Travel Guide: Kyoto

When we were planning our Japan itinerary, aside from Tokyo, the other city at the top of both our wish-lists was Kyoto. The capital of Japan until the late 1800's, this city is stepped in history and home to over 2,000 religious sites. Kyoto is an easy train journey from Tokyo making it a great destination to add on to your Japan trip. I'd recommend two to three days in Kyoto so that you can make it to some of the destinations that are a bit further out of the city center.

{Get There}

Depending on which speed train you take, the trip from Tokyo to Kyoto takes between approximately 2 and 3 hours. Trains leave Tokyo every few minutes and you can walk up and buy tickets day of.

Kyoto has a number of options for accommodation, ranging from large big brand hotels to small hotels, Ryokans and even rental options. We stayed at the Westin Miyako which wasn't right in the center and was somewhat inconvenient to many things, so in future I'd look for something a bit more central. It was also very large and impersonal and the decor was somewhat dated.

Note: the Westin does have a shuttle from Kyoto train station, so don't make the mistake we did and drag yourself all over the metro with your luggage. The shuttle stops right behind the train station.

{See & Do}

See the Temples: Kyoto is famous for its amazing temples, shrines and gardens. Some not-to miss spots include: Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), Silver Pavilion (Ginkaku-ji), Fushimi-Inari-Taisha Shrine, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Nanzen-ji Temple, Toji Temple.

Kyoto Imperial Palace: This was the palace of the Emperor of Japan until 1869 when the capital was moved to Tokyo. Wander the immense gardens and visit the inside if time permits.

The Nishiki food market: Check out this enclosed food market in the Downtown area with more than dozens of stalls for all the delicacies that the region is known for.

Walk the Philosopher’s Path: We did a walk along the Philospher’s path our first afternoon and it was a good introduction to Kyoto. The path runs alongside a gorgeous canal in the Northern Higashiyama district, and allows you to visit the Silver Pavillion and surrounding gardens and shrines.

Bamboo Forest: A tranquil spot on the outskirts of town, this is definitely worth a visit. Though I would recommend going very early to avoid the crowds.

Gion: Made famous by the book Memoirs of Geisha this picture perfect area is filled with weeping willows, lanes and canals, with small doors leading into Kyseki restaurants and drinking houses. A great place to wander at sunset, if you're lucky you might spot a Geisha or couples in traditional dress taking formal photos.

{Eat & Drink}

Omen: This traditional noodle house was closed when we visited, but based on the great reviews its not to be missed.

Okonomiyaki:This savoury Japanese pancake with a multitude of fillings is cooked directly at your table. Check out Nishiki Warai, within the Nishiki Markets.

Kazigen: A beautiful tea room with delicious sweets in the Gion area, it makes for a perfect afternoon break. There isn't an English sign so its a bit hard to find, but look for the red awning with a steady stream of people in and out.

Coffee Club Takagiya: This tiny place right outside the Westin serves up a great breakfast (with coffee!) for less than $5. Plus the elderly gentleman who runs it is completely charming.

Check out Ippodo a beautiful shop specializing in teas and accessories.

{Things to Know}

Kyoto is fairly spread out so be prepared to walk, take the metro and cabs to get around.