8 Top-rated Tourist Attractions in Kyoto – 8 Reasons to Visit Japan

With its ancient artistic flair, Nijo Castle stands to be one of the major landmarks in Kyoto. With a history that goes back to 1603, the castle was celebrated as a seat of government. The building features a moat, well-preserved walls, and towers; these make up the allure of the place. The East Gate and the Inner Gate are the main highlights of the site. The Inner Gate is admired for its fine carvings and metalwork. Treading on the 'nightingale floors' is a fun thing to do here – these floors are designed to sound like nightingales when walked on.

Also known as Kinkaku-Ji, the Golden Pavilion was built as a retirement home for Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu. The pavilion is now a Buddhist temple and known as one of the most scenic places in Japan. A short walk from any Kyoto apartment hotel, the Golden Pavilion is a must-visit on any tour in Japan. The temple is built over a large reservoir, and the grounds of the site are among the highlights.

Situated on a mountain top, Kiyomizu-dera Temple has been given UNESCO World Heritage Site status due to its scenic location. The stroll up to the temple along Tea-Pot Lane is one of the best things you can do here. The temple was built in AD 790 in the name of the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy. Among the noteworthy features are the Main Hall and the terrace; the terrace offers amazing vistas of the area ranging over the wooded hills.

One of the most sought-after historic sites in the city, Kyoto Imperial Palace was founded in AD 794. The building was ruined by fire several times, and it was rebuilt in 1855. The palace is located in the centre of the city, which makes it an easy journey from Citadines Karasuma-Gojo Kyoto. Key highlights of the site include the Emperor's Residence, the Hall for State Ceremonies, the Court Room, and the Library.

Displaying fine Buddhist architecture, Nishi Honganji Temple belongs to the Jodo-Shinshu sect. The temple holds several paintings that were done in the 6th century. The rooms are embellished with decorated walls. Only several parts of the temple are available for viewing, so before you visit, make sure you plan your tour through the temple's website.

Apart from its array of fine temples, Kyoto also has a number of museums and galleries. Known to locals as the National Museum, The Kyoto National Museum is an art gallery founded in 1897. The museum has a collection of items that reflects pre-modern Asian art. Equally worth seeing is the Municipal Museum of Art; this gallery holds a collection of artworks done by Takeuchi Seiho.

Another historical marvel of Japan, Katsura Imperial Villa is renowned for its spectacular architecture and aesthetic gardens. The genius design of the place lets you see the gardens always from the front. Some gardens are made using cobbles and river pebbles. The inner garden, also known as the Goten, is a noteworthy feature.

Built in AD 988, the Byodo-in Temple boasts many Japanese artworks, shrines and buildings. The Phoenix Hall, with its beautiful interior, is one of the highlights. Among other highlights are ponds, Buddha statues, and the original temple bell.