The imperial capital for more than 1,000 years and untouched during WWII, not only is Kyoto well-preserved but it is also a beautiful blend of a snapshot of Japan centuries ago and emerging contemporary creative talent. Filled with over 1600 Buddhist temples and 400 Shinto shrines this is a seriously culturally rich experience. The food is also sublime with over 90 Michelin-starred restaurants, vintage shopping heaven, cooking, ceramic and meditation schools, you will face the challenge of how to explore and experience it all!
TASTE
With 7 3* Michelin restaurants in Kyoto, the choice is wonderful. We love Kichisen as the Kaiseki dish is world-famous. Make sure you book ahead. For something more casual and local, head to Nishiki Market to sample tsukemono, skewered octopus, and mini soy milk donuts.
EXPERIENCE
Stay at the Four Seasons Kyoto - right opposite the There are so many wonderful things to do, visit and experience in Kyoto, here are some our tried and tested favourites: traditional Japanese tea ceremony at the ancient Shogakuan Temple, a sub temple of Tofukuji (David Bowie's favourite too); explore the world of Sake at the Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum; Zen Meditation Course at Shunkoin; Lantern making at Kobishiya chubei; Ninja Warrior Training School at Ninja Dojo and of course, hire a guide and go to visit the ancient (1397) Kinkakuji Temple; the rock garden at Ryoanji Temple; the stunning Kifune Shrine and Fushimi Inari Shrine; the most photographed Yasaka Pagoda; the bamboo grove at Arashiyama and of course, a private dinner with a Geisha at Gion Hatanaka
READ
The Old Capital - Yasunari Kawabata; The Temple Of The Golden Pavillion - Yukio Mishima; The Teahouse Fire -Ellis Avery; Hokkaido Highway Blues - Will Ferguson; The Lady and the Monk - Pico Ayer; Geisha, A Life - Mineko Iwasaki
LISTEN
For traditional music head to Minami-za, for contemporary make your way to Metro and for atmosphere go to Taku Taku
