Centrally located on the island of Honshu, Kyoto is famous for its temples, culture, history and architecture.
The city was named Japan’s capital in the 8th century and flourished as a centre for culture, politics and the country’s economy until Tokyo was named the new capital in the 19th century. Kyoto was largely unscathed by the bombings Japan suffered during the world wars, so much of the historic architecture built during the city’s heyday as a capital of culture remains to this day.
Famous and important sites to explore here include the 17 Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto, which are UNESCO World Heritage-listed.
Just some of the unmissable sights include the magnificent Nijo Castle, Kinkakuji (also known as the Golden Temple), the rock garden at Ryoanji temple, and the Higashiyama District, home to Kiyomizudera temple. Stop to dine in the Pontocho district, wander the stalls and get a taste for Japan at Nishiki Market, and make sure to visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine, an important Shinto site known for its torii gates.
Our Travel Specialists recommend spending at least three nights here, as there is so much to see, do and discover. Kyoto has a humid subtropical climate; rainy season usually begins around mid-June, giving way to hot and sunny weather towards the end of July.
- So much to see including Nijo Castle, Fushimi Inari Shrine, and Togetsukyo Bridge
- Explore Itsukushima shrine and admire the iconic floating Torii gate
- Take a ride on the amazing Bullet train from Kyoto to Tokyo
- Experience a traditional tea ceremony
- Explore the Sensoji Temple and the Meiji Shrine in Tokyo
- Indulge in a gourmet Japanese Kaiseki dinner during your stay at a ryokan
- Discover “Shodo”, the art of Japanese calligraphy
- Be entertained by a Geisha or Maiko at a special dinner
- Experience a traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony.
- Experience being a samurai warrior and learn the basics of Kenbu.
- Visit the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine with its 10,000 red torii gates.
- Experience the speed of the iconic Bullet Train.
- Explore the contrasting shopping streets of Nakamise and Omotesando in Tokyo
- Take a boat ride on volcanic Lake Ashi and hopefully catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji
- Discover the breath-taking beauty of Kanazawa’s Kenrokuen Garden
- Visit the UNESCO World Heritage listed Shirakawago village with its ‘praying hands’ rooftops
- See both sides of old and modern Tokyo
- Visit the stunning “floating Torii gate” at Miyajima Island
- Listen to the ‘chirping’ nightingale floors as you walk through Nijo Castle
- Experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony with a professional instructor
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