Introduction to Kyoto's Major Tourist Attractions - Where Should I Go?

Kyoto is a city where Japanese tradition and nature are in harmony, and you can feel different charms in each season. In this trip, we will introduce a schedule to visit major tourist spots in Kyoto divided into the northern, eastern, western, and southern regions. * Things to keep in mind when planning a trip Day trip plan - Eastern recommended (excluding Ginkaku-ji Temple. If it is not the fall foliage season, excluding Eikando) 2 days - Eastern + Western recommended 3 days - Eastern + Western + Southern recommended In the case of the northern region, the travel time is one hour from Kyoto (Kifune Shrine is located far away) ㅡㅡㅡ 1. Northern region - Mysterious nature and historical temples ✅ Kifune Shrine Kifune Shrine is a shrine famous for its stone steps lined with red lanterns, and is a place to pray for luck in love and relationships. It is especially beautiful on rainy days when the atmosphere is added. ✅ Hakuryu-en A secret garden that is only open for a limited time, where green moss and clear water are in harmony. It is recommended for travelers who love nature, as you can deeply feel the charm of Japanese gardens. ✅ Rurikoin A temple that is only open during the autumn foliage season and early summer, the harmony of sparkling blue-green moss and autumn leaves is fantastic. The garden view from inside the temple is as beautiful as a painting. ✅ Shimogamo Shrine An ancient shrine registered as a World Cultural Heritage, surrounded by a primeval forest, creating a mysterious atmosphere. It is also famous as a place to pray for love and family harmony. ㅡㅡㅡ 2. Eastern Area – Where Kyoto's representative tourist attractions are gathered ✅ Kiyomizu-dera One of Kyoto's symbolic temples, the view from the large wooden stage is spectacular. It is famous for cherry blossoms in spring and autumn leaves in fall, and it is also recommended to visit the surrounding Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka streets. ✅ Yasaka Shrine A shrine located in the center of Kyoto's Gion area, where the Gion Festival is held in July. At night, the red lanterns are lit, creating an even more charming atmosphere. ✅ Fushimi Inari Shrine A shrine famous for its endless red torii gates, it often appears as a representative image of Japanese shrines. It takes about 1 to 2 hours to climb to the top, and you can enjoy various scenery along the way. ✅ Nanzenji & Eikando Nanzenji is one of the most important Zen temples in Kyoto, and its magnificent Sanmon and Surogaku are impressive. Nearby Eikando is famous for its autumn foliage, and the red maple leaves are beautiful in autumn. ✅ Ginkakuji Another symbolic temple in Kyoto where you can enjoy a simple yet elegant Japanese garden. It has a calm atmosphere in contrast to Kinkakuji, making it a great place for contemplation. ㅡㅡㅡ 3. Western Area – A place where you can enjoy history and nature at the same time ✅ Nijo Castle A castle that shows the authority of the Tokugawa shogunate during the Edo period, it stands out for its gorgeous decorations and elaborate structure. The ‘sounding floor (Uguisubari)’ inside is also an interesting element. ✅ Arashiyama This area is famous for its bamboo forests. You can enjoy the scenery by riding the Torokko train or taking a leisurely stroll near Togetsukyo Bridge. In the fall, the autumn leaves are beautifully colored, creating an even more beautiful scenery. ✅ Kinkaku-ji Temple This is one of Kyoto’s representative landmarks. The golden building and the surrounding pond create a picturesque landscape. You can experience different beauty depending on the season. ✅ Kitano Tenmangu Shrine This is a shrine dedicated to the god of learning, and is a place where Japanese students visit before exams. In February and March, plum blossoms bloom, creating a beautiful landscape. ㅡㅡㅡ 4. Southern Area – A quiet area with tea and historical sites ✅ Uji This is the birthplace of Japanese green tea. You can walk along the Uji River and taste various green tea desserts. The quiet and secluded atmosphere is attractive. ✅ Byodoin A temple depicted on the 10 yen coin, the reflection of the Buddhist temple in the pond is fantastic. Inside, there is a statue of Amitabha Buddha, which is a national treasure, and the quiet atmosphere of the garden is impressive. ㅡㅡㅡ #Travel itinerary #Travel plan #Japan travel #Kyoto travel