What to see, what to do
à Kyoto

Travel guide Kyoto

Kyoto, the former imperial capital of Japan, is a city that embodies the quintessence of Japanese culture and tradition. With its historic temples, Zen gardens, geishas and seasonal festivals, Kyoto offers a profound and enriching cultural experience.

Kyoto was the capital of Japan for over a thousand years. Known for its exceptional preservation of Japanese history and culture, the city is home to historic temples, shrines and palaces, reflecting its glorious past.

Kyoto est facilement accessible en train à grande vitesse (Shinkansen) depuis Tokyo et d’autres grandes villes japonaises. La ville dispose également d’un réseau de bus et de métros pour une exploration facile.

Accommodation

Kyoto propose un large éventail d’options d’hébergement, des ryokans traditionnels aux hôtels modernes, en passant par des auberges de jeunesse accueillantes.

Gastronomy

Kaiseki ryori (traditional Japanese cuisine), tofu and Kyoto vegetables, yudofu, matcha (green tea powder), sukiyaki.

What is there to see? What to do?

The Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), Fushimi Inari-taisha Temple, the Gion district, Kyoto Imperial Palace, Kiyomizu-dera Temple.

Gion for geishas and traditional architecture, Higashiyama for temples and boutiques, Arashiyama for nature and relaxation, and the city centre for shopping and fine dining.

Visites des jardins zen, promenades dans la forêt de bambous d’Arashiyama, randonnée dans les montagnes environnantes, exploration des chemins historiques comme le Philosopher’s Path.

Parks and gardens, interactive museums, walks through historic districts, educational activities on Japanese culture.

Hanami (saison des cerisiers en fleurs), Gion Matsuri, Jidai Matsuri, Aoi Matsuri, célébrations de l’automne.

Activities

Shopping

Artisanat traditionnel, kimonos, céramiques, boutiques d’antiquités, magasins de souvenirs.

Nightlife

Sake bars, kabuki theatres, geisha shows, small izakaya taverns in the Pontocho district.

Did you know?

Kyoto boasts over 2,000 temples and shrines.
The town was spared the bombardments of the Second World War, preserving its architectural heritage.
Kyoto is regarded as the cradle of the Japanese tea ceremony.
Le Pavillon d’Or (Kinkaku-ji) est recouvert de feuilles d’or pur.
Arashiyama is famous for its bamboo forest, a popular location for photography.

Tips and tricks
Use a Japan Rail Pass for economical rail travel.
Respect local customs, especially in places of worship and traditional neighbourhoods.
Try to visit during festivals for a rich cultural experience.

Visit the temples early in the morning to avoid the crowds, explore the less touristy districts and take part in tea ceremonies for an authentic cultural experience.

Bonjour, je suis Takeshi, un amoureux des voyages et de l’écriture, je suis passionné par Kyoto et le Japon, dont j’aime partager la beauté et la culture à travers mes articles.

Takeshi N.

DiamsTrotter Kyoto