Kyoto

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Explore Kyoto

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Why Kyoto?

Explore historic sights and wander the atmospheric streets of Kyoto

A holiday to Japan is not complete without spending time in the former capital of Japan, Kyoto. Home to 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites, Kyoto was the centre of politics for 1,100 years. This culturally rich city offers many interesting places to visit including museums, art galleries, shrines and temples. Popular historic sites include the Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Nijo Castle. You will also discover an exciting food culture with a variety of amazing food on offer including Sushi, Kaiseki-ryori, tempura and noodles. During you time in Kyoto you may come across a Geisha and Maiko (apprentice Geisha) wearing traditional kimono. Gino, one of the main downtown districts in Kyoto, is where you may catch a sight of them. There is so much to discover and experience in Kyoto so choose the season, take your time and enjoy this historic and charming city.

For details on festivals, special events and attractions throughout Japan, please click here.

Three geishas walking Gion Kyoto- apan

Kyoto Highlights

Here we have selected a few of the sights and experiences that you really should see on a visit to Kyoto.

Kyoto

Geiko & Maiko Spring Dances

The Spring Dances performed by geiko and maiko, Kitano Odori in March, Kyo Odori and Miyako Odori in April, and Kamogawa Odori in May, are a true glimpse into the traditions of geisha in Kyoto, and are your best chance of catching the rare sight of an actual performance in the city.

Kyoto

Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

With its 10,000 vermilion shrine gates, the Fushimi Inari is one of the most popular sites in Kyoto, and an important Shinto shrine. Its famous torii gates, which straddle a network of trails behind its main buildings, lead into the wooded forest of the sacred Mount Inari.

Kyoto

Visit some of the Japanese Gardens

Kyoto is a garden lover’s paradise. It is the best place in all of Japan to immerse yourself in the wonders of the Japanese garden. Some examples include the Karesansui (zen garden) at the Ryoan-ji Temple, where you can meditate in peaceful surroundings, the exquisite Ginkaku-ji Temple gardens and the impressive Hojo Garden at the Tofuku-ji Temple.

Kyoto

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

The atmospheric Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, with its thick green bamboo stalks is famed for the extraordinary light and picturesque qualities. It's most enchanting on the approach to Okochi Sanso villa where you will surely want to take some photos, but beware as photos just can’t capture the magic of the place!

Some of our tours featuring Kyoto

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    A 13 day tour that explores the very best of Japan’s culture and nature, during the popular cherry blossom season.

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    The Essential Japan tour is perfect for the first time traveller to Japan.

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    Explore the history and culture of this amazing country, with fun-filled excursions for all the family.

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    A perfect trip for the first time traveller to these two intriguing countries.

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    This tour encompasses the classic Golden Route - Tokyo, Fuji and Kyoto

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    An incredible two-centre tour combining the sights of Japan and China.

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    Explore Japan’s classic sights, starting in the exciting capital city of Tokyo, famous for its fresh sushi.

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