Things to do in Kyoto: events, temple light-ups and exhibitions
Events in Kyoto you can go to now: autumn temple light-ups and special night openings, museum exhibitions, handmade markets and winter festivals. Dates, hours and prices follow the official announcements.
As of Oct 28: 67 events, 24 free.
Art exhibition
Soshi Matsunobe: Wall at Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art
Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art, The Triangle (Higashiyama Sta.)
Sep 12 (Sat) – Dec 20 (Sun) 10:00 – 18:00
A contemporary art exhibition that reexamines the way we perceive everyday objects through lines, shadows, backgrounds, and the unconscious. Open to all visitors.
Details →Art exhibition
Special Exhibition: Kan'ei — Beauty Nurtured by an Age of Peace at The Museum of Kyoto
The Museum of Kyoto (Karasuma Oike Sta.)
Sep 19 (Sat) – Nov 15 (Sun) 10:00 – 18:00
Commemorating 400 years since the imperial visit of 1626 during the Kan'ei era, this exhibition explores Kyoto's culture in the early Edo period. Open until 7:30 PM on Fridays.
Details →Art exhibition
Forms of Love — The Rediscovered Erotic Scroll Chigo Zoshi at Fukuda Art Museum
Fukuda Art Museum (Arashiyama Sta.)
Sep 19 (Sat) – Jan 17 (Sun) 10:00 – 17:00
An exhibition of Japanese art highlighting the erotic illustrated scroll Chigo Zoshi. Visitors under 18 are not permitted. Some works will change between the first and second exhibition periods.
Details →Art exhibition
140th Birth Anniversary: Seika Yamaga — Imagination in Flight at Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art
Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art, Main Building, South Wing, 1st Floor (Higashiyama Sta.)
Sep 19 (Sat) – Dec 20 (Sun) 10:00 – 18:00
The first retrospective in 40 years devoted to textile artist Seika Yamaga. The second exhibition period begins November 3, with some works replaced. Last admission at 5:30 PM.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Autumn Special Opening 2026 at Hogonin Temple
Hogonin Temple (Arashiyama Sta.)
Oct 3 (Sat) – Dec 6 (Sun) 09:00 – 17:00
Explore the Shishiku Garden, which incorporates the Arashiyama mountains into its scenery, and wall paintings by artist Noriko Tamura. Last admission to the garden is 4:45 PM; the main hall is open until 4:30 PM.
Details →Art exhibition
Zen and Ghibli at Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art
Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art, Higashiyama Cube (Higashiyama Sta.)
Oct 3 (Sat) – Dec 6 (Sun) 10:00 – 18:00
An immersive exhibition exploring Zen philosophy through Studio Ghibli films. Reservation priority begins October 31. From November 1, the museum opens at 9:00 AM on most Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays, with some exceptions.
Details →Art exhibition
Discover Kyoto Through Art — See More, Enjoy More at Saga Arashiyama Museum of Arts and Culture
Saga Arashiyama Museum of Arts and Culture (Arashiyama Sta.)
Oct 3 (Sat) – Feb 28 (Sun) 10:00 – 17:00
Explore artworks depicting Kyoto's seasonal traditions and culture. Displays change between the first and second exhibition periods, featuring subjects such as geiko and maiko, Kyoto vegetables, and traditional Japanese confectionery wrappers.
Details →Art exhibition
Special Exhibition: The Tale of Genji — Splendor of the Imperial Court at Kyoto National Museum
Kyoto National Museum, Heisei Chishinkan Wing (Shichijo Sta.)
Oct 6 (Tue) – Nov 29 (Sun) 09:00 – 17:30
Open until 8:00 PM on Fridays. A major rotation of exhibits takes place on November 3. The National Treasure Tale of Genji Scrolls will be displayed during different periods depending on the scenes.
Details →Art exhibition
60th Anniversary Special Exhibition II: The Muses Who Modeled for Insho Domoto
Insho Domoto Museum of Fine Arts (Kitano-Hakubaicho Sta.)
