Kyoto – Cultural beauty in the heart of Japan

Along with Osaka and Tokyo , Kyoto is often listed at the top of the lists that name the most beautiful cities in Japan. With about 1.4 million inhabitants and a large selection of historical sights, the city in the heart of the Asian country is not just an insider tip. Kyoto is one of the most culturally important cities in Japan – and is considered one of the country’s most beautiful urban tourist destinations.

The tourist highlight in the heart of Japan

To the east of the city, the Buddhist temples of Kiyomizu-dera rise above Kyoto’s picturesque cityscape. The historic temples are among the most famous sights in the region and shape the face of the city. Their history dates back to the late 8th century of Japanese history – today they are considered part of the historic UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Old City. From here you can take a look at the panorama of Kyoto, which is located between natural greenery and mountains that are sometimes 1000 meters high. Only about 50 kilometers separate Kyoto from Osaka, another urban highlight in the heart of Japan. It is about 400 kilometers to Tokyo. Together, the three major cities form the urban center of the country. Kyoto has a long history. When the city was not yet called Kyoto, but Heian-kyo , it became the second capital of Japan in the late 8th century after Heijo-kyo. Already at that time, Kyoto developed into an early political but also cultural heart of the country. Until 1868, the seat of the imperial court of the country of Japan was located here. The importance of the city was also known in the USA during the Second World War, when the city was largely spared from bombing due to its cultural treasures. And the city has lost none of its culturally significant aura to this day.

The most beautiful sights in Kyoto

Historic Kyoto is the name of the city’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, which has included 17 different locations in and around Kyoto since its appointment in 1994. These include the already mentioned Kiyomizo-dera but also the temple Kyōō Gokoku-ji in the Minami district, which rises prominently above the cityscape. In the Kyoto region, many of these historic temples can be discovered, which typically present themselves in photogenic natural and urban scenery. Also part of the World Heritage Site are the two Shinto shrines Kamowakeikazuchi and Kamomioya. In the mountainous northwestern region of the city lies the Golden Pavilion, which is embedded in a picturesque lake. The Buddhist temple is one of Kyoto’s most famous and beautiful sights – and was built in the late 14th century as an important monument in the region. The presence of the emperors in Kyoto is commemorated today by the architecturally significant Kyoto Gosho, the former imperial palace where the Japanese Tennos resided until the 19th century. Fushimi Inari is the name of one of the most beautiful shrines in the region. The Shinto shrine can be discovered in the Fushimi district, and is known for its paths with red Toori gates, which are fascinating in themselves. The special origin story of the prominent shrine can be traced back to the 8th century. The shrine is also considered the venue for many ritual festivities held annually in the Kyoto region. In addition, the Heian-jingu Shrine is considered an equally important shrine in the city. It is one of the largest buildings of its kind in the region. Japanese geishas have a long tradition in the historic center of Gion. The scenery of the district is reminiscent of the historical Japan that has shaped the city of Kyoto to this day. If you want an idyllic walk between sightseeing, you will feel at home along the Philosopher’s Path, which is dedicated to the important Japanese thinker Kitaro Nishida. He regularly walked along the city path. The highlight is the path – as well as Maruyama Park – at the annual cherry blossom season, when many of the surrounding trees present themselves in a beautiful natural blaze of colour. A view of the more modern Kyoto is provided by the Kyoto Tower, which rises about 131 meters above the cityscape. The modern landmark of Kyoto has an observation deck that offers a panoramic view of the whole of Kyoto.

The culinary side of Kyoto

Kyoto is not only considered an important center of Japan historically and culturally, but also in terms of cuisine, the city in the heart of the country is a hotspot worth visiting. Kyoto’s cuisine is called Nishiki Market, which is known for its excellent restaurants, food stalls and specialty shops. Kyoto itself presents itself as a gourmet center of Japan that has quite a few specialties to offer. Whether sushi, tempura or the local ramen variant – many of these specialties can also be discovered in the Nishiki Market. Like many places in the south of the country, Kyoto is known for its fresh matcha specialties. The particularly high-quality variant of green tea can be discovered here in many forms and variants. If you want to escape the never-tired city of Toyko and explore the cultural heart of Japan, Kyoto with its sights and specialties should not be missed.

Kyoto: The 7 most important sights

Kyoto, the former capital of Japan, is known for its magnificent temples, shrines, gardens, and historic neighborhoods.
This city combines traditional Japanese culture with modern influences and is a must-see for all travelers to Japan.
Here are the seven must-see sights on your visit to Kyoto.

1. Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion, is one of Japan’s most famous temples.
The gazebo is covered in gold leaf and is beautifully reflected in the surrounding pond.
The temple is surrounded by a picturesque garden that perfectly reflects the Zen aesthetic.

