29 things to do in Kyoto with teenagers

Kyoto is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Japan. There are a lot of things to do in Kyoto with teenagers, especially if you are interested in Japanese culture, history and nature. You visit temples and shrines, take a walk through the bamboo forest, or enjoy the views from the top of Mount Yoshida.

Know before you go. Our top Kyoto travel tips

Travelling to Japan with teens can be such an enriching experience for the whole family, and Kyoto is one of the top family destinations in Asia. Did you know that was the capital of Japan for over 1,000 years?

There are so many things to do in Kyoto, and having information on the best place to stay, how to get around, which currency to use and more is extremely important. Below you will find some information for planning a hassle-free family vacation in Kyoto Japan.

Where to stay in Kyoto with teenagers

Great vacations with teens start with some great vacation planning. When you are planning a trip to Asia with teens, you’ll never be short of options for your family accommodation in Japan. For the best Kyoto hotels for families, you will find a range of hotels, apartments, and hostels for families on holiday in Kyoto.

You will be sure to be able to find something to fit singles, couples, families, and groups on every budget on your family trip to Japan.

• For luxury family-friendly hotels in Kyoto, we suggest The Four Seasons in Kyoto’s temple district, The Hyatt Regency with its Bamboo forest and The Westin Miyako Kyoto featuring a pool and spa.
• For affordable family-friendly hotels in Kyoto, we suggest The Thousands with its spacious rooms, Mimaru Kyoto Shinmachi Sanjo with its option to connect rooms and Sakara Kyoto with its centrally located position.

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If you’re not keen on any of our picks below or have specific needs for your teen travel holidays, we recommend using Expedia and Agoda to find the best prices in Japan for your family vacation to Kyoto.

Kyoto apartment alternative for your stay

If you prefer a home away from home-style accommodation when on your trip to Japan with teenagers in Kyoto, then an apartment is the best choice for you on your family vacation.

There are so many options that include cooking and laundry facilities when renting an apartment. You can search VRBO to find the perfect apartment in Kyoto for teens on your Japan trip with family.

Getting to Kyoto

Kyoto is one of the best family destinations for travel with teens. Kyoto is a major city in Japan and is connected by highways, long distant buses, trains and planes all bringing people daily to the city. This makes Kyoto one of the easiest family travel destinations to get to in Japan.

• Kansai International Airport is the main international access point to Kyoto by plane. There is no dedicated Kyoto airport. Book a train from Kansai airport to Kyoto.
• You can catch a train to Kyoto from Osaka (90 minutes) and Tokyo (2.5 hours). Japan is known as the pioneer of high-speed trains, book your Japan Train tickets today.
• Kyoto can be reached by bus from cities across Japan. Bus travel with teens in Japan can add so many wonderful experiences for teens on vacation. Book your bus tickets to Kyoto with Busbud.
• If you plan to road trip with teenagers in Japan you can hire a car at any International airport and dealership across the country. Book a car in Japan with Economy Bookings Rental Cars.

How to get around Kyoto

Kyoto is serviced by an efficient and reliable public transport network. The City of Kyoto has multiple public transportation options, with municipal subways and buses available.

Japan Rail trains and privately-operated railways and bus lines operate routes across the city. The best of Kyoto is easily seen with public transport.

Weather in Kyoto

August is the hottest month in Kyoto, with an average temperature of 28.5°C (83°F). This warm weather location means shorts and shirts are a must in summer.

Snow falls on average 25 days a year, with the coldest being January at 4.5°C (40°F). Kyoto is known for its cold winters, so make sure you pack appropriately.

Kyoto for international visitors

International travel to Kyoto requires a bit more thought. You will need travel insurance in Japan. Medical care is not cheap and if you want good quality care it will cost you a fortune if you don’t have travel insurance.