Oct 15 (Thu) – Dec 20 (Sun) 09:30 – 17:00
A special exhibition celebrating the museum's 60th anniversary, exploring depictions of women that artist Insho Domoto pursued throughout his career.
Details →Art exhibition
Maruyama Okyo and Ito Jakuchu at Shokokuji Jotenkaku Museum
Shokokuji Jotenkaku Museum (Imadegawa Sta.)
Oct 17 (Sat) – Feb 14 (Sun) 10:00 – 17:00
The first exhibition phase presents works by Maruyama Okyo and Ito Jakuchu. The artworks on display vary by exhibition period.
Details →Oct 23 (Fri) – Dec 13 (Sun) 17:00 – 22:00
See illuminated autumn gardens at Kodaiji, founded by Nene, the wife of Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Projection mapping also transforms the garden in front of the Hojo Hall. Last admission at 9:30 PM.
Details →Art exhibition
Who Does Jewelry Dream Of? at The National Museum of Modern Art
The National Museum of Modern Art, Kyoto (Higashiyama Sta.)
Oct 24 (Sat) – Jan 17 (Sun) 10:00 – 18:00
Open until 8:00 PM on Fridays. Advance-ticket and evening discounts are available, plus a ¥100 discount on same-day tickets for visitors wearing jewelry.
Details →Art exhibition
ChieArt Solo Exhibition in Kyoto at Dohjidai Gallery
Dohjidai Gallery (Kyoto Shiyakusho-mae Sta.)
Oct 27 (Tue) – Nov 1 (Sun) 12:00 – 18:00
Visitors are admitted in 45-minute sessions. Numbered tickets are distributed 15 minutes before each session. Original artworks are sold by lottery, with a limit of one work per person.
Details →Art exhibition
Tea, Japanese Sweets, and Bonbonnieres at Art Space Fukujuen
Art Space Fukujuen (7th Floor, Fukujuen Kyoto Main Store) (Karasuma Sta.)
Oct 29 (Thu) – Jan 31 (Sun) 11:00 – 17:30
Closed Mondays through Wednesdays and on New Year's Day.
Details →Oct 30 (Fri) – Nov 15 (Sun) 11:00 – 20:30
A pop-up shop showcasing handmade creations from around 70 brands, with opportunities to buy directly from the makers.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Toji Autumn Illumination and Special Night Viewing of Kondo and Kodo Halls
Toji Temple (Kyo-o-gokoku-ji) (Kyoto Sta.)
Oct 31 (Sat) – Dec 13 (Sun) 18:00 – 21:30
The five-story pagoda and around 200 maple trees at World Heritage-listed Toji are illuminated at night. Special evening access is also available to the National Treasure Kondo Hall and Important Cultural Property Kodo Hall, home to the three-dimensional mandala. Last admission at 9:00 PM; open daily throughout the event.
Details →Art exhibition
Naonori Yago Graphic Exhibition: Pangraphics at Higashi Honganji Temple
Higashi Honganji Temple, Grand Entrance (Gojo Sta.)
Nov 1 (Sun) – Nov 8 (Sun) 10:00 – 16:00
A graphic design exhibition by Naonori Yago held at Higashi Honganji's Grand Entrance, built in 1867. Highlights include a large folding screen depicting the Usuzumi cherry tree and a new work inspired by Kyoto's autumn foliage.
Details →Market
14th Monozukuri Tenmangu Marche at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine
Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, Ukon no Baba (Kitano-Hakubaicho Sta.)
Nov 1 (Sun) 10:00 – 16:00
Held rain or shine, but canceled if a storm warning is issued for Kyoto City.
Details →Nov 3 (Tue) – Dec 20 (Sun) 10:00 – 19:30
A major retrospective of Kaj Franck, one of Finland's leading designers, showcasing glassware and ceramics that combine functionality and beauty.
Details →Art exhibition
Kota Tonoike Collage Exhibition at Rendez-vous Gallery & Cafe
Rendez-vous Gallery & Cafe (Nijo Sta.)
Nov 3 (Tue) – Nov 29 (Sun) Hours: please check with the organizer
An exhibition by Kyoto collage artist Kota Tonoike. A collage workshop (reservation required) runs on November 14 from 2:00 to 5:00 PM.
