Kyoto, the former imperial capital, is the traditional heart of Japan. I spent two days there in September 2024, with a trip to Nara, less than an hour away.
What to see in Kyoto
- Kiyomizu-dera, a wooden temple on stilts with a panoramic view of the city, and the shopping lanes leading up to it.
- The Arashiyama bamboo forest (Sagano), at the foot of the mountains.
- Kyoto Tower, for the city at night.
- In the morning, try natto, the fermented soybeans of the Japanese breakfast (for the curious).
Day trip to Nara
Nara, the city of deer and temples: Todai-ji houses one of the largest Buddhas in the world in its huge wooden hall, and Nara Park is full of free-roaming deer.
Practical info
- At least two days for Kyoto, plus half a day for Nara.
- Arrive early at the big temples to avoid crowds and heat.
- I stayed near Nijo Castle, handy for getting around.