The official currency of Japan is the Japanese Yen. If you use your bank account from home you will be stung with high transaction fees, while your mobile phone calls will all be charged at an international rate. These are just some of the things you need to think about,

• For International travellers, travel insurance is a must get a quote through Insurance Masters and don’t go home with a huge bill for medical expenses
• Do you need a visa to visit Kyoto? The country of Japan may require you to have a visa or an ETA (Electronic travel authorization) to enter the country. You can check and buy these documents at iVisa
• Load a Revolut Travel Money card with USD dollars for your visit and save on transaction fees
• Make phone calls with an international sim card that you can buy before leaving home or buy a voucher for a virtual e-sim for your mobile phone.
• A 4G pocket Wi-Fi modem is essential for accessing the internet. You can rent a pocket modem that you can pick up at the airport or your hotel, alternatively buy a pocket modem that you can use on all future trips with your phone, tablet or computer.

Travel accessories for teenagers that travel

For teenagers, travelling can be a fun and exciting experience. However, there are a few things that they need to take into account in order to make the trip as comfortable and safe as possible. One of these is ensuring that they have the necessary travel accessories.

Things to do in Kyoto with teenagers

Now that we have covered all the essential Kyoto travel tips for families, here are all the very best things to do in Kyoto with teenagers.

Cherry Blossoms in Kyoto

Cherry blossoms in Kyoto are a special time of year. The city comes alive with colour and the air is filled with the scent of flowers. It’s a time to enjoy the company of friends and family and to create memories that will last a lifetime.

If you’re planning a trip to Kyoto with teens, be sure to add cherry blossom viewing to your itinerary. The best time to see the blossoms is late March to early April. But don’t wait too long, as they only bloom for about two weeks.

There are many ways to enjoy the cherry blossoms in Kyoto. Take a stroll through one of the city’s many parks, or join in on a hanami picnic beneath the trees. And if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji peeking out from behind the clouds.

Things for teenagers to do in Kyoto – Kyoto Tower

Kyoto Tower stands 131 meters tall and is the tallest structure in Kyoto. The tower offers 360-degree views of the city and is a popular spot for teenagers to visit on holiday in Kyoto.

The tower is also one of the most popular attractions in Kyoto, with over 2 million visitors each year. At the base of the tower is a 9-story building housing a hotel and shops. Book your Tower of Kyoto entry tickets today.

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Kyoto Samurai Experience

Kyoto is known for its rich history and culture, and one of the best ways to experience this is by learning about the Samurai.

At the Kyoto Samurai Experience, you can do just that. You’ll learn about the samurai way of life, and even get to dress up in traditional clothing. This is a great way to immerse yourself in Japanese culture and have a unique experience that you won’t find anywhere else.

What to see in Kyoto with teenagers – Bamboo Forest

Bamboo forests are a sight to behold and Kyoto’s is no different. The Bamboo forest, located in Arashiyama, is one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions.

And for good reason, the forest is home to some of the tallest bamboo trees in the world. Strolling through the forest is like stepping into another world. It’s peaceful and serene, it’s one of the best places to go in Kyoto with teenagers to take some unforgettable photos.

Kyoto hop-on hop-off bus

The Kyoto hop on hop off bus is always popular with family travelers. A sightseeing bus tour in Kyoto is a great way to give you an overview of the city.

The bus route takes you to all the Kyoto attractions, so you can see everything from Nijo-jo Castle to the Nishiki-ichiba Market. This tour bus allows you to get out and visit all the top Kyoto attractions and hop back on the next bus when it appears. Book your bus tickets today.

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Fun things to do in Kyoto with teenagers – Rickshaw Tour

A rickshaw tour of Kyoto is the best way to see the city’s many landmarks and attractions. You’ll be able to cover more ground than you would on foot, and your guide will be able to point out interesting sights and provide history and context along the way.

The tour can be customized to your interests, so whether you’re interested in temples, gardens, or traditional architecture, you’ll be sure to have a memorable experience. Search a variety of rickshaw tours in Kyoto today.

