Attractions — Kyoto

Nestled in the scenic mountains north of Kyoto, Kurama Onsen offers a tranquil escape with its natural sulfur hot springs. Visitors can enjoy open-air baths with stunning mountain views, making it an ideal spot to relax after exploring the nearby Kurama Temple or hiking trails.

Maizuru Brick Park offers a glimpse into Japan's naval past through beautifully preserved red brick warehouses, many of which are designated Important Cultural Properties. Visitors can explore a museum, enjoy local cuisine, and shop for souvenirs within these historic structures, often spotting Self-Defense Force warships nearby.

Usaginonedoko Kyoto Shop offers a distinctive blend of a natural specimen store and a traditional Kyoto machiya guesthouse. Visitors can explore a fascinating collection of minerals and plants, then unwind in a beautifully renovated historic townhouse, often enjoying a private, tranquil experience.

Nagaoka Tenmangu offers a serene escape with its expansive grounds, large pond, and seasonal floral displays. Visitors praise its beauty during plum, azalea, and autumn leaf seasons, making it a tranquil spot away from the main tourist crowds.

In the Higashiyama district you can best experience the atmosphere of old Kyoto: narrow winding streets, traditional shopfronts, shrines and pagodas. The most popular and photogenic streets are Ninnen-zaka and Sannen-zaka, which are lined with restored wooden teahouses, shops and restaurants.

Puppy Cafe Rio Kyoto provides a heartwarming escape where visitors can interact with a variety of friendly and well-cared-for puppies. Reviewers consistently praise the clean environment, the attentive English-speaking staff, and the sheer joy of cuddling and playing with the energetic dogs, making it a highly recommended spot for animal lovers.

Uzumasa Kyoto Village, also known as Toei Kyoto Studio Park, offers a unique blend of historical film sets and interactive entertainment. Visitors can explore Edo-period streets, watch ninja performances, and even encounter film crews, making it a lively experience for all ages, particularly those interested in Japanese pop culture.

Nara (50 kilometers) is one of the oldest cities in the country and was the capital of Japan from 710 to 784. The area includes eight UNESCO World Heritage sites: Buddhist temples such as Todai-ji, which is the largest wooden structure in the world, Kofuku-ji, Gango-ji, Yakushi-ji and Tōshōdai-ji; the Shinto shrine Kasuga-taisha; Heijō Palace; and Kasuga Natural Park.

Kameya Kiyonaga is a historic Kyoto confectionery, established in 1617, renowned for its unique Seijō-kankidan dumpling. This shop offers a rare opportunity to taste a sweet with origins tracing back to ancient India, prepared with a secret recipe involving seven types of incense.

Komyoji Temple is renowned for its spectacular autumn foliage, drawing crowds to witness its 'tunnel of leaves.' While primarily celebrated for its vibrant fall colors, visitors also appreciate its serene green beauty in spring and early summer. It offers a peaceful retreat, especially outside peak season.

The hills around Kyoto are perfect for hiking and contain many Buddhist temples and gardens. A trek to Mount Atago takes four to six hours. Along the way you'll find great views and may encounter wildlife such as deer.

Nara (50 kilometers) is one of the country's oldest cities and was the capital of Japan from 710 to 784. Eight sites here are inscribed as UNESCO World Heritage: Buddhist temples such as Tōdai-ji, which is the largest wooden structure in the world, Kōfuku-ji, Gangō-ji, Yakushi-ji and Tōshōdai-ji; the Shinto shrine Kasuga-taisha; Heijō Palace; and the Kasuga natural park.

There are several scenic beaches along the lake shore, for example Omi Maiko and Shiga Beach.

Nara (50 kilometers) is one of the oldest cities in Japan and served as the capital from 710 to 784. It is home to eight UNESCO World Heritage sites: the Buddhist temples—Tōdai-ji, which is the largest wooden building in the world, Kōfuku-ji, Gangō-ji, Yakushi-ji and Tōshōdai-ji—the Shinto shrine Kasuga-taisha, Heijō Palace and the Kasuga primeval forest.

Experience a historical boat ride on a traditional flat-bottomed boat through the canals of Fushimi, once a vital port for transporting goods like sake. While the ride itself is brief and explanations are primarily in Japanese, it offers a scenic view of the district, especially during cherry blossom season.

Anao-ji Temple is a historic Tendai sect temple, notable as the 21st stop on the Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage. Visitors appreciate its quiet atmosphere, especially on weekdays, and the unique experience of touching the Nirvana Buddha statue for good fortune. It offers a peaceful escape from more crowded sites.

Honnō-ji Temple, though a modern reconstruction, holds immense historical significance as the site of the Honnō-ji Incident where Oda Nobunaga met his end. Visitors appreciate its quiet atmosphere amidst the bustling city and the opportunity to reflect on a pivotal moment in Japanese history. It's conveniently located near shopping streets, making it an accessible stop.

Fukuchiyama Castle, a reconstruction of Akechi Mitsuhide's original, offers a glimpse into local history with its museum and unique stone walls. Visitors appreciate the English-friendly features and the pleasant views from the keep, making it a worthwhile stop for those exploring the city.

Gorogadake Park, centered around the Gorō Tower, offers panoramic views of Maizuru Port. Visitors can enjoy the scenery from the park itself or ascend the tower for a 360-degree perspective, with a cafe on-site providing a pleasant break.

Nyan-nyan-ji, often referred to as the 'Cat Temple,' is an art project by Miyano Kaya, transforming a century-old house into a feline-themed sanctuary. Visitors can explore rooms adorned with cat art, purchase unique cat-themed merchandise, and enjoy the quirky atmosphere dedicated entirely to cats.