Kiyomizu-dera Temple is an ancient temple that boasts stunning views of the city and breathtaking architecture. This complex has several buildings, including a sacred waterfall believed to cure illnesses. Visitors can also participate in a traditional tea ceremony.
Gion is an upscale district famous for geisha performances, traditional architecture, and exquisite dining experiences. Take a stroll along Hanamikoji Dori and watch the sunset from the Shimbashi bridge. The district is known for traditional, luxurious restaurants that offer a unique taste of Kyoto's culinary culture.
Fushimi Inari is a sacred Shinto shrine famous for its thousands of orange torii gates that create a mesmerizing path through the forest. Visitors can hike up the mountain to witness breathtaking views of Kyoto City. This destination is especially beautiful during the autumn leaves season (mid-November to early December).
Tofuku-ji Temple is one of the five great Zen temples in Kyoto. It boasts an exquisite garden that showcases the beauty of Japanese aesthetics through its design, scenery, and seasonal plants. Visitors can contemplate this garden from the temple's traditional buildings or explore the surrounding nature.
Ryoan-ji Temple is famous for its rock garden consisting of fifteen stones carefully arranged in a sea of raked gravel that creates an atmosphere of peacefulness and contemplation. The temple also has a beautiful pond and various gardens that showcase the different styles of Japanese landscaping. Visitors can participate in Zen meditation or enjoy a tea ceremony in the temple's cultural activities building.
Kinkaku-ji Temple is a well-known Zen temple whose main building is coated entirely in gold leaf that shines radiantly on the pond it overlooks. The temple has various beautiful gardens and a teahouse where visitors can appreciate traditional Japanese architecture and tea culture.
If you have more time, consider visiting Kyoto Imperial Palace, Nanzen-ji Temple, or Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. Alternatively, if you have less time, you could skip a couple of destinations or hire a private tour guide to maximize your experience. Kyoto has a great public transportation system, but taxis are more comfortable and convenient for luxurious travel. March to May and September to November are the best seasons to visit Kyoto, but be prepared for crowds during peak periods. Dress appropriately and wear comfortable shoes as you will walk and stand a lot. Most importantly, soak in the beauty and essence of Kyoto's ancient culture, tradition, and nature.