Kyoto, one of our favourite cities in the Kansai region, is a stunning travel destination best known for its rich history and traditional culture. It is home to many gorgeous heritage sites, natural gardens, temples and shrines. If you are keen to understand more about both the traditional, as well as the modern Japanese cultures, this is no doubt the best place for you to visit!
Read More: Kimono Experience in Kyoto
Top Sights to See in Kyoto, Japan
Kinkaku-ji - Beautiful Golden Temple with a Mirror Pond in Front
Visit Kinkaku-ji today and take your own official Kyoto's postcard picture in front of the Golden Pavilion now! This temple is one of the most visited landmarks in the city. The golden architecture is situated beside a large mirror pond, offering a beautiful shimmering reflection in such stunning picture-perfect setting. This place will look totally different in seasons, especially in Sakura season, autumn, as well as winter covered in snow. Therefore, make sure you come back at the right time!
Arashiyama Bamboo Forest - A Walking Path in an Natural Setting
Immerse yourself in the beauty of this enchanting bamboo forest while you are following the walking path in Arashiyama. This natural attraction allows you to escape the bustling city and enter into another peaceful world. We suggest that you should visit Arashiyama in early morning to avoid crowds in the forest so you can have a better travel experience over there.
Tenryu-ji - the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto
Tenryu-ji is another renowned temple in Kyoto that you shouldn't miss while you are in Arashiyama region. This temple is surrounded by a beautiful natural garden, as well as the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. It offers visitors a great chance to appreciate the beauty of the historic architectures and its garden. This place is even prettier on a sunny day, so don't miss out!
Kiyomizu-dera - Iconic Temple offering City Views of Kyoto
If you can only pick one temple to visit to while you are in Kyoto, then Kiyomizu-dera should be undoubtedly your first priority for all first-time visitor. As this iconic temple is best known for its gorgeous architecture, in addition to the stunning panoramic views of the city and the surrounding hills on its wooden terrace. The temple offers special night viewing from time to time; if you are in luck, you could probably see the night view from its terrace!
Fushimi Inari Taisha Sembon Torii - Hiking Trails with Thousands of Torri Gates
Walk through the distinctive vibrant red torii gates is believed to purify your spirit and bring good luck to you. This could be the reason why the Thousand Torii Gates is one of the most popular travel destinations across the country. These torii gates line the hiking trails and form a pathway up the mountain. Follow the torii gates and you should never get lost.
Japanese cuisine usually reflects the long history and connection to the imperial court. There are many types of Japanese food across the country. Kyoto is renowned for its high-quality matcha and how they make good use of it in culinary. While you are there, you should definitely try its most authentic matcha and other types of green tea, as well as food that are made with it.
Japanese Cuisine to Eat in Kyoto, Japan
Matcha - Japan's famous powdered green tea
Chazuke - Set meal with green tea pouring over rice
Japanese Soufflé Pancakes - stacked fluffy pancakes with creamy sauce
Ramen - Japanese soy sauce or miso soup noodle with sliced pork
Katsudon - deep-fried pork cutlets with rice
Recommended Restaurants in Kyoto, Japan
GOKAGO | 2 Chome-258 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0862, Japan ★★★★☆
鯛匠 HANANA | 26-1 Sagatenryuji Setogawacho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8376, Japan ★★★★★
果菓 伊藤軒 Kaka Itoken | Japan, 〒600-8216 Kyoto, Shimogyo Ward, Higashishiokojicho, 721-1 京都タワーサンド 1F ★★★☆☆
麺屋 猪一 Men-ya Inoichi | 542 Ebisunocho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8033, Japan ★★★★★
名代とんかつ かつくら Katsukura Tonkatsu | Japan, 〒604-8036 Kyoto, Nakagyo Ward, Ishibashicho, 16 三条通寺町東入ル ★★★★★
GARIGUETTE -ガリゲット | 17-2 Ishibashicho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8036, Japan ★★★★★