-
Not included
-
Mainly public
-
3* & 4* Hotels
-
Kyoto
-
Kyoto
-
Autumn
-
Self-guided
-
Not included
-
English
Kyoto, Japan, is a city rich in cultural heritage and offers a plethora of tourist attractions for visitors to explore. From ancient temples to traditional tea houses, Kyoto has something for everyone. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for a unique travel experience; the city’s top tourist attractions are sure to impress. In this introduction, we will highlight the must-see sights and must-do activities during an 8-day tour of Kyoto. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey through this enchanting city!
Exploring Kyoto Top Tourist Attractions
During your 8-day tour of Kyoto, make sure to explore the city’s top tourist attractions. Start your journey by visiting the magnificent Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion. This stunning Zen Buddhist temple is surrounded by beautiful gardens; and offers breathtaking views of its golden exterior reflecting in the nearby pond. Next, head over to the Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, famous for its thousands of torii gates that lead to the sacred Mount Inari. Take a stroll through the gates and immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere of this spiritual site.
For a taste of traditional Japanese architecture, visit the Kiyomizu-dera Temple. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers stunning views of the cityscape from its wooden terrace; and is especially breathtaking during cherry blossom season. Don’t miss the chance to explore the historic Arashiyama district, known for its picturesque bamboo forest and the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge. Take a rickshaw ride through the bamboo grove and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of this charming area.
Finally, end your tour with a visit to the scenic Philosopher’s Path, a stone pathway lined with hundreds of cherry trees. This peaceful walk offers a tranquil retreat from the bustling city and is particularly beautiful during Sakura season. Stay tuned for the next blog post, where we will delve into the delicious culinary scene of Kyoto. From mouthwatering traditional dishes to unique culinary experiences, Kyoto offers a gastronomic adventure like no other!
Discovering the City´s Must-See Spots
As you continue your 8-day tour of Kyoto, there are a few more must-see spots that you should include on your itinerary. One of these spots is the iconic Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases the grandeur and elegance of traditional Japanese architecture. Take a stroll through the castle’s beautiful gardens and admire the intricate details of its interior.
Another must-visit attraction is the vibrant Gion District, known for its traditional wooden machiya houses and geisha culture. Take a leisurely walk through the narrow streets of Gion and keep an eye out for geisha and maiko dressed in exquisite kimonos, as they gracefully make their way to appointments.
You should also make time to explore the beautiful gardens of Kyoto. The Ryoan-ji Temple’s rock garden, with its meticulously placed rocks and serene atmosphere, is truly an oasis of tranquility. Furthermore, the peaceful atmosphere of the Zen Garden at the Tofuku-ji Temple is sure to leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
These are just a few of the must-see spots in Kyoto that will make your 8-day tour an unforgettable experience. Stay tuned for the next adventure to Japan´s current capital Tokyo, where we will delve into the fascinating history and culture of this captivating metropolis.
Overview
Kyoto, often called the “Golden City“, is a truly beautiful and historic city in the land of Honshu. It is known for its many traditional Japanese gardens, castles, feudal palaces, and ancient wooden houses, as well as several cultural forms of artistic expression. It is also well known for its more formalized traditions including kaiseki, consisting of multi-course meals, and geisha, who are usually found in the Gion area. Tourists planning to spend part of their holiday in Kyoto should consider some of the following popular tourist attractions.
Experiencing Must-Do Activities in Kyoto
In addition to visiting the top tourist attractions, there are also some must-do activities in Kyoto that will enhance your 8-day tour. One such activity is participating in a traditional tea ceremony. Immerse yourself in the art of tea preparation and learn about the significance of this ancient Japanese ritual. You can experience a tea ceremony at one of the many tea houses in Kyoto, where knowledgeable hosts will guide you through each step of the process.
Another must-do activity is exploring the city’s vibrant food scene. Kyoto is known for its delicious and diverse cuisine, so be sure to try some local specialties such as kaiseki, a multi-course meal showcasing seasonal ingredients. Don’t forget to indulge in some Kyoto-style sushi or visit a traditional Izakaya for a taste of the local nightlife.
Lastly, make time for a traditional Japanese arts and crafts workshop. Kyoto is home to many skilled artisans who continue to practice ancient crafts such as pottery, calligraphy, and kimono making. Joining a workshop will allow you to learn about these traditional arts firsthand and even create your own masterpiece to take home as a unique souvenir.
By participating in these must-do activities, you will truly immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Kyoto. Stay tuned for the next blog post, where we will explore more hidden gems and insider tips for making the most of your 8-day tour.
Trip Highlights
- Kyoto Gion Yasaka Shrine – Kennin-ji Temple, historic Zen Garden – Nishiki Market, local street food
- Nijō Castle – Kyoto Imperial Park, picnic under the cherry blossoms – Sannenzaka, traditional shops and teahouses – Kiyomizu-dera temple.
- Higashi Hongan-ji Temple, grand architecture, and beautiful gardens Rengeō-in (Sanjūsangendō) Temple, 1,001 statues of Kannon – Tōfuku-ji Temple, visit the Tsutenkyo Bridge
- Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama, wild monkeys park and panoramic views of Kyoto – Toei Kyoto Studio Park, the world of samurai and ninja, also live action shows and performances Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion
- Tenryu-ji, beautiful temple gardens, Zen meditation – Ryōan-ji, famous Zen rock garden – Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, beautiful garden – Ninenzaka, traditional shops and teahouses
- Nanzen-ji Temple, Sanmon gate – Kyoto Imperial Palace, guided tour
- Shimogamo Shrine, historic buildings and gardens – Heian-jingū Shrine, torii gate – Kōdai-ji Temple, beautiful bamboo garden
- Enryaku-ji Temple, cable car ride to the mountain temple complex, panoramic views of Kyoto, historic buildings, and pagodas – Higashiyama Jisho-ji, moss garden – Kiyomizu-dera
- Kyoto Railway Museum, history of Japanese railways, collection of vintage trains, ride on a simulator – Umekoji Park – Fushimi Inari Taisha, Hiking through the iconic torii gates, panoramic views
