Joanna James
Kyoto is a place where you can still see tokens of history, ancient culture, and tradition. The city also boasts breathtaking natural beauty. Here are 8 things to know before visiting Kyoto.
The seasonal variations are among the best things about the city. The spring coincides with the cherry blossom season and is the most picturesque of all seasons. However, it’s also the busiest. If you want to visit during the cherry blossom season, you might have to book your accommodation at least six months before your visit. Also, expect to pay a premium. The fall is quite busy too. During the summer months, locals take to the street to enjoy the festivals, and winter is the least busy.
Another important aspect of your vacation is accommodation. Carefully consider your budget and preferences before selecting a place. Kyoto features great neighbourhoods, so finding a good place to stay is easy. From high-end hotels to budget options, there’s everything! If you’re looking for the best Kyoto suites for your vacation, the likes of those offered by Park Hotel Kyoto, for example, will be right up your alley! Spring and autumn months see the highest number of tourists, so book your accommodation in advance – don’t bet on last-minute deals during spring and autumn; you won’t find any!
Pack a pair of shoes that you can slip on and take off easily. Kyoto is home to a wide array of temples and other religious sites. When visiting these places, you’ll be required to take off your shoes; you don’t want to fiddle with your shoes for too long at the entrance, so make sure they’re easy to take off. Plus, you need nice socks; you don’t want to walk around with socks that have holes, do you?
Popular attractions in Kyoto are located within walking distance, so try to walk whenever you can. Not only is it the best thing for your health but also the best way to discover attractions hidden in less-trodden paths. There are tiny cafes and restaurants you won’t find on a typical guided tour, so take to the streets and work those feet!
Kyoto is one of the most popular destinations in Japan, so expect crowds. Even if you visit in winter, which is supposed to be the least busy season, you will have to contend with crowds. Major attractions such as the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Fushimi Inari-Taisha shrine, for example, attract both domestic and international travellers in large numbers. If you visit early in the morning, however, you might find a few quiet moments before the crowds descend.
Yes, Kyoto is most popular for its temples and shrines, but there’s more to the city. If you head to the Nishiki Market, you’ll find so much bounty at reasonable prices. Plus, stacks of mouthwatering street food are always a delight to discover. The Gion District is where you find the geisha performances and tea houses. The city is also home to a number of museums, and there are plenty of green spaces and landscaped gardens.
Something you’ll notice when you visit Japan is that the Japanese are always polite. Politeness is a core value in Japanese culture. You’ll be forgiven for the occasional social faux pas, but it’s best to mind your manners. For instance, talking loudly on trains or buses is ill-mannered. When you’re on the sidewalk, make sure to leave room for others to pass by. Do not litter, and cutting in line is incredibly rude and is a surefire way to get demoted in society. If you’re a smoker, keep to the designated spots for smoking.
Don’t leave tips. If you do, it will be considered an insult. Also, remember, that most Japanese restaurants expect you to pay upfront. Cash is more widely accepted than cards. When handing money, place it in the designated tray.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
