Things to do
5 best art and cultural events to look forward to in Kyoto in 2026
Your guide to what’s on in Kyoto next year: immersive art in a plum garden, rare temple openings, exhibitions and more
Travel
Travel tips and guides to Kansai destinations near Osaka, from Kyoto to Kobe. Your day trips from Osaka start here
Things to do
Kyoto to increase hotel tax by up to 900 percent, making it Japan’s highest
To tackle overtourism, Japan’s ancient city will impose an accommodation tax of up to ¥10,000 starting March 2026
Things to do
Kyoto's Arashiyama Bamboo Forest forced to cut bamboo to combat graffiti vandalism
Persistent graffiti not only damages the beauty of this revered bamboo grove but also threatens the health of the plants
Art
Your first look at teamLab’s stunning new Kyoto museum, its largest in Japan
The new teamLab Biovortex Kyoto features over 50 immersive digital art installations in the collective’s biggest space yet
Travel
Kyoto has a new sightseeing bus serving key attractions in the city centre
This loop bus lets you explore Kyoto city without passing through the crowded Kyoto Station, and accepts transport passes
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Events in Kansai
Things to do
Winter Illuminations in the Former Foreign Settlement of Kobe
Along Akashimachi-suji avenue, near Daimaru Kobe department store, over 100,000 LED lights adorn the trees, creating a sparkling display that continues until...
Things to do
Light Cycles Kyoto
Held at the Kyoto Botanical Gardens, Light Cycles Kyoto is an immersive sensory experience that uses light and sound not only to reveal the relationships...
Things to do
Kobe Luminarie
Initially launched in 1995 to honour the victims of the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake, Kobe Luminarie has evolved to become a cherished annual...
Things to do
Awaji Godzilla Festival
Godzilla Interception Operation Awaji is a Godzilla attraction located within the massive Nijigen no Mori theme park on Awaji Island, Hyogo prefecture. It...
Art
Artists’ Fair Kyoto 2026
Now in its ninth edition, the event provides a platform for emerging artists to launch their careers and engage directly with collectors and the public