A Thousand-Year-Old Capital – A Tour of Kyoto's 100 Famous Spots

This ancient capital boasts a thousand-year history. From the intricately decorated temples to the shops lining the ancient stone-paved streets, every scene in Kyoto holds its own story. Let Tripbaa guide you through Kyoto's top 100 destinations and experience authentic Kyoto charm!

First Stop: Nijo Castle

Nijo Castle, the residence of the first Tokugawa Shogun in Kyoto, is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Japan's 100 Greatest Castles. Its ornate interior and ingeniously designed corridors, where steps create the sound of "nightingales," are truly remarkable.

Second Stop: Kinkaku-ji Temple

Upon arrival at Kinkaku-ji Temple, you'll be captivated by its magnificent exterior. Surrounded by lush green mountains and a turquoise lake, this beautiful building resembles a landscape painting by a renowned Buddhist monk—elegant yet unconventional. Kinkaku-ji Temple has weathered numerous natural and man-made disasters to reach its present state, a history imprinted on the building itself.

Third Stop: Kyoto Imperial Palace

The Kyoto Imperial Palace, once the residence of the Japanese Emperor before the capital moved to Tokyo in 1896, boasts a grandeur reminiscent of the scenes from the Japanese TV series "O-oku." The surrounding Kyoto Imperial Gardens are even more expansive, covering approximately 63 hectares. For Kyoto residents, they offer a relaxing, large park perfect for strolling or exercising.

Fourth Stop: Kitano Tenmangu Shrine

Kitano Tenmangu Shrine enshrines Sugawara no Michizane, revered as the god of learning in Japan. It's said that touching the shrine's ox and elephant brings blessings and wisdom. Furthermore, the shrine's plum trees and autumn leaves are incredibly beautiful when in bloom, making it one of Kyoto's most famous attractions.

Stop 5: Heian Shrine

In 1895, coinciding with the 1100th anniversary of the Emperor's relocation of the capital to Heian-kyō (Kyoto), the 50th Emperor Kanmu was rebuilt on a reduced scale, resembling the original Heian-kyō Chodo-in building. This became the present-day Heian Shrine. Designed by the renowned landscape architect, the seventh generation, Ogawa Jihei, the gardens are surrounded by streams, shaded by lush trees, and filled with flowers year-round, making it a must-see for Kyoto residents seeking cherry blossom and autumnal leaves.

Stop 6: Sanjusangendo

Sanjusangendo is another name for Rengeō-in Temple, named after the 33 compartments of the main hall. The main hall, approximately 120 meters long, houses a collection of 1,001 Kannon statues, neatly arranged within, creating a solemn and awe-inspiring atmosphere. Every January, they hold an archery competition called "Tōshūya," open to adults 20 and older. Don't miss the opportunity to observe.

Stop 7: Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Finally, we arrived at Kyoto's most famous temple, Kiyomizu-dera Temple. It's the city's oldest temple, boasting the imposing Niomon Gate; the cliffside Kiyomizu Stage, overlooking downtown Kyoto; Otowa Falls, said to bless academic success and good health; the Jishu Shrine, known for its love and relationship blessings; and the majestic Main Hall, dedicated to the Thousand-Armed Kannon.

Itinerary Details:
- Nijo Castle / Approximately 50 minutes
- Kinkaku-ji Temple / Approximately 45 minutes
- Kyoto Imperial Palace / Approximately 40 minutes ※Tuesday-Sunday
- Kitano Tenmangu Shrine / 40 minutes ※Visit Mondays. If Monday is a national holiday, the tour will be held on Tuesday.
- Lunch / Approximately 50 minutes ※Lunch buffet
- Heian Jingu Shrine / Approximately 25 minutes
- Sanjusangendo Temple / 30 minutes
- Kiyomizu-dera Temple / 70 minutes
- Hotel in Kyoto / 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM
※During the Gion Festival (July 17-19), transportation to Karasuma Kyoto Hotel and Hotel Nikko Princess Kyoto will be restricted.