Hot day things to do in Kyoto with kids 3 spots
Kyoto was Japan's capital for a thousand years, and temples and shrines still sit around every corner. When the kids run out of patience, escapes like Kyoto City Zoo — Japan's second-oldest, opened in 1903 — wait right in the sightseeing core. It suits families who want the temples without losing the children.
Kawadoko are dining platforms built over the Kibune River from May to late September.
Stroller OK · checked Sep ’26
Kifune Shrine is the head shrine of water deities across Japan, set along the Kibune River.
checked Oct ’26
A sightseeing train running 7.3 km along the Hozu River, 25 minutes one way.
Stroller OK · Nursing room · Changing table · checked Oct ’26
Kibune runs cooler than central Kyoto, which is what brings people up the valley in August. The air on the platform can feel cold in short sleeves at the height of summer.
Kibune is said to be about 5°C cooler than central Kyoto, and a thin layer is still advised, even in summer.
The ordinary cars have no air conditioning or fans, but once the train moves, wind passes through and the tunnels are cool, though it is hot while stopped. On a very hot day in July 2022, a 5-year-old and a 14-year-old were very happy in Rich-go's breeze.