Kyoto Tours

1. Kiyomizu-Dera

The history of this Buddhist temple goes back to the 8th century. However, the buildings you can visit today are from the 17th century. The temple, which is one of the most famous sights in Kyoto, was named after the waterfall that is located in the complex. Kiyoi Mizu means translated approximately "pure water". Since 1994, the temple complex has been part of the so-called "Historic Kyoto" and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From the terrace, which stands with the main hall of the temple on wooden beams on the hillside, you can enjoy an impressive view of the city.

2. Kinkaku-Ji

The Kinkaku-ji Temple is not for nothing also known as the Golden Pavilion. The upper floors of its main hall are covered all over with gold leaf. The impressive building awaits you in the middle of a garden, directly on the shore of a lake. When the building, sparkling in the sunlight, is reflected in the surface of the water, you will be amazed. The Kinkaku-ji is also part of the Historic Kyoto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

3. Fushimi Inari Taisha

After Mount Fuji, the Fushimi Inari-Taisha, one of the oldest shrines in Kyoto, is probably the most photographed sight in Japan. The shrine with its thousands of scarlet arches awaits you in the south of Kyoto. The so-called torii, which form several impressive avenues on the temple grounds, were donated by families or companies and are supposed to help to ensure a good harvest. Take a walk through the arches up the hill to the shrine and take unique souvenir photos. We recommend an early morning visit before it gets really crowded around 11am.

4. Arashiyama

Another highlight on your Kyoto trip is the beautiful Arashiyama district in the west of the city, which you can reach by train in a very short time. Here, where already 1,000 years ago the nobility enjoyed themselves, is the picturesque bamboo grove of the same name, where the bamboo canes rise up to ten meters in height. Walk through the iron gate, the Tenryuji, and find yourself among the trunks rustling in the wind. You can explore the forest on foot, by bike or rickshaw. It is best to come here early in the morning when the forest is still deserted and quiet.

5. Nijo Castle

The majestic Nijo Castle was once the seat of the shogun, the leader of the samurai. However, it was only rarely used, as the Shogun's headquarters were located in Edo, today's Tokyo. The fortress from 1626 awaits you with impressive decorations and extensive gardens. Also pay special attention to the so-called nightingale corridors. These are specially designed so that every step in them squeaks softly and no one can sneak up on them. From the stone foundation walls of the former main tower you also have a wonderful view over the entire fortress.

6. Imperial Palace

The imperial palace of Kyoto was the residence of the Japanese emperor for a long time. It awaits you in the middle of the so-called Gosho Park, which comprises all the buildings within the walls between the streets Imadegawa in the north, Marutamachi in the south, Karasuma in the west and Teramachi in the east. The park can be used free of charge around the clock, the palace complex itself is only open to the public for one week each in spring and autumn. However, you can book guided tours about three months in advance and thus take a look inside the historical imperial chambers.

7. Gion District

Kyoto's most famous neighborhood is Gion, also known as the Geisha neighborhood, because here you will meet many geishas in their kimonos with flashy make-up who work in one of the many traditional tea houses or restaurants. On your Kyoto trip, be sure to visit one of the shrines or temples and stroll through the picturesque streets of Gion. When the lanterns are lit in the evening hours, the neighborhood is even more atmospheric. Less