What should you visit in Kyoto?
Here are some of the places to visit in Kyoto according to Japan Trotter: - The Gion district: with its narrow alleyways lined with shops and small traditional wooden restaurants.
Here are some of the places to visit in Kyoto according to Japan Trotter:
- The Gion district: with its narrow alleyways lined with shops and small traditional wooden restaurants. Also worth seeing is Maruyama Kôen park, home to one of Japan's oldest cherry trees. Note that there are plenty of souvenir shops in this district, ideal for shopping.
- Kiyomizu Temple: one of Japan's most famous temples, perched on a hillside.
- Kinkaku-ji: the Golden Pavilion overlooking a lake.
- Ryôan-ji: the Zen garden, a place of serenity.
- Kyoto Castle: entirely wooden.
- Kyoto Station: and its massive shopping complex
Frequently asked questions
Among the must-see places in Kyoto are the Gion district with its traditional alleyways, Kiyomizu-dera Temple perched on a hillside, Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion) overlooking a lake, the Ryôan-ji Zen garden, and Nijo Castle. These sites reflect both Japanese architecture, spirituality, and traditional culture.
Kyoto is beautiful in spring (late March - early April) during cherry blossom season (sakura), especially at Maruyama Kôen park. Autumn (October - November) offers spectacular displays of red and orange foliage. Best avoided: Golden Week (early May) and summer holidays, which are very crowded.
The fastest and most convenient way to travel from Tokyo to Kyoto is the Shinkansen (high-speed train). The journey takes about 2 hours 15 minutes on the Nozomi, or 2 hours 40 minutes on the Hikari. The Japan Rail Pass, available to foreign tourists, allows you to make this journey at no additional cost.
To visit Kyoto's main sites without rushing, it is recommended to plan at least 2 to 3 days. If you wish to explore more hidden neighborhoods, take excursions to Nara or Osaka, and enjoy the local atmosphere, 4 to 5 days are ideal.
Yes, Gion is Japan's most famous geisha district (called 'geiko' in Kyoto dialect) and home to maiko (apprentice geishas). In the evening, particularly along Hanamikoji Street, it is possible to encounter geishas heading to their appointments. However, it is best to be discreet and not disturb them.
