Hotels in Kyoto

If you're going to Japan, you owe it to yourself to spend some time in Kyoto. The previous capital of Japan and one of the biggest Japanese cities, Kyoto is rich in tradition and history allowing visitors a glimpse into the cultural heritage of the country.

Where to go in Kyoto

Kyoto is famous for its temples and shrines and the city represents Japan's ancient traditions and customs. Some of the important historical structures you should see are:

Nijo castle: No trip to Kyoto is complete without a visit to the Nijo castle. The castle is divided into 3 areas; the Honmaru, the Ninomaru and the gardens encircling the two. The castle grounds are surrounded by stone walls and moats. In 1994, Nijo was named a UNESCO world heritage site. The main entrance for visitors is via a large gate on the eastern side of the castle, audio tour guides for the castle are available in English to help enhance the experience.

Temples: If there was a temple capital in the world, Kyoto would be a strong contender for that position. There are several temples scattered all over the city in almost every district. Each temple building has its own unique architectural design and cultural representation to the people. Popular and celebrated temples you should check out include; Kiyomizudera Temple, Nanzenji Temple, Toji Temple, Daigoji Temple, Tenryuji Temple, Daikakuji Temple, (Golden Pavilion), Ginkakuji (Silver Pavilion), Ninnaji Temple and Ryoanji Temple. Good luck trying to explore them all.

Kyoto Imperial Park: Kyoto Imperial Park is an attractive 1300m long and 700m wide park located at the heart of the city. The park encompasses the Kyoto Imperial Palace, Sento Imperial Palace and other attractions of historic value. With well kept broad gravel paths, lawns and tree groves, the park also doubles as a recreational space for tourists and residents. Entry into the palace was based strictly on pre booked guided tours, however, the conditions are more flexible now and you can explore the palace whenever you are in Kyoto, with or without a guide.

Nishiki Market : Also called 'Kyoto's Kitchen' Nishiki Market is a five block shopping street lined with over one hundred shops and restaurants on both sides. The retail market specializes in all sorts of foodstuffs and kitchenware.

Fushimi Inari Shrine : See the ancient part of Kyoto with a trip to Fushimi Inari. The shrine is one of Kyoto's oldest historical structures, dating as far back as the 8th century. It is the most important of thousands shrines dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice. The shrine features several thousands of vermilion torii gates that form a walking path behind its main buildings. The tunnel ends in another part of the shrine grounds - the wooded forest of the sacred 233m high Mount Inari.

Where to eat in Kyoto

There is no shortage of places to eat when it comes to dining in Kyoto. For starters, you can explore the Nishiki food market for the variety of culinary delights the city is famous for. Almost everything sold in the market is locally produced, so you can be rest assured whatever you get is the best of the original Japanese specialties. Some of the stores even hand out free samples for visitors, however you are often expected to eat it there. From Japanese sweets to pickles to dried seafood to the famous sushi, the Kyoto food market offers it all.

If you'd rather indulge yourself in fine dining, then you would want to visit Pontocho. This is one of Kyoto's most pleasant dining areas, it is basically an alley lined with restaurants on both sides. From inexpensive traditional Kyoto cuisine to intercontinental and pricey cuisine, you would definitely find a restaurant that suits your taste. Some of the local Kyoto dishes you should try out include; Kaiseki Ryori, Shojin Ryori, Obanzai Ryori and Kawayuka.

Where to stay in Kyoto

From luxurious 5 star accommodation to budget friendly 2 star lodgings, the city offers a variety of hotels and other lodging choices like condos, apartments and hostels.The best rated hotels in the city include; Hotel Gran Ms Kyoto, RIHGA Royal Hotel Kyoto, Hotel Gracery Kyoto Sanjo, Hotel MyStays Kyoto-Shijo and Kyoto Brighton Hotel. The climatic and weather conditions in Kyoto are pretty normal and conducive for tourism all year round. Although the temperature rises a bit in the summer and drops in winter, it's not extreme or unbearable. So mark it on the calendar and get ready, Kyoto is the place to visit.

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