Kyoto, epitomizing the essence of traditional Japanese culture, stands as a city that boasts a rich historical heritage with its ancient shrines and temples, along with captivating landscapes and delightful culinary experiences. It dazzles visitors all year round, each season revealing its unique charm. Before embarking on your journey, gaining insights into street names and modes of transport can be incredibly beneficial. Here, we unveil ten insider tips to help you explore Kyoto in depth. Keep these in mind for a vibrant and enriched Kyoto experience!
1.Navigating the Grid-Like Streets of Kyoto: Why Even Cab Drivers Get Confused with Addresses?
While touring Kyoto, understanding the naming scheme of streets is vital. The city is planned like a grid, centered around the Kyoto Imperial Palace, with horizontal roads running east-west from first to ninth, and vertical streets named “○○ Street”. Navigating towards north is referred to as “going up”, south as “going down”, and moving east-west as “entering”. This specific lexicon is widely used in Kyoto, so simply mentioning a place name to a taxi driver might lead to confusion.
2.Immersive Kyoto Even in the Off-Peak Seasons: A Different Kind of Charm
Kyoto sees its highest influx of tourists during the maple leaf season in mid-November to early December and the cherry blossom season from late March to mid-April. These periods witness heavy traffic with large tour buses flocking the city, making popular spots crowded. However, the serene months of February and August offer a distinct beauty with verdant maple landscapes and temples adorned with a pristine layer of snow. Explore these unseen beauties during the off-peak season for a unique and peaceful experience.
3.Early Bird Advantage: Begin Your Day with an Early Breakfast to Avoid Crowds
If you prefer a leisurely tour without the hustle and bustle, it’s recommended to start your day early. Many tourists usually commence their sightseeing around 10 am after breakfast, so starting before that can help avoid crowds. Additionally, several temples open for visits from 6 or 7 am, and a number of eateries now offer early breakfast services. Make the most of your day with an early start!
4.Efficient Travel with Buses and Subways: A Budget-Friendly and Time-Saving Strategy
Kyoto’s extensive bus network covers the major tourist spots, with numerous buses originating from Kyoto Station. Consider purchasing a one-day bus pass for unlimited rides within a day. However, be prepared for possible delays during the peak seasons of fall and spring. You might also opt for combo tickets that include subway rides to bypass traffic jams and reach your destination faster.
5.Beat the Traffic with Bicycle Rentals: A Refreshing Alternative
For those irritated by waiting times and crowded public transport, renting a bicycle can be a great option. Many rental shops, including the popular “Kyoto Cycling Tour Project” near the JR Kyoto Station, offer bikes at affordable prices. With increasing numbers of attractions offering parking facilities, cycling can be an exhilarating way to create unique memories in Kyoto.
6.Dress Smart: Comfortable Shoes and Appropriate Clothing are a Must
Walking is an integral part of exploring Kyoto, making comfortable shoes essential. Since many temples have gravel pathways, high heels can be difficult to manage. The hot summers and cold winters in Kyoto also demand appropriate clothing, so prepare accordingly to enjoy your trip to the fullest.
7.Immerse Yourself in the Local Culture: Experience Life as a Maiko
While you might spot Maikos on the streets of Kyoto, remember that approaching them for a chat or photograph without permission is frowned upon. However, you can immerse yourself in the local culture through experiences that allow you to transform into a Maiko.
8.Leisurely Sightseeing at Hidden Gems: Escape the Crowds
Popular tourist spots in Kyoto can get quite crowded, but a short distance away lie quieter areas offering a tranquil and relaxed atmosphere. For instance, the Saga-Arashiyama area, a ten-minute walk from the bustling Togetsukyo Bridge, offers a serene environment to enjoy a leisurely visit.
9.Selecting the Best Accommodation: Where to Stay in Kyoto?
Choosing accommodations in areas with late-night dining options like Shijo Kawaramachi or near the well-connected Kyoto Station can be a wise decision. While there are plenty of hotels available, make sure to book in advance during peak seasons. Also, consider staying in traditional townhouses and guesthouses near Kiyomizu Temple for a convenient and relaxed stay.
10.Culinary Delights in Kyoto: Research Must-Try Dishes Beforehand
A trip to Kyoto is incomplete without savoring the local cuisine. Apart from traditional Kaiseki Ryori, don’t miss out on treats from famed establishments like Nanzenji Junsei, which offers delightful vegetarian dishes…
