You don’t have to worry about missing out on the great experiences Kyoto has to offer if you’re on a budget. As you probably know, Kyoto is famous for its peaceful temples, gorgeous gardens, and traditional neighborhoods. If you’re looking to experience Kyoto’s beauty without spending a fortune, there are plenty of free options available.
There are all kinds of free things you can do in Kyoto, like exploring historic streets lined with traditional tea houses or visiting shrines and parks that reflect Japan’s cultural heritage. Some of the best places in Kyoto, like Fushimi Inari Taisha, the Philosopher’s Path, or Arashiyama Bamboo Grove are completely free.
In this guide, I’ll run through the best free attractions in Kyoto, with a bit of information on what you can expect at each one. Read on for tips on how to plan a budget-friendly itinerary through this unforgettable city!
1. Fushimi Inari Shrine
Fushimi Inari Shrine is known for its thousands of bright red torii gates leading up Mount Inari. It’s a beautiful, free attraction. As you walk through the gates, it feels like you’re stepping into another world, especially in the quieter sections farther up the path. You can explore at your own pace and even hike up for a view of Kyoto below if you like. There are several smaller shrines along the way.
- Address: 68 Fukakusa Yabunouchicho, Fushimi Ward, Kyoto
- Opening Hours: Open 24/7
- How to Get There: Take the JR Nara Line to Inari Station (about 5 mins from Kyoto Station).
- Website: Fushimi Inari Taisha
2. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Walking through the towering bamboo is a peaceful and somewhat surreal experience (but only if you avoid the crowds). It’s best to visit early in the morning when it’s less crowded. Once you’ve explored the bamboo grove, you can check out the nearby Togetsukyo Bridge or the free temple grounds at Tenryu-ji.
- Address: Sagatenryuji Susukinobabacho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto
- Opening Hours: Open 24/7
- How to Get There: Take the JR Sagano Line to Saga-Arashiyama Station, then a 10-minute walk.
- Website: JNTO
3. Nishiki Market
Nishiki Market is mainly a shopping street filled with unique foods and shops, but visitors can still enjoy the lively atmosphere without spending any money. While it’s great to just wander around and enjoy the local atmosphere without spending any money, you might find some street food or small souvenirs that you just can’t resist. It’s right in the heart of Kyoto, with easy access to other spots in the downtown area.
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- Address: Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto
- Opening Hours: Typically open from 9:00 am – 6:00 pm (hours vary by shop)
- How to Get There: A short walk from Shijo Station on the Karasuma Line.
- Website: Nishiki Market
4. Kyoto Imperial Palace Park
The Kyoto Imperial Palace grounds give you a great view of Japan’s historical architecture. The park is a great place to go for a walk, especially in spring when the cherry blossoms are in bloom or in autumn when the leaves are changing color. As you walk around, you’ll get a sense of the city’s royal history, with impressive walls and gorgeous gardens surrounding the palace. On certain days, visitors can tour the palace grounds free of charge. You can also check out the Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, which is nearby.
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- Address: 3 Kyoto-Gyoen, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto
- Opening Hours: Palace grounds open 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
- How to Get There: Take the Karasuma Subway Line to Imadegawa Station.
- Website: Kyoto Imperial Palace
5. Gion District
Gion is famous for its wooden machiya houses, and it’s Kyoto’s traditional geisha district. You can take a pleasant walk down the historic streets, especially around Hanami-koji Street, and you might even get to see geiko or maiko going to their appointments in the evening. You’ll also find Yasaka Shrine and the Shirakawa Canal nearby, and they’re free to visit.
- Address: Gion, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto
- Opening Hours: Open 24/7
- How to Get There: Take the Keihan Line to Gion-Shijo Station.
- Website: JNTO
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6. Maruyama Park
Maruyama Park is a great place to visit any time of year, but it’s especially popular during cherry blossom season. You can explore the ponds, paths, and cherry trees at your own pace while enjoying the seasonal scenery. The spacious grounds are ideal for a picnic or simply relaxing. Also, Yasaka Shrine is right next to the park and is free to visit too.
- Address: Maruyamacho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto
- Opening Hours: Open 24/7
- How to Get There: A short walk from Gion Shijo Station on the Keihan Line.
- Website: JNTO
7. Philosopher’s Path
This peaceful canal walk in Higashiyama is at its best during cherry blossom season. It’s named after the philosopher Nishida Kitaro, who used to meditate while walking this path. It’s a really tranquil spot, which makes it ideal for contemplation. You’ll also find a few shops, some temples, and plenty of places to sit and enjoy the view along the way.
