All Japan Kyoto

The Atlas Obscura Guide To Kyoto

35 Cool, Hidden, and Unusual Things to Do in Kyoto, Japan

Updated March 14, 2023

Email

Unusual Attractions in Kyoto

See All 35 Things To Do in Kyoto

Cool Places to Eat & Drink in Kyoto

See all 5 Places to Eat in Kyoto
In partnership with KAYAK

Plan Your Trip

In partnership with GetYourGuide

Unforgettable Experiences Nearby

Atlas Obscura Trips

Artisans & Exiles: Exploring the Hidden Traditions of Japan’s Sado Island

Exploration through a history of exile, gold rush, and thriving cultural traditions.

Learn More

Explore Kyoto, Japan

Temples 8
Shrines 8
History & Culture 6
Buddhism 4
Sacred Spaces 4
Statues 3
Restaurants 2
Unique Restaurants & Bars 1

Kyoto Leaderboard

Recent Kyoto Activity

Stories About Kyoto

The Enduring Haute Couture of a 466-Year Old Kimono House

How Chiso, a relatively obscure Japanese textile firm, keeps an age-old craft fresh.
by Claire Voon

The Ghostly Japanese Fireball Spirits That Live On in Pokémon

The digital descendants of 'yōkai' can be spotted in many Japanese games.
by Sabrina Imbler

The Free Cookie in Your Chinese Takeout Is Actually Japanese

Fortune cookies emerged from one of America’s darkest moments.
by Selena Takigawa Hoy

These Cheeky Statuettes Were Part of Edo-Era Japan’s Answer to Pockets

Ornate netsuke were practical status symbols.
by Sabrina Imbler

Found: Foxes Stealing Shoes in Japan

And they would have gotten away with 40 pairs, if it weren't for the police.
by Christina Ayele Djossa

See Fewer Ads

Become an Atlas Obscura member and experience far fewer ads and no pop-ups.

Learn More