If you are thinking of traveling to Kyoto, Japan, you are in the right place. Hosting Japan’s most important tourist attractions, Kyoto is a city that quickly overcomes the destruction of the Second World War. Of course, some points that remind of those days are carried to the present day by preserving their original atmosphere. You can see a lot of works from museums, galleries, sculptures, paintings, and other art forms in Kyoto. You will also come across architectural structures with the traditional lines of Japan in the city. In addition, Shinto and Buddhist temples are places where tourists always visit. We have covered all of these in the list of places to visit in Kyoto. Let us share with you some of the things you need to know when traveling to Kyoto.
Nijo Castle
Nijo Castle; It is full of walls, towers, and ditches. Built in 1603, the castle was also used as a Japanese government mansion. The castle resembles a complex, as it is quite large. Significant artifacts were unearthed from the castle, which consists of a combination of different buildings.
Fushimi-Inari Taisha Shrine
It is one of the most famous shrines in Japan. Must see during your visit. It was founded in 711 AD and is dedicated to the goddess Ukanomitama-no-mikoto. People who come here pray for their well-being. The main building dates from 1499 and has a four-kilometer-long street. There are 32 thousand arches on the street. It takes at least two hours to cross them all. In addition, fox statues thought to be prophets draw attention along the way.
Kinkaku-ji: The Golden Pavilion
Considered a retirement villa for Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu in the 14th century, the building is now used as a Zen Buddhist temple. The Golden Pavilion is one of the most beautiful places in Kyoto. It was rebuilt several times over time, adhering to its original structure. Its last appearance is from the 1950s. Standing on a large pond, the building draws attention with its traditional stone arrangement.
Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Kiyomizu Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, enjoys a scenic location on Mount Otowa. Visitors can take a pleasant walk by seeing small shops and craft stores. M.S. Founded in 790, the temple is dedicated to Buddhist goddesses. The terrace part of the temple is the scene of wonderful views in autumn.
Sanjusangen-dô Temple
Also known as Rengyoin Temple or Niche Temple, it is an interesting structure built in 1164. Personalizing elements immediately draw attention to the temple, which was built for Kannon, the goddess of mercy. In the past, archery training was given around it. The most important artifact found here is the 3.5-m statue of Kannon from the 13th century. Small figures are also scattered around.
Kyoto Imperial Palace
You can catch the opportunity to see the imperial palace, which is the subject of Japanese movies, live in Kyoto. The Kyoto Imperial Palace, built in 794 and displaced by fire, remains one of the city’s most visited historical sites. Although the current building was built in 1855, it feels as if it was newly built.
The palace is open to the public to visit but is run by the Imperial Agency. Therefore, you should join the guided tours of this agency. Discovering the subtleties of Japanese culture in the palace will open the doors of a completely different world.
Nishi Honganji Temple
The chief temple of the original Jodo-Shinshu sect, Nishi Honganji is an outstanding example of Buddhist architecture. The Hondo or Main Hall section is adorned with numerous statues from the 6th century. Paintings from 1760 are also hung in the rooms. Each painting in the temple has a different history and story. So they’re not just hanging paintings. When they all come together, the identity of the temple is revealed.
Kyoto National Museum and Municipal Art Museum
In addition to the many good old temples, you’ll also find world-class museums and galleries in Kyoto. When it comes to impressive collections, the first place that comes to mind is the national museum. It was founded in 1897 and is widely cited as the most important museum in Japan. Displaying examples of Asian and Japanese art, the museum was completely renovated in 2014.
However, the municipal art museum also receives a lot of visitors. The Kyoto Municipal Museum, which opened in 1928 and houses 20th century Japanese artists, is one of the places where the country has fallen. Takeuchi Seihô is one of the leading artists.
Gion’s Geishas and Temples
Located on the east bank of the Kamogawa River, Gion is an eclectic mix of modern architecture and historical beauty. We know the importance of tea in Japanese traditions from books and movies. You have the chance to experience this unique taste in the tea houses in Gion. Silver Pavilion and Ginkakuji Temple are among the most valuable works of the region. It is necessary to open a separate parenthesis for the temple. Ginkakuji is a temple known to everyone because it carries the largest bell in the country, weighing 71 tons.
Katsura Imperial Villa
Built in 1624 for Prince Hachijo Toshihito, brother of Emperor Goyozei, the imperial villa has become one of Japan’s most famous historical gardens. Designed by Kobori Enshu with the help of the press, this beautiful garden is made in such a way that visitors can see everything from the front. You can see Katsura at the top of the list of places to visit in Kyoto.
Daitoku-ji Temple
The Daitoku-ji Temple or Zen Temple is one of the most important structures of the Rinzai cemetery and was built in 1324. Existing structures date from the 16th and 17th century. 22 buildings in the region are open to the public. In the cemetery, you learn what came out of Japanese and Chinese cooperation.
Byodo-in Temple
Established in 988, Byodo-in Temple has many unique buildings, shrines and works of art worth visiting. When the imposing gilded figure of Amida is added to the magnificent interior decoration, an impressive image emerges. Don’t forget to tour the museum room, which includes 52 wooden Buddha statues, a carved phoenix, and the original temple bell.
Kyoto Tower
The Kyoto Tower, which attracts attention as a modern building in a temple city, is the tallest building in Kyoto. Visitors can see panoramic views of the city all the way to Osaka. Telescopes and LED touch screens are located on the platform. You get the best experience at sunset.
5 Comments