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Jidai Festival at the Imperial Palace, Kyoto

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Step Back in Time: Experience the Jidai Festival at the Imperial Palace

Visiting Kyoto, one of Japan’s most historically rich cities, promises an enchanting mix of tradition and beauty. Our itinerary was packed with cultural exploration, beginning with a delicious breakfast and leading into the heart of Kyoto's heritage. Our day included a visit to the Imperial Palace and an opportunity to witness the captivating Jidai Matsuri, one of the city’s well-known festivals. Let’s go!

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Travel Tips
  • For flights, Skyscanner is excellent for comparing the best airline deals.
  • For accommodations, our family trusts Booking.com for reasonable prices.


Train Travel From Tokyo To Kyoto 

We took a Bullet Train via Klook from Tokyo to Kyoto on October 19, and we spent four amazing days Discovering the sights of Kyoto. We also set aside one day to explore Dotonbori: The "Vegas of Osaka". When we arrived at Kyoto Station, we just walked to our hotel. 



How to get to the Pokemon Center from Kyoto Station

Where to Stay in Kyoto

  • Check-in: Seiki Kyoto Station Hotel
  • Also called Hotel Seiki Kyoto Station
  • Address: 24-5 Higashikujo Kitakarasumacho, Minami Ward, Kyoto, 601-8017, Japan
  • 5 days 4 nights
  • Price: 520 USD / 75,411 JPY (VAT included) for 1 unit with 2 bedrooms, accommodating 4 adults and 1 toddler.
  • Take note: All guests staying in Kyoto City will be charged an accommodation tax of 200 JPY per person per night.


Pros

  • Great for Budget Travelers
  • Suitable for solo travelers, couples, and families
  • Just a 6-minute walk from Kyoto Station
  • Within walking distance of two major shopping malls
  • Experience traditional Japanese-style rooms with Tatami mat flooring
  • Bonus: Washer-dryer combo inside the room
  • Close proximity to most Kyoto attractions


I absolutely love the traditional Japanese-style rooms at Seiki Kyoto Hotel. The use of tatami mat flooring in the bedrooms enhances the authentic Japanese experience even more.

Read more: Budget-Friendly Place to Stay in Kyoto for Families - In this post, I will highlight our accommodation in Kyoto, along with nearby dining options, shopping spots, attractions, and much more.


Oct 22: Imperial Palace and Jidai Matsuri (Festival)


LE9 Café for an Amazing Breakfast

  • THE Lower East Nine cafe -LE9-
  • Address: Japan, 〒601-8041 Kyoto, Minami Ward, Higashikujo Minamikarasumacho, 32
  • Price: 15 USD for 2 people
  • 4-minute walk from Seiki Kyoto Station Hotel


We walked from the hotel to LE9 Cafe before heading to the Imperial Palace. 


The breakfast portions were generous, and the matcha drink was incredibly delicious— the best I've had on our trip.



How to get to the Imperial Palace by Bus

Kyoto Imperial Palace / Kyoto Gosho
Address: 内 Kyotogyoen, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto, 602-0811, Japan
Near Marutamachi Station


  • To reach the Imperial Palace, board Bus 207 from the stop across the street from the café. 
  • Alight at Kawaramachi Marutamachi.
  • Travel time: 20 minutes
  • Fare price: 230 JPY


Interesting find: Look at the gas station!



Jidai Festival: Glimpse into Kyoto's Cultural Heritage

Before we entered the Imperial Palace, we took the time to watch the Jidai Festival. It was a peaceful event, much quieter than what I'm used to. There was no loud music or shouting, just the sound of Japanese drums and a few chants from the people in the parade.


  • The Jidai Festival, or Jidai Matsuri, held annually on October 22 in Kyoto, is a celebration of the city's rich history. 
  • It's a grand procession of participants dressed in elaborate costumes, representing various periods of Japanese history. 
  • The event is like a trip back in time, giving a special look at Kyoto's culture. 
  • Known for its careful focus on historical accuracy, the festival shows off the skill and beauty of traditional clothes. 
  • It is one of Kyoto's top three festivals, along with Gion Matsuri and Aoi Matsuri. 
  • People from all over the world come to see it, as it highlights Kyoto's important history.


