Kyoto Right Now
Air quality is poor and unhealthy for sensitive groups, with conditions expected to remain so.
Best time to visit
Good time to visit
May in Kyoto offers pleasant temperatures, though it can be busy with spring travelers. Pack light layers for the mild days and consider booking popular attractions in advance.
SCORE BY MONTH
Visit in April, May, October, or November for pleasant weather. Temperatures are mild, ranging from 17°C to 24°C (63°F to 75°F), and it's generally drier than other times. Avoid July and August due to extreme heat and humidity, and be mindful of potential typhoons from August to October.
Visitor data: Kyoto City Tourism Association (2023) 2023
Day-to-day in Kyoto
Walkability
81/100
Kyoto's main tourist districts are pleasant for walking, with decent sidewalks and services close at hand. You'll find yourself strolling through historic streets, though occasional narrowness and busy intersections require attention.
Sidewalks are generally good in tourist areas, though can be narrow and occasionally obstructed by temporary displays.
Most visitor hubs offer food, shops, and services within a 15-minute walk, making exploration easy.
Drivers are generally courteous, but pedestrian crossings can be infrequent and motorbikes sometimes use sidewalks.
A few months are tough on walkers, but the rest of the year is workable for daily outdoor time.
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Monthly cost
$1,862 / month
MID-RANGESolo mid-range stay including rent, daily eating out, groceries, and routine costs.
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SPECIALTY COFFEE
Kyoto's coffee scene is strong, with many roaster-led shops. Kurasu Kyoto Stand and Weekenders Coffee are local favorites, often found in repurposed machiya houses.
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Coworking
Coworking
Kyoto has a solid coworking scene, especially in central areas like Kawaramachi and Karasuma. You'll find plenty of options, from quiet work-friendly cafes to dedicated spaces.
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Gym
$88 / month
Gym memberships are pricey at $88/month, above average for local costs. Commercial chains like Gold's Gym are dominant, with good options near Karasuma and Kyoto Station.
Kyoto itineraries
Upcoming Events & Holidays
Upcoming events — next 30 days
On the horizon
Public holidays & observances — next 12 months
Dates are researched and checked, but events move. Always confirm with the official source before you book anything around them.
Getting To Kyoto
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Kansai International Airport (KIX).
Kansai International Airport (KIX) is located on a man-made island in Osaka Bay, approximately 75-100 km from Kyoto. The fastest way to reach Kyoto Station is via the JR Haruka limited express train, taking about 70-80 minutes and costing ¥3,060 (20 USD) for a non-reserved seat or ¥3,500 (23 USD) for a reserved seat. Direct airport buses also run from KIX to Kyoto Station, taking about 90-100 minutes and costing ¥2,600-¥2,800 (17-18 USD). A regular taxi to Kyoto can cost around ¥35,000 (228 USD) and take 90-150 minutes, depending on traffic and your specific destination in Kyoto. Shared shuttle services are available for around ¥5,000 (33 USD) per person, but require advance reservations.
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Osaka Itami Airport (ITM).
Osaka Itami Airport (ITM) is closer to Kyoto, about 50 km away, and primarily serves domestic flights. A direct airport limousine bus to Kyoto Station takes approximately 50-70 minutes and costs around ¥1,500 (10 USD). Alternatively, a combination of monorail and Hankyu train can get you to central Kyoto in about 60 minutes for around ¥680 (4 USD). A private taxi from Itami to Kyoto can range from ¥33,000 to ¥48,000 (215-313 USD) and takes approximately 60 minutes. Shared taxi services are also available, starting from ¥20,800 (136 USD).
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Immigration and entry process
Citizens from over 50 countries, including the US, UK, EU, AU, CA, and NZ, can enter Japan as "temporary visitors" for up to 90 days without a visa, requiring only a valid passport. Automated e-gates, known as joint kiosks, are being introduced at major airports like Kansai International, which consolidate immigration and customs into a single scan, potentially saving about 20 minutes of waiting time. Foreign passport holders can use these kiosks after submitting personal information through the Visit Japan Web official website at least six hours before arrival to generate a QR code. Expect to have your fingerprints and a photograph taken upon entry.
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Shinkansen to Kyoto Station.
