Kyoto, located in the Kansai region of Japan, is a city steeped in history and culture. It was the imperial capital of Japan for more than a thousand years, and it is now considered the cultural heart of the country. From stunning temples and shrines to beautiful gardens and traditional tea ceremonies, Kyoto offers visitors a glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural heritage. In this article, we will share ten things to do in Kyoto that will help you make the most of your visit to this beautiful city.
1. Visit Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion)
Kinkaku-ji Temple is a Zen Buddhist temple famous for its stunning golden pavilion, which is reflected in a pond surrounded by beautiful gardens. The temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of Kyoto’s most popular tourist attractions.
2. Explore Fushimi Inari Shrine
Fushimi Inari Shrine is a Shinto shrine famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, which form a tunnel-like path up the mountain. Visitors can explore the shrine’s beautiful grounds and enjoy stunning views of Kyoto from the mountaintop.
3. Experience a Traditional Tea Ceremony
Kyoto is famous for its traditional tea ceremonies, which offer visitors a chance to experience the ancient Japanese art of tea making. Many tea houses in Kyoto offer tea ceremonies, where visitors can enjoy a bowl of matcha tea and traditional sweets in a serene and peaceful setting.
4. Stroll Through Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is a beautiful forest of towering bamboo stalks that create a serene and peaceful atmosphere. Visitors can stroll through the grove and enjoy the sound of the rustling bamboo leaves.
5. Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Kiyomizu-dera Temple is a Buddhist temple that dates back to the 8th century and offers stunning views of Kyoto from its hilltop location. The temple is also famous for its wooden stage, which hangs over the hillside and offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.
6. Explore the Gion District
The Gion district is Kyoto’s most famous geisha district, with narrow streets lined with traditional wooden buildings and tea houses. Visitors can enjoy a stroll through the district and try to catch a glimpse of a geisha or maiko (apprentice geisha) on their way to a performance.
7. Visit Nijo Castle
Nijo Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was the residence of the Tokugawa shoguns during their visits to Kyoto. The castle’s beautiful gardens and architecture offer visitors a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of Japan’s ruling class.
8. Take a Trip to Kinkaku-ji Temple’s Silver Pavilion (Ginkaku-ji)
While not actually silver, Ginkaku-ji is a stunning Zen Buddhist temple known for its beautiful gardens and the Silver Pavilion, which was modeled after the Golden Pavilion at Kinkaku-ji Temple.
9. Take a Walk Along the Philosopher’s Path
The Philosopher’s Path is a picturesque walkway that follows a canal lined with cherry trees. The path is named after Nishida Kitaro, a famous Japanese philosopher who walked this path daily for inspiration.
10. Visit the Kyoto Imperial Palace
The Kyoto Imperial Palace was once the residence of the emperor of Japan and is now a museum that offers visitors a glimpse into the imperial family’s lifestyle. Visitors can explore the palace’s beautiful gardens and architecture and learn about the history of the Japanese imperial family.
In conclusion, Kyoto is a city rich in history and culture, and these ten things to do will help you make the most of your visit. From temples and shrines to tea ceremonies and geisha districts, Kyoto has something to offer everyone, and we hope you enjoy exploring this beautiful city.