This lovely, picturesque city is one of the best places to visit in Japan!
You shouldn’t miss it out! Arriving in Kyoto, you will be surrounded by traditional temples and shrines, stunning Japanese Gardens, Tsukubai with holy water and Geishas walking on the streets.
Public transportation is highly sophisticated as it makes it easy to visit any place you desire. The buses usually go directly to all famous temples and shrines.
Tip! Buy a Kyoto City Bus One-day pass for 500 Yen with unlimited rides!
It is definitely worth it as it is not necessary to travel by subway.
You can buy it directly from a bus driver or at the City Bus Information Centre. Allow yourself to spend at least 2-3 full days in Kyoto to enjoy sightseeing without stress!
TOP PLACES TO VISIT IN KYOTO
Fushimi Inari-Taisha
Fushimi Inari-Taisha is one of the most beautiful places in Japan. This journey of thousands of orange Torii Gates leads to the top of Mt. Inari. For reaching the top select from various paths.
Whilst walking through the gates you will notice that each shrine contains a Japanese sign which means the name of a company or individuals who donated it in a wish of a successful business.
The oldest Torri Gate comes from the 8th century. There are also statues of foxes – Kitsune holding keys in their mouths which symbolize a protection of rice granaries.
For visiting this sacred place, make sure you have enough time to explore it. It could take you about 3-4 hours (including a break, taking pictures).
The walk route is 4 km long so be ready for a long hike and don’t forget to take comfortable walking shoes! There are a few rest areas with drinks and some food along the way.
Tranquil, a peaceful place surrounded by the powerful energy of nature with a spectacular view from the top.
Tip! Go there either early in the morning or for sunset when is not too crowded
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Kiyomizu Dera
The exact translation of this Buddhist temple is the Pure Water Temple. It belongs to World UNESCO heritage sites.
Beautiful temple but unfortunately during my stay it was temporary under renovation so it a bit lost the magic of the temple. Opening hours are until 6 pm.
Ginkaku-Ji - Silver Temple
An elegant temple surrounded by a breathtaking Japanese garden and Zen sand. Although the temple is called “Silver”, it actually isn’t silver but wooden.
Why is it called silver then? The coat supposed to be finished with a silver coat, however, it never happened. It has a magnificent walk around, the area is not large though.
I would say that 1 hour should be enough to spend there.
Nishiki Market
The Market is not just only to buy fresh fish for cooking it at home, you can also taste local specialities, try some delicious Japanese sweets or check out souvenirs nearby.
The opening hours are from usually 9:30 am to 6 pm every day.