How to Plan a Trip to Kyoto in 2024 - For a vacation in Japan like no other!
Published by Travel Me,
Kyoto, the ancient capital of Japan is full of timeless charm. This is not surprising as it was the capital from 794 to 1868. This charm is seen in the way traditions continue in Kyoto as you go around visiting the myriad of temples steeped in history and rich culture, savouring authentic experiences like the traditional ryokans, indulging in a meticulous tea service and many other intriguing facets of Kyoto. Find below some insights into making your trip to Kyoto a truly memorable experience.
The best time to visit Kyoto
Kyoto experiences the 04 distinct seasons as in other parts of Japan. These seasons provide different experiences for visitors in terms of weather, beauty, attractions etc. With each season there are different possibilities that visitors can choose from, including their accommodation in Kyoto. Read through to decide the best time for you.
Spring – From March to April is the beautiful cherry blossom season or Sakura season turning the parks and walkways into gorgeous canopies of blooms. The city has fine comfortable weather and is full of people with a festive air with Hanami events taking place and hotel rates can be expensive.
Summer – From May to September is warm and humid with rain coming down in June. With fewer visitors during this time. May is the period of the Golden Week is late Apr and early May and a lot of domestic travel happens with hotels and trains becoming fully booked.
Autumn – From October to early December, is the autumn or fall season with leaves turning into beautiful colours called koyo and the weather being just ideal. Koyo is another beautiful spectacle appreciated by visitors who plan a special visit to see it even paying higher rates at hotels.
Winter – From December to February is chilly, however, many winter activities are available like skiing, and snowboarding including enjoying onsens. Good hotel deals are available during this time.
Arriving in Kyoto
Kyoto is in the Kansai Region of Honshu Island of Japan. The best way for international visitors to arrive in Kyoto is to fly to Kansai International Airport (KIX) and take the train to Kyoto using Japan Railway (JR) services. (Haruka Airport Express train to Osaka and a local train from Osaka to Kyoto, total travel time from KIX - 75 minutes)
For international visitors arriving in Tokyo, the super-fast bullet train of Japan, the Shinkansen is ideal with travel from Tokyo to Kyoto taking about 2.5 hours. (JR service).
Getting about in Kyoto
Now that you are in Kyoto, have no worries about getting around as the public transport in Kyoto is like in the rest of Japan. It is efficient, safe, and comfortable with local trains, MRT and buses cover most of the attractions while some of the attractions can be done on foot. Obtain a JR pass based on your period of stay to enjoy getting about in comfort.
Many properties such as Citadines Karasuma-Gojo Kyoto are situated close to a subway station in addition to being within easy reach of historic temples, cultural venues, and outstanding heritage sites as well as shopping and dining areas of Kyoto making them preferred choices of accommodation for visitors.
Best places to visit in Kyoto
Here are some of the outstanding sites to visit with lots more available around Kyoto. Come away enriched by the history and culture and the charming beauty of Kyoto.
Kiyomizu-dera – One of the most well-known temples in Japan, Kiyomizu-dera means pure water temple. This temple has an entrance-free public area as well as an area you enter with a ticket. Both areas offer plenty to see such as the strategic position on a cliff, the ancient Japanese architecture and going past the main hall to a beautiful garden. Situated at the base of Kiyomizu-dera is Otowa Waterfall which gives the temple its name. Its pure water is used for drinking and is supposed to bring fortune to those partaking in it.
Philosopher’s Path – Tetsugaku no Michi is a path full of serenity along a canal taking you near the old streets of Kyoto. A famous philosopher Kitaro Nishida used to walk this path in a meditative mode and many visitors still enjoy this serene walk, especially during the cherry blossom season.
Fushimi Inari Taisha – Visit this popular temple to see the rows of Senbon torii or thousands of torii gates in Vermillion. These gates have been added as gratitude for wishes that had been fulfilled for the donors.
Some useful tips
These tips will be useful when preparing to visit Kyoto and once you are there.
- Returning a bow when you are bowed shows respect to the person.
- Always dress modestly when you visit temples.
- Learn a few useful Japanese phrases.
- Learn to use chopsticks.
- Respect the calm and quiet of public transport.