Kyoto is not simply a city in Japan — it is a journey through time. For more than 1,200 years, the spiritual heart of the country has beaten among thousands of temples, traditional geisha houses and perfectly designed Zen gardens that look as though they were painted by an artist.
While the modern cities of Japan surge into the present, Kyoto embraces the past in a way that feels magical. Here you will find authentic Japanese architecture, the Zen philosophy of life and the grace of a whole world that has laid down its roots in every corner.
Whether you are a history lover, a seeker of spiritual calm or simply curious to discover what makes a trip to Kyoto so enchanting, this guide will lead you through its hidden secrets. Get ready for an experience that will change the way you see the world.
With more than 1,000 years of history as the capital of Japan, Kyoto remains a city that strikes a unique balance between tradition and modern life. It survived the Second World War almost untouched, and for that reason it is today the most genuine “mirror” of classical Japanese culture.
Temples and shrines
The city is home to over 1,500 Buddhist temples and around 900 Shinto shrines. Although it is impossible to explore them all, two of the most famous UNESCO World Heritage monuments, Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion) and Kiyomizu-dera, offer an authentic taste of the country’s spiritual and artistic identity. Their architecture, the manicured landscapes and the tranquillity that surrounds them are enough to transport you to another age.
Nishiki Market
If you are seeking flavours, the traditional Nishiki Market is a landmark stop. Since the 14th century, its narrow lanes have hosted merchants with the ingredients used in the iconic dishes of Japanese cuisine. Here you can taste local delicacies, always with respect for the rules: the Japanese consider it rude to eat while walking.
The Gion district
Kyoto is also the birthplace of the art of the geisha. In the Gion district, with its wooden houses and lantern-lit lanes, you will feel as though you are walking through the setting of a traditional anime. The geisha here continue to serve the fine arts, despite the myths that surround them. In recent years, however, owing to the indiscreet behaviour of visitors, the city has imposed restrictions and fines to protect the area and its residents.
The Arashiyama forest
Just outside the centre, the Arashiyama bamboo forest is an experience that borders on the dreamlike. The towering stalks create a natural “corridor” that changes colour and mood according to the light of the day. The sound of the wind through the bamboo is hard to put into words; it is something you simply have to experience.
Things to do there — Kyoto
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Kyoto · 5-day
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