Top 10 Kyoto Travel Tips: Geisha Etiquette, Early Mornings, and Cash Rules
“Kyoto falls in love with you first, then you fall in love with it.”
Kyoto is the cultural heart of Japan. It is a city of wooden teahouses, bamboo forests, and stunning temples. But don't let the postcard photos fool you; the crowds can be overwhelming.
Visiting Kyoto requires patience and strategy. If you chase a Geisha for a photo or try to enter a temple with your shoes on, you will offend the locals. Here is your guide to finding the "Zen" in Kyoto without the stress.
1.
The Gion "No Photo" Rule (Fines Apply)
In the historic Gion district, tourists used to harass Geishas (Geiko/Maiko) for photos.
The Rule: Photography is now banned on private streets in Gion. There are signs everywhere. If you take a photo of a Geisha or private property, you can be fined ¥10,000. Keep your camera away and respect their privacy.
2.
Fushimi Inari: Go to the Top
The thousands of orange Torii gates are world-famous. The entrance is packed like a sardine can.
The Hack: Most tourists turn back after 20 minutes. Keep walking! The hike to the summit takes about 1-2 hours. The higher you go, the emptier and more magical it becomes. You will get that "solo" photo only near the top.
3.
Rent a Bicycle (Best Transport)
Kyoto is flatter than Tokyo and perfect for cycling. Buses are often stuck in traffic and overcrowded.
The Hack: Rent an electric assist bike for the day (approx. ¥1,500). You can zip along the Kamo River and travel between temples (like Kinkaku-ji to Arashiyama) much faster and more pleasantly than by bus.
4.
Cash is King (Still)
While Tokyo is modernizing, many old temples, small shops, and bus ticket counters in Kyoto still do not accept credit cards.
The Rule: Always carry at least ¥10,000 to ¥20,000 in cash. You don't want to be stuck at a temple entrance unable to buy a ticket because you only have Apple Pay.
5.
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: Go at Sunrise
The Bamboo Grove is enchanting but very short. By 9:00 AM, it is full of selfie sticks.
The Hack: Arrive at 7:00 AM or earlier. The sound of the wind through the bamboo stems is only audible when the crowds are absent. After the walk, visit the nearby Tenryu-ji temple gardens.
6.
Shoes Off Etiquette
You will be taking your shoes off a lot in Kyoto—at temples, ryokans (inns), and some restaurants.
The Tip: Wear slip-on shoes or sneakers that are easy to remove. Crucial: Wear nice, clean socks (no holes!). Walking on tatami mats with dirty socks is considered very rude.
7.
Skip the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji) Crowds
Kinkaku-ji is beautiful but you cannot enter the building; you can only look at it from a distance across a pond while being pushed by hundreds of people.
The Alternative: Visit Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion) instead. It has a stunning moss garden, is quieter, and you can walk through the "Philosopher's Path" nearby for a peaceful experience.
8.
Book "Kaiseki" Dinner in Advance
Kyoto is famous for Kaiseki (traditional multi-course dinner).
The Rule: You cannot just walk into a high-end Kaiseki restaurant. They often require reservations weeks or months in advance, and some decline first-time customers without a hotel concierge referral. Plan this meal before you leave home.
9.
Don't Eat While Walking
In Western countries, eating a sandwich on the go is normal. In Japan, it is considered sloppy (bad manners).
The Rule: If you buy street food (like matcha ice cream or dango), stand near the shop or sit on a bench to eat it. Do not walk and eat. Finish it, throw the trash in the shop's bin, and then move on.
10.
Visit in "Off" Season (If Possible)
Cherry Blossom (Sakura) season in April and Autumn Leaves (Momiji) in November are stunning but wildly expensive and crowded.
The Hack: Visit in late May (fresh green maples) or early December (lingering autumn colors). The city is calmer, accommodation is cheaper, and the temples are just as spiritual.
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