The Shinkansen (bullet train) is a highly efficient way to reach Kyoto from other major Japanese cities like Tokyo. From Tokyo Station, the fastest Nozomi Shinkansen takes approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes to Kyoto Station. Fares for an unreserved seat start around ¥13,320 (87 USD), while reserved seats are about ¥14,370 (94 USD). Trains run very frequently, typically every 10-15 minutes. Luggage is generally not an issue, though large pieces might require prior reservation for specific oversized luggage spaces on some trains. Security checks are minimal compared to air travel.
Safety Advice
Kyoto is considered one of the safest cities globally, with very low crime rates and a high safety index. While petty theft is rare, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings in crowded tourist areas.
Common Scams
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Bar tout overcharging
HIGH RISKIn nightlife areas like Pontocho and Kawaramachi, touts may approach you with offers of cheap drinks or a 'free first drink' at a bar. Once inside, you'll be presented with an exorbitant bill for watered-down drinks and hostess fees, often tens of thousands of yen. Refusal to pay can lead to intimidation by bouncers.
How to avoid: Politely decline any unsolicited offers from touts on the street, especially in entertainment districts after dark.
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Fake monk donation request
LOW RISKIndividuals dressed as Buddhist monks may approach you near popular tourist sites like temples and shrines, offering small charms or bracelets and then pressuring you for a 'donation,' often showing a list of large contributions from others. These individuals are not genuine monks and the money does not go to a temple.
How to avoid: Do not accept any items offered by individuals dressed as monks on the street, and politely refuse requests for donations.
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Taxi long route or unlicensed
MEDIUM RISKSome taxi drivers might take longer routes to inflate fares, particularly with tourists unfamiliar with the city's layout. There are also reports of unlicensed 'white taxis' operating near tourist areas, which may overcharge.
How to avoid: Use official metered taxis or ride-sharing apps, and follow your route on a map application to ensure the driver is taking a direct path.
Mistakes to Avoid
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Photographing in Gion's private alleys
Kyoto's Gion district has strict rules against photography in its narrow private alleys, particularly around Hanamikoji. This is to protect the privacy of residents and geiko/maiko. Violators face a ¥10,000 fine.
Fix: Observe all posted signs and restrict photography to major public streets in Gion, always asking permission before photographing individuals.
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Being loud on public transport
Public transportation in Kyoto, including trains and buses, is generally quiet. Loud conversations, phone calls, and eating or drinking are considered impolite and disruptive to other passengers.
Fix: Keep conversations hushed, silence your phone, avoid calls, and refrain from eating or drinking while on trains and buses.
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Not carrying enough cash
MINOR CONSEQUENCEWhile major hotels and department stores accept credit cards, many smaller shops, restaurants, and local attractions in Kyoto, especially outside tourist hotspots, operate on a cash-only basis.
Fix: Always carry a sufficient amount of Japanese yen in cash for daily expenses, especially when exploring local neighborhoods or smaller establishments.
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Incorrect temple etiquette
Temples and shrines are sacred places, not just tourist attractions. Incorrect behavior, such as walking on the central path, not purifying hands and mouth, or clapping at a temple, can be disrespectful.
Fix: Bow slightly before entering temple gates, purify your hands and mouth at the temizuya, walk to the sides of paths, and do not clap when praying at a temple.
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Littering or eating while walking
Japan has very few public trash cans, and eating or drinking while walking in public, particularly in areas like Gion, is considered impolite. This can lead to litter and disrupt the clean environment.
Fix: Carry a small bag for your trash until you find a proper receptacle, and consume food and drinks in designated areas or seated at an establishment.
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Tipping for services
Tipping is not customary in Japan and can even be considered rude or confusing, as exceptional service is expected as part of the job. This applies to restaurants, taxis, and hotels.
Fix: Do not tip for services. If you wish to show appreciation, a polite 'arigato gozaimasu' or a small, thoughtful gift presented discreetly in an envelope is appropriate.
Money & Payments
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Cash Still Essential While card acceptance is growing, many smaller establishments, street food stalls, shrines, temples, and local buses in Kyoto remain cash-only. It is advisable to carry 5,000 to 10,000 JPY (approximately $30-65 USD) daily.
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Cards Widely Accepted Major credit cards like Visa and Mastercard are accepted at most hotels, department stores, large restaurants, and convenience stores in Kyoto. American Express is less widely accepted. Chip and PIN cards are preferred over magnetic stripe cards.