2. Fushimi Inari-Taisha

Fushimi Inari-Taisha is one of Japan’s most famous Shinto shrines and is known for its thousands of bright red torii gates that form a hiking trail up the mountain.
This shrine is dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of travel and prosperity.

3. Kiyomizu-dera

Kiyomizu-dera Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most famous Buddhist temples in Japan.
Particularly well-known is the wooden platform that stretches over a cliff and offers spectacular views of Kyoto, especially during cherry blossom season and in autumn.

4. Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

The Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is one of Kyoto’s most popular natural attractions.
The tall bamboo canes form a dense forest that creates a magical atmosphere.
The forest is particularly impressive at sunrise and sunset.

5. Nijo Castle

Nijo Castle is a historic castle complex that served as the residence of the Tokugawa shogunate in Kyoto.
The interiors of the castle are decorated with ornate paintings and carvings, and the gardens are beautifully landscaped.

6. Philosopher’s Path

The Philosopher’s Path is a picturesque walking path that runs along a small canal and is lined with cherry trees.
Especially in spring when the cherry blossoms are in bloom, this trail is an absolute highlight.

7. Heian Shrine

Heian Shrine is an impressive Shinto shrine known for its giant torii (shrine gate) and beautiful Japanese garden.
The shrine was built in 1895 to celebrate Kyoto’s thousand-year anniversary as the capital of Japan.

The 3 most important museums in Kyoto

1. Kyoto National Museum

The Kyoto National Museum is one of Japan’s most important museums and houses an extensive collection of Japanese art, including ceramics, sculptures, calligraphy, and textiles. Address: 527 Chayacho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, Japan Opening hours: Tuesday – Sunday 9:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Admission: 620 JPY for adults

2. Kyoto International Manga Museum

The Kyoto International Manga Museum is a paradise for fans of Japanese comics.
It houses a huge collection of manga for visitors to read and browse, as well as special exhibits on the history and art of manga. Address: Karasuma-Oike, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan Opening hours: Daily 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Admission: 800 JPY for adults

Samurai & Ninja Museum with Experience

The Samurai & Ninja Museum offers interactive exhibits about the life and history of samurai and ninja in Japan.
Visitors can also try on swords and armor and take part in hands-on activities. Address: 292 Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, Japan Opening hours: Daily 10:30 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. Admission: 2,000 JPY for adults

Where to stay in Kyoto

Luxury Hotel: The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto

The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto is a luxurious 5-star hotel overlooking the Kamo River and the surrounding mountains.
It offers elegant rooms, a first-class spa and outstanding cuisine. Address: Kamogawa Nijo-Ohashi Hotori, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan

4-star hotel: Hotel Granvia Kyoto

Located right next to Kyoto Central Station, Hotel Granvia Kyoto offers modern rooms, a fitness centre and several restaurants.
The central location makes it ideal for sightseeing. Address: JR Kyoto Station Building, Karasuma Chuo-guchi, Kyoto, Japan

3-star hotel: Hotel M’s Est Shijo Karasuma

Hotel M’s Est Shijo Karasuma offers modern and comfortable rooms at an affordable price and is close to many Kyoto attractions. Address: 52 Hachijominamoto-cho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan

Budget Hotel: Capsule Ryokan Kyoto

Capsule Ryokan Kyoto is a combination of a traditional Japanese ryokan and a modern capsule hotel.
It offers a unique experience at a great price. Address: 204 Tsuchiyacho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan

Popular Restaurants in Kyoto

1. Kikunoi Honten

Kikunoi Honten is a three-Michelin-starred kaiseki restaurant that offers traditional Japanese haute cuisine.
The dishes are artfully presented and offer an exquisite taste journey. Address: 459 Shimokawaracho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, Japan

2. Gogyo Kyoto

Gogyo is known for its delicious ramen, especially the “burnt ramen”, which has a special smoky note.
The restaurant offers a modern interpretation of the Japanese classic. Address: 452 Jumonjiyacho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan

3. Nishiki Warai

Nishiki Warai is a popular restaurant in Nishiki Market known for its okonomiyaki, Japanese pancakes.
The dishes are prepared directly in front of the guests on hot plates. Address: 609 Nishidaimonjicho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan

4. Kyoto Ganko Sushi

Kyoto Ganko Sushi is a traditional sushi restaurant that offers fresh, high-quality ingredients.
It’s the perfect place to enjoy authentic sushi in Kyoto.
Address: 267 Yamazakicho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan

Bibliography

• Information about attractions and museums: Kyoto Travel Guide
• Google Maps
• Individual hotel and restaurant websites