20 things to do in Kyoto

The old capital Kyoto city of Japan is now a city on the Honshu island, one of the four main islands of Japan. It is said that Kyoto possesses a very different beauties in different seasons. It's not crowded as Tokyo or surrounded by buidings and highways like other big cities of the world; Kyoto has its own unique peaceful atmosphere that you cannot picture unless you visit. It's famous for not only temples and pagodas but also for traditional customs such as kaiseiki dining, Japanese wooden houses and garderns. Let's have a look at the 20 best things you would like to do in Kyoto.

Fushimi Inari Shrine

Fushimi Inari Shrine is the headquarters of all the Inari shrines. It has served as a place of worship for the common people over 1,300 years. The tunnel consisting of 10,000 torii gates is something to see. Enjoy a stroll through the rolling land on the spacious grounds of the shrine.

Kinkakuji

Kinkakuji was established in 1397 by Ashikaga Yoshimitsu. Kinkakuji is known for the dazzling appearance of its reliquary hall in the middle of the pond, decorated with gold leaf.

Kiyomizu-dera

Kiyomizu-dera is a Kannon temple where the goddess Kannon is worshipped. Kiyomizu-dera has a particularly long history among the temples of Kyoto and it is a registered World Heritage site. It is one of Kyoto’s most popular tourist attractions.

Sanjusangen-do

Sanjusangen-do was rebuilt in 1266 and has been maintained, repeatedly undergoing repairs, for more than 700 years. 1001 statues of Kannon are enshrined in the 120-meter long temple, made entirely of Japanese cypress.

Sannai-Maruyama Ruins

Here are the remnants of a Jomon settlement from more than 3000 years ago. You can get an idea of the lifestyle during the Jomon period through the museum’s exhibits and interactive workshops.

Nijo Castle

Nijo Castle, constructed in the Edo period, is a registered National Historic Site. Ninomaru Palace is designated as a National Treasure, and other buildings and wall panel paintings are designated as Important Cultural Properties. (Ninomaru is the area that defends Honmaru, the control center in times of war.) Nijo Castle is also a United Nations World Heritage site.

Eikan-do

The elegant temple scene is created by the beautiful architecture, the pond, and the garden, all covered in golden autumn leaves. This is one of the best places in Kyoto to see the autumn foliage.

Gion

Gion is very popular among tourists for its bustling downtown streets. The famous Yasaka Shrine is on the outskirts of Gion. Maiko and geisha (known locally as geiko or geigi) entertain guests with songs and traditional Japanese dances. The houses where you can enjoy the company of geisha are gathered together in this famous entertainment district.

Nishiki Market

Nishiki Market has 400 years of history. There is a festive atmosphere as you walk around the market. You can see foods that can only found in Kyoto.

Ninna-ji Temple

This temple was built in the year 888 by Emperor Uda. Ninna-ji, built in the style of Heian Era nobility residences, was recognized as a National Treasure and has also been registered as a World Heritage site. It is also a famous place to enjoy the cherry blossoms.

Toei Kyoto Studio Park

You can observe the filming of movies on the streets where the Edo Era has been recreated. This is a theme park that can be enjoyed by the whole family. You can even dress up in costumes from the Edo era.

Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama

A monkey park in the popular Kyoto tourist area?! Find this hidden nature park where you can enjoy hiking as well as the wild monkeys.

Tenryu-ji Temple

Tenryu-ji Temple once possessed all of the Arashiyama area. It has a garden which hasn’t changed in 700 years and an ink painting 9 meters in diameter titled “Unryu-zu” that is a splendid World Heritage asset.

Kifune Shrine

The Kifune Shrine is situated upstream from the Yodo and Kamo Rivers. It was said that the main building of the 1500 year old Kifune Shrine was built in an area gushing with water. It is a famous Shinto shrine, giving blessings in marriage, visited by historical figures for this reason.

Maruyama Park

Maruyama Park is a famous place for sakura or the cherry blossoms. It is a popular spot to take a stroll in the beautiful Japanese garden, free of admission fee. There are also teahouses and a ryotei restaurant recommended for good food.

Shoren-in

Shoren-in has a history of being of used as a temporary Imperial Palace. The Kacho-den guesthouse has a beautiful view of the garden and pond.

Nanzenji

Nanzenji was built as a temple of prayer for the prosperity of the country. It was built by Emperor Kameyama in 1291 during the Kamakura period. It is one of the most popular locations to see the beautiful cherry blossoms in spring and the autumn colors in fall.

Kyoto Imperial Palace

Generations of emperors up to the early Meiji Era once resided in Kyoto Imperial Palace. The Japanese garden within the expansive grounds is also elegant. In spring, it is known as a famous place for cherry blossoms which open wonderfully.

GEAR THEATER ART COMPLEX 1928

World-class performances given in a retro building constructed 90 years ago merged with a production utilizing the latest techniques to form entertainment of a new sensation.