Kyoto It is the city where the countries’ treaty to combat global warming was signed, yes. But it is much more than that: it is one of the most important cities in Japan and has a rich cultural heritage for tourists. It was the only large Japanese city that was not damaged by Allied bombing in World War II, and it was the capital of Japan until 1868, so it certainly has a lot to tell.
Without leaving the city, for example, it is possible to enjoy the atmosphere with which this country is traditionally related. Its about Gion neighborhood, one of the four geisha neighborhoods, in which there is even a theater, the Gion Corner, where the traditional tea ceremony takes place every day.
Another option to keep moving on the street is to visit the Higashiyama District, with its shops and restaurants full of tourists. Or the Nishiki Market, the Kyoto fish market, where it is possible to eat sashimi, fish and seafood in different presentations, product of the creativity of the locals.
Historical Monuments of Ancient Kyoto
It is a group of buildings recognized as World Heritage by UNESCO, located in the cities of Kyoto, Uji and Otsu. It comprises numerous sanctuaries and even a castle, the Nijo Castle, with an area of 275,000 square meters, including land.
The Kinkaku-ji, or Temple of the Golden Pavilion, also belongs to this set. It houses relics of the Buddha and has a spectacular Japanese garden in its vicinity with a pond called Kyoko-chi in which the history of creation is represented, according to Buddhist tradition.
The Ginkaku-ji, or Temple of the Silver Pavilion, is another of the buildings in this complex. It is an iconic structure of the Higashiyama culture, with an unfinished appearance because the original idea never came to fruition. It has beautiful gardens covered with moss.
A few meters from the exit of this temple, the path of the philosophers begins. It is a route of around 2 kilometers that follows the flow of a small river and served as a space for reflection for many Japanese philosophers. Cherry trees flood the area, so spring is the best time of year to enjoy the beauty of this place. It is an ideal activity for those who seek to delight in contact with nature and tranquility.
Fushimi Inari-Taisha
This temple, known as the Temple of a Thousand Doors, is located a short distance from Kyoto and is a labyrinth of torii (sacred portals), donated by artisans and merchants to win the favor of Inari, the patron deity of business. It is located at the foot of the mountain of the same name and is a sanctuary in which visitors write their wishes and make their own vows, leaving small wooden tables in the shape of a torii as an offering.