Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine
free
This shrine is one of many located throughout Japan that was built to honor Inari, the Shinto god of rice.
One of Kyoto's most famous attractions, this temple was originally built in 1397 as a residence for shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu. The structure was completely covered in gold leaf, earning it the name Golden Pavilion.
Kiyomizu-dera Temple
free
This most-visited temple in Kyoto was built to honor Kannon, the goddess of mercy. It's beautiful hillside location offers spectacular views of the city and valley below.
The most famous neighborhood in Kyoto is also known as the Geisha district. It is here, among the tea houses and private clubs, that you can catch a glimpse of a geisha in full dress including white makeup.
This world heritage site was the home of Tokugawa leyasu, one of the most powerful men in Japan. The castle was built as a residence and not for defense purposes. However, to protect the shogun from enemies, special creaky floorboards were installed to warn of anyone approaching.
Arashiyama is a small town on the Oi River. Its moon-crossing bridge, Togetsu-kyo, is a beautiful, much-beloved wooden structure. Arishiyama also has Tenryu-ji temple, one of the 14 World Heritage Sites in Kyoto.
Nishiki Market Shopping District
budget
With a 400-year-old history, Nishiki Market is a downtown covered pedestrian arcade lined with 135 open-fronted shops selling seafood, produce, souvenirs, crafts, and Japanese snacks.
Built in 1482 by the shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa, this Zen temple was supposed to have been finished in a coat of silver. Although this step never occurred, the temple is still known by the name Silver Pavilion.
Kyoto Station Building
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Kyoto Station Building is a train station and popular tourist spot, with a department store, The Cube selling souvenirs and fashion, Asty Road and Asty Square shopping areas, a mall, and restaurants.
Originally named Rengeoin Temple, this site has taken on the name of the great hall within which houses 1001 life-sized, wooden statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy.
This scenic path follows cherry-tree lined canal and is named after a Kyoto University philosopher, Kitaro Nishida, who used it for his daily walk.
Kyoto Imperial Palace
free
This location was the home of the Imperial Family until 1868 when the formal residence was relocated to Tokyo. Free, guided tours are given daily but only to those who have made reservations in advance.
This Zen Buddhist temple was converted from a former residence of Emperor Kameyama upon his death. The beautiful grounds include several buildings, hiking trails and a classic Zen garden.
Samurai Ninja Museum With Experience
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We are an INTERACTIVE samurai & ninja museum focused on the history of Japan. We are located between the Nishiki Market and the Gion area. We provide tours on the samurai armors, samurai swords, samurai villages and samurai houses. We have family friendly ninja displays and ninja experiences such as ninja blow gun trial and the shuriken throw. Ninja lessons and ninja experiences in the ninja offered daily. Families, couples and martial arts fans welcome. We also have a distinctive samurai souvenir shop if you'd like to buy a samurai sword in Kyoto. You can buy authentic Edo period swords and carbon replica swords in addition to types of katana and wakizashi. We also have an extensive sword exhibition. Kyoto's best rated samurai, ninja, martial arts and history museum. A samurai village and samurai house feeling including a ninja dojo inside the museum. The ninja park for kids and a separate kimono tea ceremony room for families also available.
Katsura Imperial Villa
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Application in advance is highly recommended.
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This beautiful home belonged to members of the Katsura family, one of the Imperial families of Japan. The home displays some very traditional Japanese architecture and landscape design.