The Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine is one of the most iconic landmarks in Kyoto, Japan. The shrine boasts thousands of bright orange torii gates that form a network of paths across the mountain, each inscribed with the name of its donor. This shrine was built in honor of the god of rice and sake by the Hata family in the 8th century. The shrine also has beautiful gardens and ponds, which can be seen from the various walking trails. Visitors can spend hours exploring the multiple trails and taking in the picturesque surroundings.
The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is a serene and peaceful place where visitors can take a leisurely stroll through a forest of towering bamboo stalks. The sound of the wind rustling through the tall stalks creates a calming ambiance, making it easy to forget that you're in the middle of a bustling city. After enjoying the bamboo grove, visitors can hike up to the Monkey Park Iwatayama and interact with friendly Japanese macaques in a scenic mountain setting. Visitors can buy monkey food and feed the macaques while enjoying fantastic views of Kyoto.
For those who have more time in Kyoto, a visit to Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion, is a must-see attraction. Another option is to experience the traditional Japanese tea ceremony in one of Kyoto's many teahouses. Visitors who have less time in Kyoto may want to skip the Monkey Park Iwatayama or the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. It's best to visit these popular attractions early in the morning to avoid crowds, especially during peak travel seasons.