Kyoto Imperial Palace Tours and Activities

Kyoto Imperial Palace
Photo by Janani Sridhar
Photo by Willie Wheeler
Photo by Mike from Cairns
Photo by Algirdas Sidiskis


Plan a trip to see Kyoto Imperial Palace

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Adventure & outdoor

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Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Kyoto Imperial Palace

Hearton Hotel Kyoto

Hearton Hotel Kyoto

3 out of 5
Oike-agaru, Higashinotoin St. Nakagyo, Kyoto, Kyoto
Hearton Hotel Kyoto
Kyoto Brighton Hotel

Kyoto Brighton Hotel

4.5 out of 5
Nakadachiuri, Shinmachi-dori, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto
Kyoto Brighton Hotel
Onyado Nono Kyotoshichijo Natural Hot Springs

Onyado Nono Kyotoshichijo Natural Hot Springs

3 out of 5
491 Zaimokucho, Shimogyo, Kyoto, Kyoto
Onyado Nono Kyotoshichijo Natural Hot Springs
Hotel Gracery Kyoto Sanjo

Hotel Gracery Kyoto Sanjo

4 out of 5
420 Sakuranocho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto
Hotel Gracery Kyoto Sanjo
Hotel Okura Kyoto

Hotel Okura Kyoto

4.5 out of 5
537-4 Ichinofunairicho, Kawaramachi-dori, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto
Hotel Okura Kyoto
Kyoto Garden Palace

Kyoto Garden Palace

3 out of 5
605 Tatsumae-Cho, Shimochojamachi Agaru Karasuma-dori, Kyoto, Kyoto
Kyoto Garden Palace
Oakwood Hotel Oike Kyoto

Oakwood Hotel Oike Kyoto

3.5 out of 5
165-1 Moriyama-cho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto
Oakwood Hotel Oike Kyoto
Cross Hotel Kyoto

Cross Hotel Kyoto

3.5 out of 5
71-1 Daikokucho, Kawaramachi-dori, Sanjo-sagaru, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto
Cross Hotel Kyoto
Hotel Resol Trinity Kyoto

Hotel Resol Trinity Kyoto

3 out of 5
249, Kamihakusancho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto
Hotel Resol Trinity Kyoto
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Kyoto Imperial Palace

Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of Kyoto Imperial Palace, where you can stroll through the serene gardens, admire the intricate designs of the palace buildings, and learn about Japan's imperial heritage. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the nearby Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, relax in the peaceful surroundings, and partake in guided tours that offer insights into the palace's significance. It's a perfect blend of culture and tranquility for any visitor.

Shopping

Nishiki Market, just 1.6km from Kyoto Imperial Palace, offers a vibrant public market experience. Pontocho Alley, 3.2km away, provides a charming shopping mall atmosphere. For a broader selection, Kawaramachi Street, located 4.8km away, features a bustling shopping area perfect for families and city vibes.

Recreation

Funaoka Thermal Bath offers a soothing body treatment experience with a serene atmosphere perfect for relaxation, just 1.6km from Kyoto Imperial Palace. For sports enthusiasts, Nishikyogoku Athletic Stadium, located 4.8km away, provides an energetic vibe, while Kyoto Concert Hall, 3.2km away, offers captivating musical performances.

Adventure

At Biwako Valley Ski Resort, 24.1km from Kyoto Imperial Palace, enjoy thrilling skiing and outdoor adventures amidst stunning snow-covered landscapes. For a different experience, hike the Fushimi-Inari-Taisha Pilgrimage Circuit, located 6.4km away, where you can immerse yourself in breathtaking scenery and nature.

Nightlife

Experience Kyoto's nightlife by visiting Gion Corner, a charming theatre just 3.2km away, offering a blend of culture and romance. For a fun twist, Omiyakotsu Park, also 3.2km away, boasts an exciting arcade adventure zone. Don’t miss the Kyoto Municipal Science Center For Youth, 8.0km away, featuring a captivating planetarium.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Kyoto Imperial Palace

During your visit to the Kyoto Imperial Palace, immerse yourself in the rich culture by exploring nearby temples and shrines, as well as the Kyoto Imperial Palace Park. This area offers a fantastic family experience, perfect for those keen on history and art. Don't miss the chance to stroll through Kyoto City, where you'll find additional attractions that showcase the region's unique heritage and beauty.

  • Kiyomizu Temple: Nestled 3.2km from Kyoto Imperial Palace, Kiyomizu Temple offers a unique cultural experience. Its stunning wooden stage provides breathtaking views of cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn, making it a perfect spot for photography and reflection.
  • Nijō Castle: Located just 1.6km away, Nijō Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage site that embodies romance and culture. Explore its beautiful gardens and ornate architecture, while learning about the history of the shoguns who once resided here.
  • Kyoto University: This historic institution, situated 1.6km from the palace, boasts beautiful campus grounds and a rich academic atmosphere. Stroll through its picturesque pathways and soak in the vibrant student life that enhances Kyoto's cultural landscape.

Best time to go to Kyoto Imperial Palace

The best time to visit Kyoto Imperial Palace is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January37.8°F (3.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February39.4°F (4.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March46.0°F (7.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
April54.3°F (12.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
May63.5°F (17.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June70.5°F (21.4°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
July77.9°F (25.5°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
August80.2°F (26.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
September73.0°F (22.8°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly Low
October62.2°F (16.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November52.3°F (11.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
December42.1°F (5.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Kyoto Imperial Palace

To save money on your trip to Kyoto Imperial Palace, consider visiting during the off-peak months of January, February, or September for lower accommodation rates. Book your hotel about a month in advance, with Tuesdays typically being the least expensive nights to stay. Utilize Expedia's last-minute deals for spontaneous trips, and filter options by budget and Eco-certified stays for better choices. Combining your hotel, flights, and activities into a package deal can also lead to significant savings. Finally, explore the area on foot to enjoy free activities and save on transport costs.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Kyoto Imperial Palace are January to February and September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March to April and November, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Kyoto Imperial Palace about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Kyoto Imperial Palace is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Kyoto Imperial Palace is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to narrow down your options based on your preferences, such as budget, desired location, and type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some money by combining your hotel stay at the Kyoto Imperial Palace with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.