Month: May 2023

Kyoto is one of Japan’s most popular destinations, for good reason. It is a city that combines the old and the new, the traditional and the modern, the sacred and the secular.

Kyoto was the capital of Japan for over a thousand years, from 794 to 1868, and it is home to many cultural and historical treasures.

In this blog post, you will learn some of the best places to visit, things to do, and tips to enjoy your trip to Kyoto.

How to Get There

Kyoto is located in the Kansai region of Japan, about 500 km southwest of Tokyo. There are several ways to get there, depending on your budget and preference.

• By plane: The nearest airport to Kyoto is Kansai International Airport (KIX), about 80 km away. You can take a train, bus, or taxi to Kyoto from there. The train takes about 75 minutes and costs around 3000 yen. The bus takes about 90 minutes and costs about 2600 yen. The taxi takes about an hour and costs about 20000 yen.
• By bullet train: The fastest and most convenient way to get to Kyoto from Tokyo is by bullet train (shinkansen). The journey takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes, costing around 14000 yen. You can also use a Japan Rail Pass if you have one, which covers the Shinkansen and other JR trains in Japan.
• By regular train: If you want to save money and don’t mind a longer journey, you can take a regular train from Tokyo to Kyoto. The trip takes about 8 hours and costs around 9000 yen. You will need to change trains several times along the way.
• By bus: Another cheap option is to take a bus from Tokyo to Kyoto. The trip takes about 9 hours and costs around 5000 yen. Many bus companies offer overnight or daytime services with different comfort levels and amenities.

Where to Stay

Kyoto has many accommodation options, from luxury hotels to traditional inns (ryokan) to budget hostels. Here are some of the factors to consider when choosing where to stay:

• Location: Kyoto is a large city with many districts and attractions. Depending on your itinerary and preferences, you should stay near the city center, a train station, or a specific sightseeing spot. You can also use public transportation or rent a bike to get around the city.
• Price: The price of accommodation in Kyoto varies depending on the season, location, type, and quality. Generally speaking, hotels are more expensive than Ryokan, which are more expensive than hostels. You can expect to pay anywhere from 2000 yen to 20000 yen per night per person.
• Style: If you want to experience the traditional Japanese culture and hospitality, stay in a ryokan. Ryokan is a Japanese-style inn that offers tatami rooms, futon beds, communal baths (onsen), and sometimes meals (kaiseki). Ryokans are usually more expensive than hotels or hostels, but they are worth it for the unique experience.
• Amenities: Depending on your needs and preferences, you may want to look for accommodation that offers specific amenities, such as free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, laundry facilities, kitchen facilities, etc. Some places may also provide complimentary breakfast or other services.

What to See

Kyoto is famous for its temples and shrines, which number over a thousand. Each one has its history, architecture, and atmosphere. Some of the most famous ones include:

• Kinkaku-ji: Also known as the Golden Pavilion, this temple is one of the most iconic sights in Kyoto. It was built in the 14th century as a retirement villa for a shogun and later converted into a Zen temple. The main attraction is the three-story pavilion covered with gold leaf and reflected on the pond below.
• Kiyomizu-Dera: This temple is located on a hillside overlooking the city. It was founded in the 8th century and is famous for its wooden stage that juts out over the cliff. You can enjoy a panoramic view of Kyoto and the surrounding mountains from there. The temple is also known for its spring water, which is said to have healing powers.
• Fushimi Inari Taisha: This shrine is dedicated to Inari, the god of rice and business. It is famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that form a tunnel-like path up the mountain behind the shrine. The shrine’s main hall is dedicated to Inari, with several smaller shrines in the area that are said to bring good luck and fortune.

In addition to its temples and shrines, Kyoto has many gardens, museums, castles, markets, and other attractions. You can spend a few days exploring all that Kyoto has to offer.

What to Eat

Kyoto is known for its traditional cuisine; many restaurants serve delicious dishes. Here are some of the local specialties to try while you’re in Kyoto:

Kaiseki Ryori: This multi-course meal is made with locally sourced seasonal ingredients. The dishes usually include sushi, sashimi, tempura, sukiyaki, etc. It’s an excellent way to experience Kyoto’s culinary culture.

Yudofu: This tofu dish consists of cubes of silken tofu cooked in a hot pot broth with vegetables and mushrooms. The tofu is soft and delicate, while the broth adds flavor. Yudofu is often served with condiments such as grated ginger and ponzu sauce.

Okonomiyaki: This savory pancake has various ingredients, including cabbage, pork, seafood, and vegetables. It’s cooked on a hot plate and topped with okonomiyaki sauce and mayonnaise.

Kyoto has a wide range of restaurants, so you’ll find something you’ll enjoy!

What to Do

Kyoto has plenty of activities to choose from, depending on your interests. Here are some ideas for what to do in Kyoto:

• Explore the temples and shrines: There are over a thousand temples and shrines in Kyoto, and each has its characteristics and history. Take some time to explore and learn about its culture.
• Visit the markets: In Kyoto, you can find everything from traditional crafts to local snacks at its many markets. These markets are also great places to pick up souvenirs for friends and family back home.
• Take a guided tour: Several companies offer tours of Kyoto’s temples, shrines, and cultural attractions. This is a great way to look at all Kyoto offers in-depth.
• Shop in the stores: Shopping in Gion or Shijo Kawaramachi stores is one of the best ways to experience traditional Japanese culture. From antiques to kimonos, there’s something for everyone here.

Final Thoughts

Kyoto is a beautiful and historic city that has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to explore the city’s ancient temples, experience traditional Japanese culture in a ryokan, or relax and take in the scenery, Kyoto has it all. With its convenient location and plentiful transportation options, planning your trip from Tokyo is easy.…