Zen Night Tofukuji
Photo: VIE Co., Ltd. | Zen Night Tofukuji
Photo: VIE Co., Ltd.

The best events and things to do in Kyoto in June 2026

Temple night visits, hydrangea festivals, geisha dance and more exciting early summer events and festivals in Kyoto this June

Lim Chee Wah
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Early summer in Kyoto is an exciting time, especially with hydrangeas blooming in some of the ancient city's most atmospheric and historic temples. If you're looking to experience Kyoto's biggest draw – its temples – in a completely different light, you’ve come at just the right time. Tofukuji is open for special night viewings this month, during which its grounds are transformed by enchanting illuminations and calming soundscapes.

Of course, there is plenty more to see and do in Kyoto this month, including a spectacular music-synchronised fireworks display. Check out our list of events and festivals below to plan your perfect month in Kyoto.

Spending some time in Osaka as well? Here are our top picks for the best June events and festivals happening in Osaka.

  • Things to do
  • City Life

Moss enthusiasts, this one's for you: JR Tokai Tours is offering its oddly specific Kyoto Moss Tour Passport again this year. The ¥1,500 booklet is available until September 30, granting admission into any four of the six participating Kyoto temples known for their spectacular moss gardens. It's a strangely niche proposition, we know, but we promise they're all quite lovely.

The six temples are: Myoshinji Temple Keishunin, Jikkoin, Tofukuji Temple, Jojakkoji Temple, Gioji Temple, and Sanzenin Temple. Given that buying separate tickets for any four of these temples would add up to more than the cost of the booklet, it's quite the bargain.

To get your hands on the 'passport', you can purchase an e-ticket here, which you must then use to pick up your booklet in person at the Kyoto Tourist Information Center 'Kyo Navi' in Kyoto Station.

More details here.

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