Details →Art exhibition
Mitsuko Sasaki Solo Exhibition at Ayakoji Gallery Take
Ayakoji Gallery Take (Karasuma Sta.)
Nov 3 (Tue) 10:00 – 16:00
A craft market held at the Garden of Fine Arts Kyoto, with approximately 20–50 stalls planned. Canceled in case of rain.
Details →Art exhibition
Kyoto ddd Gallery Exhibition No. 254: Superplay — Graphic Design from Rotterdam
Kyoto ddd Gallery (Shijo Sta.)
Nov 4 (Wed) – Jan 13 (Wed) Tuesday–Friday 11:00 AM–7:00 PM; Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays 11:00 AM–6:00 PM
A graphic design exhibition featuring Rotterdam-based studios Studio Spass and Team Thursday.
Details →Art exhibition
Miriam Cahn Exhibition: STILL LEBEN at Yuuhisai Koudoukan
Yuuhisai Koudoukan (Marutamachi Sta.)
Nov 6 (Fri) – Nov 15 (Sun) 10:00 – 17:00
Exhibition admission is free. A special tea service is available separately for an additional fee and requires a reservation.
Details →Nov 6 (Fri) 10:00 – 16:00
Scheduled market dates during the featured period are November 6 and December 4, not every day. Up to around 160 stalls gather against the backdrop of Heian Jingu Shrine. Held even in rainy weather.
Details →Art exhibition
63rd Buddhist Art Exhibition at The Museum of Kyoto
The Museum of Kyoto (Karasuma Oike Sta.)
Nov 6 (Fri) – Nov 8 (Sun) 10:00 – 17:00
Discover around 300 works of Buddhist art, including Buddhist sculptures, paintings, and intricate cut-gold decoration, created by artists from across Japan.
Details →Market
Umekoji Park Handmade Market — November 7
Umekoji Park, Shichijo Entrance Event Plaza (Umekoji-Kyotonishi Sta.)
Nov 7 (Sat) 09:00 – 16:00
The market takes place on November 7 and December 5 during the featured period, not daily. Held rain or shine, this outdoor market features handmade goods sold directly by their creators.
Details →Market
Sweet Treats Fair Honoring Buddhist Monk Ganjin at Mibu-dera Temple Grounds
Mibu-dera Temple Grounds (Omiya Sta.)
Nov 7 (Sat) – Nov 8 (Sun) 10:00 – 16:00
Held rain or shine, with approximately 25 vendors taking part on both days.
Details →Market
Omoi: Once-in-a-Lifetime Encounters at HAYASHI COFFEE ROASTERY
HAYASHI COFFEE ROASTERY (Higashino Sta.)
Nov 8 (Sun) 11:00 – 17:00
Organized by Omoi. The café will serve a special event menu, with parking available for two cars. This is a special opening on what would normally be a regular closing day.
Details →Art exhibition
UYAMA Painting Exhibition: From the Depths of My Heart at Kaikonoyashiro no Ouchi
Kaikonoyashiro no Ouchi (Kaikonoyashiro Sta.)
Nov 9 (Mon) – Nov 15 (Sun) 10:00 – 17:00
Located very close to Randen's Kaikonoyashiro stop, just a three-minute walk from Exit 4 of Uzumasa Tenjingawa subway station.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
2026 Special Autumn Foliage Viewing at Enkoji Temple
Enkoji Temple (Ichijoji Sta.)
Nov 10 (Tue) – Dec 10 (Thu) 09:00 – 17:00
Enjoy autumn foliage at a Zen temple whose origins trace back to an educational institution founded by Tokugawa Ieyasu. Date-and-time reservations are required.
Details →Art exhibition
Akiko Yada Solo Exhibition: Clear Vision at cafe co.co. & gallery ATTA!
cafe co.co. & gallery ATTA! (Shichijo Sta.)
Nov 11 (Wed) – Nov 15 (Sun) 10:00 – 17:00
Open 10:00 AM–5:00 PM on weekdays and 10:00 AM–6:00 PM on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays.
