Kyoto
Japan
- Safety rating
- 9.4/10
- Best time to visit
- Cherry blossom season (late March–April) and autumn foliage (November) are spectacular but busy; aim for early mornings.
- Population
- 1.5M
Overview
Kyoto, Japan's ancient imperial capital, is the soul of traditional Japan with over a thousand temples, serene Zen gardens, and lantern-lit geisha districts. Wooden machiya townhouses, tea ceremonies, and seasonal beauty define its refined atmosphere. Cherry blossoms and autumn maples transform it into living artwork.
Top attractions
Visit Fushimi Inari's torii gates, Kinkaku-ji golden pavilion, Arashiyama bamboo grove, and the temples of Higashiyama.
Getting around
Buses, two subway lines, and bicycles cover the city, with many temple districts best explored on foot.