Family holidays in Kyoto – Rail Museum

Japan is home to many unique rail museums, but the Kyoto Railway Museum is a must-see for any fan of trains. This museum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Kyoto, and it’s easy to see why Japan is a leader in fast trains.

The museum has a wide variety of exhibits on the history of Japanese railways, and there are also interactive displays that will be fun for all ages. Even if you’re not a railway enthusiast, this museum is worth a visit. It’s a great way to learn about the history of Japan’s railways and get an up-close look at some of the country’s most famous trains.

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Samurai & Ninja Museum Ticket

If you are interested in Japanese culture, a visit to the Samurai & Ninja Museum in Kyoto is a must. The museum is small but very well done, with life-size dioramas depicting scenes from samurai life, as well as exhibits on the history and weapons of the samurai and ninjas. The highlight of the museum is the chance to try on real samurai armour and have your photo taken. Secure your entry tickets today

Japanese Archery experience in Kyoto

Japanese Archery is a traditional sport that has been practised in Japan for centuries. It is also known as Kyudo. The sport is based on Zen Buddhism, and the principles of Zen are applied to the practice of archery. Go from the practice range to the shooting range, Book this experience today.

Kyoto Manga Museum

Kyoto International Manga Museum is a must-see for any manga fan. The museum has an extensive collection of manga and anime, as well as interactive exhibits. Teenagers will love the opportunity to immerse themselves in Japanese culture, and the museum makes for a great holiday activity. Book your entry today.

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Nijo Castle in Kyoto with teenagers

Nijo Castle in Kyoto, Japan is a must-see for any visitor to the country.

The castle was built in 1603 by Tokugawa Ieyasu and served as the imperial palace until 1868. The castle grounds are beautiful, with manicured gardens and numerous ponds. The castle itself is imposing, with thick walls and multiple layers of security. Book an official English-guided tour.

Things to do in Kyoto for young adults – Dark Kyoto tour

Looking for something different to do on your holiday in Kyoto? Why not take a dark Kyoto tour? This is a great activity for teenagers and adults alike.

On the tour, you will learn about the history of some of Kyoto’s most famous attractions. You will also get to see some of the city’s darker sides that are often hidden from tourists.

The tour guides are knowledgeable and friendly, and they will make sure you have a great time. They will also take photos of you at some of the most popular spots on the tour.

So if you’re looking for something unique things to do in Kyoto for teenagers on your next holiday, be sure to check out a Dark Kyoto tour.

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Teenage things to do in Kyoto – Fushimi Inari Shrine

Fushimi Inari Shrine is one of the most popular shrines in Kyoto. It is especially popular with tourists from overseas.

The shrine is located at the base of Mount Inari and is known for its thousands of vermilion torii gates. The shrine was founded in 711 AD and has been a popular spot for pilgrimage ever since. Visitors to the shrine can enjoy hiking up the mountain, as well as taking in the beautiful view from the top, alternatively take a tour and learn more about the site.

Watching football in Kyoto

Kyoto Sanga FC is a Japanese professional football club based in Kyoto playing in the top division of the J-League. Sanga comes from the Sanskrit word sang ha, a term meaning group or club.

Kyoto Sanga is celebrating 100 years in existence in 2022 and playing their games at the brand new Sanga Stadium by Kyocera. The stadium opened in late 2020 with a 21,000-seat capacity. The J-League season runs from February to November, with the Yokohama Marinos winning the 2022 title.

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Toei Kyoto Studio Park

The Toei Uzumasa Eigamura also known as Kyoto Studio Park, is a film set and theme park in one. The park is a recreated town from the Edo period of Japanese history, where the filming of historic TV shows and movies is occasionally filmed.

