto currency works, you will be better able to navigate markets, transport, and local experiences during your Kyoto travel.