Many travelers struggle to decide whether to visit Tokyo or Kyoto. I live in Tokyo and have visited Kyoto countless times, so I can’t say one is definitively better than the other—but I can help you make the choice based on your travel style, season, and interests.
1. Decide by Season
The best city for your trip often depends on the time of year you visit.
- Summer & Winter → Tokyo
Kyoto can be extremely hot in summer and bitterly cold in winter. Tokyo also experiences harsh weather, but there are plenty of indoor attractions to enjoy—museums, shopping complexes, and entertainment facilities—so you won’t be limited by the weather. - Spring & Fall → Kyoto
Kyoto shines during cherry blossom season in spring and autumn foliage season. While these are peak tourist times, visiting early in the morning allows you to enjoy the sights in relative peace.
2. Modern or Traditional Japan?
Your choice also depends on whether you want a modern city vibe or a traditional Japanese atmosphere.
- Modern Tokyo
Skyscrapers, neon lights, and cityscapes dominate Tokyo. From Tokyo Tower to Sky Tree, the city offers incredible panoramic views. While traditional areas exist, Tokyo’s modern energy is its defining feature. - Traditional Kyoto
Kyoto is famous for its historic streets in Gion, serene temples, shrines, and cultural experiences like zazen meditation, sutra copying, and tea ceremonies. Kyoto is modern enough for convenience, but it maintains a timeless, traditional charm.
3. Shopping or Sightseeing?
Consider your primary purpose for visiting Japan.
- Shopping → Tokyo
Tokyo is a shopping paradise, from luxury boutiques in Ginza to affordable finds at UNIQLO and 100-yen stores. You can also enjoy sightseeing in areas like Asakusa or the Imperial Palace. - Sightseeing → Kyoto
Kyoto’s streets are filled with historic architecture. You can visit famous temples and shrines at a leisurely pace. While shopping exists, Tokyo offers a far larger variety of stores.
4. Decide What You Want to Eat
Japanese cuisine varies widely, so your foodie preferences may influence your choice.
- Can’t Decide? → Tokyo
Tokyo is one of the world’s top gourmet cities. From Michelin-starred restaurants to street food and ramen with lines out the door, Tokyo offers an incredible range of Japanese and international cuisine. - Advanced Japanese Cuisine → Kyoto
Kyoto cuisine is refined, subtle, and emphasizes traditional dashi (Japanese soup stock). If you’re accustomed to Japanese flavors, Kyoto is a must-try. For casual dining, international fast food is still widely available.
5. Excursions from Each City
Even after choosing one city as your base, both Tokyo and Kyoto have great nearby destinations.
From Tokyo:
- Yokohama – 30 minutes by train; a historic port city with Western influences and the largest Chinatown in Japan.
- Kawagoe – 40 minutes by train; nicknamed “Little Edo” for its preserved Edo-era streetscape.
From Kyoto:
- Osaka – 30 minutes by train; Japan’s second largest city with vibrant nightlife, shopping, and Universal Studios.
- Nara – 60 minutes by train; home to ancient temples and historic sites, ideal for history enthusiasts.
6. Can’t Decide? Visit Both!
If you have more than four days in Japan, you can easily experience both cities. The Shinkansen bullet train takes just 2 hours and 20 minutes from Tokyo to Kyoto. This way, you can enjoy Tokyo’s modern energy and Kyoto’s traditional charm in one trip.
Whichever city you choose, your journey will be unforgettable. Enjoy your adventure in Japan!