When filming is taking place, visitors are welcome to watch or can enjoy Ninja performances, explore a maze, a 360-degree 3D theatre, survive a haunted house and watch filming demonstrations just to name a few. Book your entry tickets today

A Hozugawa River boat ride

A Hozugawa River boat ride is a great way for teenagers to enjoy the sights and sounds of nature around Kyoto. The Hozugawa River is one of the most popular tourist destinations and part of any best Kyoto itinerary for families.

With long poles made of bamboo, boatmen steer the flat-bottom wooden boats down the Hozugawa River taking in rapids, a gorge and dramatic rock formations. The Hozugawa River is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Kyoto, and a boat ride is a great way to see the city. Book your boat ride today

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Teenage girls in Kyoto – Japanese Courtesan photoshoot

A Japanese Courtesan photoshoot is a perfect way to capture memories of your vacation in Kyoto. During the shoot, you will be dressed in beautiful Courtesan clothes, have your makeup applied and have professional photos taken.

After the shoot, your teenage daughter will have plenty of beautiful photos to remember your time in Kyoto. The experience is truly one-of-a-kind and something you won’t want to miss out on. Book this experience today.

Things for teenage girls to do in Kyoto – Rent a Kimono

Kyoto is a beautiful city with a rich culture, and one of the best ways to experience it is by renting a Kimono. Kimonos are traditional Japanese garments that are often worn on special occasions.

Renting a Kimono is a great way to immerse yourself in the culture and get a taste of what it’s like to wear one of these beautiful garments. The memories you will make and pictures you can capture will last forever. Rent your Kimono in Kyoto today.

Things to do in Kyoto with teenage girls – High Tea

High Tea started out as a quintessentially British thing. This afternoon tea tradition involves savoury sandwiches, cakes, pastries, and of course, tea. For mothers and daughters, it’s a cherished ritual that often brings them closer together.

If you’re looking for something to do in Kyoto with teenager girls, then you should experience high tea firsthand, there are plenty of places to go in Kyoto. But be warned, it can be quite addictive! Once you’ve tasted those delicious treats, you’ll likely want to indulge again and again. You will find the best High Tea or Afternoon teas in Kyoto at The Ritz Carlton Kyoto and The Four Seasons Hotel

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The most Instagramable spots in Kyoto

The best family vacations for teens always incorporate something they love. Social media is important and teenagers can use Instagram to stay connected with friends, share their interests, and express themselves creatively.

We recommend visiting Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine and Yasaka Pagoda in Higashiyama District for the best Instagram spots in Kyoto. Alternatively, book yourself, an Instagram tour with a guide who will take you to all the hotspots in the city. Check prices on the best Instagram tour in Kyoto. 

Professional photoshoot in Kyoto

As our kids get older, we spend less and less time with them making family travel memories. One excellent way to capture some of these important family vacations with teenagers moments is to hire a professional photographer for a few hours to make some lifelong memories for you on your family vacation with teens in Kyoto.

The photographer will supply everything, your family just needs to provide the smiles for your Kyoto with teenagers photoshoot. Book an unforgettable family travel memory today and secure your family travel photo shoot.

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Pin Bowling in Kyoto with teenagers

If you’re looking for a bit of fun, friendly family competition in Kyoto with kids, then 10-pin bowling might be just the family activity in Japan for you and your teen travelers. You can go 10-pin bowling in Kyoto at a number of different locations in the city centre, and 10-pin bowling has to be one of the best family-friendly things to do in Kyoto with teenagers. 

Most bowling alleys these days are more entertainment centres featuring amusement, food and drink options. You will find some of the best bowling locations in Kyoto below.

• Round One Kyoto Kawaramachi
• MK Bowl Kamigamo
• Round One Stadium Kyoto 

Bike riding in Kyoto for teens

Teenager vacations need to be action-packed! Kyoto bike riding is a popular family activity when travelling with teenagers. Bike riding allows you to experience your location, either in town or out in the surrounding areas. You will find Kyoto bike tours are the best way to go if you want to get an up-close and personal experience of the city on your holiday with teens.

