Japan is considered one of the most ideal places to travel not only in Asia but also in the world. A first world country that manages to take good care of their cultural heritage and Kyoto is a model city when it comes to cultural and environmental preservation. There are myriad places to visit in Kyoto that are unique and diverse, one of the reasons why it is considered as a top-rated tourist hub. The city is well known for its amazing bamboo forest, shrines, temples geishas, and theater.
1. Kinkakuji Temple
Its name means Temple of the Golden Pavilion and previously popular as Rokuonji. Aside from that, it was the home of a retired shogun named Ashikaga Yoshimitsu from the Rinzai Sect. The usual best things to do in Kyoto are the exploration of temples like this one. The temple has 3 floors and two of the floors are made out of a gold leaf. It is known as shariden where Buddha’s precious things are stored like ashes.
2. The Fox Shrine
This shrine is one of the many famous Kyoto attractions because of the red gates that surround the edge of the path that guides the tour up until you reach the shrine that sits on top of the hill. It is recommended for all tourists to climb before sunset but the view from the hill during the setting of the sun is an awesome one.
3. Ryoanji Temple
As you search for what to do in Kyoto, this will be on top of the list for many vacationers because of the amazing rock garden. The garden is owned by the Rinzai Sect and the temple is located in the southern part of the garden. An amazing fact is that anywhere you stand one of rock will be out of view from you. There is a beautiful pond where you can relax and unwind.
4. International Manga Museum
Manga is very famous in Japan and the museum was established in 2006 for all Manga lovers all over the world. Manga fans considered the place as top best things to do in Kyoto because of its three floors and walls filled with manga comics. This is considered contemporary art in Japan that is why the place is just a few Kyoto attractions that can offer deeper learning about this new form of art.
5. Gion
The place is known as the home of the colorful and beautifully dressed Geishas. The Japanese government spends a lot on its restoration to maintain its original charm and the tradition of these dolls. Other best things to do in Kyoto inside the place are discoveries of the old culture. The Minamiza Theater is where you can watch the Kabuki shows.
6. Arashiyama Bamboo Groves
The place is stunning because of the bamboo groves covering the entire area. Just like other places to visit in Kyoto, you will find small temples and a river. The towering bamboo groves offer natural shade making the place a perfect one for a long walk.
7. Fushimi Inari-Taisha Shrine
This is one of the most iconic Kyoto attractions because of its red-colored walkway the torii gates that will lead tourists to a shrine. Make sure that you are prepared with the right footwear before you start your way up to the mountain and admire the stunning view of Kyoto.
8. Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Awarded as UNESCO World Heritage, the place is surrounded by beautiful cherry blossom trees. Best things to do in Kyoto are activities that can offer magical effects like walking on its two stones as you close your eyes facing the Jishu Shrine to pay respect to the God of love. If you do it successfully, then they believe that you will find your true love.
9. Kyoto Tower
A few of the most modern structures are the Kyoto tower that made it top of the list of what to do in Kyoto. This is the highest modern building in the city that can provide panoramic scenery that extends up to Osaka. The highlight of your tour to the tower is a platform where you can access a telescope and a LED touch screen to give you information.
10. Pontocho
It is close to the Kamogawa River and home to many restaurants that can offer delicious go-to meals to the fine dining experience and try the popular yakitori. Part of the best things to do in Kyoto during your vacation is to eat a good meal.