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Reliable ATMs Available Seven Bank ATMs (found in 7-Eleven stores) and Japan Post Bank ATMs are the most reliable for international cards and are often open 24/7. Aeon Bank ATMs also accept foreign cards and may offer fee-free withdrawals.
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ATM Withdrawal Limits Most ATMs limit withdrawals to 100,000 JPY (approximately $650 USD) per transaction for international cards. Japan Post Bank ATMs typically have a 50,000 JPY limit. Your home bank may also impose daily limits.
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Digital Wallets Growing Apple Pay and Google Pay are increasingly common in major cities like Kyoto, especially when linked to a Suica or Pasmo card. Local apps like PayPay are popular but generally require a Japanese phone number.
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Avoid Dynamic Currency Conversion When paying by card or withdrawing cash, always choose to be charged in Japanese Yen (JPY) to avoid Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC). DCC results in unfavorable exchange rates and unnecessary fees.
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Watch for Coin Scams Be mindful of change when paying with cash, especially at tourist hotspots. There have been instances of vendors short-changing tourists or swapping Japanese 500 yen coins with similar-looking Korean 500-won coins.
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International Transfers To send money to a bank account in Japan, for things like rent or day-to-day expenses, services like Wise or Remitly usually offer better rates than traditional banks and faster delivery.
You'll typically need the recipient's full name, account number, and SWIFT/BIC code. Some banks may also require a local address.
Costs in Kyoto
Kyoto's charm comes with a price, especially with the influx of tourists driving up costs for accommodation and dining. While a Big Mac is a reasonable $3.19, expect to spend more on local experiences.
SIM Cards & Data
Best option for most travellers: an eSIM you set up before you arrive. You'll be online the moment you land, with no airport queue and no tourist pricing.
Travel eSIMs Connect the second you land. Zero hassle. Skip the airport queue and paperwork. Activate before you fly and land connected. Find the best eSIM →Prefer a local SIM?
Japan boasts extensive 4G LTE and growing 5G coverage across its major cities like Kyoto, ensuring reliable speeds for navigation, ride-hailing, messaging, and video streaming. While urban areas offer ubiquitous connectivity, some extremely rural or mountainous regions may experience weaker signals.
What Kyoto is Like
Arriving in Kyoto, you're immediately struck by a sense of calm that's a distinct contrast to the frenetic energy of other Japanese cities like Tokyo or Osaka. The air often carries a faint, sweet scent, perhaps of incense or cherry blossoms depending on the season, and the pace of movement feels more deliberate. While some main thoroughfares can be busy, particularly around Kyoto Station or Shijo-dori, it's easy to duck into quieter backstreets where traditional wooden machiya houses and the soft rustle of kimonos create a timeless atmosphere.
The daily rhythm in Kyoto unfolds with a refreshing slowness. Mornings often begin with tranquil strolls along the Kamo River, where locals jog or walk their dogs, and the distant chime of a temple bell punctuates the quiet. Shops and attractions generally open around 9 or 10 AM, and while popular spots like Arashiyama Bamboo Grove or Fushimi Inari Taisha can get crowded by midday, the city encourages a more reflective pace. Evenings see a gentle shift, with lantern-lit alleys in areas like Pontocho and Gion inviting leisurely exploration as the crowds thin out.
Kyoto's food scene is a fascinating blend of the deeply traditional and surprisingly accessible. You can easily find high-end kaiseki meals, multi-course culinary rituals showcasing seasonal ingredients, but don't think that's the only option. Nishiki Market, often called "Kyoto's Kitchen," is a must-visit for street food, offering everything from fresh seafood skewers and tako tamago (baby octopus st￭ with a quail egg) to wagyu sushi and korokke (Japanese croquettes). While some market stalls can be a bit touristy and prices higher than elsewhere, it's still a genuine experience. For more casual dining, look for teishoku set meals at local restaurants, which offer great value.
The city's character shifts noticeably across its districts. Gion is the quintessential image of old Kyoto, with its preserved wooden machiya, tea houses, and the chance to spot a geiko or maiko hurrying between appointments. Higashiyama, particularly the slopes leading to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, is also very traditional, filled with souvenir shops and beautiful, narrow streets like Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka. For a more natural escape, Arashiyama in western Kyoto offers the famous bamboo grove and river views, though it can be very crowded during peak times. Downtown Kyoto, around Shijo-Kawaramachi, is the commercial heart, with shopping arcades and a more modern, energetic feel.
