Why Should I Visit Kyoto?

Japan’s former capital city Kyoto doesn’t need much of an introduction anymore as it has fast become one of the world’s most popular destinations before 2020. But it is not only the super famous highlights that make this incredibly beautiful city worth a visit. There is so much more to Kyoto, and we want to help you discover it! So why should you visit Kyoto according to us?

Most photogenic city in Japan

Whether you are an amateur photographer just looking to take some pretty pictures as a reminder of your trip to Kyoto or a professional, Kyoto will make you very happy. Because Kyoto was not bombed during WW2, you can still feel the atmosphere of old Japan. Many parts of the city such as Pontocho, Arashiyama, Gion, and Higashiyama have been preserved. Traditions such as the tea ceremony, geisha entertainment, and serving high-quality seasonal kaiseki meals are also still blooming in Kyoto.

All these qualities will make it very easy to find photogenic moments everywhere. This easy charm has its downsides as well, as parts of Kyoto were overcrowded with tourists before 2020. This is also why we recommend hiring a private guide when going around Kyoto, the guide will not only make sure that you will get to see the more local version of the city, they will also make sure that your visit is in accordance to sustainable tourism. And of course, they can help you find the best places for great pictures!

Dive deep into Japan’s history

It is not a surprise that a former capital holds many historical treasures and stories. Way before Tokyo even existed, some of the first cultural development of Japan took place in the area which is now Nara and Kyoto. The Imperial Court took its seat in Kyoto, and as is often the case around (early) medieval courts, culture and art flourished around the seat’s area. Many of Kyoto’s most famous sights have a connection to the Imperial Family or the nobility that was closely connected with the Imperial Family.

When you visit a temple, shrine, or palace, knowing a bit about the history of the place adds a lot to your enjoyment of it. Of course, famous spots like the Golden Pavilion or the Kiyosumidera are already very impressive to look at, but if you know why they were built and what happened during their history, they come to life much more. Not everyone has the patience and time to read the leaflets and signs, plus, private guides tend to know the more obscure and interesting details and know how to talk about them in an engaging way. So here again, we definitely recommend you to book a private guide for a day in Kyoto!

Cultural heart of Japan

Having new and interesting cultural experiences is one of the best parts of foreign travel. Old societies like Japan have many unique cultural traditions that are great to experience and immerse yourself in. As you may be aware, Kyoto is at this moment the city with the most lively geiko (geisha) tradition. Geisha are performers of many cultural traditions such as the tea ceremony, Japanese dance, traditional instruments such as the shamisen, and old-fashioned games.

Those who are interested in artisan crafts will also have a field day in Kyoto. Nishijin textile is probably the most famous example of typical Kyoto craft work, but also crafts like ceramics, lacquer ware, tie dyeing, bamboo crafts, and more can all be admired and experienced in Kyoto. The Higashiyama area near the famous Kiyomizudera temple is the most popular area to enjoy Japan’s traditional crafts.

Kyoto’s exquisite food culture

Having been the center of culture and the seat of the Imperial Court for many hundreds of years, Kyoto’s gastronomy is traditional, refined, and exquisite. The best example of Kyoto cuisine is Kaiseki ryori, a Japanese-style course menu. The chef always uses fresh local ingredients of the season, and makes each course look and taste delectable. Kaiseki meals are expensive, but should be seen as an experience instead of just another meal.

For vegetarians or those who are interested in trying Buddhist cuisine, Shojin ryori should be on the menu. Tofu, mushrooms, and leafy green vegetables are main ingredients of this healthy cuisine. If you’re looking for home-style Kyoto food, Obanzai ryori will fit the bill. This type of meal is best described as small dishes of comfort food for a reasonable price.

And there’s one style of dining that is almost exclusively seen in Kyoto: Kawadoko, or riverside dining. Kyoto does get hot in the summer, so what is better than having a leisurely meal near a streaming river? The rustling leaves and cooler temperature will make it a very relaxing dining experience. Food is typically high-end, and one of the best places to do this is Kibune in north Kyoto.

Entertainment in Kyoto

If you want to do something different besides visiting temples and traditional areas as well, there are plenty of options for other entertainment in Kyoto. One popular show is the non-verbal performance done by GEAR. As language plays no role, the show can be enjoyed by anyone. Do you want to take the opportunity to learn some real samurai sword skills? At Samurai Kenbu you can’t just watch a sword demonstration, but you can also take a sword skill training yourself.

In true Kyoto style, there is also entertainment of the quiet kind. Why not experience a real tea ceremony while you are there? At Camellia they provide you with an authentic ceremony in beautiful traditional rooms. Those who are interested in Buddhism, mindfulness, and meditation may want to try participation in an actual Zen meditation session. At the Shunkoin temple they do English-language sessions.

Highlights of Kyoto

Of course, we can’t write a post about why you should visit Kyoto without making a mention of the ultimate highlights, which will surely also be some of the most memorable destinations of your entire Japan trip. There is a good reason why these destinations became such tourists’ favorites, as they are without exception very beautiful.

Our favorite highlights of Kyoto are the Kiyomizudera temple and nearby Higashiyama area, Fushimi Inari Taisha with the many red torii gates, Gion with the tea houses, the Golden Pavillion, and Arashiyama including its bamboo forest and the preserved area of Saga Toriimoto. We strongly recommend you to visit these highlights either as early as possible or just before closing time to avoid the largest crowds. Fushimi Inari Taisha is actually open 24/7, so going here late at night or early in the morning is highly recommended!

Why Should I Visit Kyoto?