All Japan Kyoto

The Atlas Obscura Guide To Kyoto

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

Updated June 16, 2025

Email

Unusual Attractions in Kyoto

See All 47 Things To Do in Kyoto

Cool Places to Eat & Drink in Kyoto

See all 9 Places to Eat in Kyoto
In partnership with KAYAK

Plan Your Trip

In partnership with GetYourGuide

Unforgettable Experiences Nearby

Atlas Obscura Adventures

Hidden Japan: Sado Island, Nara & Kyoto

Explore a different side of Japan.

Book Now

Explore Kyoto, Japan

Temples 10
Shrines 8
Buddhism 6
History & Culture 6
Architecture 4
Sacred Spaces 4
Statues 4
Unique Restaurants & Bars 2

Kyoto Leaderboard

Recent Kyoto Activity

Stories About Kyoto

Artisans at the company have been fussing over small details for centuries.

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 Yuki-onna from Bakemono no e, an Edo-era Japanese handscroll depicting Japanese yōkai.

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
A baker makes fortune cookies at Hougyokudo in Kyoto, Japan.

The Free Cookie in Your Chinese Takeout Is Actually Japanese

Fortune cookies emerged from one of America’s darkest moments.
by Selena Takigawa Hoy
A flirty tanuki, or racoon dog, crafted by artist Masatami in the late 18th century.

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

Ornate netsuke were practical status symbols.
by Sabrina Imbler
Sneaky foxes like to rob Nagaokakyo residents’ shoe racks.

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

Become an Atlas Obscura Member

Join our community of curious explorers.

Learn More