With around 1.5 million citizens, Kyoto is only ranked as the approximately 8th largest city in Japan. However this historic city, which was the capital of Japan for over a 1000 years, is probably the most visited in the country. With an incredibly rich history, uncountable ancient buildings and more than 1600 temples, Kyoto was spared during the …
Kyoto 1-day itinerary (central)
With around 1.5 million citizens, Kyoto is only ranked as the approximately 8th largest city in Japan. However this historic city, which was the capital of Japan for over a 1000 years, is probably the most visited in the country. With an incredibly rich history, uncountable ancient buildings and more than 1600 temples, Kyoto was spared during the …
Matsue City
Matsue is a small city in the Chūgoku region in Western Japan. Too far from the main cities to be considered as part of a traveller’s itinerary but also too near to feel like you’re leaving the beaten path, this small city is often overlooked when considering options in Japan. This is a shame because Matsue …
Kyoto 1-day itinerary (classic)
With around 1.5 million citizens, Kyoto is only ranked as the approximately 8th largest city in Japan. However this historic city, which was the capital of Japan for over a 1000 years, is probably the most visited in the country. With an incredibly rich history, uncountable ancient buildings and more than 1600 temples, Kyoto was …
Eikan-do Temple
Eikan-do temple, formally named Zenrin-ji, is a Pure Land buddhist temple located in Kyoto. The temple is widely famous for it’s amazing fall foliage, which attracts huge crowds of locals and tourists in November. The nick-name of “Eikan” is derived from the name (Yōkan) of one of the former head priests of the temple. Eikan-do …
Nanzen-ji Temple
Nanzen-ji is one of the most important Zen temples in Japan. It is the head temple of the Nanzen-ji Rinzai sect and is known especially for it’s beautiful stone garden. The temple grounds host several other temples and a huge Meiji-era aqueduct. The area is accessible free of charge, but there are fees to enter …
Shimogamo-jinja Shrine
Shimogamo-jinja is one of Japans oldest shinto shrines. The shrine stands as a perfect picture of the classic Japanese shrine, with vermilion colored torii gates and buildings, paper lanterns, beautifully kept premises and overall peacefulness and tranquility. Shimogamo-jinja is postcard worthy, so if you only visit one shrine in Kyoto, you should definitely make it …
Kyoto Imperial Palace (Kyoto Gosho)
Until 1868, Kyoto Imperial Palace was the seat and home of the ruling Emperor of Japan. The palace is located in Kyoto Gyoen, a park complex which encompasses the Imperial Palace and Sento Imperial Palace. The park and outdoor area of the palaces are open to the public at no charge. Visitors can apply for …
Kyoto railway museum
Kyoto Railway Museum is a modern train museum where visitors can learn about the development of the train network in Japan, and how it contributed to the country’s modernization. Kyoto Railway Museum opened in 2016 right in the middle of the historic city of Kyoto. With 53 full-size trains on display, train lovers will need …
Ginkaku-ji (silver pavilion)
Ginkaku-ji, meaning “silver pavilion temple“, is a buddhist temple in the northern part of Kyoto. Despite being named “silver pavilion” it isn’t actually decorated with silver. For many tourists it sounds like a perfect combination to visit both the Golden Pavilion Temple and the Silver Pavilion Temple. And it sure is a great combination, but …