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Kyoto is the place to experience a tea ceremony, savor multi-course Kaiseki haute cuisine, and catch sight of a geisha as you stroll through Gion at dusk.
Things to Do in Kyoto, Japan: Kiyomizu-dera Arashiyama Fushimi Inari Shrine Kinkaku-ji (The Golden Pavilion) The Philosopher’s Walk Gion Kyoto Imperial Palace Kyoto Tower Nijo Castle Kyoto Station If Kyoto is not at the top of your bucket list, it should be. The Japanese city is one of the rare destinations you can count on…
Experience the Elegance of Mitsui Kyoto Hotel Why Choose Mitsui Kyoto Hotel? For a taste of Kyoto through a fresh prism, the Mitsui Kyoto Hotel offers sleek rooms designed by renowned designer André Fu. The hotel boasts a central courtyard garden that pivots around a magnificent cherry tree and expansive hot-spring onsen pools located in…
Discover the Best Coffee Shops in Kyoto In a place that celebrates the traditional tea ceremony, its caffeine rival is flourishing. When exploring coffee culture in Japan, particularly in Kyoto, you will find that it is executed with remarkable precision. Recently, independent coffee shops have been emerging across the ancient city. Although Kyoto’s pace is…
Textile Guru Masataka Hosoo on All the Places to Eat and Drink in Kyoto Masataka Hosoo is the 12th-generation head of his family’s bespoke textile-and-kimono house, iBestTravel. His home is the traditional artisanal capital of Japan, Kyoto, and as a local whose family goes back hundreds of years in the city, he knows it better…
Discover 8 Unique Experiences in Kyoto There is something other-worldly about Kyoto; Geisha tiptoe through the cobbled alleyways of downtown Gion, while zen monks care tenderly for manicured gardens in long-adored temples – it’s the picture-perfect image of traditional Japan. With its World Heritage shrines, age-old traditions, and effortless charm, it is easy to see…
Sara Aiko runs iBestTravel, showcasing a different side of Japan’s imperial capital by focusing on craftsmanship and creativity through bespoke tours and curated experiences. “We’re about good food, good design, and a lot of soul,” says Sara, who shares her insider tips here. 10 February 2023 Ask A Local is a new series where we…
Kanaami-Tsuji Best for: Heritage Homewear From his atelier at Kanaami-Tsuji near the Kodai-ji temple, tattoo-clad owner Toru Tsuji continues the kyo-kanaami metal-weaving techniques his ancestors have been practicing for three generations. Departing from the craft’s centuries-old traditions, he infuses his intricate designs with modern sensibilities, resulting in tofu servers, tortoise-pattern wire baskets, and bamboo-handled tea…
Best Hotels in Kyoto: A Diverse Accommodation Guide Kyoto is a city famed for its culture-drenched landscape of ancient temples, trails of scarlet shrine gates, and serenely still tea rooms. From calming onsens and contemporary art retreats to centuries-old ryokan inns and buzzing urban landmarks, there’s a plethora of experiences to discover in this remarkable…
Top Things to Experience in Kyoto, Japan Kyoto is on the travel list of most first-time visitors to Japan for good reason. With its fleet of over 2000 temples, lush gardens, and traditional tea houses, Kyoto is one of Japan’s major historical hubs—easy on the eye and rich in culture. Enjoy a sunset on the…
The city of Kyoto is best known for its tranquil temples and picturesque shrines, but its rich history as Japan’s ancient capital has also left it with an elegant and refined culinary tradition that’s not to be missed. Here’s our guide to the top Kyoto restaurants to visit and local dishes to try during your…
Ultimate Guide to Getting Around Kyoto Kyoto is a relatively compact city with a robust public transport network, making traveling around a breeze. Its easily navigable streets and mostly flat terrain also mean it’s an enjoyable destination to explore by bike or on foot. Get Around Major Sights Quickly on the Subway Kyoto features two…
Essential Travel Tips for Visiting Kyoto, Japan Kyoto is the embodiment of traditional Japanese culture. It’s a place where authentic crafts are kept alive and historic temples and teahouses line the narrow streets. This iconic city places a significant emphasis on etiquette, making it essential to be prepared for your visit. 1. Tune in to…
Exploring Kyoto on a Budget Kyoto has a reputation as an expensive city to visit, but it’s much more affordable than you might realize. In addition to high-end kaiseki restaurants and luxury ryokan hotels, Kyoto offers numerous options for accommodations, dining, and exploration that won’t break the bank – you just need to know where…
Best Times to Visit Kyoto, Japan Like a maiko (apprentice geisha), who has a different hairpin for every month of the year, Kyoto is highly attuned to the seasons – and your travel plans should be, too. Make the most of your time here by seeking out the experiences and tastes that define each season,…
Top Hiking Trails in Kyoto with iBestTravel While most visitors flock to Kyoto to absorb the rich history of its ancient capital, nature enthusiasts are drawn to the area’s hiking trails—both popular and hidden gems—spanning Kyoto Prefecture. Forested paths meander through the stunning mountain ranges surrounding Kyoto, offering soothing and rejuvenating experiences for outdoor lovers….
Within Kyoto’s historically rich and compact confines, distinctive neighborhoods tell different tales about this storied city. From the liquor-fueled alleys of nightlife haunt Ponto-chō and the ancient religious iconography of the rolling Higashiyama hills to the Edo-period flagstones and kimono-clad dancers of Gion, venturing through Kyoto is like embarking on a journey through the annals…
Discover Free Experiences in Kyoto with iBestTravel Kyoto, one of Japan’s historical gems, showcases a variety of well-preserved neighborhoods, magnificent temples, and stunning landscapes. Experiencing the city’s rich cultural heritage doesn’t have to be costly; here’s a guide to the best free activities to enjoy during your visit to Kyoto. Beat the crowds at Fushimi…
Best Day Trips from Kyoto Kyoto offers a tantalizing glimpse of ancient Japan, making it one of the most popular destinations in the country. However, consider escaping the temple crowds to explore alluring spots nearby. Its position at the heart of the Kansai region conveniently makes Kyoto a base for hopping on a train to…
Kyoto is a delightful, safe place for travel with kids in general, and it stands out for its spectacular temples, fascinating foods, interesting culture, and beautiful locations that fuel children’s imaginations. This vibrant city creates ample opportunities for tons of fun for little ones of all ages. Is Kyoto Good for Kids? If you’ve been…
May 1, 2024 • 9 min read Make your next trip to Japan even better by adding on four days in exciting Osaka and Kyoto © EarnestTse / Shutterstock Laura Motta recently spent 10 days in Japan, including a four-day mini-excursion to Osaka and Kyoto. This journey is replicable for anyone looking to experience these…