Kyoto Tours

The sites and scenes of Kyoto, Japan's former capital, are still one of the most recommended and admired in Japan. The streets and buildings of Kyoto resonate differently from other major cities in the country. In fact, Kyoto’s main attractions usually focus on the nostalgic sensation from shrines and temples aside from the famous geisha district in Gion. The different seasons change the beauty at each of these sites, so visiting once per different season is a must.

Known as the cultural center and heart of Japan, Kyoto is located in the Kansai region of Japan. It was once the capital of Japan before Edo, modern-day Tokyo, was made the new capital. As a formal capital, it is no wonder that it has much history and just as many shrines as one can imagine. Their World Heritage Sites are also prominent, there are three that can be mentioned as must-see locations; The Nijo Castle, Kiyomizu Temple, and the Kinkaku-Ji Temple. There are many other places that are noted as World Heritage Sites, however, these are usually at the top of the list for most visitors. The Gion Geisha District is also quite known for being a main zone to spot Geisha on their way to work. Though there is a chance of seeing a geisha along the streets of Gion, there may be some that are not real trainees or Geisha at all. Real geisha or their trainees have a tight schedule to adhere to on their way to visit their patrons or when going to events. Though Kyoto is traditionally known as a place where geisha train and practice, there are still Geisha practitioners in other parts of the country not just in Kyoto.

Another part of Kyoto that is known for its beauty is the Ryoan-ji Rock Garden. The art made from the careful placement of structures and shapes to create a peaceful environment is admirable. This is particularly recognizable when all the stones can be seen at the same time no matter the angle the viewer takes around the garden. The designer or the date of the garden is not known, however, the Ryoan-ji Temple has a history that dates back to 1450, when Daimyo Hosokawa Katsumoto was deputy of the Ashikaga shoguns. It was Daimyo Katsumoto who ordered to transform the once villa into a temple. However, it was later burned down and rebuilt once after the fire was extinguished. Kyoto’s Maruyama Park (Maruyama Koen) is also known for its beauty particularly during the cherry blossom season that takes place in spring. Most hanami (cherry blossom viewing) is done in the park of Maruyama. Although most other parks also have hanami, they are not as popular as Maruyama’s views. Originally the park had many temples, but like many other structures in Japan, they were burned down. Eventually, it was established as a park in 1871 (Meiji Period), then it was opened as a public park around ten years later. The history and beauty of the area makes the trip to Maruyama worth a visit.

For textile history and displays of kimono fashion, Kyoto’s Nishijin Textile Center is available to the public for their daily fashion shows. There are also activities where one can practice weaving with the guide of an experienced textile weaver. The center also displays the type of silk worms that produce the threads needed for colorful kimonos, ties, handkerchiefs, and other accessories that can be made in a textile factory. The many kimono shown can vary depending on the season, particularly for the cherry blossom season when they add extra accessories on some of the models who wear the seasonal kimonos during the shows. In the end, Kyoto has a variety of locations and sites worth visiting for different people and their interests.

Please see below for tours that include Kyoto: