Kyoto
Kyoto is usually at the top of the list for tourists who are visiting Japan, and with good reasons. The historical capital city of Japan can seem like one big open-air museum with a wealth of historical treasures and neighborhoods. Because the city was spared in WW2, traditional Japan can truly be felt in Kyoto. It can be difficult to decide where to go when you are making plans to visit Kyoto, so we wrote this travel guide to help you!
With its history dating back to the 6th century, there are places of interest of all ages that can be visited. There are some world-famous highlights such as the Golden Pavillion and the Fushimi Inari. You can go to Gion to try and spot a maiko or geisha on her way to work. Some of the best traditional Japanese food can be had in Kyoto. If we can give you one tip, it would be to at least spend a few days in this wonderful city.
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Kyoto Imperial Palace Guide
What is the Kyoto Imperial Palace? The Kyoto Imperial Palace, or Kyoto Gosho (京都御所), was the residence of Japan’s emperors for over 500 years—until the capital moved to Tokyo in 1869. Nestled in the heart of Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, this sprawling complex preserves the refined aesthetics of classical Japanese court life and architecture. Unlike…
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Ninenzaka & Sannenzaka
What are Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka? Ninenzaka (二年坂) and Sannenzaka (三年坂) are two of Kyoto’s most charming stone-paved slopes, located just south of Kiyomizu-dera Temple in the historic Higashiyama district. These pedestrian-only lanes gently wind downhill through traditional wooden buildings, teahouses, souvenir shops, and restaurants—offering a glimpse of Kyoto’s old-town atmosphere. Though they are often mentioned…
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Philosopher’s Path (Tetsugaku no Michi)
What Is the Philosopher’s Path? The Philosopher’s Path (Tetsugaku no Michi) is a scenic 2-kilometer walkway that runs alongside a cherry tree-lined canal in Kyoto’s Higashiyama district. Named after the famous Kyoto University philosopher Nishida Kitaro, who used the path for daily meditation walks, it offers a calm and contemplative escape from the city bustle.…
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Fushimi Traditional Sake Breweries | Sake brewery very popular among Japanese
Fushimi is an area in the south of Kyoto with many sake breweries. Learn which breweries welcome visitors, and which other attractions there are in the area!
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Ninna-ji Temple | Beautiful cherry blossom viewing spots in Kyoto
Not far from the famous Golden Pavillion is Ninna-ji temple. If you come during cherry blossom or maple leave season you can’t skip this temple, but also outside these seasons it’s worth a visit.
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Family Friendly Activities in Kyoto
Are you coming to Kyoto with kids between 6 and 16 years old? See which 9 family-friendly activities you can add to your Kyoto trip to add some fun for the whole family to the itinerary!
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Uji Kyoto | World Heritage Sites and Green Tea Production
How to experience green tea town Uji on your Japan tour? Let us share with you our favorite places in this beautiful little town near Kyoto!
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Nishijin Textile Center in Kyoto | Beautiful textiles representing Japanese tradition
If you are into artisanal goods or textiles, be sure to visit the Nishijin district if you are in Kyoto. You will love the traditional houses, small workshops, and the Nishijin Textile Center.
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Philosopher’s Path in Kyoto | Quiet Atmosphere and Beautiful Trees
The ideal spot for some quiet thinking and to enjoy the 4 seasons of Japan, the Philosopher’s Path is beloved by tourists and locals alike. Find out how you can enjoy this wonderful little corner in Kyoto!
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Kyoto Station | It’s a transportation hub and a shopping destination
Kyoto station is not just a place to catch the train, as there is plenty to see and do besides arriving and departing. Find out what makes Kyoto station worth visiting during your Japan tour!
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Riverside Kibune in Kyoto | Beautiful Seasonal Scenery and the God of Marriage
Kibune is a riverside area in the northern part of Kyoto. You can visit the famous Kifune Shrine, hike to Kurama Temple over the mountain, or enjoy lunch at one of the riverside open restaurants.
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Kyoto Highlights and Hidden Gems Itinerary
Would you like to get some ideas for your perfect Kyoto itinerary? We listed our 5 favorite Kyoto highlights along with 5 lesser-known spots in Kyoto that really make you able to taste the local atmosphere in this beautiful city.
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Tofukuji Temple, Kyoto | Beautiful Flowers and Gardens
One of my favorite Zen temples is the Tofukuji temple located in the east of Kyoto city. What makes this temple very special are its magnificent landscapes of maple trees and cherry blossoms.
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Experience Zen | the Essence of Buddhism in Kyoto
There is a Zen temple in Kyoto called Koshoji, located near Kuramaguchi Station, which is not a typical tourist sightseeing spot. Even though tourists are discouraged from going in, it is an interesting place to visit.
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Rurikoin Temple, Kyoto | Spectacular view shining in lapis lazuli
When we hear or see the words ‘yuka midori in Japan’, it is considered as a herald of early summer. Learn what this means in this personal account of our visit to the Rurikoin temple in Kyoto.
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Local Kyoto with its quaint scenery
If you have already finished the beginners‘ course of travel in Kyoto and traveled around the many touristy spots, it is time to explore the daily lives of the locals!
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5 Great Kyoto Sightseeing Destinations
While planning a trip to Kyoto, it can be difficult to make the decision to choose where to go if you have a limited amount of time due to the large number of amazing sights that exist in Japan’s ancient capital city. This is a list of the 5 best places to visit during your…
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Nijo Castle | with its Gorgeous Architecture and Many Treasures
Nijo-jo Castle in Kyoto has witnessed some of the most important events in Japanese history in the 400 years since it was built. In 1940 the palace was first opened to the public. Today it is one of the most important tourist spots in the city of Kyoto.
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Kinkakuji | The Most Beautiful Buddhist Temple
Kinkakuji was founded in 1397 as a resting villa for the third shogun of the Muromachi era, Ashikaga Yoshimitsu. This shogun asked his son to turn the villa into a Zen temple when he died, and so it happened.
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Yasaka Shrine, Kyoto | Historic and Beautiful Building
One of the oldest shrines in Kyoto is located in the famous Gion district in Kyoto. The Yasaka Shrine stands out for its great beauty and interesting historical architecture.