Things to Do in Kyoto, Japan

 


Imperial Capital of Japan, Kyoto holds most of the Japanese traditional cultural landmarks and heritages. It served as a capital city of Japan from 794 to 1868, witnessing the home of the Emperor, Ancient cultures and traditions and the Imperial legacy. 

Since it is a historically significant destination, the city offers a tremendous amount of things to do for every backpacker. Starting from Kinkaku ji temples to Gion district, the city offers something to enjoy and discover it’s both natural and historical hidden beauties. Kyoto blends with the modernity along with traditional charm, making it one of the world famous destinations in the world. 

So, we are going to share some of the great things to do in Kyoto to those who really want to learn history, nature, and cultures along with the modernity of this city.

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7 Best Things to do in Kyoto, Japan

 

1. Visit Kinkaku-Ji


Kinkaku- Ji is a Golden pavilion of a Zen Buddhist temple well known for its stunning architecture, with the top two stories covered in gold leaf. Finest example of architecture from the Muromachi period, designed as a National Special Historic Site. Formally known as Rokuonji, once the retirement villa of the shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, and later it became a Zen Temple of Rinzari death in 1408. Statues of the Shaka Buddha and Yoshimitsu are the key idols inside this temple. Temple surrounded by the beautiful lush gardens and reflective pond, which add more to the beauty of traditional Japanese aesthetics. Never miss to take a leisurely stroll through the gardens and enjoy views across the water. 

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2. Walk at Fushimi Inari Taisha



Fushimi Inari Taisha is a famous Shinto Shrine located in Kyoto city. Simply, it is a thousand of vermilion orange torii gates, primarily dedicated to the Inari god, famous deity of rice and agriculture. Built in the 711, such interesting torii gates created stunning pathways up to the sacred Mount Inari. Total 233 meters to walk, considered as a perfect hiking destination with the famous tunnels and trails on Mount Inari. Its path passes through the gates which leads up to the mountains, offers panoramic hiking options and stunning views of the overall Kyoto city. 

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3. Explore Nijo Castle



Nijo Castle is a historic site that showcases the Japanese legacy and power of the shogunate during Edo Periods.  Built in 1603, as the Kyoto residence of Tokugawa leyasu, after 1867 Castle was used as an imperial palace and opened to the general public as a historic site. A UNESCO World Heritagesite, the castle is divided into 3 areas; Honmaru, Ninomaru and Gardens, under that, Honmaru grounds surrounded by the stone walls and moats. Despite its architecture, the castle includes impressive gardens, and most famous “nightingale floors.” Nightingale floors make some sound while walking in and also make security alerts. Make sure that, Further into the castle will bring entrance to the Ninomaru, Chinese style Karamon gate. 

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4. Pray at Kiyomizu- Dera Temple




A UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its large wooden terrace, Kiyomizudera Temple is considered as a most beloved and celebrated temple in Japan. Constructed in 780, originally associated with Japanese Buddhism, later formed as a Kita Hosso sect in 1994. Despite its historical significance, its wooden stage is the main attraction here. Situated in the main hall, 14 meters above the hillside offers nice views of the numerous cherry and maple trees, especially during spring and fall seasons. The temple complex includes some of the top notch features like historic structures, beautiful gardens, and perfect views of famous Otowa waterfalls. Pray at Jishu Shrine for love and matchmaking and drink water from three streams for longevity, health and success.

 

5. Take Leisure Walk Amidst of Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

 


Despite the many things to do in Kyoto, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is a totally unique and diverse travel destination. It is a magical walking path flanked by towering bamboo stalks, considered as the one of the most photographed sights in Kyoto city.  Total 1.7 miles of loop trail, generally very easy to walk amidst both sides of these Bamboo groves. The serene atmosphere and the rustling of the bamboo leaves will create tranquil and lifetime experiences to every sort of backpacker. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is open 24 hours and you can walk without paying a single penny. During your walking journey it is very important to take some rest and time in charming’s shops and traditional tea houses, which offer world famous beverages. 

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6. Fallow Philosopher’s Path

 


The Philosopher's Path or Tetsugaku no Michi, is a scenic walking path in Kyoto. Well known for its cherry blossoms (Sakura) and peaceful atmosphere. Such a pleasant stone path passing through the northern part of Kyoto city. Path offers follows a canal which is lined by hundreds of cherry trees. Approximately 2 km long, darts in Ginkakuji and ends in the Neighbourhood of Nanzenji. During your walk you will spot several important temples and shrines including Ginkaku- ji. However restaurants, cafes and boutiques can also be found along the path. Philosopher’s paths are really beautiful to explore but only if you are in the right time. Early April months are considered as the perfect time, when trees explore with color and make popular hanami spots. 

 

7. Explore Gion District




Gion District is Kyoto's famous geisha district, located around Shijo Avenue between Yasaka Shrine in the east and the Kamo River in the west. Well known for its traditional wooden machiya houses, along with places filled with many beautiful shops, restaurants and teahouses. Its traditional wooden machiya houses is the prime attraction here, were built with narrow facades 5 to 6 meters wide, extended up to 20 meters. One of the perfect places to spot some of the beautiful and glimpse of Japanese traditional heritages and cultures. Visitors can explore the narrow streets, where travellers might spot geisha or maiko heading to an appointment, if you’re lucky. 

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