Visiting Kyoto for the first time? Get ready for historic temples, traditional Japanese vibes, and enough matcha to fuel a small army. But before you pack your bags, here’s what you need to know—from shrine-hopping strategies to the best way to get around, this guide will help you make the most of your Kyoto adventure—without getting lost in a sea of tourists!
Quick Recommendation: Our blog is filled with tips and tricks for traveling in Japan. For today's post, we're checking out Kyoto and bringing you this Authentic Tea Ceremony Ju-An at Jotokuji Temple.
Make sure to see Kyoto’s famous spots like Fushimi Inari Shrine and Kinkaku-ji Temple. Also, explore the Gion district where you might see a real Geisha.
It’s pretty nuts.
Don’t forget to try Kyoto’s food. You’ll love the street food and sweet matcha treats. Your taste buds will thank you.
Learning about Kyoto’s public transport is crucial too. The city relies mainly on buses, unlike Tokyo and Osaka’s train system.
Temples, Temples, and More Temples
In Kyoto, temples are everywhere. With over 1,600 temples, planning your trip can be tough. But, there are a few temples you must see.
Begin with Kiyomizu-dera. It’s famous for its amazing views of the city. Then, visit Kinkaku-ji, known as the Golden Pavilion. Its gold exterior makes it a top photo spot in Kyoto.
Fushimi Inari is another must-see. It’s famous for its thousands of red torii gates. Walking through them is an incredible experience. Tragic for your legs though after all that hiking. But totally worth it.
Pro tip: Don’t go on a temple speedrun. Kyoto has over 1,600 temples, and if you try to see them all, your feet will file for divorce. Pick a few, take your time, and actually enjoy the magic.
Also, make sure (and I CANNOT stress this enough) that you pick the right season! Kyoto is awesome all year-round, but go at the wrong time, and you’ll be pushing through a sea of selfies and lost tourists… Check out our guide for the best time to visit Japan. Trust me, both you and the locals will have a way better time.
Quick Recommendation: Our blog is filled with tips and tricks for traveling in Japan. For today's post, we're checking out Kyoto and bringing you this Authentic Tea Ceremony Ju-An at Jotokuji Temple.
Gion: The Geisha District
When you visit Kyoto, make sure to explore the lively Gion district Kyoto. It’s famous for its geishas and shows off Kyoto’s rich culture. The area is filled with traditional wooden houses that look like they’re from another time.
Walking through Gion, you might see a geisha or a maiko, a young apprentice—which is basically like seeing a real-life unicorn. It’s a rare, magical glimpse into Kyoto’s living traditions that have been around for centuries.
Just remember: be respectful. No chasing, no blocking their path, and definitely no sneaky paparazzi shots. Some areas in Gion have literally banned tourists because of bad behavior, so don’t be that person who ruins it for everyone. Admire from a distance, soak in the atmosphere, and let Kyoto’s elegance do its thing.
But Gion is more than just seeing geishas. It’s also home to many tea houses, private clubs, and Japanese restaurants.
For a magical experience, take a walk at night in Gion. The streets are lit up with lanterns, give you that charming “Japan atmosphere.”
Bamboo Forest and Matcha Everything
Exploring the Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is another must when in Kyoto. This beautiful grove is a calming experience as you walk through its towering bamboo stalks. To see the forest’s beauty without crowds, visit early in the morning.
While in Kyoto, try the local matcha delicacies. Kyoto is famous for its Uji matcha, found in many matcha treats from creamy ice cream to yatsuhashi—a must-try Japanese confection. All made with rich Uji matcha.
For those who love Japanese tea culture, Kyoto is the best place. The city has many tea shops and cafes with a wide range of matcha products. You can even try an authentic tea ceremony at a temple for 3,300 yen.
Getting Around Kyoto Efficiently
Exploring Kyoto is easy if you plan your travel well. The Kyoto City Bus Pass is a great choice. It lets you ride Kyoto buses all day without worrying about costs.
Kyoto buses can take you to top spots, but expect crowds at busy times. Getting a bus map or using a travel app helps. This way, you can plan your day better and see more.
But don’t just stick to buses. Walking and cycling give you a closer look at Kyoto’s beauty. The subway, although smaller scale than Tokyo, is also a good choice for avoiding crowds. Mix it up and find what works best for your trip.
Thank you for reading! And as always, feel free to leave your comments down below or contact me anytime at chesco@japangeneration.com 🙂
Quick Recommendation: Our blog is filled with tips and tricks for traveling in Japan. For today's post, we're checking out Kyoto and bringing you this Authentic Tea Ceremony Ju-An at Jotokuji Temple.
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