Details →Food event
Christmas Sweet Moments — Step into a Magical Christmas World at Hilton Kyoto
Hilton Kyoto, 1st Floor, All-Day Dining Teori (Kyoto Shiyakusho-mae Sta.)
Festival & seasonal event
Maple Garden at the Historic Odoi Earthworks: Autumn Illumination at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine
Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, Odoi Maple Garden (Kitano-Hakubaicho Sta.)
Nov 13 (Fri) – Dec 6 (Sun) Sunset–8:00 PM (last admission 7:40 PM)
Around 350 maple trees color the historic Odoi earthworks built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Illumination runs from sunset until 8:00 PM, with last admission at 7:40 PM. Admission includes a sweet inspired by the historic Kitano Grand Tea Gathering.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Special Autumn Foliage Viewing 2026 at Tentokuin Temple
Tentokuin Temple (Tofukuji Sta.)
Nov 14 (Sat) – Dec 6 (Sun) 09:00 – 20:30
A special viewing of moss gardens and autumn leaves at a subtemple of Tofukuji. Admission is accepted until 8:00 PM, with illumination beginning around 4:00 PM.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
LOTUS WEEKEND 2026 at Shojokein Temple
Shojokein Temple, Head Temple of Jodo Buddhism (Demachiyanagi Sta.)
Nov 14 (Sat) – Nov 15 (Sun) 10:00 – 16:00
Held rain or shine. Check the fees and participation requirements for individual activities.
Details →Food event
Autumn Market Thanks Festa at Kyoto City Central Wholesale Market
Kyoto City Central Wholesale Market (Umekoji-Kyotonishi Sta.)
Nov 14 (Sat) – Nov 15 (Sun) 09:00 – 15:00
Explore Kyoto's central wholesale market through food stalls, fresh produce shopping, and market tours. The November 15 event starts at 10:00 AM.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Autumn Special Viewing at Shorinji Temple
Shorinji Temple, a Subtemple of Tofukuji (Tofukuji Sta.)
Nov 14 (Sat) – Dec 6 (Sun) 10:00 – 16:00
See a special display of the standing statue of Bishamonten, the guardian deity protecting Tofukuji's northeast direction. Other highlights include the main hall relocated from the Konoe family estate and the autumn foliage.
Details →Nov 15 (Sun) 08:00 – 16:00
A handmade crafts market held on the grounds of Hyakumanben Chion-ji Temple.
Details →Nov 17 (Tue) – Dec 6 (Sun) 17:30 – 21:30
The illuminated highlights of the head temple of Jodo Buddhism include the Sanmon Gate, Yuzen-en Garden, and Miei-do Hall. In 2026, visitors can also access the corridor on the upper level of Sanmon Gate. Last admission at 9:00 PM.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Agnes Illumination at Heian Jogakuin University
Heian Jogakuin University, Kyoto Campus (Marutamachi Sta.)
Nov 20 (Fri) – Dec 25 (Fri) 16:30 – 21:00
The 22nd annual illumination display created by students and faculty, themed around 'Love.' The lights switch on at 6:05 PM on the opening day. Power supplied by next-generation vehicles is planned for December 10–12.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Eikando Autumn Illumination and Special Night Viewing
Eikando Temple (Zenrin-ji) (Keage Sta.)
Nov 20 (Fri) – Dec 6 (Sun) 17:30 – 21:00
Enjoy around 3,000 maple trees glowing with autumn colors around a traditional strolling pond garden. Last admission at 8:30 PM; lights out and gates close at 9:00 PM.
Details →Art exhibition
Stories by Master Heinz Werner — The Porcelain Art of Modern Meissen at Hosomi Museum
Hosomi Museum (Higashiyama Sta.)
Nov 21 (Sat) – Jan 31 (Sun) 10:00 – 17:00
Explore the porcelain artistry and imaginative storytelling of Heinz Werner, a leading figure in modern Meissen.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Autumn Special Night Viewing at Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Kiyomizu-dera Temple (Kiyomizu-Gojo Sta.)
