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The Atlas Obscura Guide To Kyoto

46 Cool, Hidden, and Unusual Things to Do in Kyoto, Japan

Updated October 31, 2024

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Unusual Attractions in Kyoto

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Cool Places to Eat & Drink in Kyoto

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Explore Kyoto, Japan

Temples 10
Shrines 8
Buddhism 6
History & Culture 6
Architecture 4
Sacred Spaces 4
Statues 4
Unique Restaurants & Bars 2

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Stories About Kyoto

Artisans at the company have been fussing over small details for centuries.

The Enduring Haute Couture of a 466-Year Old Kimono House

How Chiso, a relatively obscure Japanese textile firm, keeps an age-old craft fresh.
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The Yuki-onna from Bakemono no e, an Edo-era Japanese handscroll depicting Japanese yōkai.

The Ghostly Japanese Fireball Spirits That Live On in Pokémon

The digital descendants of 'yōkai' can be spotted in many Japanese games.
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A baker makes fortune cookies at Hougyokudo in Kyoto, Japan.

The Free Cookie in Your Chinese Takeout Is Actually Japanese

Fortune cookies emerged from one of America’s darkest moments.
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A flirty tanuki, or racoon dog, crafted by artist Masatami in the late 18th century.

These Cheeky Statuettes Were Part of Edo-Era Japan’s Answer to Pockets

Ornate netsuke were practical status symbols.
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Sneaky foxes like to rob Nagaokakyo residents’ shoe racks.

Found: Foxes Stealing Shoes in Japan

And they would have gotten away with 40 pairs, if it weren't for the police.
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