To completely comprehend Japan, you must prepare to spend time in the backstreets and neighborhoods of its old imperial capital. Kyoto takes pride in its fantastic cuisine and sensitivity to the seasons.
You have to look closely to see and experience Kyoto’s riches. Traversing the side streets with their old shops and townhouses, visiting temples, and losing yourself through the outlying district will you start to get a sense of this city’s cultural treasures.
TEMPLES AND SHRINES
The main hall is perch atop the hills of Kyoto and provides spectacular views across the city. Have a sip of the water here in long-handled cups as you wish for longevity, success, or love. In this temple, the proliferation of charms and amulets help change one’s fortunes and provide protection will become evident.
Sunset at Kiyomizudera Temple
- Nijo Castle
Nijo is best known for its unusually ornate interiors and so-called nightingale floors. The latter’s design is to make bird-like squeaking sounds. It serves as a warning when someone walks on it, like for possible intruder attacks. In 1867 the last Tokugawa shogun resigned at Nijo Castle in the presence of Emperor Meiji.
The garden in this castle is famous for the wealth and variety of its rocks. The focus of the castle is the Ninomaru complex; it staggers with a group of building interconnected by wooden hallways.
This shrine is the most photogenic spot in Kyoto. This shrine is famous for the thousands of scarlet torii (square archways) along the path. Because foxes do the bidding of Inari – God of Rice, there are also plenty of fox statues, ranging from the cute to the creepy.
Fushimi Inari Shrine
- Yasaka Shrine
This striking two-story vermillion gate rises above the eastern end of Shijo-Dori (originally called Gion Shrine).
On New Year’s Day, thousands flock here to pray for health and prosperity, while in early April, crowds stream through its gates on their way to Maruyama Park (Cherry Blossoms viewing site).
TASTE OF KYOTO
- Kyoto’s gourmet world: Nishiki Market
Your trip to Kyoto would not be complete without sampling its cuisine. Tickle your taste buds and learn its ins and outs by taking in this alleyway market’s smells and visual delights. Kyoto’s tour of the gastronomical maze is available.
Sample plenty of local delights, such as pickled vegetables hidden beneath layers of fermented rice to delicious and ornate Kyo-wagashi (Kyoto sweets), Uji green teas, Japanese tea sweets, local freshwater fish, miso and other condiments, Buddhist temple foods such as tofu and tofu skin, and traditional Kyoto vegetables.
Pickes at Nishiki Market
- Dinner with a Maiko
Get to know and have an exclusive look at Japan’s geisha culture in Kyoto. Go into a local restaurant for a memorable dinner in the company of a maiko (apprentice geisha).
Have dinner on a traditional multi-course meal called kaiseki ryori. Be in the company of a maiko, learning about her craft and the world of geisha. The maiko will entertain you by performing traditional dances and teaching popular Japanese drinking games.
TOP-NOTCH ACCOMMODATIONS AT KYOTO
Set in the scenic Arashiyama district and accessible by a leisurely boat ride along the Oigawa River, this tranquil, 25-room resort is fashioned in the style of a traditional ryokan (Japanese inn). It exudes a sense of pure ease and relaxation.b A fifteen-minute trip along the pleasantly quiet river will bring you to your destination. The gentle breeze will calm your mind and relax your body as you approach the resort.
This place reflects the natural elements of Japanese aesthetics. Let the musical sound of water coming from the stream flowing by the pavilion greet you.
The guest pavilions are another story. They are pristine and clean with timeless elegance—light glints off the golden patterns in the intricacy of the wallpaper, revealing the passage of time.
Hoshinoya Kyoto – Virtuoso
- Park Hyatt Kyoto
The soul and elegance of the Park Hyatt brand with the combination of the distinctive culture of Japan makes this hotel extra special. In harmony with iconic landmarks and temples, spiritual gardens, and nature’s four seasons, Park Hyatt Kyoto’s hillside retreat is an architectural gem, designed as the quintessential guesthouse illuminated by the mist and the moon, offering a unique blend of modern heritage and hospitality. Inspired Travel Designs and Virtuoso gives you the best of the best.
Enjoy Virtuoso’s amenities when you book this hotel.
For 2022:
- Room upgrade
- Daily Full Breakfast for two
- $100USD equivalent Resort or Hotel credit utilized during stay
- Early Check-In / Late Check-Out
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
THE PHILOSOPHER’S WALK
One of Kyoto’s best spots, the Philosopher’s Walk, follows a cherry-tree-lined canal meandering along the base of the scenic Higashiyama between Ginkaku-Ji south to Nyakuoji-jinja, connects with roads leading to the precincts of Nanzen-Ji.
You can find coffee and craft shops, restaurants, and boutiques along the route. The path becomes a veritable promenade during cherry and maple seasons—couples from all over the Kansai region flock to enjoy its unspoiled natural beauty.
Visit Honen-in and Eikan-do. Experience the harmony between the temples and the natural richness surrounding them. Explore the influence of Buddhism on Japanese culture
Kyoto is sure to be some of the world’s best travel spots. Maybe even the best ones there are! I suggest you should go and decide for yourself. Feel free to reach out and experience VIP access to the world’s greatest wonders. Let me arrange a vacation for you perfectly balanced between exhilarating adventures and an extraordinary journey.