Taking a trip to Japan is an exciting venture that has a lot to offer. Kyoto Japan is a great option known for its rich cultural history, tranquility, and serenity. If you are looking for a more relaxing and peaceful trip rooted in Japanese tradition and natural beauty, Kyoto is for you. Kyoto has much to offer such as classic temples, beautiful Zen gardens, stunning bamboo forests, and more. Here are 5 amazing experiences to have of the many things that Kyoto has to offer.
1. Visit a Bamboo Forest
The stunning bamboo forests that Kyoto has to offer is one of the most beautiful experiences Japan has to offer. Kyoto has many of these unique bamboo forests to explore with the most renowned and famous one being the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Each of these forests offer a unique experience showcasing the beauty of Kyoto. The recommended times to visit these forests for the best experience is early in the morning or at sunset.
2. Explore the Iwatayama Monkey Park
Home to over about 120 snow monkeys, also known as Japanese Macaques, the Iwatayama Monkey Park offers a unique experience. It is located in Arashiyama and is easily reached by train, where you can encounter these wild monkeys up close. The park is located on top of Mount Arashiyama and also offers an amazing view of the mountainside.
3. See the Hokan-Ji Temple
The Hokan-Ji temple in Kyoto is a historic Buddhist temple located in the Higashiyama district. It was founded during the Heian period and built by Prince Shotoku, and it is one of the oldest temples in Kyoto. It stands 46 meters tall and is a stunning example of traditional Japanese architecture. The Higashiyama district that the temple is located in is known for its traditional streets and wooden buildings.
4.Go to the Fushimi Inari Shrine
The Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto is an iconic destination that you won’t want to miss out on. The shrine was founded in the Meiji Era and is dedicated to Inari the god of prosperity, agriculture and rice. Inari is a Japanese kami commonly depicted as a fox in Japanese culture. It is also famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates on trails. The trails lead into the forest of Mount Inari. The Fushimi Inari Shrine should be a staple in your trip to Kyoto.
5. Visit a Zen Garden
Kyoto has a handful of significant Zen gardens that all offer a unique experience and are all worth checking out. Kyoto is home to the Ryoan-Ji Temple, the Kennin-ji Temple, and the Tofuku-ji Temple, to name a few. The most famous temple, the Ryoan-Ji Temple, features a simple rock garden with 15 rocks laid out in small groups. The meaning of this garden is unclear, and visitors often ponder its significance. It was originally an aristocrat’s villa in the Heian Period and was changed into a Zen temple in 1450. This mysterious garden as well as the other gardens that Kyoto has to offer brings a unique and peaceful experience to your trip.
Explore more
Make sure to check out all Kyoto, has to offer. These are just a few standout options for visiting Kyoto, but it has so much more to see and experience!
