TOP 10 Things to do in KYOTO, Japan

Summary

Discover Kyoto's top 10 attractions in this engaging video guide. Explore Gion's geisha culture, visit the historic Kyoto Imperial Palace, and marvel at the panoramic views from Kyoto Tower. Indulge in Nishiki Market's culinary delights, wander through Arashiyama's bamboo groves, and observe monkeys at Arashiyama Monkey Park. Experience traditional shopping, visit Nijo Castle's ornate gardens, and learn about samurai and ninjas. Finally, immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere of Fushimi Inari Shrine. Plus, a bonus for day trips to nearby cities.

Takeaways

• 🏮 Gion is a district with preserved traditional architecture and geisha culture, offering a tea ceremony experience and beautiful shopping streets.
• 🏰 Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a spectacular view of Kyoto and is surrounded by traditional Japanese gardens and stone paths.
• 🏛 The Kyoto Imperial Palace & Gardens were the primary residence of the Japanese Imperial Family until 1869 and now serve as a tourist attraction with beautiful surroundings.
• 🗼 Kyoto Tower provides panoramic views of the city and is known for special events like marriage proposals and fireworks displays.
• 🍣 Nishiki Market is a historic food market offering a wide range of local specialties and is a must-visit for food enthusiasts.
• 🎋 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is a peaceful natural area with tall bamboo trees, perfect for a serene walk.
• 🐒 Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama allows visitors to observe Japanese macaque monkeys in a semi-natural environment with stunning views.
• 🛍 Kyoto offers rich shopping experiences with a mix of traditional and modern shops, including Gion district, Teramachi, and Shinkyogoku arcades.
• 🏰 Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases beautiful gardens and 'Nightingale Floors' as well as the ornate Ninomaru Goten palace.
• 🗡 The Kyoto Samurai and Ninja Museum provides an interactive experience into the lives and training of samurai and ninjas, with a collection of weapons and armor.
• ⛩ Fushimi Inari Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of rice and prosperity, known for its thousands of vermilion torii gates and forest trails.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the video?

The video focuses on the top 10 things to do in Kyoto, based on the creators' experience in this historic city.

What is Gion known for in Kyoto?

Gion is known for its preserved traditional architecture, geisha culture, and ochaya, traditional Japanese tea houses where geishas entertain guests.

What traditional Japanese ritual can be experienced in Gion?

In Gion, visitors can experience a tea ceremony called the Way of Tea, which involves preparing and serving matcha-powdered green tea with traditional Japanese sweets and snacks.

What is the historical significance of Kiyomizu-dera Temple?

Kiyomizu-dera Temple, founded in the 8th century, is part of UNESCO World Heritage and is known for its traditional Japanese gardens, stone paths, and a spectacular view of the city.

What is the Kyoto Imperial Palace known for?

The Kyoto Imperial Palace was the primary residence of the Japanese Imperial Family from 1331 until the capital was moved to Tokyo in 1869 and is now used mainly for ceremonial events and as a tourist attraction.

What is special about Kyoto Tower?

Kyoto Tower, built in 1964, is the city's tallest structure offering panoramic views of Kyoto. It is also known for marriage proposals, New Year's Eve countdown, and fireworks display during summer festivals.

Why is Nishiki Market referred to as Kyoto's Kitchen?

Nishiki Market is referred to as Kyoto's Kitchen because it is a historic shopping street and one of Japan's oldest and most famous food markets, offering a wide range of local and regional specialties.

What can visitors expect to find at the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove?

At the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, visitors can expect to find a natural scenic area with tall, lush bamboo trees, creating a peaceful and serene environment, perfect for a leisurely walk.

What is unique about the monkeys at Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama?

Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama is home to a large group of Japanese macaque monkeys, also known as snow monkeys, where visitors can observe them up close in a semi-natural environment.

What are some of the shopping destinations mentioned in the script?

Some of the shopping destinations mentioned include Teramachi and Shinkyogoku shopping arcades, Kyoto Station, AEON Mall Kyoto, Takashimaya Kyoto Store, Shijo-dori, and Kawaramachi-dori.

What is the historical significance of Nijo Castle?

Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was built in the 17th century by Tokugawa Ieyasu as a residence for the shogun and a symbol of the shogunate's power, known for its beautiful gardens and 'Nightingale Floors'.

What can visitors learn about at the Kyoto Samurai and Ninja Museum?

At the Kyoto Samurai and Ninja Museum, visitors can learn about the history and culture of samurai and ninjas in Japan, their weapons, armor, and have an interactive experience of their lives and training.

What is the religious significance of Fushimi Inari Shrine?

Fushimi Inari Shrine is a Shinto shrine founded in 711 dedicated to Inari, the god of rice and prosperity, known for its thousands of vermilion torii gates and is one of Kyoto's most popular tourist spots.

What are some recommended day trips from Kyoto mentioned in the script?

Some recommended day trips from Kyoto include Osaka, known for its food and entertainment; Nara, famous for its freely roaming deer; and Hiroshima, known for its tragic history.

Outlines

00:00

🏯 Top 10 Kyoto Attractions

This video showcases the top 10 activities to experience in Kyoto, based on the creators' enjoyable trip to the city. The video encourages viewers to engage with the content by liking, subscribing, and enabling notifications. It features a countdown of attractions, starting with Gion, known for its traditional architecture and geisha culture, and suggesting a tea ceremony experience. It also highlights the Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and other areas like Shirakawa Lane and Hanamikoji-dori. The Kyoto Imperial Palace & Gardens are introduced as a historical residence of the Imperial Family, with beautiful gardens and cultural significance. Kyoto Tower offers panoramic city views, and Nishiki Market is described as a food lover's paradise with over 100 years of history.

05:03

🌿 Arashiyama's Natural Beauty and Shopping Delights

The script continues with Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, famous for its tall bamboo trees and serene environment, and suggests visiting early morning or late afternoon for the best experience. It mentions the Arashiyama area's other attractions, including Tenryu-ji Temple and the Katsura River. Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama is highlighted for its Japanese macaque monkeys and the panoramic views it offers. The paragraph then shifts to Kyoto's shopping scene, recommending various shopping districts and arcades, and mentions Pontocho for traditional Japanese cuisine. It also touches on Japanese cuisine's diverse flavors and must-try dishes.

10:05

⛩ Historical Sites and Cultural Experiences

The video script describes Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its 'Nightingale Floors' and beautiful gardens, as a symbol of the shogunate's power. It then introduces the Kyoto Samurai and Ninja Museum, focusing on the history and culture of samurai and ninjas, and offering interactive experiences. The script concludes with Fushimi Inari Shrine, a significant Shinto shrine with thousands of torii gates, and suggests exploring Kyoto's surrounding areas, including Osaka, Nara, and Hiroshima, for a complete experience of the region's history and culture.

Keywords

💡Kyoto

Kyoto is a city in Japan known for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. It is the setting of the video, which explores various attractions and activities. The term is used to introduce the video's theme of exploring the top things to do in this historic city.

💡Gion

Gion is a district in Kyoto famous for its preserved traditional architecture and geisha culture. It is highlighted in the video as a place to experience traditional Japanese tea ceremonies and stroll through old-fashioned streets, embodying the cultural depth of Kyoto.

💡Geisha

Geisha, known as geiko in Kyoto, refers to traditional Japanese female entertainers skilled in music, dance, and conversation. The script mentions them in the context of Gion, where they entertain guests in traditional tea houses, showcasing an integral part of Kyoto's cultural identity.

💡Kiyomizu-dera

Kiyomizu-dera is an 8th-century Buddhist temple and part of UNESCO World Heritage. It is mentioned in the script as a significant site to visit in Kyoto, renowned for its traditional Japanese gardens, stone paths, and panoramic views of the city.

💡Kyoto Imperial Palace

The Kyoto Imperial Palace was the primary residence of the Japanese Imperial Family until 1869. The script describes it as a place to experience Japan's history and culture, emphasizing its role in the country's historical narrative.

💡Kyoto Tower

Kyoto Tower is the city's tallest structure, offering panoramic views of Kyoto. The video script highlights it as a destination for 360-degree views and a revolving restaurant, making it a symbol of modern Kyoto's skyline.

💡Nishiki Market

Nishiki Market, also known as Kyoto's Kitchen, is a historic food market with over 400 years of history. The script describes it as a place to enjoy a food-centric experience, showcasing the diversity of Japanese cuisine and local delicacies.

