嵐山

嵐山モンキーパーク

Perched atop Mount Arashiyama across the Ōi River, Iwatayama Monkey Park is home to a lively troop of some 120 wild Japanese macaques. Hike up for close-up encounters—you can feed the monkeys with corn and wheat sold on-site during scheduled feedings while enjoying sweeping views of Kyoto below.

嵐山竹林の小径

Stroll down the towering Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and listen as sunlight sifts through swaying stalks while a tranquil river and the forested mountain rise behind you. A nationally designated place of scenic beauty, it’s a peaceful, photogenic escape—ideal for morning walks, temple detours and seasonal color.

天龍寺

Tenryu-ji is the chief temple of the Rinzai Tenryu-ji school, founded in 1339 by Ashikaga Takauji and steeped in imperial and shogunal history. Wander its tranquil halls and landscaped grounds to soak up a serene Zen atmosphere—this top-ranked Five Mountains temple is also a UNESCO World Heritage site, so every corner feels resonant with history.

嵯峨野トロッコ列車

Ride the Sagano Romantic Train in Kyoto for a leisurely, nostalgic trip along the Sagano Scenic Line—retro carriages and wide windows frame unforgettable seasonal views from riverside valleys to flowering cherry trees and fiery autumn leaves. It’s a slow, romantic way to escape the city and soak up Japan’s countryside scenery.

仁和寺

Ninna-ji, the head temple of the Omuro school of Shingon Buddhism in western Kyoto, was founded in AD 888 by Emperor Uda and rebuilt in the 17th century. As part of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto (UNESCO), it invites visitors to wander its historic halls and tranquil grounds, experiencing imperial connections and traditional Buddhist architecture up close.

金閣寺

Kinkaku-ji’s gleaming Golden Pavilion, its top two floors sheathed in thin gold leaf, appears to float above a mirror-like pond — an image that defines Kyoto’s timeless beauty. Stroll the peaceful paths, soak up the Zen atmosphere, and capture seasonal moments from cherry blossoms to fiery autumn leaves reflected in the water.

伏見稲荷大社

Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto is the chief shrine dedicated to the kami Inari, set at the foot of Mount Inari. Walk through its famous vermilion torii gates and follow the mountain trails that span about 4 km — a roughly two-hour route that leads to dozens of smaller shrines and an unforgettable, atmospheric hike.

清水寺

Set on the eastern slopes of Kyoto, Kiyomizu-dera is a centuries-old Buddhist temple devoted to Jūichimen Kannon and one of the few temples that predate Heian‑kyō—now part of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto UNESCO site. Wander the atmospheric precincts with pilgrims, learn about its hibutsu (hidden) Kannon image, and if you visit in winter you can witness the annual Kanji of the Year ceremony held each December 12.

二条城

Nijō Castle in Kyoto is a sprawling flatland fortress with two concentric rings of fortifications surrounding the Ninomaru Palace, the ruins of the Honmaru Palace, and several gardens. Stroll the extensive grounds to explore the palatial spaces and ruins, admire seasonal garden views, and feel layers of Japan’s feudal history come alive.

祇園

Gion is Kyoto’s atmospheric geisha quarter beside Yasaka Shrine, born in the Sengoku era and famed for its wooden machiya, narrow lanes and elegant teahouses. Stroll at dusk to glimpse maiko in kimono, step into centuries of refined entertainment, or visit during the lively Gion Matsuri for an unforgettable taste of traditional Japan.

錦市場

Step into Nishiki Market, Kyoto’s bustling food arcade where centuries-old shops sell pickles, fresh seafood, sweets and kitchen tools. Sample tiny bites from stall to stall, watch artisans at work, and soak up the lively, authentic atmosphere of Kyoto’s culinary heart.