9 Rainy Day Activities in Kyoto, Japan
A rainy day in Kyoto might seem like a bummer, but this city is full of fantastic activities that can turn a wet day into an unforgettable experience.
In fact, I had a few rainy days during my trip, but I didn’t let it ruin my time! Here are nine things to do in Kyoto when the weather isn’t cooperating.
Table of Contents
1. Tea Ceremony and Kimono Experience
A rainy day is the perfect excuse to have a traditional tea ceremony. This experience allows you to learn the art of making matcha while staying warm and dry.
Many tea houses even offer the option to dress up in a kimono (I took advantage of this!), making the ceremony feel even more special.
The ambiance of the tea room, combined with the rich, earthy flavors of matcha, is a fantastic way to escape the rain and soak in some of Kyoto’s culture.
👉 BOOK IT: TEA CEREMONY (the exact one I did)
READ MORE: Tea Ceremony in Kyoto: A Must-Do Experience!
2. Marumasu Nishimuraya Art
Get creative at Marumasu Nishimuraya, where you can spend hours painting items like fans, totes, or wallets in a traditional Japanese form.
Using authentic techniques and guided by friendly staff, you’ll leave with a one-of-a-kind souvenir. This was one of my fav things I did in Kyoto, and my art is hanging on my wall right now!
3. Explore Kyoto’s Museums
Kyoto is home to many interesting museums that make for excellent rainy-day activities. Here are a few you won’t want to miss:
- Kyoto National Museum: One of Japan’s most important museums, showcasing traditional art and artifacts.
- Kaleidoscope Museum: A quirky, one-room experience filled with a variety of mesmerizing kaleidoscopes.
- Kyoto Railway Museum: Perfect for train enthusiasts, this museum covers Japan’s railway history with interactive exhibits and impressive train displays.
4. Get Lost in Arcades
Kyoto’s arcades are buzzing with energy and a fun way to kill time on a rainy day. Try your hand at claw machines, rhythm games, or retro classics.
There are tons of arcades and gaming shops filled with floors of entertainment, from dance games to photo booths and my favorite classics, like Mario Cart.
I even played Dance Dance Revolution for the first time in YEARS! I forgot it was rainy outside, and I was having so much fun. I felt like a kid.
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5. Go Shopping
Take advantage of Kyoto’s shopping scene, with plenty of covered areas to stay dry while you browse. Here are some popular spots:
- Sanjo Meiten-gai: A bustling shopping arcade where you can find everything from traditional crafts to modern fashion. It’s also a great place to grab a meal or a sweet treat.
- Shinkyogoku Shopping Street: Another lively area filled with souvenirs, clothing shops, and snack stands.
- Teramachi Street: This covered shopping street is perfect for strolling and has a mix of boutiques, bookstores, and specialty shops.
6. See a Show at Kyoto’s Theaters
Kyoto’s traditional theaters are a great way to soak in the city’s culture while staying dry. Here are some top options:
- Minamiza Theater: Known for kabuki performances, this historic theater offers a glimpse into Japan’s rich performing arts tradition. Even if you don’t understand Japanese, the elaborate costumes and dramatic acting are captivating.
- Gion Corner: A cultural stage that showcases a variety of performances, including tea ceremonies, traditional music, and puppet theater. It’s a great way to experience multiple facets of Japanese culture in one sitting.
- Samurai Kenbu Theater: If you’re looking for something a bit different, check this spot for sword performances and samurai culture.
7. Take a Sushi Making Class
Why not use the rainy weather as an excuse to learn something new? You’ve learned to paint and make matcha… How about becoming a sushi master now?
Sign up for a sushi making class and master the art of creating your own delicious sushi rolls.
Guided by professional chefs, you’ll learn how to prepare rice, choose fresh ingredients, and perfect your rolling technique. Plus, you get to eat your tasty creations at the end!
👉 BOOK IT: SUSHI MAKING CLASS
8. Explore Kyoto Station
Kyoto Station is more than just a transportation hub—it’s a massive complex filled with shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Spend time exploring the different floors (aka – get lost a lot), from fashion boutiques to gourmet food markets.
The Sky Garden offers panoramic views of the city (if the rain lets up for a bit), and don’t forget to check out the light-up staircase for a fun photo op (seasonal).
Across the street, you can also visit Kyoto Tower for a bird’s-eye view of the city.
9. Relax in an Onsen
There’s no better way to spend a rainy day than soaking in a warm, soothing onsen (Japanese hot spring).
Kyoto has several options, both indoor and outdoor, where you can unwind and let the stress melt away. Relaxing in mineral-rich waters while listening to the gentle patter of rain is a blissful experience.
MORE JAPAN
Read more of my guides to Japan:
- Kinosaki—Japan’s Tattoo-Friendly Onsen Town
- 13 Things to Do in Shimoda, Japan in 2 Days
- Mount Fuji During Cherry Blossom Season: Best Spots + Tips
- 7 Things to Do at Mount Fuji in 2 Days
- 9 Things to Do in Lake Kawaguchi at Mount Fuji
- Tea Ceremony in Kyoto: A Must-Do Experience!
- What to Do in Arashiyama in Kyoto, Japan—In 1 Day!
- Fushimi Inari Hike in Kyoto, Japan—What to Know!
- Kyoto Itinerary—What to Do in 3 Days
- 9 Rainy Day Activities in Kyoto, Japan
I hope this helped you plan your rainy day in Kyoto!