Getting around Kyoto is surprisingly straightforward. The city has an efficient public transport system of buses, trains, and subways. While buses cover most of the city, the subway and local trains are generally more convenient for longer distances. Taxis are plentiful and reasonably priced, especially for groups of three or four on shorter trips, and can be useful for reaching areas not well-served by public transport. Walking is also a pleasant way to explore districts like Higashiyama or downtown, and renting a bicycle is a great option for its mostly flat terrain and sane drivers.
Kyoto after dark reveals a different side of the city. While many temples and shrines close, some, like Yasaka Shrine and Fushimi Inari Taisha, remain open and are beautifully illuminated, offering a quieter, more mysterious experience. Pontocho Alley, running parallel to the Kamogawa River, is a prime spot for evening dining and drinks, with its lantern-lit traditional townhouses hosting everything from high-end restaurants to cozy bars. Kiyamachi Street, nearby, offers a more contemporary nightlife scene, popular with students and featuring a variety of bars and clubs.
Kyoto can be as affordable or as luxurious as you make it. Accommodation prices fluctuate significantly with the seasons, with cherry blossom and autumn foliage periods being the most expensive. Budget travelers can find guesthouses and hostels for a reasonable price, while luxury ryokans can command a high premium. Many of Kyoto's most iconic attractions, like Arashiyama Bamboo Grove or Fushimi Inari-Taisha, are free to enter, and even temples often only charge a small fee for specific buildings or gardens. Food can be cheap if you stick to street food or lunch sets, but high-end dining will quickly add up.
What truly defines Kyoto is its unwavering commitment to tradition amidst modernity. You'll constantly encounter ancient temples and serene gardens juxtaposed with contemporary shopping streets and efficient infrastructure. It's a city that values its heritage deeply, from its geisha culture and tea ceremonies to its traditional crafts and seasonal festivals. This careful balance creates a unique atmosphere, a sense of quiet dignity that permeates even the busiest areas, making Kyoto feel like a living museum that is still very much evolving.
Areas of Kyoto
- Nature and Temples
Arashiyama
Located in western Kyoto, Arashiyama is renowned for its iconic bamboo groves, serene temples like Tenryu-ji, and the picturesque Togetsukyo Bridge over the Katsura River. It offers a peaceful escape from the city, though the bamboo forest itself can get very crowded, especially during peak season. Recent efforts have been made to combat graffiti vandalism in the bamboo grove.
Good for:Nature lovers, those seeking scenic beauty and a tranquil retreat.
Skip if:You prefer urban exploration or want to avoid large tourist groups.
- Traditional Crafts
Nishijin
Nishijin is Kyoto's historic weaving district, known for its exquisite Nishijin-ori silk textiles used in kimonos and obis. It's a quieter, more local area where you can experience traditional Japanese craftsmanship and see artisans at work. You'll find well-preserved wooden buildings dating back over a century.
Good for:Cultural immersion, appreciating traditional Japanese crafts, and a peaceful local experience.
Skip if:You're seeking bustling nightlife or major tourist attractions.
- Dining and Nightlife
Pontocho
Pontocho is a narrow, atmospheric alley running parallel to the Kamo River, known for its traditional wooden buildings housing numerous restaurants and bars. In summer, many establishments offer riverside dining on elevated platforms called noryo-yuka. It's a more local and less overtly touristy alternative to Gion for evening entertainment and dining.
Good for:Evening strolls, authentic Japanese dining, and a lively atmosphere.
Skip if:You are looking for quiet evenings or budget-friendly meals.
- Historic Temples
Higashiyama
Higashiyama, particularly Southern Higashiyama, is a beautifully preserved historic district with narrow streets, traditional wooden houses, and numerous temples within walking distance of each other. Kiyomizu-dera Temple, with its panoramic city views, is a major highlight. The area is filled with small shops selling souvenirs and local crafts.
Good for:Exploring ancient temples, traditional architecture, and souvenir shopping on foot.
Skip if:You dislike uphill walks or prefer modern attractions.
- Traditional Charm
Gion
Gion is Kyoto's most famous geisha district, with traditional wooden machiya houses and stone-paved alleys. While glimpses of geiko and maiko are rare due to tourist behavior issues, the area still offers a strong sense of old Kyoto, especially around Hanamikoji Street and Yasaka Shrine. Many traditional teahouses and high-end restaurants are found here.
