Saihoji, also known as Kokedera or the “Moss Temple,” was established over 1,300 years ago, when Prince Shotoku’s villa was transformed into a Buddhist temple. Today, it is one of Kyoto’s most treasured gardens, known for its ethereal beauty and over 120 varieties of moss that carpet the landscape. Visiting Saihoji has always been challenging. … More A Visit to Saihoji: Kyoto’s Moss-Covered Temple
Kyoto’s Shugakuin Imperial Villa dates back to the 17th century and is now open to the public – by reservation only. Boasting a number of lovely traditional structures surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, it is well worth a visit. For information on what how to make a reservation and what to expect, read on! … More Kyoto’s Shugakuin: What to expect on a visit
Looking to enjoy kawadoko (platform over the river) dining in Kyoto’s Kibune, but not able to spend the time and money needed to eat a kaiseki meal? Here is a list of reasonable kawadoko dining options! … More Kyoto’s Kibune: Reasonable Kawadoko Dining
In the far north of Kyoto Prefecture, along the edge of one of UNESCO’s ‘World’s Most Beautiful Bays’ sits the village of Ine. 230 funaya (traditional boat houses) from the Edo Period still line the shore. Ideal geography has protected them from the Japan Sea’s harsh winter swells. The village is a fantastic ‘get away … More PHOTO STORY: Kyoto by the Sea – Ine
Review – Mimaru Hotel Group. Excellent choice for larger groups and/or those interested in an extended stay in Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. … More Hotel Group Review: Mimaru
Ohara is ‘countryside’ Kyoto – impressive temples, tasty cuisine, and interesting souvenir shops set among the rice paddies of a small village about an hour’s bus ride from Kyoto Station. For visitors who want to see a different Kyoto, Ohara is a great day or overnight trip from the city center. Ohara is split into … More Kyoto’s Ohara District
Shojuin is a small, but impressive temple hidden in the mountains of Ujitawara, Kyoto Prefecture. It has a lot to offer and is especially enjoyable to visit when it holds its wind chime festival. … More Hidden Treasure of Kyoto Prefecture: Shojuin Temple
With seventeen different locations recognized by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites, and many other incredible places not on ‘the list’, Kyoto is normally packed with tourists. With basic precautions (wear a mask, social distance, wash hands often…), a visit to Kyoto, before inbound tourists return, should be at the top of the list for anyone … More Kyoto 2022 – Without Inbound Tourists
The Kansai Region consists of Hyogo, Kyoto, Mie, Nara, Osaka, Shiga, and Wakayama prefectures. The area is considered the cultural heart of Japan and is home to many World Heritage sites. Here is a short run-down, with regards to sightseeing, on each of the prefectures within Kansai – from a personal perspective. … More What & Where is it? Kansai Explained
Kinkakuji Temple underwent roof renovations in 2020. Kyoto’s most famous landmark is now more beautiful than ever. The brown wood roof will darken with time, but is currently a new ‘golden’ color. … More Kyoto’s Kinkakuji, the ‘Golden Pavilion’
