No matter the season, the Kyoto charm is easily found across the city. Despite the temperature drop in winter, many events and places are still bustling and welcoming for travelers – making it  the ideal destination to visit year-round. If you’re heading to Kyoto this winter, we’ve hand-picked a selection of festivals and destinations that you should check out. Read on to see our curated list!

Shop for Unique Crafts and Trinkets at Kyoto’s Year End Flea Market

Photo by @kitaku750 ⁠

The Kyoto year-end flea markets are a must-see for any visitor to Japan. Shimai Tenjin and Shimai Kobo, two locales in the ancient capital city that host this type of event offer visitors an opportunity to not just buy bargains but also find unique pieces from various eras including traditional arts & crafts as well modern artwork or vintage goods – all at fantastic prices! If you love a good bargain, be sure to visit Toji-temple on the 21st of December and Kitano Tenmangu on the 25th of December to find treasures from the past.⁠

Get Lucky this Winter Solstice

It’s December, and Winter Solstice is around the corner. Though Winter Solstice or Toji (冬至) isn’t an official festival in Japan, it’s widely celebrated as a tradition.

This special day is considered to be a lucky day in Japan, so if luck hasn’t been on your side lately, be patient as this day may bring change in your favour!⁠

To celebrate Toji, locals enjoy a relaxing Winter Solstice Yuzu Bath (ユズ湯), where baths are prepared using the Japanese citrus fruit called Yuzu. It is also common practice to visit Yata-dera Temple where they serve boiled pumpkin. At this time of the year, you may be greeted with a gigantic pumpkin set in front of the temple’s main hall. Visitors will normally rub the pumpkin and say a prayer for good luck before enjoying the boiled pumpkin dish.⁠

Treat Yourself to Kyoto’s Best Cheesecake at Papa Jon’s Cafe

For the perfect hearty dessert this winter, head over to @papajonscafe for the famous New York cheesecake. While most people would not imagine Kyoto to be a destination for this classic American dessert; locals have dubbed this place as one of their favorites when they’re craving an authentic slice!⁠

Enjoy New Year’s with Nishin Soba at Matsoba

Photo by @udon_soba_log

A cold winter’s day is best accompanied with comforting food from Matsuba. Known for the Nishin Soba, this simple but delicious dish is typically cooked with herring fish in sweet soy sauce accompanied with hot soba. ⁠

For New Year’s Eve, try out this local delicacy accompanied with Toshikoshi Soba or better known as the “year-crossing noodle” to symbolize a long and healthy life. Located just 15 minutes walk from our hotel – it’s the perfect place to have your dinner before celebrating the New Year!⁠

Looking for more activities to do in Kyoto this winter? Follow us @mirukyotonishiki on social media for updates!