Top 8 Reasons to Visit Kyoto – Embrace the Timeless Allure of Japan

Getting to the city is an experience itself, and it is very easy. Japan has a well-connected transport network, and there are several ways to get to Kyoto. In just two hours, you can reach Kyoto via the high-speed Shinkansen from Tokyo, and the journey will bring scenic views along the way. Osaka's Kansai International Airport is the closest to the city, and several trains run directly to the city. Once you are in the city, there are plenty of buses and subways, providing you with a hassle-free way to get around.

Kyoto features a wide variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets. From hostels to the likes of Park Hotel Kyoto, the city is brimming with accommodation choices. If you are on a budget, keep an eye out for Kyoto hotel deals to get the best of both affordability and comfort.

The city is known for its architecture and ancient temples. The Golden Pavilion, or Kinkaku-ji, for example, is a mesmerising Zen temple covered in gold leaf reflecting beautifully over the surrounding pond. Fushimi Inari Shrine is another iconic site, known for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates that create a path up the sacred Mount Inari. Ryoan-ji Temple is home to Japan's most famous rock garden, offering you a meditative and calming experience.

If you are a nature enthusiast, you will be enchanted by the number of forests and gardens found in Kyoto. Maruyama Park is a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing, where locals and tourists alike gather to enjoy picnics under the beautiful Sakura trees in Spring. The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is a magical place to visit, and it offers you a mesmerising sound and visual experience as the bamboo groves sway gently in the breeze. On the other hand, Kokedera, or the Moss Temple, is home to an ancient and delicate moss garden.

Kyoto’s culinary scene presents you with a delightful experience. From traditional multi-course meals like Kaiseki to street food, there is a variety of food items waiting to be discovered. You should also visit local sake breweries for some insights into the Japanese sake culture and taste variations of sake. Also, do not miss out on the delights of Yatsuhashi, a sweet treat with a filling of red bean paste.

Kyoto is renowned for its cultural festivals that take place throughout the year. Gion Matsuri, celebrated in July, is a month-long festival known for its grand processions and vibrant atmosphere. Another significant festival is Jidai Matsuri, also known as the Festival of Ages, where history comes alive in parades, offering you glimpses of different historical periods.

Visiting Gion is like going back in time to a bygone era. Walking along the streets of Gion, you will spot ancient houses that are still in use as private homes and coffee houses. While you are here, make sure to catch a geisha performance and participate in a traditional tea ceremony. Encountering geishas in Gion is one of the must-have experiences in Kyoto as they perfectly embody Japanese culture and heritage.

Nighttime in Kyoto brings about a charming blend of the traditional and the modern. Pontocho Alley is filled with quaint bars and restaurants, set in a charming, narrow lane that comes alive after dark. Kiyamachi Street, on the other hand, is perfect if you are looking for modern entertainment experiences, with an array of bars, clubs, and live music venues. For those interested in traditional Japanese entertainment, there are many theatres and performance halls that offer classical music, dance, and theatrical arts.