Top 10 Best Places to Play in Kyoto

Japan's only theme park where you can experience the Edo period firsthand. Walk through authentic movie sets, watch live samurai shows, and dress up in period costumes for an immersive journey back in time.

Learn the ancient art of Japanese sword performance from professional samurai sword artists. This hands-on experience teaches traditional sword techniques and the spiritual aspects of the samurai warrior code.

Transform yourself with traditional Japanese kimono and stroll through Kyoto's historic streets. Choose from hundreds of stunning kimono designs and receive professional dressing and hair styling services.

Experience the world of ninjas through cutting-edge virtual reality technology. Train in stealth techniques, practice throwing shuriken, and complete thrilling ninja missions in this high-tech entertainment venue.

Japan's ultimate entertainment complex featuring bowling, arcade games, karaoke, billiards, and darts all under one roof. Perfect for groups looking for hours of fun and entertainment.

One of Japan's largest railway museums featuring 53 trains from steam locomotives to modern bullet trains. Enjoy interactive exhibits, train simulators, and watch the impressive turntable in action.

Discover marine life from Kyoto's rivers to the Pacific Ocean in this inland aquarium. Features over 15,000 creatures including playful dolphins, giant salamanders, and mesmerizing jellyfish displays.

Transform into a traditional maiko (apprentice geisha) with full makeup, wig, and authentic kimono. Professional photographers capture your elegant look in studio and outdoor settings around Gion.

Ride through the stunning Hozugawa River valley on this scenic railway with open-air carriages. The slow-moving train offers breathtaking views of the gorge, especially during cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons.

Experience a thrilling two-hour boat ride down the Hozugawa River through rocky rapids and serene stretches. Skilled boatmen navigate traditional wooden boats while sharing stories and songs.

Immerse yourself in a stunning fusion of nature and digital art at this nighttime exhibition. The ancient garden transforms into a magical world of interactive light installations that respond to your presence.

Test your problem-solving skills in ninja-themed escape rooms featuring traditional Japanese puzzles and modern challenges. Work with your team to unlock ancient secrets within the time limit.

Explore hidden temples, quiet neighborhoods, and scenic riverside paths on a guided bicycle tour. Electric bikes make it easy to cover more ground while discovering spots tourists rarely find.

Join locals in the beloved tradition of cherry blossom viewing parties. This curated experience includes prime spot reservations, traditional bento boxes, sake, and all picnic supplies in scenic locations.

Climb to this hilltop park where wild Japanese macaques roam freely. Enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto while observing and feeding these playful monkeys in their natural mountain habitat.

Watch the ancient art of ukai, where trained cormorants catch fish by torchlight on summer evenings. Board a traditional wooden boat and witness this 1,300-year-old fishing technique up close.

Participate in Japan's most famous festival held throughout July. Watch elaborate floats parade through streets, enjoy street food stalls, and experience the electric atmosphere of this thousand-year-old celebration.

Experience the magical autumn light-up at this historic temple where brilliant fall foliage is illuminated against the night sky. The reflection in the temple pond creates breathtaking mirror images.

Celebrate autumn in Kyoto's most scenic district with traditional performances, tea ceremonies, and craft demonstrations set against spectacular fall colors. The bamboo grove and riverbanks glow with red and gold.

Wander through the enchanting winter illumination festival where thousands of lanterns light up the bamboo grove, temples, and pathways of Arashiyama creating a magical winter wonderland.

Welcome the new year with traditional temple visits and the ceremonial ringing of temple bells 108 times at midnight. Experience Japanese New Year traditions with special foods and prayers for good fortune.