💡Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is a natural scenic area known for its tall bamboo trees, creating a serene environment. The script mentions it as a popular tourist spot for its peaceful atmosphere and stunning visuals, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.

💡Samurai

Samurai refers to the class of skilled warriors in feudal Japan, respected for their honor, bravery, and loyalty. The script discusses the Kyoto Samurai and Ninja Museum, where visitors can learn about the samurai's significant role in Japanese history and culture.

💡Fushimi Inari Shrine

Fushimi Inari Shrine is a Shinto shrine founded in 711 and dedicated to Inari, the god of rice and prosperity. The script describes it as a popular tourist spot known for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, symbolizing business prosperity and representing a key aspect of Kyoto's religious and cultural landscape.

💡Day Trip

The script concludes with a bonus suggestion for viewers to explore Kyoto's surroundings by taking a day trip to places like Osaka, Nara, and Hiroshima. The term 'day trip' is used to encourage further exploration beyond Kyoto, adding depth to the travel experience.

Highlights

Top 10 things to do in Kyoto based on a fun trip to this historic city.

Gion district's traditional architecture and geisha culture.

Ochaya, traditional Japanese tea houses where geishas entertain guests.

The Way of Tea, a traditional tea ceremony involving matcha and wagashi.

Kiyomizu-dera Buddhist Temple, an 8th-century UNESCO World Heritage site.

Shirakawa Lane and Hanamikoji-dori for traditional Japanese accommodations and dining.

Kyoto Imperial Palace & Gardens, a historical residence of the Imperial Family.

Kyoto Gyoen, a blend of Japanese and Western-style gardens.

Kyoto Tower, the city's tallest structure offering panoramic views.

Nishiki Market, Kyoto's Kitchen, a historic food market with over 100 years of history.

Pontocho, a historic alley for traditional Japanese cuisine and nightlife.

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a natural scenic area with tall bamboo trees.

Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama, home to a group of Japanese macaque monkeys.

Kyoto's rich culture and history with famous shopping destinations.

Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built in the 17th century.

Kyoto Samurai and Ninja Museum, dedicated to the history and culture of samurai and ninjas.

Fushimi Inari Shrine, a Shinto shrine founded in 711 known for its torii gates.

Bonus suggestion for a day trip to Kyoto's surroundings like Osaka, Nara, and Hiroshima.

Transcripts

In this video, we'll show you the top 10 things to do in Kyoto.

The suggestions are based on our fun trip to this historic city.

Don't forget to like this video, subscribe to our channel,  

and enable notifications. And share your  own experience in the comments below.

And stick around until the end of this  video because we have a bonus for you.

Here are our top 10 picks:

Number 10: Gion

Gion is a charming district located in Higashiyama  Ward,

renowned for its preserved traditional   architecture and geisha culture.

Geishas, also known as geiko in Kyoto, are traditional Japanese female entertainers

trained in music, dance, and conversation. Gion is also home to many ochaya,  

traditional Japanese tea houses where  geishas entertain their guests.

We suggest booking a tea ceremony called the Way of Tea. This traditional ritual involves preparing and serving  

matcha-powdered green tea and enjoying traditional  Japanese sweets and snacks such as wagashi.

Walk around beautiful old-fashioned  stone-paved shopping streets like  

Sannenzaka, and soak up the atmosphere.

Set at the top of the hill, there is the Kiyomizu-dera Buddist Temple,

founded in the 8th century, part of UNESCO World Heritage,

surrounded  by many traditional Japanese gardens and stone paths and a spectacular view of the city.

If you are in the area, explore the rest of the district, like Shirakawa Lane,

situated by the canal and surrounded by beautiful traditional Japanese accommodations

called ryokans, fine dining establishments, and entertainment venues; 

or the nearby Hanamikoji-dori, with many  Japanese pubs and casual dining establishments,  

called izakayas, or Kamo river banks,  especially popular in the summer.

Number 9: Kyoto Imperial Palace & Gardens

The Kyoto Imperial Palace was the primary residence of the Japanese Imperial Family

from 1331 until the capital was moved to Tokyo in 1869.

