Kyoto Hotels

Kyoto always feels like a place fresh from the pages of a period novel. Its winding streets dotted with traditional Japanese homes is one to be seen at least once by every person. It’s the place to go to if you want to see the quieter side of Japan and how it once was. You’ll find people walking in their kimonos here, buying from an old store that sells traditional clothes and food. Shrines and gardens are also nearby for you to enjoy and take in.

How to Go

The most convenient way to get to Kyoto is by taking the Limited Express Haruka that comes from Kansai International Airport. The travel time should take around 75 minutes with two stops in Shin-Osaka and Tennoji before heading to Kyoto. A limousine bus is another option that services Kansai Airport and Kyoto’s Hachijo-guchi station. Cabs are also available from the airport, but these aren’t recommended because it will be very expensive.

Getting Around

As expected, Kyoto also has a world-class transport system like most of Japan. They have train lines that are mostly used for intercity travel and their subway is mostly for going around the city. The bus routes in Kyoto are also extensive, but visitors noted that the trains are still the fastest way to get around. Taxis are available in ranks too and it’s perfect if you have around three or four people with you.

The city is highly pedestrianized too. There are a lot of cycling paths for you to use if you opt to rent a bicycle. The city is mostly flat so you won’t encounter hard to reach places. Walking is a good way to explore the city too because you’ll end up stumbling into a hidden shop here and there.

Top Things to Do

Kyoto is definitely on the top of the list when it comes to a cultural trip. Because of its extensive history as the former capital of the emperor, it has centuries worth of memories and history to share with people. You’ll see it in the buildings around you, the temples that surround the area, and even the people.

A unique way to get around the city is through a yakatabune, a Japanese houseboat. It would take you to the surrounding areas and it’s a great way to admire the landscape and greenery of Tokyo. This can drop you off at the lush Arashiyama forest. This one is an amazing place to see because of all the tall bamboo surrounding you. Heading down from the forest is a strip of shops that sell food and trinkets for you to take home.

Nearby is the Fushimi Inari shrine that has gained popularity because of the movie Memoirs of a Geisha. Its terracotta torii gates remain a popular spot for tourists. Kinkakuji is an amazing sight to behold. It’s a golden pavilion that stands at a beautiful garden. If you want to experience walking in a kimono in Japan then Gion is the best place to start. The city is lined with traditional homes and shops that will certainly give you a feel of old Japan. You can also watch kabuki performances here as well as maiko and geisha walking in the area.

What to Eat

Kyoto is a mountainous region that shaped its cuisine over the centuries. What sets this place apart is the way most of their food is prepared. One of the famous dishes unique to Kyoto is its nishin soba which is a herring soup with soba noodles. A good place to have this would be Matsuba in Gion and Ogawa.

Obanzai is another popular dish and you can liken it to the popular Spanish tapas. This is an array of fresh Japanese vegetables that are sometimes served in dashi broth. Green Tea desserts are also all the rage in Kyoto because of the richness of its flavors. You can never go wrong with anything Matcha in Japan and Kyoto takes it to another level by putting it in ice cream, donuts, and noodles.

Nightlife

People don’t really think of parties and drinking in Kyoto, but it actually has one of the most unique party scenes in the country. Known for its sake, Jittoku should be your first stop. This is an old sake brewery that has live music acts that differ per day. The Kitsune Nightclub is another popular stop too because of its Japanese entertainment.

Where to Stay

For the first-timers, you may opt to stay in downtown Kyoto. This takes you near shopping areas, bars, and restaurants. It’s also not far off from sightseeing places. Southern Higashiyama is near Gion so staying here is best if you want to get a taste and feel of old Japan. You’ll be nearer to traditional activities and sightseeing areas. Kibune is a hidden spot up in the mountains if you want to retreat from the city. It’s a beautiful breathtaking spot that’s near the romantic Ryokan Ugenta.

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