Good for:Experiencing traditional Kyoto atmosphere and upscale dining.
Skip if:You dislike crowds or are on a tight budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Other
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What are the best areas in Kyoto for first-time visitors?
For first-timers, staying near Kyoto Station offers excellent transport links and easy access to many major sights. Gion and Higashiyama are ideal for those seeking traditional charm and proximity to temples and geisha spotting. If you prefer a more modern and lively atmosphere with plenty of dining and shopping, Shijo-Kawaramachi in downtown Kyoto is a good choice.
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How easy is it to get around Kyoto?
Kyoto's public transport system is efficient and easy to navigate, primarily using buses and subways. Buses cover most tourist areas, but can be slow during peak times. The subway is faster for longer distances, connecting major hubs. Taxis are readily available but can be expensive, especially during rush hour.
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Is Kyoto safe for solo female travellers?
Kyoto is extremely safe for solo female travellers, even at night. Violent crime is rare, and harassment is uncommon. Like any city, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings, but you can generally feel comfortable exploring all areas of Kyoto alone.
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What are the realistic risks of getting seriously ill in Kyoto?
The realistic risk of serious illness from food or water in Kyoto is very low; tap water is safe to drink. Insect-borne diseases are not a significant concern. Emergency medical response is excellent, but for serious conditions requiring complex care or extended stays, medical evacuation insurance is worth having, as specialized treatment can be costly and may necessitate transfer to a facility better equipped for foreign patients.
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Do I need specific travel insurance for Kyoto?
Beyond standard coverage, travel insurance for Kyoto is particularly valuable for medical emergencies, given the high cost of healthcare for non-residents. Evacuation insurance is also a smart move if you anticipate needing highly specialized medical care that might not be readily available or covered by standard plans. Theft is rare, but coverage for lost or stolen belongings is always a good idea.
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Do you need a license to rent a scooter in Kyoto?
Yes, you need an international driving permit (IDP) along with your valid home country driver's license to rent a scooter or motorbike in Kyoto. Without both, rental companies will not let you take a vehicle. Scooters are not a common way for tourists to get around, and navigating the city's busy streets can be challenging.
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What are the drug laws in Kyoto?
Japan has extremely strict drug laws, and this applies to Kyoto. Possession of even small amounts of any illegal drug, including cannabis, can lead to immediate arrest, lengthy detention without bail, and severe penalties, including long prison sentences and deportation. There is zero tolerance.
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Is English widely spoken in Kyoto, and are ride-hailing apps useful?
English proficiency varies; you'll find more English spoken in major tourist areas, hotels, and larger restaurants. Outside of these, a language barrier can exist, so having a translation app is helpful. Uber is available in Kyoto, but taxis are plentiful and often just as convenient, especially for shorter distances.
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Is Kyoto LGBTQ+ friendly?
Kyoto, like much of Japan, is generally discreet regarding public displays of affection for all couples. While there isn't overt hostility, same-sex couples holding hands might draw some stares outside of specific, more tolerant areas. There are a few LGBTQ+ friendly bars and establishments, particularly in the downtown area, but overall, it's a more reserved environment than some Western cities.
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What is the dress code for temples and shrines in Kyoto?
When visiting temples and shrines in Kyoto, it's respectful to dress modestly. This means covering your shoulders and knees. While there isn't a strict enforcement for tourists, avoiding overly revealing clothing shows respect for these sacred sites. Footwear that is easy to slip on and off is also practical, as you'll often remove your shoes before entering certain buildings.
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Are there any specific vaccinations recommended for Kyoto?
For most travellers from Western countries, no specific vaccinations beyond routine ones (like MMR, Tdap, and seasonal flu) are typically recommended for a trip to Kyoto. Consult your doctor for personalized advice, especially if you have underlying health conditions or plan an extended stay.
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Is Kyoto a good destination for families with young children?
Kyoto is generally practical for families with young children, though it requires some planning. Public transport is efficient, but strollers can be challenging on crowded buses or at some temple sites with many stairs. Food options for fussy eaters are plentiful, with many casual restaurants offering milder dishes. Child-specific medical care is excellent, though it's always wise to have travel insurance. The main tourist infrastructure is accommodating, but not specifically designed for young children.
