Formerly the capital of Japan, Kyoto, is renowned for its classical Buddhist temples, imperial palaces, Shinto shrines, and traditional wooden houses that represent the beauty of traditional Japan. The city is also known for retaining traditional Japanese customs and traditions such as the geisha and kaiseki dining. If you want to travel back in time and experience a more traditional side of Japan, then Kyoto is your destination of choice.

How to Get There

There are no direct flights to Kyoto from KLIA; therefore the best option is for you to take a flight to Kansai International Airport (KIX) in Osaka, then take a shuttle bus to Kyoto. Flights to KIX are available throughout the day and the flight duration is around 7 hours. From Kansai Airport, you can take the special JR Haruka Airport Express which takes about 75 minutes. The first airport express is available from 6:33am on weekdays and 6:42am on weekends, while the last train is at 8:16pm every day. The Japan Rail Pass can be used for this train.

Public Transportations Available

Although Kyoto is a relatively small city, its excellent public transport system that makes it easy for seasoned and even first-time visitors to travel about. Kyoto’s public transportation network comprises of two subway lines and a dense bus network that reaches out almost every part of the city. The recommended way to get around Kyoto is via an IC card such as ICOCA, which can be accepted virtually on all trains and buses in the city. The card helps you save time because you won’t be required to queue in line to purchase a ticket.

Subway

There are two subway lines in Kyoto – the Karasuma Line which runs from south to north and the newer Tozai Line which runs from east to west.

Japan Railways

All Japan Railway lines, including the Tokaido Shinkansen pass through and commence at JR Kyoto Station. This is a good option to access the attractions located in southern Kyoto along the Nara Line such as Fushimi Inari Shrine and Byodoin in Uji.

Bus

Kyoto has an extensive bus network that serves as an affordable and convenient way to reach most of the city’s tourist attractions. Kyoto is served by multiple bus companies. The green Kyoto City Bus are the most numerous and useful to travel around the city centre. On the other hand, the red buses are best for accessing sites situated at the outskirts of the city. Tourist offices provide a useful English network map which makes it more convenient for foreign travellers. As buses can be crowded especially during peak hours, it is advisable to use the subway and train as much as possible.

Sightseeing Bus

The Sky Hop Bus is a convenient way to visit Kyoto’s most famous sightseeing spots but it is slightly pricier than the other public transportation methods mentioned above. These are double-decker buses running counterclockwise every 30 minutes from Kyoto Station to major tourist sites such as the Kiyomizudera, Heian Shrine, and the Imperial Palace.

Tourist Attractions

Kyoto is known as the cultural and historical heart of the country, making it the best place to experience traditional temples, shrines, gardens, geishas, and festivals. There are many must-see attractions and activities in Kyoto, making it a one-stop destination to enjoy the best that Japan has to offer.

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

This Buddhist temple situated in eastern Kyoto is part of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto and UNESCO World Heritage site. Its name is taken from the waterfall within the complex, which runs off the nearby hill. The main hall has a large veranda, supported by tall pillars that juts out over the hillside and offers impressive views of the city.

Fushima Inari Taisha

This shrine sits at the base of Inari mountain which is 233m above sea level, and includes trails up the mountain to many smaller shrines. It takes approximately 2 hours to walk up to the top. Along the way, you’ll be passing through rows of vermillion Shinto shrine gates and at the top, you’ll be treated to an incredible view of Southern Kyoto.

Kinkaku-ji Temple

Located in northern Kyoto, this famed temple which is also known as the Golden Pavilion is Kyoto’s most iconic sight. The top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf, and is built overlooking a large pond. Each floor represents a different style of architecture and is truly a sight to behold.

Where to Stay

Kyoto has a wide selection of accommodation which you can choose from, enabling you to choose one that best suits your budget.

Solaria Nishitetsu Hotel Kyoto Premier

Located at the heart of Kyoto, this Instagram-worthy hotel offers you easy access to all the tourist spots. Moreover, Solaria Nishitetsu’s rooms are well-equipped with all the modern facilities you require for a comfortable stay. Best of all, the rooms are surprisingly priced reasonably for the location and facilities it provides.

Iori Machiya Stay

If you are travelling in a group or with family members, a great way to fully experience Kyoto is by staying in a machiya (traditional Kyoto townhouse). Iori offers 11 machiyas located in central Kyoto that you can rent. These machiyas still retains its traditional architectural designs but they are fitted with all the modern necessities to ensure a more comfortable stay.

Tawaraya

If you want a full Kyoto experience, then staying in a ryokan is a must. Tawaraya is the finest ryokan in Kyoto and arguably the finest in all of Japan. The rooms are impeccably decorated and each room opens up to their own private gardens.