The palace has  undergone several renovations and reconstructions over the centuries  

and is now used mainly for ceremonial  events and as a tourist attraction.

The palace complex consists of numerous  buildings, including the main palace,  

the Seiryōden residence, and several gates  and walls surrounded by beautiful gardens.  

It is a great place to experience  the history and culture of Japan

and to learn about the role of the  Imperial Family in Japan's history.

Kyoto Gyoen, also known as the Kyoto  Imperial Palace Garden, is a beautiful blend

of traditional Japanese and Western-style  gardens featuring a variety of plants, trees, 

and flowers, as well as a large pond, several  bridges, and a traditional tea house.

It offers a peaceful and scenic stroll, with many paths and walkways to explore.

It is also a popular spot for cherry blossoms viewing in the  spring, and autumn leaves viewing in the fall.

Number 8: Kyoto Tower

Kyoto Tower, built in 1964, is a 430-foot or  131-meter-tall observation tower and the city's  

tallest structure, offering panoramic views of Kyoto and the surrounding area.

The tower is located near Kyoto Station,

making it easily accessible. You can take an elevator to the top of the tower  

and enjoy 360-degree views of the city. A revolving restaurant on the tower's top floor  

provides a fantastic view of the city while dining  – making it especially enchanting in the evening.

Did you know Kyoto Tower is  famous for marriage proposals,  

as well as New Year's Eve countdown, and its  fireworks display during summer festivals?

Number 7: Nishiki Market

Visit Nishiki Market, also  known as Kyoto's Kitchen,

a historic shopping street and one of  Japan's oldest and most famous food markets,  

operating for over 400 years. The market  is lined with over 100 shops and stalls,  

selling a wide range of local and regional  specialties, including fresh seafood,

seasonal fruits and vegetables, traditional  Japanese sweets, pickled foods, and traditional  

Kyoto-style foods such as tofu. Here you can  enjoy a food-centric experience, taste-test

the various local delicacies, and experience the  market's lively atmosphere. In addition to food,  

In addition to food,  the market also sells traditional Japanese crafts, knives, and cooking utensils.

Of course, there are many other areas where  you can enjoy traditional food and drinks,  

like Pontocho, a historic narrow alley known  for traditional Japanese cuisine such as sushi,  

tempura, and Kyoto-style kaiseki ryori. Dating back to the 16th century,

it started as an entertainment district for nobility and merchants. Today, it's a hub for tourists and locals  

seeking Japanese culture, cuisine, and vibrant  nightlife, featuring bars serving delicious sake.

Japanese cuisine is known for its  diverse flavors, fresh ingredients,  

delicate techniques, and unique pairings. Of course, a must-try dishes in Japan include famous Sushi,  

flavorful Ramen or Udon, crispy  Tempura, savory Teriyaki, and more.

Number 6: Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is a natural scenic  area known for its tall, lush bamboo trees,  

creating a peaceful and serene environment. The Bamboo Grove is a popular tourist spot

and can get very crowded. It is especially stunning in the early morning or late afternoon

when sunlight filters through the bamboo. Visitors  can take a leisurely walk through the grove,  

admiring the tall bamboo stalks and listen  to the soothing rustling of the leaves.

The bamboo grove is a part of the larger Arashiyama area, which is also known for its scenic beauty,

traditional temples and shrines, beautiful parks, and gardens, like Okochi Sanso Garden

and the Togetsu-kyo Bridge, which is a popular spot for admiring cherry blossoms.

Walk around Tenryu-ji Temple founded in the 14th  century, renowned for its beautiful gardens,  

including the celebrated Sogen Pond Garden.  The temple is also known for its cultural and  

historical significance, as it played a role  in forming the Rinzai school of Zen Buddhism.

Don't forget to explore the beautiful  surroundings by the Katsura River,  

especially enchanting in the fall  and spring, where you can relax, 

go on a boat ride, or even try one  of the many delicious street foods.

Number 5: Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama

Monkey Park, situated on Mount Arashiyama,  

is a popular tourist destination home to  a large group of Japanese macaque monkeys,  

also known as snow monkeys. The park allows  visitors to observe the monkeys up close

in a semi-natural environment while enjoying  panoramic views of the surrounding area.