Nov 21 (Sat) – Nov 30 (Mon) 17:30 – 21:30
Special evening viewing with illuminated autumn foliage in Kin'un Gorge and the National Treasure Main Hall. Last admission at 9:00 PM; gates close at 9:30 PM.
Details →Market
32nd Tofukuji–Sennyuji Potters' Autumn Maple Festival and Grand Pottery Market
Pottery Workshops between Tofukuji and Sennyuji Temples (Tofukuji Sta.)
Nov 21 (Sat) – Nov 29 (Sun) 10:00 – 16:30
A pottery market spread across the traditional ceramic workshops between Tofukuji and Sennyuji temples. Pottery-making experiences and tastings of local Kyoto sake are also featured.
Details →Nov 22 (Sun) 09:00 – 15:00
A handmade market held within the grounds of Kamigamo Shrine. On November 22, the market will take place in a different area from its usual location.
Details →Market
10th Kokohana Marche at Shinka-ji Temple
Shinka-ji Temple, Kinko Benzaiten Shaka Hall (Iseda Sta.)
Nov 23 (Mon) 09:30 – 15:00
Held on the same day as the Shinka-ji Temple Festival. The venue is in Uji City, not Kyoto City.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
40th Anniversary 'Circle of En' — A Courtyard Installation Celebrating Connections at The Prince Kyoto Takaragaike
The Prince Kyoto Takaragaike (Kokusaikaikan Sta.)
Nov 25 (Wed) – Dec 25 (Fri) 17:00 – 23:00
A festive Christmas courtyard installation celebrating the hotel's 40th anniversary. A symbolic Christmas tree and illuminations decorate the circular courtyard designed by architect Togo Murano.
Details →Nov 29 (Sun) 10:00 – 16:00
A handmade market held in the public green space in front of Higashi Honganji Temple, selling original creations including accessories, fabric goods, pottery, and wooden crafts.
Details →Dec 4 (Fri) 10:00 – 16:00
Scheduled market dates during the featured period are November 6 and December 4, not every day. Up to around 160 stalls gather against the backdrop of Heian Jingu Shrine. Held even in rainy weather.
Details →Market
Kyoto Handmade Marche 2026
Kyoto International Exhibition Hall (Miyako Messe), Exhibition Hall 3 (Higashiyama Sta.)
Dec 5 (Sat) – Dec 6 (Sun) 11:00 – 17:00
Browse and shop for handmade creations by artists from across Japan, with exhibitions, sales, and workshops. Around 1,000 booths are planned.
Details →Market
Umekoji Park Handmade Market — December 5
Umekoji Park, Shichijo Entrance Event Plaza (Umekoji-Kyotonishi Sta.)
Dec 5 (Sat) 09:00 – 16:00
The market takes place on November 7 and December 5 during the featured period, not daily. Held rain or shine, this outdoor market features handmade goods sold directly by their creators.
Details →Market
Le Marché — Marché de Noël at Institut français du Kansai — Kyoto
Institut français du Kansai — Kyoto (Demachiyanagi Sta.)
Dec 12 (Sat) – Dec 13 (Sun) 11:00 – 19:00
A festive Christmas market at a French cultural center, featuring organic produce, European foods, flowers, and lifestyle goods.
Details →Market
be Kyoto Antenna Shop — Machiya Handmade Department Store
Machiya Gallery be Kyoto (Imadegawa Sta.)
Dec 12 (Sat) – Dec 13 (Sun) 11:00 – 17:00
An indoor handmade market held in a traditional Kyoto townhouse. A candy-sculpting workshop is also scheduled for December 13.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Kyoto Railway Museum Special Tour: Experience Everything About the Series 500 Shinkansen!
Kyoto Railway Museum (Umekoji-Kyotonishi Sta.)
Dec 12 (Sat) – Jan 23 (Sat) 09:30 – 10:00
This special tour is held on only two dates: December 12 and January 23. Before the museum opens, join a curator to explore the driver's cab and learn about the pantograph of the Series 500 Shinkansen.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Yamashina Gishi Festival at Bishamondo Temple – Iwayaji Temple – Oishi Shrine
Bishamondo Temple – Iwayaji Temple – Oishi Shrine (Yamashina Sta.)
