| Check out our free interactive Kyoto holiday guide and discover Kyoto's biggest attractions, best restaurants and much more. If you've visited Kyoto before tell us your holiday tips and help other travellers enjoy great holidays in Kyoto, Japan. |
| The old imperial capital founded in 794 was named the "capital of peace and tranquility" in the Japanese language but was unfortunately subject to many natural disasters such as periodic floods and earthquakes. A city still soaked in tradition and home to many festivals was the seat of the imperial court and home of the samurai.The city eventually lost its standing as capital to Tokyo. |
|
 |
Toji Temple - Founded two years after the city itself (796) this was the hallowed "headquarters" of Shingon Buddhism. History and religion are carved into the wood wit the tallest pagoda in Japan watching over all. Nijo Castle- if the word "castle" conjures up pictures of the massive stone structures of Europe you are in for a surprise! Part of the design includes nightingale wooden floors, cherry tree panels and delicate landscape paintings in an exquisite garden surrounds. The complex was built in the 1500's for the royal shogunate; in the grand chamber there are lifelike figures representing feudal lords paying homeage to the shogun.
Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion) - Built by Ashikaga shogun as a retirement home, the building today is a replica of the original which was destroyed by arson. Perching on top of the building is a bronze phoenix - keeping guard over the structure which is completely covered in gold leaf, hence the name. Stroll around the perfectly designed garden and marvel at the precision and harmony of it.
Higashiyama - Take a trip down the centuries with a visit to this charming district of Kyoto. Beautifully preserved streets and buildings reflecting the lifestyle of the citizens in the past and present. Walk down the Stone - Paved Roads (Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka) but watch your step - a fall will cost you 2 or 3 years bad luck according to local superstition. |
|
|
Gontaro - Fuyacho/Shijo agaru. Elegant waitresses in kimonos serving speciality noodle dishes between 11.30 and 10pm.
Obanzai - 1F Ichii Bldg city centre. Enjoy a Japanese buffet of local cooking between 11am and 2pm for lunch or 5- 9pm for supper.
Mankamero - Inokuma/Demisu agaru. Order a bamboo basket bento (a "smorgasbord" of Japanese delicacies) between 12am and 2.30pm; the perfect classic Kyoto lunch in a lovely setting.This restaurant is near to the Imperial Palace. Other specialities can be ordered until 7.30pm.
Bio-tei - 2F M& I Bldg, Higashi-no- Toin. Good value for money for the health conscious, try the black bean tofu for lunch betwen 11.30 and 2pm or dinner 5- 8.30pm. They are closed certain days of the week for lunch and others for dinner. |
|
Bar Isn't It - B1 Forum Nishi Kiyamachi. Foreign residents hang-out, get the information you wanted but were too afraid to ask, meet foreigners who have made this city home.
Cafe David - Sanjo. Admire the arty decor as you lend support to the local talent on Saturday nights.
Cafe Independants - 1928 Bldg B1. Perfect place to relax and unwind with a drink after your shopping spree in the city. |
|
Imperial Park - Surrounding the Imperial Palace, this magnificent garden was built in 1630 and has many beautiful manmade and natural features. Food for the soul.
The Philosophers Walk - Wander along the cherry lined path amongst a sea of pink- white blossoms. Interesting stops along the way include 2 temples and a shrine and the Silver pavilion that has a magical garden setting with raked gravel, trees and water features.
Daisen-in's Zen Garden - Daitoku-Ji. A spiritual journey in garden form, every nook and cranny has meaning and represent the deeper things in life. |
|
Takashimaya - cnr Kawaramachi and Shijo. A bouquet of boutiques for the fashion conscious, brand name hunters.
The Cube - Situated conveniently in the station, this is the place to find that special souvenir that is uniquely "Kyoto".
Nishiki Market Alley - This market alley's nickname "Kyoto's kitchen" is very apt. Shop for delicacies or that knife set you have been searching for. If Japan has a Jamie Oliver then this is where you would spot him! |
|
kyoto perfect information - links directory. also message board is available. ask me anything about kyoto.
I can give you real time info because I live in kyoto!
Kyoto City Guide - a detailed Kyoto city guide featuring city information, Kyoto tourism and tourist attractions, museums, restaurants, hotel discounts, weather information and general Kyoto travel tips.
www.city.kyoto.jp - The official tourist website |
|
|
|