You'll need to hike about 20-30 minutes to reach the observation area where the monkeys can be seen

and you’ll have a chance to enjoy amazing scenic views of the region.

The park features a designated feeding area

where you can purchase specially  provided food to feed the monkeys.

Number 4: Shopping

Kyoto is known for its rich culture, history and shopping.

Here are some famous shopping destinations in Kyoto you just can’t skip,  

in addition to the previously mentioned Gion district with many picturesque streets:

Teramachi and Shinkyogoku shopping arcades  featuring traditional and modern shops. 

Shopping malls, like the beautiful Kyoto Station,  AEON Mall Kyoto, Takashimaya Kyoto Store, etc. 

Shopping streets, like Shijo-dori or Kawaramachi-dori,  one of the city's most popular destinations,

known for its mix of traditional and modern shops and many others.

Number 3: Nijo Castle

Nijo Castle, part of the UNESCO  World Heritage Sites, was built  

in the 17th century by the founder  of the Edo Period, Tokugawa Ieyasu,  

as a residence for the military ruler called the shogun and as a symbol of the shogunate's power.

The castle is notable for its beautiful  gardens and the famous "Nightingale Floors,"  

designed to squeak like nightingales  when walked on, as a security measure.

Don't skip several beautiful gardens within  the castle complex or Ninomaru Goten.

This palace was built as the residence for  the shogun when he visited the castle  

and was used for entertaining important  guests and as a place for the shogun

to conduct official business. The palace is known  for its intricate and ornate architecture,

including the use of gold leaf,  and for its beautiful gardens.

Number 2: Kyoto Samurai and Ninja Museum

Samurai were a class of highly skilled warriors in  feudal Japan who were respected for their honor, 

bravery, and loyalty. They were the military  nobility of Japan, serving as retainers for 

powerful lords or daimyōs, and were known for their distinctive appearance.

The samurai played a significant role in Japanese history and culture, serving as the ruling class in Japan

for many centuries and influencing Japanese society with their code of conduct and values.

Despite their decline in the late 19th century with  the Meiji Restoration, the samurai continue  

to be remembered and celebrated in Japan as  symbols of bravery, honor, and tradition.

The Kyoto Samurai and Ninja Museum is dedicated  to the history and culture of samurai and ninjas in Japan.

The museum provides visitors with an  interactive experience of the lives and training 

of samurai and ninjas during Japan's medieval  and early modern periods. It houses a collection

of real samurai and ninja weapons and armor and  replicas of some of the most famous and powerful  

weapons used by them. You can watch and learn  about the techniques used by samurai and ninjas  

and see how they might have been used in battle.  The museum also lets you try on traditional 

samurai or ninja clothing and take pictures  in front of a traditional Japanese background.

Don't forget to explore other cultural experiences  and activities, like sumo wrestling, onsen hot springs,

Shodo or Japanese calligraphy, and many others, like the already mentioned tea ceremony.

Number 1: Fushimi Inari Shrine

Japan has two major religions:  Shinto and Buddhism,  

and both have coexisted in Japan for centuries. Unlike Buddhism, Shinto has no founder, holy text, 

or central doctrine. It's more of a collection of  practices and beliefs that developed over time.

Fushimi Inari Shrine is a Shinto shrine founded  in 711 by the Hata family dedicated to Inari,  

the god of rice and prosperity. It is known for  its thousands of vermilion torii gates that line  

its hiking trails donated by individuals and  companies and symbolize business prosperity.

The trails lead through the beautiful forest of the  sacred Mount Inari. The Shrine is one of Kyoto's  

most popular tourist spots, attracting millions of  visitors each year, and can get extremely crowded.

Of course, Kyoto has over  2,000 temples and shrines,

like Kinkaku-ji Zen Buddhist temple, and  some already mentioned in this video.

And here is a bonus that we promised.

If you have an extra day, don't forget to explore the Kyoto surroundings

by embarking on a day trip to the following places: 

Osaka, a bustling city, known for its  food, shopping, and entertainment

and home to Universal Studios Japan.

Nara, famous primarily for its large population of freely roaming deer.

Hiroshima, known for its tragic history as the site of the first atomic bomb attack.

And many others.

We wish you an amazing trip to Kyoto.