Kyoto Tourism Code of Conduct: An Overview
The Kyoto Guidelines for sustainable tourism — the Kyoto Tourism Code of Conduct — were drawn up by the City of Kyoto and the Kyoto City Tourism Association for visitors, tourism businesses and residents alike. This guide follows the code's four themes for visitors.
Care for the community: learn the local rules first
The code's first theme is caring for the community: respect residents' daily lives, learn something of Kyoto's history and culture, and act by local rules and customs. Where a notice says no photography, check it before you raise your camera.
Waste and reusables: take it with you
Kyoto's streets stay clean thanks in part to residents sweeping in front of their homes each morning. Carry a reusable bag and bottle, do not litter, and avoid leaving food unfinished; dispose of rubbish at the shop where you bought it, or take it back to your accommodation.
Photography: check the signs first
Before you take a photo, check for no-photography notices. Photography may be prohibited in certain areas of temples and shrines, so follow the signs on site; the centre of a torii gate is the path of the deities, so walk along either side.
Getting around: store large luggage first
Congestion on public transport, city buses in particular, has become an issue, especially due to large luggage brought on board by visitors. The city promotes hands-free travel: store luggage at stations and other designated locations first, and plan your visit to avoid congestion.
At temples and shrines: quiet, hands off, shoes off
At temples and shrines, act respectfully and keep quiet. Do not touch historic buildings or cultural artefacts, remove your shoes on tatami flooring, and carry large luggage in front of you so you stay mindful of those around you. Where a temple or shrine differs, follow its notice on site.
Talk with local people — and prepare for the unexpected
Ask your accommodation staff for local recommendations, talk with local residents about the area's history, and join local festivals and events. At your accommodation, check the evacuation routes and locations, take appropriate infectious-disease precautions, and plan around the crowds.
Sources：京都市 京都観光行動基準(京都観光モラル)の特設サイト（公式） ↗京都市観光協会 京都観光モラル 観光客向け行動基準（公式） ↗京都市観光協会 Kyoto Guidelines FOR TOURISTS（公式） ↗京都市観光協会 KYOTO TOURISTSHIP（公式） ↗