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.

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!
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.
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!
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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…
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.
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!
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!
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.
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.
Kiyomizu Dera Temple, Kyoto | Beautiful natural scenery and various power spots

The Kiyomizu Dera temple in Kyoto is one of Japan’s most famous Buddhist temples and with good reason, as it is one of the most beautiful constructions in the old capital city.
Gion Corner, Kyoto | A great chance to experience Kyoto’s traditional performing arts

If you don’t have the budget to see Kyoto’s geisha in action in an actual tea house, Gion Corner in Kyoto is an alternative that gives you a great overview of traditional Japanese performing arts.
Arashiyama, Kyoto | Mysterious and beautiful bamboo forest

Arashiyama in Kyoto is famous for its mystical bamboo grove, but the area is actually a lot larger than just the bamboo forest. It is a very pleasant environment to have a walk past traditional shops, temples, and nature.
Kimono Forest, Kyoto | Beautiful Traditional Japanese Costumes

Find out more about Kimono Forest, a must-see promenade for people heading to the bamboo forest, located in the Arashiyama area of Kyoto.
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.
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!