The cultural soul of Japan.

Kyoto, once the imperial capital of Japan, is a city that captures the imagination with its deep roots in Japanese history, culture and traditions. Walking the streets of Kyoto feels like taking a trip through time to ancient Japan, where every corner tells a story and every temple reveals a piece of the Japanese soul.

Known for its countless temples, shrines and beautiful gardens, Kyoto is a city that maintains the essence of traditional Japan. The city is home to no less than 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, each with its own unique charm. One of the most iconic sites is the Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion, which shines in the sun with its golden leaf and reflects in the surrounding pond. It is one of Japan’s most photographed temples and a symbol of Kyoto’s aesthetic sophistication. Another highlight of the city is Fushimi Inari-taisha, famous for its endless rows of bright red torii gates that lead you through the lush forest on the sacred Inari Mountain. These gates, donated by devout believers, create an almost mystical atmosphere and make it one of the most visited and photographed spots in Kyoto.

Ryoan-ji, home to Japan’s most famous Zen rock garden, offers a place for contemplation and tranquility. The garden’s simplicity and symmetry reflect Zen philosophy, which is an important part of Kyoto’s spiritual traditions. Kiyomizu-dera, a temple that towers high above the city, not only offers spectacular views of Kyoto, but is also known for its wooden terrace, which offers a picturesque panorama of blooming cherry blossoms or brightly colored maples in spring and fall.

In the Gion district, Kyoto’s famous geisha district, you can catch a glimpse of traditional Japanese nightlife. Here you will stroll through narrow streets lined with centuries-old tea houses, where geishas still perform and entertain guests with their artistic skills. Gion offers a unique insight into one of Japan’s oldest and most mysterious traditions. Kyoto is also famous for the Arashiyama bamboo forest, where you will immerse yourself in another world as you walk through paths lined by towering bamboo. The serene atmosphere and the rustling of the bamboo in the wind make this forest one of the most soothing places in the city.

Kyoto’s culinary traditions are as sophisticated as the city itself. Sample a kaiseki meal, an artful presentation of seasonal dishes that highlights the subtlety and depth of Japanese cuisine. Or enjoy a cup of matcha at one of the many tea houses, where the Japanese tea ceremony is still kept alive.

Kyoto offers a wide range of accommodations, ranging from luxury ryokans with onsen (hot springs) and private gardens, to traditional machiya houses where you can stay as the people of Kyoto have done for centuries. For those looking for something simpler, there are also many cozy guesthouses and modern hotels offering comfort and hospitality.

Kyoto is not just another city; it is an experience that takes you into the heart of Japanese culture and spirituality. Whether you wander its ancient streets, visit temples, or enjoy its culinary delights, Kyoto will enchant you with its beauty, serenity, and deep cultural roots. It is a place where you can not only admire the beauty of Japan, but also take time to truly reflect and connect with the rich traditions of this beautiful country.