Kyoto
The cultural centre and former capital of Japan, in many ways Kyoto is Japan and is one of the world’s great destinations.
If there is one place in Japan to devote most time to it should be Kyoto, Japan’s storehouse of traditional culture.
Kyoto is a place to spend a few days discovering ancient temples, shrines and Japanese gardens. From Kyoto, easy day trips can be made to the world heritage sites of Nara, to lively Osaka or further afield into Kansai to the Buddhist tableland of Koya-San, the ancient trails of the Kumano-Kodo or to Japan’s biggest Shinto shrine at Ise-Jingu.
Discover Kyoto
Noku Kyoto
Boutique Hotel located next to Kyoto’s Imperial Palace and right in the heart of 1,000 years of Japanese history.
By Imperial Palace
Boutique Kyoto Hotel
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Kanra Hotel
Great boutique hotel in Kyoto offering rooms mixing Japanese and Western styles just a short walk from the JR Station.
Japanese and Western mix
Luxury Boutique Hotel
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Hotel Granvia Kyoto
Stylish Luxury Hotel in Kyoto's architectural masterpiece Railway Station. Elegant and very convenient.
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Mume Hotel
7-room enchanting boutique hotel in Kyoto's Gyon district. Very personalised service and a charming boutique hotel.
Trip Advisor Favourite
Charming Boutique Hotel
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The Screen
Chic and trendy 13 room boutique hotel in Kyoto. One of the best boutique and design hotels in Japan.
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Kyoto Boutique Hotel
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Hoshinoya
Superb luxury Ryokan in the Arashiyama district of Kyoto offering luxury and character in a tranquil, resort-like setting.
Absolutely Superb
Serene Riverside Refuge
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Japan Highlights
Tokyo, Hakone and Kyoto - the best of Japan in just over a week. Tailor your trip to suit your budget and interests.
Privately Guided Tours
Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto
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Pilgrim's Trail
A special journey through Japan from modern Tokyo to ancient Kyoto via Pilgrim's Paths along the ancient Kumano Kodo way.
Tailor Make your Trip
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Classic Japan
See the best of Japan in 2 weeks on a partly Self-Guided Japan Holiday. Includes Tokyo, Hakone, Takayama, Kanazawa & Kyoto.
Classic Japan Tour
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Zen Japan
The Best of Japan with a focus on Zen and Shinto temples and Japanese culture.
Tailor Made Japan Holiday
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Japan Journey
A partly-guided Japan Rail Pass journey including Tokyo, Hakone, Takayama, Kanazawa, Hiroshima, Kyoto & Osaka.
Self Guided Journey
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Active Japan
See the best of Japan with a focus on nature and trekking. Includes Tokyo, Hakone, Alps, Kanazawa, Kiso Valley, Kyoto, Osaka & 4-day Kumano Kodo trek.
Hike Japan
Active Japan Journey
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Japan Uncovered
See the best of Japan in 2.5 weeks on a privately guided Japan Holiday. Tokyo, Hakone, Takayama, Kanazawa, Hiroshima, Kyoto, Mount Koya & Osaka.
The Best of Japan
Private Excursions Included
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Divine Dynasties
18 night Luxury Cruise & Land Journey from Hong Kong to Shanghai on Oceania Cruises via Taiwan, Japan and South Korea.
Cruise & Private Land Tours
Japan - China - South Korea
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Springtime in Asia Cruise
21 night Luxury Cruise Journey from Singapore to Japan on the Azamara Quest via Vietnam, Hong Kong and Taiwan.
Vietnam, Hong Kong, Taiwan
Singapore to Tokyo Cruise
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Afternoon Cultural Tour
Experience the temples, shrines and gardens that make Kyoto Japan’s cultural capital on this fascinating tour. Founded as a capital more than 1,200 years ago, Kyoto developed as a centre of aristocratic culture, famous for its Zen gardens and geisha traditions.
Discover some of this magic by exploring the Fushimi Inari Shrine on the outskirts of the city. Home to a seemingly endless stretch of red torii gates spread across a thickly wooded mountain, this shrine is a world unto itself.
Walk through snaking corridors of red gates, made famous in the film Memoirs Of A Geisha, stopping to admire the shrines and many fox statues.
After a morning spent on the mountain, head to another of Kyoto’s must-see sights, the Tofukuji Temple. Originally built in the 13th century, and famous for its Zen garden, this is a great place to indulge the relaxed atmosphere of the city.
Learn about the origin and inspiration for the garden, and what it means to the monks who continue to live and study here. As the sun begins to set, leave the tranquil gardens behind and head to Gion, the geisha district, which comes alive with people and lights in the evening.
Stroll past the 17th-century traditional restaurants and teahouses, many of which are still exclusive establishments for geisha entertainment, see the theatres and traditional shops.
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From £35pp
Kyoto Walking Tour - Half Day
Kyoto is packed with stunning historic and architectural gems, and this 3.5km walking tour will take you on an awe-inspiring journey into the past. The itinerary includes visits to temples, shrines and a geisha quarter.
As Japan’s capital for more than 1,000 years, Kyoto is a treasure trove of beautiful buildings, parks and gardens. The Kiyomizu Temple has a main hall on a steep slope with a wooden platform supported by pillars from which you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Kyoto.
The Kodaiji Temple was founded by the widow of 16th century general Toyotomi Hideyoshi to commemorate him.
The Yasaka Shrine is the central site for the Gion-Matsuri Festival, held every summer.
Wander the narrow alleys of the Gion District, an area famous for its entertainment and geishas. It retains its tranquil, old-fashioned charm and is home to traditional restaurants and tea-houses.
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From £65pp
