As Japan’s former capital, Kyoto is famous for its variety of classical Buddhist temples, imperial places, Shinto shrines, and traditional wooden houses. Here are 10 unforgettable things you can add to your next trip to Japan.
1. Wander through the incredible Fushimi Inari-Taisha Shrine
As Kyoto’s most iconic treasure, the Fushimi Inari-Taisha Shrine is first on our list. The shrine is an unforgettable fire-colored walkway made up with hundreds and thousands of traditional torii gates. Not only this, but there is also a surrounding network of ornate shrines which you are free to explore. With stunning traditionalism, the Fushimi Inari-Taisha Shrine honors the Shinto god, Inari, otherwise known as the god of rice. When walking through the torii gates through the forest, make sure to look out for fox statues. The fox is considered to be the messenger of Inari and can be found in multiple locations throughout the Fushimi Inari-Taisha Shrine.
2. Visit the Kiyomizu-dera Temple
As one of Kyoto’s UNESCO World Heritage sites, Kiyomizu-dera Temple is a Buddhist temple located in eastern Kyoto. Surrounded by cherry trees, fresh air, and beautiful natural features, the temple is known for an array of magical features. To find true love, locals claim that all you need to do is close your eyes, walk between two stones in front of the Jishu Shrine, then you will find true love. Another magical feature about the temple is the Otowa Waterfall. Not only is the waterfall breathtakingly-beautiful, it is said to represent success, love, and a long life. Each stream leading to the waterfall represents one of these blessings - all you need to do is drink from it.
3. Nanzen-ji Temple
As one of the most important Zen temples in Kyoto, Nanzen-ji is located at the base of Kyoto’s forested Higashiyama mountains. Built during the Meiji period, Nanzen-ji Temple is home to the massive Sanmon entrance gate and a large brick aqueduct As a former aristocratic retirement villa, the temple holds a peaceful atmosphere. Although quiet and not usually busy, the temple is one of the most respected locations in all of Kyoto.
4. Ginkaku-ji Temple
Located right next to the Nanzen-ji Temple, Ginkaku-ji is also worth a visit. Translated to Silver Pavilion, the Ginkaku-ji temple was never actually covered in silver leaf; however, the temple is still breathtaking as a reflection in a pond. As one of Kyoto’s most popular temples, Ginkaku-ji is home to peaceful gardens, white sand, and beautiful nature - a perfect place to find your Zen.
5. Walk the Philosopher’s Path
Lined with cherry trees, the philosopher’s path is a canal located in Northern Higashiyama. At only 2 kilometers long, it is known as a peaceful walking zone for pedestrians. Connecting Nanzen-ji to Ginkaku-ji, the Philosopher’s Path is an essential experience of your trip to Kyoto. Named after the Japanese philosopher Nishida Kitaro, Philosopher’s Path is said to be a perfect spot for meditation and relaxation. We highly recommend visiting in the month of April as the magical cherry blossom trees will be in full bloom.
6. Experience Kyoto Tower
As the tallest building in Kyoto, Kyoto Tower will provide you with one of the best panoramic views in the whole city. Extending all the way to Osaka, the view can be enjoyed with telescopes so you can really see the nitty-gritty details of Kyoto. At 100 meters above the ground, Kyoto Tower is a rare modern iconic landmark as the city is famous for its ancient temples and shrines. However, this does not make it any less unforgettable.
7. Find peace at the Eikando Zenrinji Temple
Located in Kyoto, Sakyō-ku, Eikando Zenrinji Temple is the head temple for the Seizan branch of Japan’s Jodo-shu Buddhist sect. Famous for its fall foliage, it is known as one of the most natural colorful temples in Japan. As a center of learning, Eikando Zenrinji Temple holds a lot of respect for many individuals. Walk around the gardens which are home to large koi ponds and a wide array of natural fauna. Rich with Japanese history, Eikando Zenrinji holds not only peace, but rich architecture and creativity.
8. Make Friends with Monkeys, Iwatayama
If you are in need of a fun and unforgettable day trip from Kyoto, Iwatayama Monkey Park is for you. With breathtaking views, a beautiful hike, and playful monkeys, Iwatayama Monkey Park is worth it. Home to over 170 Japanese Macaques monkeys, the park is known by locals as one of the friendliest places in Japan. Otherwise known as “snow monkeys,” the energetic creatures can be known to be a little mischievous. It is advised to not wear any loose clothing to ensure they don’t take it from you. These things include things such as hats, sunglasses, or even handbags.
9. Soak in the Mt. Kurama Hot Springs
Located only 20 kilometers from the center of Kyoto, Kurama is a rural town known to be very different from the hustle and bustle of the Kyoto city-life. Home to Kurama-dera temple and beautiful mountains, Kurama is an unforgettable world. As one of the most easily accessible hot springs in Kyoto, the hot spring is the perfect way to relax, think, and become one with your mind and nature. Make sure to enjoy the beautiful hiking trail to get to the hot springs as it is surrounded by old trees with outstretched roots. It is also very common to see songbirds, deer, monkeys, and other wildlife.
10. Drink the Famous Kyoto Tea
We cannot finish our unforgettable moments without including the famous Kyoto tea. Although tea ceremonies are available all over Japan, Kyoto ceremonies are known as especially sacred due to its strong Zen Buddhist roots. Otherwise known as chado and sado, tea ceremonies are an intricate and important part of Japanese culture. During a ceremony, tea is prepared artfully and is considered a very sacred act. Acknowledging utensils, the company, and the tea itself, the ceremony combines gratitude with the present moment.
Post written by Brooklyn Cathers