Discovery of Kyoto

Kyoto, the former imperial capital of Japan, is a city rich in history and culture. Known for its Buddhist temples, Zen gardens, imperial palaces and traditional tea houses, Kyoto offers a unique experience combining tradition and modernity.

Why Kyoto?

Rich History and Cultural Heritage

Kyoto was the imperial capital of Japan for over a thousand years (794 to 1868), making it a center of Japanese culture and tradition. The city is dotted with ancient temples, Shinto shrines, historic palaces and gardens, many of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Kyoto is also the birthplace of many Japanese arts and crafts traditions, such as the tea ceremony, ikebana (flower arranging), and calligraphy.

Traditional Architecture

Unlike many other Japanese cities, Kyoto has retained much of its traditional architecture. Machiya, long, narrow wooden houses, and ryokan, traditional inns, offer a glimpse of Japanese life in the past. The preservation of these historic buildings contributes to the city's unique atmosphere.

Natural beauty

Kyoto is surrounded by mountains and crossed by several rivers, offering a magnificent natural setting. Zen gardens, bamboo groves and flower parks, like those in Arashiyama, add to the city's serene beauty. Each season brings its own charm: cherry blossoms in spring, red maples in autumn and snowy landscapes in winter.

The Must-See Sites

Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion)

Kinkaku-ji, or Golden Pavilion, is one of Kyoto's most famous temples. Covered in gold leaf and surrounded by a beautiful pond, it offers a picturesque view that changes with the seasons. This is a must-see site for photography enthusiasts and history buffs.

Tip: Visit the temple early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy the tranquility of the Zen garden.

Fushimi Inari Taisha Temple

Known for its thousands of red torii (gates), Fushimi Inari-taisha is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of rice and prosperity. Torii-lined trails lead to the summit of Mount Inari, offering a spiritual and scenic hike.

Tip: Wear comfortable shoes for the hike and take your time exploring the small shrines along the way.

Gion district

Gion is the historic geisha district of Kyoto. Stroll the cobblestone streets lined with traditional wooden houses and discover teahouses where geishas and maikos (apprentice geishas) entertain guests with traditional dances and games.

Tip: Book an evening at an ochaya (teahouse) for an authentic experience of geisha culture.

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Kiyomizu-dera is another iconic temple in Kyoto, famous for its large wooden terrace offering stunning views of the city. The temple is particularly beautiful in spring with the cherry blossoms and in autumn with the red maples.

Tip: Visit the temple at sunset for spectacular views and fewer crowds.

Ryoan-ji Zen Garden

The Ryoan-ji Dry Garden is a perfect example of Japanese Zen garden art. Made up of rocks and carefully raked gravel, the garden encourages meditation and reflection.

Tip: Sit quietly and take time to gaze at the garden for a calming experience.

Luxury Experiences

Stay in a Traditional Ryokan

Stay in a ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn, for a complete immersion in Japanese culture. Enjoy tatami rooms, onsen (hot springs) baths and kaiseki meals (traditional multi-course meals).

Tip: Book a ryokan with private baths for an even more luxurious and intimate experience.

Tea Ceremony

Participate in a tea ceremony, a refined cultural practice where every gesture is imbued with meaning. Learn the art of preparing and enjoying matcha tea in a traditional tea house.

Tip: Book a session with a tea master for a deeper understanding of this ancient art.

Recommended 5 Star Hotels

The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto

Located along the Kamogawa River, this hotel offers spectacular views of the Higashiyama Mountains. With its elegantly decorated rooms, fine restaurants and luxury spa, The Ritz-Carlton perfectly combines modern comfort and traditional Japanese hospitality.

Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto

This luxurious hotel is nestled in the historic Higashiyama district. It features a private Japanese garden, an indoor pool and a spa offering treatments inspired by ancient wellness traditions. The rooms and suites offer magnificent views of the gardens or the city.

Suiran, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Kyoto

Located in the scenic Arashiyama area, Suiran offers luxurious rooms and suites with open-air baths. The hotel is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery and offers easy access to famous sites like the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and Togetsukyo Bridge.

Hyatt Regency Kyoto

This elegant hotel is located in the historic Higashiyama district, close to temples and shrines. It offers modern rooms with a traditional Japanese touch, several fine dining restaurants and an inviting spa.

Conclusion

Kyoto is a must-visit destination for those who want to immerse themselves in Japanese culture. Between its historic temples, traditional neighborhoods and luxurious experiences, the city offers a perfect blend of tradition and modernity. Want to discover the treasures of Kyoto in depth? Book your trip with Palmika Travel today and let us curate an unforgettable cultural adventure in the heart of Japan.