Dec 14 (Mon) 10:00 – 15:00
A procession of 47 participants dressed as the legendary Ako loyal retainers walks through historic sites connected with them in Yamashina. A performance reenacting their famous raid is also held at Kyoto City Eastern Cultural Hall.
Details →Art exhibition
Hakuin's Zen — A Studio Ghibli Exhibition in Kyoto
Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art, Higashiyama Cube (Higashiyama Sta.)
Dec 17 (Thu) – Jan 11 (Mon) 10:00 – 18:00
An exhibition about Zen master Hakuin Ekaku, planned and produced by Studio Ghibli. Discover Edo-period Zen paintings alongside video presentations.
Details →Dec 21 (Mon) 08:00 – 15:00
The final Kobo Market of the year, originating from the monthly memorial day of Buddhist monk Kukai. Stalls throughout the temple grounds sell antiques, vintage clothing, household goods, plants, and lucky decorations for the New Year.
Details →Art exhibition
New Year Special Exhibition: All About Sheep — Celebrating the Zodiac at Kyoto National Museum
Kyoto National Museum, Heisei Chishinkan Wing, Gallery 2F-2 (Shichijo Sta.)
Dec 22 (Tue) – Feb 7 (Sun) 09:30 – 17:00
Discover cultural treasures featuring sheep, the zodiac animal of 2027. Open until 8:00 PM on Fridays. The same admission ticket provides access to all exhibitions in the Heisei Chishinkan Wing on the day of your visit.
Details →Market
Shimai Tenjin: Year-End Tenjin Market at Kitano Tenmangu
Kitano Tenmangu Shrine (Kitano-Hakubaicho Sta.)
Dec 25 (Fri) From 7:00 AM (closing time: please check with the organizer)
The market held on the 25th of every month closes the year on December 25. Known as Shimai Tenjin, it fills the shrine grounds with stalls of antiques, old tools and vintage clothing.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Grand Stairway Graphical Illumination Plus: Winter Season at Kyoto Station Building
Kyoto Station Building, Grand Stairway (Kyoto Sta.)
Dec 26 (Sat) – Dec 31 (Thu) 15:00 – 22:00
A winter-only graphical illumination transforms Kyoto Station's grand staircase with images of snow and snowflakes, blending seasonal visuals with the architecture.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Chion-in New Year's Eve Bell: Rehearsal Ringing
Chion-in Temple (Higashiyama Sta.)
Dec 27 (Sun) From 2:00 PM (closing time: please check with the organizer)
Before New Year's Eve, 17 monks practice ringing the giant temple bell, which weighs about 70 tons. Visitors may watch only.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Countdown & New Year — Welcome 2027 with Lights of Good Fortune at The Prince Kyoto Takaragaike
The Prince Kyoto Takaragaike (Kokusaikaikan Sta.)
Dec 31 (Thu) – Jan 31 (Sun) 17:00 – 23:00
Good-luck decorations carrying visitors' wishes adorn the courtyard's symbolic tree. A New Year's Eve countdown is planned, along with decoration-making experiences over two days through New Year's Day.
Details →Dec 31 (Thu) 15:00 – 17:00
An early evening year-end bell-ringing ceremony held instead of the traditional midnight New Year's Eve ringing. The first 108 participants who make an offering receive an Anchin and Kiyohime bell amulet.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Chion-in New Year's Eve Bell (Joya no Kane)
Chion-in Temple (Higashiyama Sta.)
Dec 31 (Thu) From 10:20 PM (closing time: please check with the organizer)
Seventeen monks strike the temple bell of about 70 tons 108 times to see out the year. Visitors watch only, and advance registration is required.
Details →Jan 15 (Fri) – Jan 16 (Sat) 11:00 – 17:00
The ¥2,000 vendor fee is not an admission charge for visitors. Browse materials including beads, buttons, embroidered ribbons, yarn, and leather.
Details →
