15 Best Museums in Kyoto

The Kyoto Railway Museum near Umekoji Park is one of the best in Japan, and a steam locomotive still gives short rides. For something odder, the International Manga Museum has walls of manga you can pull down and read.

3.Samurai & Ninja Museum Ticket

Unleash your inner warrior and dive into Japan's legendary history with our exclusive Samurai & Ninja Museum Ticket. Discover the secrets of ancient warriors today!

★ 4.5

“Fantastic experience and very interesting learning the history of ninja and samurai. Our 6 year old son loved the ninja star throwing, looking at all the different costumes and weapons. He was so happy he could dress up as a ninja and get photRead more”

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4.Kyoto : Geiko Maiko Dance of Kyoto & Visits of Gion Museum

Discover Kyoto’s cultural heart with the Geiko Maiko Dance & Gion Museum tour—featuring graceful performances, exquisite exhibits, and authentic insights into Gion traditions.

★ 4.6

“Amazing experience. Watching the Geisha dance was hipnotic - we were transported to other times. And the museum is interesting as well!”

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7.Samurai Sword Experience in Kyoto Tameshigiri

Discover the thrill of wielding a samurai sword in Kyoto! Immerse yourself in the ancient art of Tameshigiri and unleash your inner warrior. Click now for an unforgettable experience!

★ 4.5

“Riku provided the best experience Ive encountered thus far on my Japan Visit. I feel like I went through actual training to become a Samurai. I am grateful for the knowledge this museum had to offer. Thank you also to Riu for taking us on…”

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8.Ninja Experience (Family Friendly) at Samurai Ninja Museum KYOTO

Prepare to unleash your inner ninja with the Ninja Experience at the Samurai Ninja Museum in Kyoto, a family-friendly adventure into Japan's captivating warrior heritage.

★ 4.5

“This was a fun experience! Our kids had a blast! Who doesn’t love throwing stars and blow darts. It was fun to learn more about ninjas and Samurai’s.”

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9.Kyomai Dance by Maiko Geiko and Visits of Gion Art Museum Kyoto

Experience Kyoto’s elegant geisha culture with a live Kyomai dance at Gion, plus explore traditional exhibits — all for just $20 and about 20 minutes of your time.

★ 5.0

“Such an authentic and beautiful experience. Highlight of our trip! Our 10 year old daughter enjoyed it as well. No photos of the dance allowed so we purchased a photo session with the maiko.”

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10.Shibori Class in KYOTO SHIBORI MUSEUM

Make a silk shibori scarf or cotton furoshiki in Kyoto, then visit the museum’s upstairs displays and take your work home.

★ 5.0

“A very enjoyable activity. My eacher spoke good English. Under his excellent instruction, my scarf came out beautifully. Really interesting to visit the museum, Whether or not you do the Shibori class as it gives a deeper appreciation of the work that goes into making…”

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15.Family Mitsui House Museum With Green Tea Admission Ticket

Discover the rich history of the Mitsui family at the stunning Mitsui House Museum. Get your green tea admission ticket now and step into a world of elegance and tradition.

★ 4.0

“当日空いていれば、2階に上がれるお茶券もありました。 そちらに変えても良かったかな。 それだと思って買ってしまったから。 お庭は桔梗を眺めながら下を歩くと ハスが咲いていました。 美しい景色ですよ。 静かに眺められて私は好きです”

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