I can easily say that Kyoto is officially my favorite city after Kanazawa. The ancient capital of Japan is a must-see destination for those who love history, culture and natural beauty. There are 1.600 temples to choose from but visiting them all would be impossible so these are my favorite places:
1. Kinkaku-ji (The Golden Pavilion)
This Zen temple is famous for its stunning gold-leaf pavilion reflected in a tranquil pond. Arrive early to avoid the crowds and take breathtaking photos of the pavilion brightened by the morning light.
2. Fushimi Inari Taisha
I have a particular bond with this temple but only those who know me well can understand the reason…
It’s famous on Instagram for its thousands of red Torii that form suggestive tunnels along the paths of Mount Inari. Don’t be lazy and make the entire route to the top in a 2-hour walk enjoying the panoramic views of the city and capturing spectacular images along the way. Sunset is definitely the best time to go!
3. Arashiyama and the Bamboo Forest
Slightly out of town but one of Kyoto’s most fascinating natural attractions. Here too, the ideal is to wake up early and walk among the majestic bamboo grove when the others are still in the hotel having breakfast. The area is full of coffee shops and you don’t have to worry because a nice espresso will cheer you up. Worth visiting (in my opinion only the garden) is Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO world heritage site with wonderful Zen gardens. Then relax on the banks of the river and take a shot of the Togetsukyo Bridge.
4. Gion: The Geisha Quarter
Seeing one is not easy but not impossible either. Beyond the mysterious Geishas who try to sneak into the street without being noticed by tourists, this area is simply beautiful and worth seeing at first light in the evening!
Stroll along Hanami-koji and Shirakawa-minami dori, admiring the ancient wooden houses. Enter the alleys lit by red and white lanterns and stop for an authentic Japanese aperitif based on sashimi and sake in one of the very small restaurants in the area… and if you are lucky to glimpse a geisha or a maiko, try to be discreet and capture the moment with your mind more than with the camera!
5. Kiyomizu-dera Temple
On my tours I always visit Kiyomizu-dera at sunset and it is one of the oldest and most spectacular temples in Kyoto, famous for its wooden veranda which offers panoramic views of the city. Don’t forget to try the water from Otowa’s three sacred waterfalls, which is said to bring health, longevity and success.
6. The Philosopher’s Path
At last but not least, I recommend a walk along the Philosopher Walk, a quiet pedestrian path that follows a canal lined with cherry trees. It is particularly beautiful in spring during flowering and in autumn when the leaves change color. If you want a little corner to meditate or reflect on how lucky you are to have had the opportunity to take this trip then this is the place!
