Travel Guide | Kyoto, Japan

Explore the natural and cultural treasures of Japan in Kyoto

Japan is a captivating country where iconic sights await around every corner. With ancient wonders such as temples and shrines, ultra-modern attractions including soaring skyscrapers and bullet trains, and cultural charms from graceful geisha to anime art, the “Land of the Rising Sun” never fails to stimulate the senses and inspire the imagination.

To uncover the heart of Japanese heritage, the first stop on any traveler’s itinerary should be Kyoto, the country’s former imperial capital. Home to approximately 2,000 temples and shrines, including 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites, this city is a cultural treasure trove. Spend endless days exploring the city’s beautiful architecture, strolling through scenic gardens that bloom with cherry blossom in spring, or discovering classical wooden shophouses and authentic restaurants. Kyoto’s collection of attractions is almost endless!

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1. Fushimiri Inari

Nestled at the base of Inari mountain, Fushimi Inari is famous for the seemingly endless lines of red torii gates that lead up a series of trails into the surrounding forest, creating a dazzling visual spectacle.

2. Kiyomizu-dera

Kiyomizu-dera is one of Kyoto’s most spectacular Buddhist temples. Inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list, this stunning temple dates back to 778 AD and incredibly, not a single nail was used in its construction!

3. Gion

A visit to Gion, the traditional geisha district of Japan, feels like stepping back in time to a bygone era. Stroll through the ancient streets and savor the sights, including authentic teahouses, shops, ryokan (inns) and restaurants.

4. Kinkaku-ji

Another of Kyoto’s UNESCO World Heritage sites, Kinkaku-ji is a Zen Buddhist temple famous for its gleaming multi-tiered golden pavilion, which rises 12.5 meters from a lake, surrounded by an enchanting Japanese garden.

5. Kyoto International Manga Museum

Uncover the contemporary culture of Japan at the Kyoto International Manga Museum, which showcases a huge collection of anime comics and other manga memorabilia from Japan and all around the word, across three floors!

6. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Just outside the city, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is a natural forest in where the bamboo grass soars as high as trees. A series of pathways wind through the woodland, creating a peaceful setting for shady strolls.

7. Nishiki Market

Kyoto is a compelling culinary destination and the best The Hotel Kyoto Palace, BW Signature Collection place to discover its stunning street food is Nishiki Market. Nicknamed “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” this amazing 400-year-old marketplace is filled with heady flavors and fragrances that are sure to stimulate the senses.

8. Toji Temple and Kobo-ichi Market

For shoppers, there can be few more immersive experiences than the Toji temple market. Hosted on the 21^st of every month, this lively event features hundreds of stalls selling everything from handcrafted toys to beauty products, Japanese prints and kimonos.

9. Shinkyogoku Shopping District

Situated in the heart of the city, this vibrant retail arcade showcases a wide range of shops and stores, from the latest Japanese fashions to exciting accessories. This is reputed to be the second oldest shopping street in Japan, after Asakusa Nakamise in Tokyo.

10. Teramachi

Shopping on a budget? Teramachi is the perfect place for travelers seeking a bargain or those who want to soak up traditional Japanese life. Guests can stroll along the street and browse the area’s many specialty shops, including Kyoto’s famous “100 yen stores.”