- Address: Sakyo Ward, Kyoto
- Opening Hours: Open 24/7
- How to Get There: A 15-minute walk from Ginkaku-ji Temple.
- Website: JNTO
8. Kiyomizu-dera Temple Grounds
You have to pay to get into the main hall, but you can explore around Kiyomizu-dera’s outer grounds and the nearby streets for free. The area offers some great views of Kyoto, especially in spring and fall. There are also lots of small shops and stalls to explore along the way.
- Address: 1-294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto
- Opening Hours: Grounds open 24/7
- How to Get There: Take bus 100 or 206 from Kyoto Station to Gojo-zaka or Kiyomizu-michi bus stops, then a 10-minute walk.
- Website: Kyomizudera
9. Kamogawa Riverbank
The Kamogawa River is a great place for riverside picnics and morning or evening walks. You’ll often see locals and tourists relaxing by the water, especially in the warmer months. The riverbank is conveniently located near Gion and other popular areas, making it an ideal resting spot for tourists.
- Address: Along Kamogawa River, Kyoto
- Opening Hours: Open 24/7
- How to Get There: A short walk from Sanjo Station on the Keihan Line.
- Website: JNTO
10. Nijo Castle Grounds
You have to pay to get into Nijo Castle, but you can explore the grounds for free. You can take a walk around the moat, check out the castle walls, and admire the historic architecture from the outside. The gardens are a great place to take a break, and the castle grounds are conveniently located near downtown Kyoto.
- Address: 541 Nijojocho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto
- Opening Hours: Castle grounds open from 8:45 am – 5:00 pm (entry to inner grounds requires fee)
- How to Get There: A short walk from Nijojo-mae Station on the Tozai Line.
- Website: Nijo Castle
11. Tofuku-ji Temple Grounds
Tofuku-ji is one of Kyoto’s oldest Zen temples. The outer grounds are free to visit, with well-kept paths and lovely views of the surrounding trees. It’s just a short trip from central Kyoto, and it’s a great spot for anyone who loves temples. The autumn foliage around the Tsutenkyo Bridge and surrounding gardens is also spectacular.
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- Address: 15-778 Honmachi, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto
- Opening Hours: Grounds open 9:00 am – 4:30 pm
- How to Get There: Take the JR Nara Line to Tofukuji Station, then a 10-minute walk.
- Website: Tofuku-ji
12. Heian Shrine Grounds
Heian Shrine is known for its impressive torii gate and vibrant grounds. You have to pay to get into the inner garden, but you can explore the main courtyard and pathways for free and they make for great photos. They’ve got some lovely architecture and large open spaces.
- Address: Okazaki Nishitennocho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto
- Opening Hours: Open 24/7
- How to Get There: Take Kyoto City Bus #5 to Kyoto Kaikan Bijutsukan-mae.
- Website: JNTO
13. Kyoto Station Sky Garden
If you’re looking for a great view of Kyoto, head up to the Sky Garden at Kyoto Station. The modern architecture and unique viewing points make it an ideal spot for cityscape photos, especially at sunset. There’s a cool light-up walkway at night that adds a modern touch to the already impressive design and open spaces of Kyoto Station.
- Address: Kyoto Station, 901 Higashishiokojicho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto
- Opening Hours: Open 24/7
- How to Get There: Located within Kyoto Station (take the escalators up).
- Website: Kyoto Station Building
14. Shimogamo Shrine
Shimogamo Shrine is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest shrines in Japan. It’s surrounded by Tadasu no Mori forest, a great spot for a relaxing break, especially during the Aoi Matsuri festival in May. The shrine grounds are free to enter and are ideal for a relaxing walk, with lots of historical and scenic highlights.
- Address: 59 Shimogamo Izumigawacho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto
- Opening Hours: 5:30 am – 6:00 pm
- How to Get There: Take bus 4 or 205 from Kyoto Station to Shimogamo-jinja-mae.
- Website: Shimogamo Shrine
15. Ginkaku-ji Outer Grounds
The outer grounds of Ginkaku-ji, also known as the Silver Pavilion, are free to explore and offer a chance to appreciate traditional Japanese aesthetics in the surrounding neighborhood, especially during cherry blossom season. It’s a lovely walk up a hillside lined with unique shops, ending at the temple gate.
- Address: 2 Ginkakujicho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto
- Opening Hours: Grounds open 24/7
- How to Get There: Take Kyoto City Bus #5 or #17 to Ginkakuji-michi, then walk 5 minutes.
- Website: Ginkaku-ji