You will either have a Kyoto tour guide to point out all the important attractions in the city or a map to follow. The Kyoto bike tours will take you on a family vacation 2-wheeled adventure. Alternatively, you can find locations that hire bikes and let you explore Kyoto on your own. Plan a Kyoto bike tour today.

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Family holidays in Kyoto – Going to the cinema

Great vacations with teens have a mix of everything! Watching a movie is popular with teenagers anywhere in the world. Going to the cinema in Kyoto with teenagers is a great evening activity. You will find state-of-the-art screens and sound for you to watch the latest blockbusters in Kyoto cinemas

In Kyoto, you will find multiplex, IMAX, 3d and specialty cinemas showing art-house and indie films. A cinema is one of the best places to visit in Kyoto at night with teens, You can use this Trip Advisor guide to the best cinemas in Kyoto.

Shopping in Kyoto with teens

There is nothing worse than not having the appropriate clothing for your family vacation to Japan, or discovering you have lost luggage in transit on a family trip to Kyoto. Below we have included some travel tips for families on where to shop in Kyoto for teens if you find you need to or if you just want to do some Kyoto shopping with teenagers.

Kyoto is a shopper’s paradise, with an endless array of boutiques, shopping centres and department stores to explore. From high-end designer labels to trendy streetwear, there’s something for everyone in Kyoto. And with many shops offering tax-free shopping for foreigners, it’s easy to get a great deal on your purchases.

Whether you’re looking for souvenirs, gifts or just a new wardrobe, be sure to check out the following shopping hotspots in Kyoto:

• Gion: This traditional district is home to many quaint shops selling everything from kimonos to ceramics.

• Kawaramachi: A popular shopping street with plenty of department stores, fashion boutiques and cafes.

• Shijo: Another great spot for shopping, with a mix of high-end and budget-friendly stores.

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Free things to do in Kyoto with teens

Kyoto offers, some of the best free things to do with your teenage family members. These free city activities are perfect for keeping everyone happy and entertained without having to spend any money. Some of our recommendations for free activities in Kyoto for families are as follows.

• Spend an evening walking around Maruyama Park
• Explore Nishiko Market
• The guardian shrine of Gion
• Kimono fashion parade 

Annual events in Kyoto that teens will love

Kyoto is a city with a rich culture and history. There are many annual events that take place in Kyoto that can be enjoyed by families and teens visiting Japan. Some of these events include:

• Higashiyama Hanatoro – Lanterns are placed along the lanes and roads of the area, all leading to Maruyama-Koen Park, where a number of light sculptures and installations are on display
•  Gion Matsuri – Kyoto’s biggest event with street parades, floats, food and drinks.
•  Southern Higashiyama Temple Illuminations – During the Cherry Blossom season, many of the temples have evening temple illuminations

These events help to make Kyoto a vibrant and exciting city to visit on your next family travel vacation.

Day trips from Kyoto with teens

While staying in the city with teenagers on your family holiday, a day trip to see a bit more of Japan is recommended. There are some fun trips for teenagers and families from Kyoto to make out of the city. The best vacations for teenagers usually include at least one day trip from Kyoto

Below, we have a couple of day trips recommendations for families travelling with teenagers. There are also so many more things to do on your vacation with teenagers when you add a day trip from Kyoto.

Hiroshima

Hiroshima is a city located in the western part of Honshu, the largest island in Japan. The city is best known for being the first target of an atomic bomb during World War II. You can visit Hiroshima from Kyoto by train in around 2.5 hours

On August 6, 1945, at 8:15 am, the United States dropped an atomic bomb on Hiroshima. The bomb exploded about 600 meters above the ground and destroyed nearly everything within a 2-kilometre radius of the explosion site. Tens of thousands of people were killed instantly or died soon after from injuries or radiation exposure.

Today you can visit the Peace Park, the museum and the A dome during your visit with teens to learn more about what happened here.

