Minami Ward Travel Guide
Kyoto
Visit Minami Ward
Popular places to visit
To-ji Temple
The To-ji Temple is one of the preeminent traditional sites in Kyoto, with exquisite structures, a flea market and the tallest pagoda in the country.
Rokusonno Shrine
After visiting Rokusonno Shrine, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Kyoto. Visit the shops and temples in this culturally rich area.
Kawaramachi Street
You can find the perfect gifts to bring home when you visit Kawaramachi Street, a favourite shopping spot in Kyoto. Visit the temples and top-notch restaurants in this culturally rich area.
Kiyomizu Temple
Constructed entirely without nails and built on high poles, this temple is part of a World Heritage Site and offers visitors both beauty and history.
Nishiki Market
Come to this market in the heart of the city to experience the authentic sights, smells and sounds of the bartering vendors and their traditional food.
Fushimi Inari Shrine
This shrine at the base of Inari Mountain is dedicated to the goddess of rice and prosperity. See its thousands of red gates around a network of beautiful trails.
Things to do
Kyoto 5-Star Geisha Night Walk: Small-Group Authentic Experience
Kyoto Gion Geisha District Walking Tour - The Stories of Geisha
Osaka / Kyoto: Kinkaku-ji, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Sannenzaka & Uji
10 Must-see Spots in Kyoto One Day Private Tour
Top hotels in Minami Ward
Miyako Hotel Kyoto Hachijo
"Our 1st room was great until we stepped on wet carpet that smelled like urine (huge area). Assuming pet (I hope). They wanted to dry it and have me star in that room! NO! Finally got another room. They give 3 coffees in room. After we finished I wanted more, I was told there was a charge. NOPE, I ..."
Reviewed on 3 Jun 2026
JR WEST GROUP VIA INN PRIME KYOTOEKI HACHIJOGUCHI
"3min walk from main Kyoto station. 5min walk from limousine bus stops. 7-11 directly connected to hotel. Breakfast spread was good. Free flow amenities. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!"
Reviewed on 30 May 2026
Kyoto Universal Hotel Karasuma
"Loved the location of the property."
Reviewed on 2 Jun 2026
Hotel Vischio Kyoto by GRANVIA
"The hotel is one of the best in Kyoto. Great breakfast and accommodations"
Reviewed on 4 Jun 2026
Rihga Gran Kyoto
"Well positioned near to Kyoto station. Very clean and tidy just as advertised"
Reviewed on 4 Jun 2026
Sakura Terrace The Gallery
"Great breakfast nice massage chairs I like the washer and dryer set up we need Smart TVs in the rooms so we could stream Netflix and YouTube in English that's the only thing you could do better. you had the best breakfast at a four hotels that I stayed at while I was in Japan."
Reviewed on 2 Jun 2026
Where to stay in Minami Ward
Central Kyoto
Travellers love Central Kyoto for its popular shops, and you can see more of Kyoto by jumping on the metro at Imadegawa Station or Kuramaguchi Station. You might spend time checking out top sights like Kawaramachi Street and Kyoto Gyoen National Garden.
Gion
Unique features of Gion include the monuments and shopping. Make a stop by Yasaka Shrine or Hanamikoji Street while you're exploring the area.
Shimogyo Ward
Shimogyo Ward is highly notable for its popular shops, and you might want to visit top sights like Kawaramachi Street and Kyoto Railway Museum. See more of Kyoto by jumping on the metro at Tanbaguchi Station or Umekoji-Kyotonishi Station.
Downtown Kyoto
While you're in Downtown Kyoto, take in top sights like Kawaramachi Street or ShinPuhKan Shopping Center, and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Karasuma Oike Station or Marutamachi Station.
Higashiyama Ward
Consider a visit to Three-Year Slope and take some time to enjoy the abundant dining options during your time in Higashiyama Ward. If you want to see more of the city, jump on the metro at Higashiyama Station or Sanjo Keihan Station.
