The best times to visit Kyoto are in the spring (March-May) and the fall (September-November). To catch the cherry blossoms, plan your trip from mid-March to late April. These blossoms begin to bloom in mid-March and are at their most beautiful in late April. In the fall, the city is adorned with colorful leaves that add vibrancy to many parts of the city.

To explore the fascinating attractions in Kyoto, at least three days is necessary. For a more relaxed holiday, allocating four to five days is ideal for enjoying all that Kyoto has to offer.

Mentioning Kyoto evokes the image of geisha, iconic figures of Kyoto and Japan. Geisha are known for their elegant kimonos and white makeup customary. To meet geisha in person, visit Kyoto's Gion or South Higashiyama districts. However, kindly seek their permission before taking photographs. As Japan's ancient capital, Kyoto is home to the Imperial Palace, which served as the residence of emperors for centuries and remains a popular tourist attraction. In Kyoto, the ryokan holds great renown. These traditional Japanese inns feature sliding doors, tatami rooms, and wooden bathrooms. When visiting, be sure to experience the unique sensation of staying in a ryokan. Moreover, Kyoto is famous for its millennia-old temples, which serve as sacred sites for Buddhism and Shinto. They hold a distinguished position on the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list.

When traveling to Kyoto, Fushimi Inari is an absolute must-visit. The Shinto shrine is adorned with over a thousand vibrant orange pillars, making it a top attraction for tourists. This temple is an iconic landmark in the historic city. Alongside Fushimi Inari, you can visit other remarkable temples like Kiyomizu-dera and Kinkakuji. Nature enthusiasts must explore the bamboo forest in the Arashiyama area. Here, tranquil lakeside moments await. While in Kyoto, be sure to visit the Gion district, where encountering geishas is a cherished experience. Treat yourself to a delightful cup of hot matcha (green tea) by visiting a traditional tea house. Don't forget to include Nijo Castle, a captivating historical fortress, in your itinerary.

You must try yudofu, a traditional Kyoto specialty. It is a tofu dish simmered in soup and served with soy sauce. Another must-try is nishin soba. This bowl of buckwheat noodles served with dried herring dates back at least 150 years in Kyoto. Nishin Soba is a signature specialty at Kyoto's soba restaurants. Do not miss other Kyoto specialties like mackerel sushi, warabi mochi (black mochi with a unique texture), matcha snacks and drinks, kudzu noodles (transparent noodles served with brown sugar syrup), and more.