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The erstwhile capital of Japan, Kyoto is arguably the most beautiful city in Japan.
Situated amidst the mountains of Western Honshu, Kyoto was the capital of Japan
and the Emperor's residence from 794AD to 1868. The word 'Kyoto' means 'capital
city' and though the city is not the capital anymore it has retained its name.
The once capital was at the height of its glory when the Emperor ruled the country
from here and its variety of architectural landmarks like palaces, temples and
shrines were built mainly in this period. Kyoto was the only city that was spared
in the devastating World War 2 bombings. Many are of the belief that the city's
beauty was spoilt despite this, citing the development of modern steel and glass
buildings as an example.
Sightseeing in Kyoto:
Kyoto is such a huge place that seeing all the sights together would be mammoth
task. But places that you could visit in various parts of Kyoto are:-
Daitokuji Temple: a picturesque and quite temple complex with a lot
of sub-temples. The sight of the beautiful Zen garden with backdrop of maple
trees in their autumn glory set amidst the sub-temples is sure to rejuvenate
you heart and soul.
Jingoji Temple: this temple's USP is that it is indeed far from the
madding crowd. The walk to the temple from the Yamashiro Takao station entails
a flight of winding stairs and a rather endearing small bridge. In fact you
will feel like you are in the midst of a beautiful Japanese screen painting.
Obviously, another must see. Other places you could visit are:-
- Kinkaku-ji Temple
- Ry?an-ji Temple
- Nijo Castle
- The imperial park
- Museum of Kyoto
- Higashi and Nishi Honganji Temple
- Yasaka Shrine
- Maruyama Park
- Fushimi Inari Shrine
Shopping in Kyoto
There is an appealing selection of traditional souvenir shops around Arashiyama
station in Western Kyoto, selling fans and traditional sweets. Other traditional
souvenirs that you must buy from Kyoto are parasols and carved wooden dolls.
You could also be predictable and buy the usual post cards, kimonos and samurai
swords in Kyoto.
Do keep in mind that many ATMs in Kyoto do not accept foreign credit cards,
but ATMs in post offices usually do so you could go to an ATM in a post office
if in need of extra cash.
Eat, drink and be merry!
If you are traveler with a taste for the exotic and (well) have money to burn,
the Mishima-tei at the junction of Teramachi-dori and Sanjo-dori is a must visit.
The food is rumored to be delicious, the ambience perfect and you will have
your own kimono clad hostess.
You cannot but visit Japan and not try sake and the Fushimi district in Kyoto
is known for its sake breweries.
Other eateries in Kyoto are:-
- Cafe Rue Ribera
- efish
- Siam
- Fuka
Places to stay
New Miyako Hotel: This is the largest hotel in Kyoto with over 700 rooms, and
is not meant for budget travelers. Other cheaper options are:-
- My?ren-ji Temple
- Hiden-in
- Roku?-in
- Gimmond Hotel
- Kyoto Tower Hotel
- Hearton Hotel Kyoto
All in all Kyoto is not only relaxing and culturally enriching but also a whole
lot of fun!
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