After the parade, we ventured into the palace grounds, where there were also some performances taking place indoors. It's amazing to know that this place is the former residence of Japan's Emperor.


Discover Kyoto's Vibrant Culture with Klook

Explore Kyoto's rich culture with tours, activities, and must-see attractions. Check out Klook for a wide range of affordable and reliable options. On this platform, we’ve purchased a few vouchers: 



Why Visit the Imperial Palace in Kyoto?

Free Entry

There's no admission fee to enter the palace grounds. No need for an advance reservation, either.



Rich History

We went to the Imperial Palace in Kyoto because we wanted to learn more about Japan's past. The palace used to be the center of Japan's imperial power until 1868, and it gave us a real glimpse into history.



Lovely Gardens

The gardens were beautiful, and walking through them felt like exploring a peaceful work of art.



Traditional Architecture

The wooden buildings were beautiful, and their detailed designs were truly impressive.



Peaceful Escape

The palace grounds offered a calm escape from city life, leaving us feeling relaxed and content.


Okieniwa Garden

I love the Okieniwa Garden; it's the highlight of our visit!


I also noticed the beautiful Bonsai Japanese Pine Trees.



Restroom Spots

I was pregnant during our visit, so I made frequent trips to the restroom, ahahaa! 


  • There is a restroom and café near the information center of the Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, close to the Nakadachiuri gate exit.
  • At the entrance of the Imperial Palace, there's a restroom too and a place to leave baby strollers.



How to get there: Imperial Palace to Nishiki Market by Bus

  • Nishiki Market
  • Address: Nishiki Market, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8055, Japan

  • From the café, exit through the gate and head to the right. 
  • Board bus 201 heading to Nishiki Market 
  • Get off at Shijo Kawaramachi. 
  • Travel time: 30 minutes


Nishiki Market is a vibrant marketplace located in downtown Kyoto, known for its dining options, shopping experiences, and much more! Read more:  Is Nishiki Market in Kyoto worth visiting?

The following day, we went to Kyoto's Pokémon Center, followed by a visit to Yasaka Shrine - must-visit attractions in Downtown Kyoto!


Our day in Kyoto was filled with history, culture, and delightful discoveries. From the peaceful gardens of the Imperial Palace to the lively atmosphere of Nishiki Market, Kyoto truly offers a memorable journey through time and tradition.


Travel Packing Checklist for couples

Bonus Tip: Use a Travel Packing Checklist

This is my ultimate secret to making travel hassle-free: I use a Travel Packing Checklist. This ensures I don’t forget essential items and prevents those frantic last-minute shopping trips for things I already own but left behind. I didn’t realize how much I needed this notebook; it truly keeps my journeys organized and stress-free. Check out Flying Starfish Studios for unique journals, notebooks, and planners.

Here's another special Packing checklist designed for families. It includes packing lists for babies and kids to ensure nothing is overlooked!

Have fun and be safe ^__^


Do you want more adventure in Japan?

Tokyo Travel Tips

  • Pokémon Center Tokyo DX: Largest Pokémon store, with a Pokémon Café.
  • Tokyo Station: Must-visit for Amazing Ramen, Anime, & Manga Stores
  • Shibuya: Easy Itinerary, World's Busiest Pedestrian Crossing & Pokémon Centre
  • Ueno: Simple Itinerary, Things To-Do and Delicious Eats at Ameyoko Market


Explore Kawaguchiko "Best Mt. Fuji Views"



 Explore Kyoto



Explore Osaka


Travel Visa for Filipinos


Where am I going next?
  • For our next adventure, we're looking forward to Discovering the Beautiful Island of Hokkaido in Japan. I can't wait for this trip!



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