Getting started: About Kyoto
- Kyoto’s temples, gardens, and hiking trails cover large areas. A comfortable pair of shoes and plenty of energy can be your greatest assets in this city.
- Kyoto is divided into regions with distinctive attractions. Arashiyama is notable for its bamboo forests and the Togetsukyo Bridge, while the Gion district is renowned for its traditional wooden houses and geisha culture. Higashiyama’s historical sites include the temples of Kiyomizu-dera and Tōfuku-ji.
- Kyoto is a terrific destination for visitors who want to wander the streets of the past and learn about Japan’s rich cultural heritage; the city is home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
When to visit Kyoto
Most Kyoto travel guides point to the spring season, when the cherry blossom (sakura) trees bloom, as a desirable time to visit the area: Throughout March and April, the city is blanketed in pink. Unsurprisingly, Kyoto is at its busiest during this time. The city is equally picturesque during the fall months, especially October and November, when the colors of the trees change to brilliant orange and red. Kyoto’s summers tend to be hot and humid.
Things to see and do in Kyoto
Historical places to visit in Kyoto
Fushimi Inari Shrine
Fushimi Inari Taisha is among Kyoto’s most recognizable landmarks and one of the first items on visitors’ Kyoto travel itineraries. From the entrance of the temple and extending to the mountain paths beyond are more than 10,000 red torii gates, offering a dramatic visual. The temple, associated with success and fertility in Japanese culture, has a distinctive atmosphere, particularly at sunrise and sunset. A walk through the vast grounds of Fushimi Inari evokes both the tranquility of nature and the temple’s historical texture. The Fushimi Inari Shrine is considered one of the best historical sites to visit in Kyoto.
Kinkaku-ji Temple
Another highlight of Kyoto is Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion. The top two floors of this oft-photographed Zen temple, formerly a shogun’s retirement villa, are covered in gold leaf. Overlooking a large pond, the structure is reflected in the water with a striking effect. The temple’s gardens also present a superb illustration of natural harmony, particularly in spring, when the cherry trees bloom, and in fall, when the leaves change color.
Nijo Castle
Considered one of Kyoto’s most magnificent historical sites, Nijo Castle was erected in 1603 for the Tokugawa shoguns. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994, the castle exemplifies the beauty of Japanese architecture, featuring beautifully decorated interiors and elegantly landscaped gardens. This renowned Kyoto historical site is a popular destination for history and art enthusiasts.
Must-see attractions and cultural treasures of Kyoto.
Arashiyama Bamboo Groves
To experience the power of nature, visit the Arashiyama Bamboo Groves, located in the outskirts of Kyoto. The manicured walking paths amid the groves allow visitors to fully embrace the tranquility of these tall stalks rustling gently in the breeze. The Arashiyama Bamboo Groves are a favorite destination for both amateur and professional photographers and are considered among Kyoto’s must-see attractions. A note: for centuries, bamboo from the groves has been used to manufacture various products — baskets, cups, boxes and mats — at local workshops. There are also traditional restaurants and souvenir shops in the area.
Gion District
The Gion District, which preserves Kyoto’s history, is something of a time capsule for those interested in learning more about Japanese culture. The district is known for its traditional wooden buildings and narrow streets, as well as its geisha culture. The Yasaka Shrine and traditional tea houses are among the area’s historical sites. There are numerous traditional shops and dining establishments in the district.
Urban transportation in Kyoto
Getting around Kyoto is a breeze, thanks to a robust public transportation network. Kyoto Station serves as a gateway to a multitude of destinations and is reachable by both buses and trains; daily bus passes are budget-friendly and hassle-free. Taxi fares are high throughout Japan but visitors can rent bicycles — a terrific and environmentally friendly way to get around the city’s smooth, flat streets.
Kyoto offers a captivating collection of stunning sights and rich historical landmarks, seamlessly connecting the past with the present at every turn. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey in Kyoto, where history and nature intertwine.
