7 Cool Things to Do in Kyoto Besides Temples

Kyoto is often thought of as the temple city, and while those ancient sites are definitely worth visiting, there’s so much more to this amazing place. If you’re looking for cool things to do in Kyoto, you’re in for a treat! 

In this blog, we’ll dive into some of the best things to do in Kyoto beyond the temples. If you’re into unique cultural experiences or fun modern adventures, there’s something for everyone. Ready to discover Kyoto’s hidden gems? Let’s get started!

Kyoto is famous for its traditional tea ceremonies, and you can experience this age-old ritual while learning to make your own Japanese sweets! The tea ceremony experience in Kyoto is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in Japanese culture. 

You’ll get to wear a kimono and participate in an authentic tea ceremony where you can appreciate the delicate art of tea-making. Plus, you get to make your own Japanese sweets (nerikiri and ohigashi), which are not only tasty but also fun to craft. It’s a cool way to experience Japan's culture in a hands-on, delicious way!

If you're into tech or art (or both), the Teamlab Biovortex Kyoto is a must-see! This place is a mind-blowing digital art experience where technology and nature come together. When you visit, you’ll be walking through rooms where the walls move, colors shift, and the environment changes with every step you take. 

It’s not just an exhibit; it’s an immersive world that’s so cool, you’ll feel like you're part of the artwork. Perfect if you’re looking for something more modern and funky in Kyoto!

Want to see something truly iconic? Head to a Geisha Maiko Show! This performance lets you experience traditional Japanese dance, music, and culture up close. 

The geishas and maikos are dressed in gorgeous, colorful kimonos, and they perform dances that have been passed down through generations. It’s a fun and fascinating look into Kyoto’s rich traditions, plus you’ll learn a lot about their role in Japanese culture. 

Here’s a fun, hands-on Kyoto experience: craft your own chopsticks in Gion! In this workshop, you’ll learn to make personalized chopsticks using traditional techniques. You get to choose your wood, carve it, and even engrave it to make it truly your own. 

Not only is it a cool activity to do, but you’ll also leave with a unique souvenir that you made yourself. It’s a perfect way to add a personal touch to your Kyoto adventure!

If you’re looking to take in some breathtaking natural beauty, go on a Hozugawa River boat ride. This offers you a completely different side of Kyoto, where you’ll see lush forests, towering mountains, and serene landscapes. 

It’s a cool way to relax and enjoy the gorgeous views of the area, especially if you’re looking to escape the busy streets for a bit. Plus, the boat ride is guided, so you’ll get a little history lesson along the way!

Get a taste of the old-school city with a Kyoto rickshaw tour through the Arashiyama district! You’ll be cruising through the stunning bamboo groves with a friendly guide telling you all about the history and beauty of the area. 

It’s a cool way to see Kyoto’s nature without breaking a sweat. The rickshaw pullers are pros at making the ride smooth and fast, and it’s definitely one of the more memorable ways to explore the city.

If you’re an animal lover, this one’s for you! You have to visit one of the cutest micropic cafes in Kyoto, where you can hang out with tiny pigs while sipping coffee. These adorable little pigs are friendly and love interacting with visitors, making it the perfect spot to relax and have a little fun. 

At Mipig +Cafe, you can enjoy all kinds of drinks, including hot coffee, refreshing iced beverages, and even animal-themed lattes! If you’ve never cuddled with a micropig before, this is definitely a Kyoto experience you don’t want to miss. It’s quirky, it’s cute, and it’s one of the coolest things to do in Kyoto for animal fans!

The Klook Cultural Pass Kyoto is your ticket to exploring the best of the city at a discount! This pass gives you access to many of Kyoto's top attractions, so you can see more without breaking the bank.  Plus, it’s a great way to skip the hassle of buying individual tickets for each spot. If you plan on doing multiple tours, this is a smart way to maximize your time and budget!

Staying connected while traveling is super important, and with a Japan eSIM, you can easily access the internet without worrying about roaming charges or finding Wi-Fi hotspots. This digital SIM card lets you use your phone just like you would back home. It’s one less thing to worry about while you’re out exploring!

Kyoto’s public transportation system is convenient and affordable, and the Kyoto City Subway and Bus One-Day Pass is the best way to make the most of it. With this pass, you can ride both buses and the subway throughout the city, so you’ll have no trouble getting to all the major attractions. It’s the perfect way to see more of the city in one day!

So there you have it, seven cool things to do in Kyoto besides temples! If you're into history, art, nature, or animals, Kyoto’s got something special for you. Ready to explore all these awesome experiences? Start planning your trip today!