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What are some specific activities to do with kids in Kyoto?
Kids often enjoy the Kyoto Railway Museum, which has real trains and interactive exhibits. The Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama offers a unique chance to see wild monkeys up close. Exploring Nishiki Market can be an adventure for their senses, and a visit to a ninja or samurai museum provides engaging cultural experiences.
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Is vegan food readily available in Kyoto?
Finding vegan food in Kyoto has become much easier, especially in central areas and around popular tourist spots. Many restaurants now offer clearly marked vegan options, and there are dedicated vegan establishments. However, traditional Japanese cuisine often uses dashi (fish stock), so always confirm ingredients, particularly in smaller, local eateries.
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How easy is it to find halal food in Kyoto?
Halal food options in Kyoto are growing, with several restaurants catering specifically to Muslim travellers, particularly in the downtown area. Many larger hotels also offer halal meal options upon request. Prayer facilities are less common but can be found in some hotels and a few dedicated spaces. Alcohol is widely available, but it's easy to avoid, and public consumption norms are generally discreet.
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Do I need a VPN in Kyoto?
You don't typically need a VPN in Kyoto to access common websites or streaming services, as there are no significant government blocks or restrictions. However, a VPN can still be useful for maintaining privacy and security on public Wi-Fi networks. It also allows you to access geo-restricted content from your home country, like Netflix libraries or BBC iPlayer.
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What are the most popular dating apps in Kyoto?
Tinder and Bumble are widely used in Kyoto, especially among younger populations and expats. Other popular apps include Pairs and Omiai, which are more geared towards serious relationships and have a larger Japanese user base. Language barriers can be a factor, so be prepared for that.
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Are there red light districts or adult entertainment areas in Kyoto?
Kyoto has a few areas with adult entertainment, but they are generally discreet and not overtly visible in major tourist zones. Gion and Pontocho are known for traditional geisha entertainment, which is cultural, not sexual. Areas like Kawaramachi sometimes have hostess clubs or bars, but these are typically not disruptive to general tourism or family travel.
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What are the actual requirements for bringing a pet to Kyoto?
Bringing a pet (cat or dog) to Kyoto, and Japan in general, is a complex process with strict requirements. It involves microchipping, multiple rabies vaccinations, blood tests, and a waiting period of at least 180 days after the last effective rabies vaccination before entry. Quarantine upon arrival is possible if requirements aren't fully met. It's genuinely difficult and often inadvisable for short leisure trips due to the extensive preparation and potential for quarantine.
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What are the top attractions in Kyoto, and what should I prioritize?
Prioritize Fushimi Inari-taisha for its iconic torii gates, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove for its unique atmosphere, and Kiyomizu-dera Temple for stunning views and traditional architecture. Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) is visually striking but can be very crowded; visit early. Skip some of the smaller, less renowned temples if time is short, as many offer similar experiences without the same impact.
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Which popular spots in Kyoto are overrated or not worth the trip?
While popular, the Philosopher's Path can be underwhelming outside of cherry blossom season, often just a pleasant canal walk without much unique appeal. Nishiki Market, while interesting, can be extremely crowded and feel overly touristy, with many stalls selling similar items at inflated prices. Consider visiting smaller, local markets for a more authentic experience.
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What are some common etiquette mistakes tourists make in Kyoto?
A common mistake is speaking loudly in public spaces, especially on trains or in temples, as quietness is highly valued. Tipping is not customary and can even be considered rude. Also, avoid eating or drinking while walking in public, and always remove your shoes when entering homes, some restaurants, and temple buildings.
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What local foods should a first-time visitor eat in Kyoto?
A first-time visitor to Kyoto should definitely try yuba (tofu skin), a local specialty, often found in multi-course kaiseki meals or as street snacks. Also, sample matcha (green tea) in its various forms, from traditional tea ceremonies to matcha-flavored sweets. Don't miss out on Kyoto-style ramen, which often has a richer, thicker broth than other regional varieties, found in many local restaurants around the city.
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What is the legal status of vaping and e-cigarettes in Kyoto?
Vaping and e-cigarettes are legal in Kyoto, but the rules for their use are similar to traditional cigarettes. It is generally prohibited to vape in public indoor spaces and on public transport. Designated smoking areas, often found outside convenience stores or in specific restaurant sections, are where you should use them. Public street vaping is often frowned upon.