Guide to Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto was the capital of Japan for over a millennium, and is often regarded still as it’s most beautiful city.

Top reasons to visit Kyoto

Kyoto has a (slightly) hidden inner beauty, not just in the temples and parks, that’s ripe for deeper exploration.

Visit on one of the many UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Saiho-ji (moss gardens) or Tenryu-ji (the main temple of the Rinzai Buddhism).

Take part in Japanese Tea Ceremony

Main areas of Kyoto

Kyoto’s numerous palaces, shrines and temples are spread out over five districts:-

Central

Site of Nijo Castle and the Imperial Palace, with the southern end being overshadowed by the new massive glass and steel gateway of Kyoto Station.

Western Koyoto/Arashiyama

Set in the beautiful tree-covered hills of Arashiyama, this district has abundant natural wonders and historic sights.

Eastern Koyoto/Higashiyama

Set between Higashiyama’s temple-studded mountains and the Kamo River, one can find the famed geisha district of Giona and the Philosopher’s Path.

Northern Koyoto

Location of several World Heritage Sites , centuries-old shrines and temples, along with the magnificent gilded pavilion of Kinkaku-ji.

Southern Koyoto

This district covers the largest part of Koyoto, stretching from Oharano in the west to Fushimi-ku, Daigo and the southern tip of Higashiyama-ku.

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Top Attractions in Kyoto

• Temples - Kiyomizu-dera, Ginkaku-ji, Heian Shrine, Kinaku-ji, Ninna-ji
• Ryoan-ji Zen Garden
• Katsura Imperial Villa
• Saiho-ji
• Nijo Castle
• Tenryu-ji
• Kamigamo Shrine
• Fushimi Inari-taisha

Shopping in Kyoto

• Department Store - Fujii Daimuru, Isetan
• Kyoto Handicraft Centre
• Market - Nishiki Market

Eating in Kyoto

Kyoto local delicacies include:-

• sushi
• noodle soup
• ramen
• katsu

Recommended restaurants include Gogyo, Inoda Coffee,Katsukura, Shichifukujin Ramen, Ganko Sanjo Honten, Hauff, Kurazushi, Care Bibliotic Hello!, Musasi Sushi, Tranq Room, Minoku, Matsuya, Hakata Ippudo, Honke Daichiasahi, Mishimi-tei and Donguri.

Nightlife and Entertainment in Kyoto

• Bars - Pig and Whistle, K-ya, The Flying Keg, Beer Komachi, Nikki’s Bar, Hub, Gekkeikan, Fishbowl, Rub a Dub Kyoto, Uotami, The Gael Irish Pub, Dug Out, Ringo, Bungalow
• Cocktails - Sugar Trip
• Coffee - Salon de the Francois, Shijo Kawarmachi, Kyoto Travellers Inn
• Clubs - Kobe Cappuccino Club, Butterfly
• Sake Bar - Yoramu
• Karaoke - Jumbo Karaoke Hiroba
• Museums - Kyoto International Manga Museum, National Museum of Modern Art, Hosomi Art Museum, Kyoto National Museum
• Theatre - Kanze Kaikan Theatre, Minami-za, Gion Corner Theatre, Kanse Kaikan Noh Theatre, Gion Kaburenjo Theatre, Oe Nogakhudo

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