Cultural heart of Japan
Kyoto
Days 4–7 (Jun 16–19)
Cultural heart of Japan
Days 4–7 (Jun 16–19)
Four days of temples, bamboo groves, tea ceremonies, and onsen. The spiritual counterweight to Tokyo's chaos.
Thousands of vermillion torii gates — go at dawn to avoid crowds
Best in early morning light
Iconic gold-leaf temple reflected in the pond
Tea ceremony experience
Traditional matcha ceremony in a Kyoto teahouse
Open-air hot spring in the mountains north of Kyoto — take the scenic train
Stone-paved canal-side walk connecting temples
Kyoto's kitchen — five blocks of food stalls, pickles, fresh seafood, matcha everything
Evening stroll through the geisha district, traditional restaurants
Bike rental is the best way around Kyoto. Buses can be crowded. Stay in Nakagyo Ward (central).
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