All you need to know about KYOTO

Summary

Kyoto, Japan's cultural heart, offers a rich history and stunning attractions. From the ancient Heian period to modern-day, it boasts temples, shrines, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Experience traditional cuisine, green tea, and unique sweets, while exploring festivals and enjoying the city's efficient transport. Nearby, discover Osaka's nightlife, Lake Biwa's tranquility, and the serene mountains, making Kyoto a must-visit destination.

Takeaways

• 📍 Kyoto is located in the Kansai region on Honshu, Japan's largest island, and is accessible from Tokyo Station by bullet train or from Kansai International Airport.
• 🏰 The city's history dates back to 710 when Nara was the capital, and it became the capital of Japan in 794, initiating the Heian period.
• 🏯 Kyoto is renowned for its cultural significance, with the largest density of shrines and temples in Japan, including about 400 shrines and 1600 temples.
• 🌸 Popular destinations include Kiyomizu-dera, Kinkakuji (the Golden Pavilion), and Fushimi-Inari Taisha, known for its red torii gates.
• 🍽️ Kyoto cuisine is diverse, with options like kaiseki (Japanese multi-course meals), shojin ryori (vegetarian cuisine), and Kyoto-style home cooking.
• 🍵 Kyoto is famous for its green tea and matcha, with green tea products being a popular souvenir.
• 🍪 Yatsuhashi, a traditional sweet made from rice flour, sugar, and cinnamon, is a typical Kyoto souvenir with an unchanged recipe since 1689.
• 🎉 Kyoto hosts several festivals, including the Gion Matsuri, Aoi Matsuri, and Jidai Matsuri, each showcasing different aspects of Japanese culture and history.
• 🚌 Transportation in Kyoto is primarily by bus, with an extensive network covering most attractions, and an all-day bus pass available for 500 yen.
• 🚲 Exploring Kyoto by bicycle is also a popular option due to its flat terrain and the availability of rental stations.
• 🌄 Nearby attractions include Osaka, Lake Biwa, and the mountains to the north of Kyoto, offering a variety of experiences from city life to natural retreats.

Q & A

Where is Kyoto located?

Kyoto lies in the Kansai region in the Midwest of Japan's largest island, Honshu. It can be reached from Tokyo Station in a little more than two hours by bullet train or in about 1 hour and 20 minutes from the Kansai International Airport.

What historical period marked Kyoto becoming the capital of Japan?

Kyoto became the capital of Japan during the Heian period, starting in 794 when the capital was moved to Heian-kyo, known today as Kyoto.

Why were Buddhist temples originally banned from the inner city area of Kyoto?

Buddhist temples were originally banned from the inner city area of about 23.4 square kilometers during the Heian period because Buddhist monks had gained too much political influence in the former capitals.

Which war devastated Kyoto and when did reconstruction begin?

Kyoto was devastated during the Onin War from 1467 to 1477. Reconstruction did not start until the 1580s.

What is the significance of Kiyomizu-dera in Kyoto?

Kiyomizu-dera is a shrine with a 13-meter high stage. Jumping off the stage was said to grant a wish if you survived. The practice led to the Japanese expression 'to jump off the stage at Kiyomizu,' equivalent to 'to take the plunge' in English.

What makes Kinkakuji, the Golden Pavilion, unique?

Kinkakuji, or the Golden Pavilion, is a three-story building whose top two floors are covered in gold leaf. It looks especially stunning when covered in snow.

What is Fushimi Inari Taisha known for?

Fushimi Inari Taisha is famous for its hundreds of red torii gates. The trails covered in them are about four kilometers long, leading up the mountain. Each gate is donated by Japanese businesses, costing between $4,000 to $10,000.

What are some recommended traditional foods to try in Kyoto?

In Kyoto, you should try kaiseki ryori (Japanese multi-course haute cuisine), shojin ryori (strictly vegetarian cuisine based on the diet of Buddhist monks), and obanzai (Kyoto-style home cooking). The city is also famous for its green tea and matcha products, such as matcha-flavored baumkuchen and Yatsuhashi.

What is the Gion Matsuri festival?

The Gion Matsuri is a festival with more than a thousand years of tradition held in the Gion district every year in July. It features a variety of floats up to 25 meters in height and is one of the most famous festivals in Japan.

What are the transportation options in Kyoto?

Unlike Tokyo, trains are not the primary mode of transportation in Kyoto. The city has a couple of train lines and only two subway lines. Most attractions are not easily accessible by train, but Kyoto's extensive bus network connects almost all locations. An all-day bus pass is available for 500 yen, and a subway and bus day pass can be purchased for 1,200 yen. Bicycles are also a popular way to explore Kyoto.