Kyoto

Kyoto is easy to explore by bus, train, or on foot. The Kyoto Station area connects to major lines like the JR Nara Line and Sagano Line, great for day trips. Many temples and attractions are within walking distance or a short ride from Gion Shijo Station.

Stay near Downtown Kyoto or Kyoto Station for easy access to trains, buses, and shops. The Gion area is great for a traditional stay, with wooden houses and nearby temples like Kiyomizu-dera. For a quieter trip, try Arashiyama or Northern Kyoto, close to bamboo forests and scenic walks.

The best times to visit are spring (March–May) for cherry blossoms and autumn (September–November) for colorful leaves. These are busy seasons, so book early. If you prefer fewer crowds, visit in winter for peaceful temples or early summer for festivals.

Kyoto is famous for kaiseki ryori, a traditional multi-course meal that uses seasonal ingredients. You should also try yudofu (boiled tofu), yuba (tofu skin), and shojin ryori, a vegetarian meal often served at Zen temples. Don’t miss Uji matcha tea too; it's Kyoto’s special green tea.

Kyoto is famous for being Japan’s former imperial capital and the center of traditional Japanese culture. It’s home to thousands of temples, shrines, and lovely gardens, including world heritage sites like Kinkaku-ji (Golden Temple) and Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion). You'll also love its tea houses, kaiseki cuisine, and the Gion district.

If you're a first-time visitor, there are many things to do in Kyoto, Japan. Your Kyoto itinerary should start with Fushimi Inari Shrine and Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, all iconic Kyoto attractions. Don’t miss Nijo Castle and a walk through Philosopher's Path, especially during cherry blossom season. End your day with a meal in a local Japanese restaurant or a night in a ryokan, Japan’s traditional inn.

You’ll need at least 3 days to see Kyoto’s main sights, like Kinkaku-ji, Nishiki Market, and Fushimi Inari Shrine. For a slower pace and day trips to nearby places, plan 5 to 7 days. This lets you explore central Kyoto and quieter areas like Arashiyama and Northern Kyoto.