Kyoto is considered the cultural capital of Japan. It is an important tourist destination. Kyoto has many Buddhist temples, shinto shrines, palaces, and gardens some of which have been designated collectively as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. This city offers many things to do or great places to visit to the tourist. Visitors can explore fine sculptures, paintings, and other art forms in its many museums and galleries.
Here are the Best Attractions in Kyoto
1. Daigo-ji
Daigo-ji is a Shingon Buddhist temple in Fushimi-ku, Kyoto, Japan. It was Daigo-ji was founded in 874 by Shobo. He is the person who gave it the name Daigo. As part of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto, the complex was designated as a World Heritage Site. The sub-temple Sampo-in is a fine example of the amazing luxuriousness of that period. Daigo-ji’s special features include Kano paintings and the garden. During the cherry blossom season, Daigo-ji looks stunning and attracts many tourists.
2. Kyoto Tower Observation Deck
Kyoto Tower Observation Deck is located in Kyoto, Japan. The steel tower is the tallest structure in the city. The observation deck is 100 meters and its spire is 131 meters. The tower is opposite Kyoto station. Construction began in 1963 and was completed near the end of 1964. At the top, there is a Kyoto Tower Hotel. The observation deck provides excellent views in all directions. However, visitors can get a sense of the Kyoto bonchi.
3. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is also referred to as Sagano Bamboo Forest. It is a natural forest of bamboo in Arashiyama, Kyoto, Japan. The thick green bamboo stalks seem to continue endlessly in every direction. The bamboo is so thick that it’s impossible to see through to the other side. If you are in this bamboo grove make sure to approach Okochi Sanso villa. Noticing the beauty of the forest you’ll be unable to resist yourself by clicking pictures. Visit early in the morning or on a weekday to avoid crowds.
4. Arashiyama Monkey Park
Arashiyama Monkey Park is a commercial park located in Kyoto, Japan. In this park, you can see more than 100 snow monkeys, roaming freely amid the tourists who come to take a peek. If you are heading to this place then be protected from the money if you have some food, as the monkeys have no fear when approaching humans. The park features an enclosed area where you can buy bananas to feed the monkeys. You are a person who is not interested in monkeys and can still visit this park. The top of the mountain has one of the best views of the city below.
5. The Byodo-in Temple
The Byodo-in Temple is jointly a temple of the Jodo-shu and Tendai-shu sects. It was originally built in 998. The temple has many unique buildings, shrines, and artworks. The main attraction or feature of the temple is the Phoenix Hall (Hoo-do), with its bronze phoenixes on its two gables and rich interior decor. The hall also has 11th-century paintings, including an imposing gilded figure of Amida, and an altar and ceiling inlaid with bronze and mother-of-pearl. There is an amazing temple garden with many fine ponds. This place also has the Byodo-in Museum which has 52 wooden Buddha statues, carved phoenixes, and the original temple bell.
6. The Kyoto National Museum
The Kyoto National Museum is one of the major art museums in Japan. It is located in Kyoto’s Higashiyama ward, the museum focuses on pre-modern Japanese and Asian art. Kyoto also boasts several impressive collections in its world-class museums and galleries. The Kyoto National Museum was established in 1897. The museum has been completely renovated and includes a new wing designed by architect Yoshio Taniguchi. The regular exhibitions are shown in The Collections Galleries, while the Special Exhibition Hall is used for special exhibits.
7. Nijo Castle
Nijio Castle is a flatland castle in Kyoto, Japan. It was built in 1603 and later served as the seat of government. The complex has several buildings containing many significant works of art. The castle’s East Gate, Inner Gate, or Karamon, have incredible carvings and decorated metalwork. Garden of the Castle is also fun to explore. The most important building on this site is Ninomaru Palace. That has five separate buildings linked by corridors. It has exquisite interiors decorated with many paintings by Kano Tanyu. The structure’s principal apartment is the Hall of the Imperial Emissary. A gallery surrounds its large Audience Hall. However, if you are in Kyoto make sure to visit Nijio Castle to explore some magnificent artwork.