Best of KYOTO

The 5 Best Sights & Galleries in Kyoto

Our travel editors hand-pick, rank, and curate the most spectacular sights & galleries in Kyoto.

“Discover our local editors' hand-picked checklist of the absolute finest sights & galleries in Kyoto.”

4.3 Score

527 Chayachō, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0931, Japan

Long-running museum with Japanese sculptures, paintings, calligraphy & metalwork, plus a cafe.

Why Our Editors Love It

“Ranked #1 locally with a spectacular 4.3/5 rating on Google Maps (8211 reviews).”

4.8 Score

109 Horinouechō, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8117, Japan

Small museum with Edo-period armor & sword displays & family-friendly instruction in warrior skills.

Why Our Editors Love It

“Ranked #2 locally with a spectacular 4.8/5 rating on Google Maps (23683 reviews).”

4.1 Score

623-1 Higashikatamachi, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8183, Japan

Museum featuring displays on the history, art & crafts of Kyoto, with occasional special exhibits.

Why Our Editors Love It

“Ranked #3 locally with a spectacular 4.1/5 rating on Google Maps (5391 reviews).”

4.4 Score

124 Okazaki Enshōjichō, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8344, Japan

Sprawling museum established in 1933 featuring paintings & sculptures by local artists.

Why Our Editors Love It

“Ranked #4 locally with a spectacular 4.4/5 rating on Google Maps (7136 reviews).”

4.9 Score

246 Shikibuchō, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8061, Japan

A magnificent local favorite, widely celebrated for its exceptional sights & galleries experiences in Kyoto.

Why Our Editors Love It

“Ranked #5 locally with a spectacular 4.9/5 rating on Google Maps (296 reviews).”