Osaka

A Day Trip to Osaka from Kyoto with so many sights and attractions, Osaka is the perfect place for a day trip from Kyoto. Here are some of the things you can do while in Osaka.

Visit the iconic Osaka Castle. This 16th-century castle is one of Japan’s most popular tourist destinations. Explore the lively Dotonbori district. This area is known for its bright lights and numerous restaurants and bars.

Take a walk through Nakanoshima Park. This park is located in the centre of Osaka and is a great place to relax or take a scenic stroll. You can even blow off all the historical sights and head straight to Universal Studio’s

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Places to eat in Kyoto for teens

Vacationing with teens absolutely needs to include a brilliant meal to remember the family holiday. Family travel with teenagers is a wonderful thing, and bonding over a meal at the end of the day or even during it is a great way to connect with your teen travelers. Having a meal with family is one of the top things to do in Kyoto with teenagers.

Rai Rai Tei

Rai Rai Tei is one of Kyoto’s most popular ramen shops. The cafe is known for its delicious food and friendly staff. Rai Rai Tei is a popular spot for families and tourists alike. The restaurant offers a variety of different ramen dishes, ramen is best-eaten piping hot, so you are encouraged to slurp it to help cool the noodles down. Rai Rai Tei’s menu is sure to please everyone in your group

Awomb

Awomb Kyoto is a family-friendly sushi restaurant and café that offers a variety of delicious food options. The menu features both traditional and contemporary sushi where they pit an artistic twist on the presentation.

The restaurant is located in the heart of the city, near many popular tourist attractions. Awomb Kyoto is the perfect place to enjoy a meal with your family or friends.

Street food – Kyoto experiences with teens

Street food is a popular way to eat in many parts of the world. It’s a quick and easy way to get some delicious local food without having to go to a full restaurant. Street food can be found in many different styles, and options in Kyoto tourist spots.

Some of the most well-known street foods include tacos in Mexico, Zapiekanka in Poland, Dan Dan noodles in China, and Shawarma in Middle Eastern countries. Street food in Japan often has its origins in the cultural history of the past. Some of the most popular Kyoto street foods include Yatsuhashi (a Japanese confectionery), Tako Tamago (octopus stuffed with quail eggs) and Green Tea Icecream.

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Frequently asked questions about Kyoto

There are so many frequently asked questions about Kyoto, especially from families travelling with teenagers. 

Kyoto is one of the best family city breaks in Japan and one of the best places to vacation with teenagers. There are so many things to consider when you are planning your family vacation to Japan. Here is a list of some of the most frequently asked questions about Kyoto to help you make your family vacation to Japan easy and hassle-free.

Where are the best places to stay in Kyoto for teenagers

At the top of the article, we suggested some accommodation choices for your holiday in Kyoto with kids. If you are looking for a wider variety of choices for your family stay in Kyoto, please find below an interactive map for you to find your perfect stay for your Japan vacation.

Are you looking to book flights, hotels, apartments, tours, airport transfers, travel insurance and more for your vacation with young adults? Are you just not sure what travel companies you can trust to book your family travel online?

We have a family travel resource page that is full of companies that we personally use, trust and book through for all our family vacation trips from a weekend away to long term travel with older children around the world. Click here to search our travel resources page.

We hope this article from us here at Wyld Family Travel has you inspired to visit Japan with teenagers. There are so many things to do in Kyoto with teenagers that will have you entertained for your family’s whole stay in the city.

Travelling with young adults has just as many issues as travelling with young children. Choosing the best teenage vacation destinations can be so time-consuming.

Planning a family holiday with teenagers and tweens can be stressful, and finding the best tips for travel is essential. 

Use our Travel with Teenagers Destination Guides from all over the world for your next family vacation inspiration to make your family vacations with teens epic.

For more amazing ideas on where to holiday, click through to our Japan Destination Guide page for more brilliant inspiration.

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