Location: Kyoto
Top Things to do in Kyoto
What to do and see in Kyoto, Kinki: The Best Architectural Buildings
The shrines and temples of Kyoto offer a rare link between modern life in the city and its very ancient past. The Shimogamo Shrine dates to the 6th century and seems suspended in time, its serenity and spiritual power still palpable. Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine, then see the life-sized Thousand Armed Kannon statues of Sanjūsangen-dō. Enjoy traditional geisha performances, then savor a tranquil meal at a restaurant overlooking the Kamo River.
Restaurants in Kyoto
1. Gion Kobu Kaburenjo Theater
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 158 reviews
The Gion Koubu Kaburenjo (where Miyako Odori is performed) are temporary closed due to the initiation of long-term building maintenance (earthquake protection measures).
Reviewed By floridakeys2009
I believe the Gion Koby theatre is closed at the moment and for now the show took place in the Yasaka Hall. There are two shows one at 18.00 and one at 19.00. There are no reservations but the ticketing office open half an hour before and best to get there early as there are a limited number of seats. You can take photos but no flash. Al of the commentary is repeated in English. The show features a number of Japanese culture sets. Starting with a tea ceremony..... (Chado) this is followed by the music of the Koto ( a thirteen stringed instrument from about 1300 years ago) with a demonstration of Kano. A flower arrangement. Next up a Gagaku, which is an ancient court music ‘elegant’ is the description but I actually quite fierce with a masked dragon type individual and three musicians. This was followed by kyogen, an ancient comic play and despite it being played out in Japanese was actually quite funny. Then two dances from Maiko (trainee geisha) Kyomai (Kyoto style dance) our Maiko was Mame and Tama. Beautiful, the intricate movements and positions a pleasure to watch. The show ends with a puppet play, Bunraku, this is mesmerising and quite specials. The puppet is managed or played by three puppeteers in all, the main man unmasked the rest cloaked in black cloth so to blend in, the movement of the puppet is something to observe, very enthralling, it certainly draws you in. A great hour and definitely go to event in Kyoto.
2. Chishaku-in
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 237 reviews
Reviewed By Global715255 - Tokyo, Japan
I went to this temple because I was interested in visiting the head temple of the Shinzan ha, Shingon Sect popular in Kanto Region. The Screen Door Paintings by Tohaku Hasegawa and his son and disciples are awesome. No wonder they are National Treasures. Looking at the Japanese garden I enjoy relaxing time for a while.
3. Ninna-ji Temple
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,249 reviews
Ninna-ji is a national tresure and also designated as a world heritage site. From over a thousand years ago, it has a deep co nection to the imperial family. Then, Ninna-ji is one of most famous temple which known for beautiful cherry blossoms, its wrapping up the end of the season in Kyoto - a town with many famous cherry trees.
Reviewed By DickyS357
Everybody would be rushing to Kinkakuji Temple down the road, but I have to say this temple was the nicest temple experience we had. This was due to the expansive temple grounds and lack of people rushing about. You could take your time here, stroll around and really appreciate the beauty of the place. There wasn't any cordons which means you could get up close and admire the designs and thought put into each building. Really recommended if you want the true temple experience in Kyoto.
4. Kyoto Station Building
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 4,254 reviews
Kyoto Station Building is a train station and popular tourist spot, with a department store, The Cube selling souvenirs and fashion, Asty Road and Asty Square shopping areas, a mall, and restaurants.
Reviewed By NeilandRyoko - Greater Adelaide, Australia
A hugely impressive small city built around a large railway station, completely enveloping it. Amazing modern architecture of impressive scale and design, with a roof top garden 11 stories up, with views across the city and nearby Kyoto Tower. So many shops and cafes restaurants bakeries etc. even 5 star hotels, you could happily just spend many days here exploring and enjoying.
5. Nanzenji Suirokaku
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 274 reviews
Reviewed By andreashH9026WH - Jakarta, Indonesia
This beautiful and historic temple can be reached from the nearest subway station, Keage Station on the Tozai Line (about 5 minutes walk) or alternatively you can take a bus from Kyoto Station. On the right side of the temple, you can see a a large brick aqueduct that passes through the temple grounds.
6. Ryukoku University Omiya Campus
7. Daigo-ji Temple Goju Tower
8. Kyoto State Guest House
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 98 reviews
Reviewed By elizabethpV8634SC
Are you looking for something interesting, beautiful and a bit different, that not everyone does when visiting Kyoto? Then I recommend making a reservation for a guided tour of the State Guest House which is located in the Gyoen National Garden, that surrounds the Imperial Palace. This is where foreign dignitaries and Heads of State are received and stay during State visits to Kyoto. The Guest House was completed in 2005. The year-round public opening for visitors began in 2016. We elected to take a guided tour. For this, it is best to reserve in advance. Alternatively you can do a self-guided tour without a reservation. Considering that the guided tour costs only 500 yen more, it makes sense to have a guide because you learn a lot more. The tour lasts one hour. Our guide was outstanding. In the main banquet hall, the artistry of the furniture, the individually designed chairs and lacquer banquet table are exquisite. The table is 12 meters in length and no two chairs are exactly alike. The rooms used for meetings, entertaining and receptions are adorned with beautiful tapestries that extend across entire walls. The design of the building is simple, contemporary and elegant and exudes peace and calm. There is a pretty Japanese garden and lake in the middle with enormous golden and orange carp. You will learn about the artisans who crafted all the wonderful works of art, as well as understanding the architectural intricacies of the construction of the building. It is permitted to take photos. It was a fascinating tour and very worthwhile!
9. Nintendo Original Building
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 24 reviews
Reviewed By shortkitty - Chicago, United States
My husband and I stopped here on our honeymoon and enjoyed soaking up the Nintendo history. You can't go in the building, but the plaque makes for a great photo op and we enjoyed just walking around the area and thinking about the history of Nintendo. If you're a diehard fan, you'll love visiting this building! It's also near the river, which was nice to stroll along once we were done taking photos.
10. 1928 Bldg.
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