Kyoto is a Japanese city where tradition and modernity meet harmoniously. Former imperial capital of Japan, it is full of historical sites, temples, gardens and emblematic places. If you are planning a trip to Japan, here are the top things to do in Kyoto.
1. Visit Kinkaku-ji Temple, the Golden Pavilion
First of all, THE thing to do in Kyoto is Kinkaku-ji Temple. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Gold leaves cover its main pavilion. It creates a spectacular effect! Beautiful gardens surround this Buddhist temple, as well as a lake that reflects the building, offering memorable photos.
Tip: Go early to avoid the crowds and fully enjoy the tranquility of the place.
2. Explore the Traditional Gion District
Gion is Kyoto’s famous geisha district. Its cobblestone streets and wooden houses immerse you in the atmosphere of ancient Japan. As you stroll around, you might be lucky enough to come across a geisha or a maiko (apprentice geisha).
Not to be missed: Attend a traditional dance or theater performance at one of the neighborhood’s teahouses.
3. Admire the torii gates of Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
Fushimi Inari Shrine is one of the most famous shrines in Kyoto. Its special feature: its thousands of red torii gates that form a tunnel leading to the top of Mount Inari. Hiking through these gates is a mystical and unforgettable experience.
Tips: The climb takes about 2 to 3 hours. Take your time and appreciate the small fox statues, divine messengers in Shinto culture.
4. Discover the Zen garden of Ryoan-ji Temple
Ryoan-ji Temple is famous for its dry garden, a masterpiece of Zen minimalism. This garden consists of carefully arranged rocks on raked gravel. The aim is to meditate on the simplicity and harmony of natural elements.
Note: This garden is perfect for a meditative break after a day of sightseeing.
5. Take a stroll in the Arashiyama bamboo grove
The Arashiyama district, west of Kyoto, is home to one of the most beautiful bamboo forests in Japan. Walking through these green giants gives you a feeling of calm and serenity. Take the opportunity to also visit the Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Suggestion: Rent a bike to explore the entire region and its many attractions.
6. Attend a traditional tea ceremony
Kyoto is the ideal place to discover the tea ceremony, an ancestral Japanese practice. You can participate in this ceremony in many tea houses or temples in the city. This activity will immerse you in the art of preparing and tasting matcha tea.
Good to know: Some ceremonies offer explanations in English for a better understanding of the rituals.
7. Stroll along the Philosopher’s Path
The Philosopher’s Path is a pleasant walk along a canal lined with cherry trees. This path owes its name to the Japanese philosopher Nishida Kitaro, who meditated there daily. In spring, the cherry blossoms make it a particularly romantic place.
Little extra: This path connects two important temples: Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion) and Eikan-do Temple.
Conclusion
Kyoto is a city where traditional Japanese culture is omnipresent and full of things to do. Whether you are passionate about history, spirituality or nature, every corner of Kyoto will surprise you. Plan your visits according to your interests to make the most of your stay.
Kyoto awaits you for an unforgettable journey to the heart of Japanese history and traditions.
