Discovering the Best of Kyoto 2024

Summary: Exploring the Best of Kyoto: Your Guide to Top Sites, Restaurants, Nightlife, and More. From Cultural Experiences to Outdoor Adventures, We'll Help You Make the Most of Your Time in the City.

Welcome to Kyoto! If you're planning to move to Kyoto, congratulations on taking the first step towards a new adventure. While there are many things to think about before you leave, such as visas, housing, and transportation, it's important to remember that once you arrive, the fun really begins. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of the best sites, restaurants, and nightlife that Kyoto has to offer, as well as provide tips on recreational activities and making friends in Kyoto.

Kyoto, is a city steeped in history and culture, offering a plethora of sites of interest for both tourists and locals. The city is home to 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Kinkaku-ji, or the Golden Pavilion, a Zen temple whose top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf. Another must-visit is the Fushimi Inari Taisha, a Shinto shrine famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates. The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is a natural wonder that offers a unique, serene experience. The Philosopher's Path, a stone path along the canal lined by hundreds of cherry trees, is a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, especially during the cherry blossom season. The Gion district, known as Kyoto's geisha district, is a charming area with traditional wooden machiya houses. Here, you can catch a glimpse of geiko (Kyoto dialect for geisha) and maiko (geiko apprentices) in their exquisite kimonos. The Nijo Castle, with its beautiful gardens and nightingale floors, is another site that transports you back to the era of shoguns. The Kiyomizu-dera Temple, offering stunning views of the city, and the Ryoan-ji Temple, home to Japan's most famous rock garden, are other notable sites.

The restaurant and nightlife scene in Kyoto is a blend of traditional and modern. Pontocho Alley is a narrow street running from Shijo-dori to Sanjo-dori, one block west of the Kamo River, which is packed with restaurants and bars. Here, you can find everything from budget yakitori to high-end kaiseki restaurants. Kikunoi, a three-Michelin-star restaurant, is famous for its kaiseki cuisine, a traditional multi-course Japanese dinner. Another popular restaurant is Gion Suetomo, where you can enjoy kaiseki cuisine in a private dining room overlooking a beautiful garden. For a more casual dining experience, Nishiki Market, known as "Kyoto's Kitchen", offers a variety of local food. The nightlife in Kyoto is not as bustling as in Tokyo or Osaka, but there are still plenty of options. The Gion district has many exclusive bars where you can enjoy a drink while experiencing the traditional atmosphere. A Bar is a popular spot known for its cocktails and jazz music. Another popular bar is L'EscaMoteur Bar, which offers a unique, eclectic atmosphere.

Recreational activities in Kyoto are often centered around experiencing its rich culture and natural beauty. Hiking is popular, with trails in areas like Mount Daimonji offering panoramic views of the city. The Kyoto Imperial Palace and its surrounding gardens are perfect for a leisurely walk. Cycling is another popular activity, with rental shops available throughout the city. The Path of Philosophy is a popular route, especially during the cherry blossom season. For those interested in traditional Japanese culture, there are many places where you can experience tea ceremonies, such as the Camellia Tea Ceremony. You can also take part in a kimono or yukata (summer kimono) rental and photo shoot experience, available in many shops around the city. The Toei Kyoto Studio Park offers a unique experience where you can explore film sets of historical dramas, dress up as a samurai or geisha, and watch ninja and samurai shows.

SJB Global
Connect

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

SJB Global

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.