Arashiyama's bamboo grove is a magnet for photographers, enchanting visitors with its towering stalks swaying gracefully like nature's own dancers. While bamboo is renowned for its resilience and flexibility, here its aesthetic allure takes center stage.

Conveniently situated next to the Tenryu-ji Temple and connected to hidden shrines, this atmospheric forested area costs nothing to enjoy, and if you head out early in the morning on weekdays you will (almost) have it to yourself. With luck on your side and tourist crowds at bay, you'll hear the clink of the canes leaning into each other and – on a bright day – find radiant beams of sunlight filtering through the dense foliage, casting ethereal patterns on the forest floor.

A stroll through this verdant wonderland is a brief yet immersive experience, allowing you to traverse one of the "10 most beautiful tree tunnels in the world" before venturing forth to explore the myriad other treasures that Arashiyama has to offer.

Sagano, also known as Saga, sits peacefully north of Arashiyama, offering a serene escape from the crowds. This preserved area echoes Japan's past, with its narrow streets and traditional architecture nestled amidst lush wooded hills. Charming shops, eateries, and offbeat temples make it an ideal spot for a walk.

One standout attraction is the Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple, perched atop a small hill. Renowned for its bamboo grove and vibrant autumn colors, the temple is most notable for its 8,000 stone statues honoring those who passed away without descendants. Dating back to 811 AD, the current temple, built in 1712, stands on a former burial ground for the less fortunate, with the statues depicting Jizo, the guardian of the deceased. Each August 23rd and 24th, candles illuminate the statues, symbolizing the return of ancestral spirits.

Tip:
Respect the sanctity of the inner graveyard; photography is strictly prohibited in this sacred space.

At the heart of the Arashiyama district, Togetsukyo, or the "Moon Crossing Bridge", spans across the Katsura River, framed by the majestic Mount Arashi. Originally built in the Heian Period (794-1185) and last restored in the 1930s, this famous landmark exudes a timeless allure, especially during the vibrant hues of autumn foliage and the ethereal beauty of cherry blossoms in spring.

Despite its traditional appearance, the Togetsukyo blends ancient charm with modern engineering, its reinforced concrete columns and beams complemented by cypress parapets. Legend has it that the bridge earned its poetic moniker when Emperor Kameyama beheld a shimmering moonrise over the river, resembling the moon itself traversing the bridge. Since then, it has stood witness to feudal conflicts, samurai clashes, and inspired countless haiku poems.

Visitors are invited to capture Togetsukyo 's beauty from various angles, buy souvenirs from the shops at each end, embark on a rickshaw ride along the riverbanks, or indulge in delectable treats from nearby food stalls and eateries. During the summer months, the bridge comes alive with the age-old tradition of cormorant fishing, offering a captivating glimpse into Japanese culture.

Nestled within this picturesque park are over 200 macaques, also known as snow monkeys, native to Japan. Beyond a wild spectacle like no other, the park offers marvelous view of the Arashiyama district and its sprawling surroundings.

Prepare for a hilariously hairy adventure as you enter this primate paradise, where monkeys reign supreme and antics abound. Guests have the unique opportunity to interact with the cheeky critters, feeding them peanuts and fruits like apples from within a designated enclosure atop the mountain. Attentive guides are on hand to assist in identifying the most amicable ones for memorable photo opps.

Tip:
To access the park, visitors can traverse the Ichitani-jinja gate, with tickets conveniently available for purchase from the adjacent machine. Be prepared for a steep ascent, ensuring you're equipped with ample water to combat fatigue and potential perspiration.
While engaging with the monkeys, exercise caution by avoiding direct eye contact, as this may agitate or provoke them.

According to experts, Katsura is the crème de la crème of Japanese real estate. It's not just the garden that's a knockout; the buildings are the epitome of Japanese craftsmanship. Prince Toshihito (1571–1629), the brain behind this paradise, wanted a pad where he could entertain his artsy pals in style.

The highlight? A pond garden that plays peek-a-boo with your senses: as you stroll, strategically placed greenery keeps the pond a mystery, until suddenly, bam! You're hit with a clear view of the scenic shoreline, bridges, and scenes straight out of literary classics.

Toshihito, a tea enthusiast, sprinkled 'wabi-sabi' charm throughout the garden with rustic touches like stone lanterns and water basins. And don't miss the four tea houses, each with its own vibe – one's perched like a mountain retreat, while another appears to float serenely on the water.

The main buildings, crafted by Toshihito's son, are deceptively simple yet sneakily intricate – think doorbells shaped like flowers and shelves showcasing 18 wood varieties. So enchanted was the son with the estate that he rarely visited, fearing he might spoil the magic. Each trip was like stepping into his own personal paradise, and you'll likely feel the same if you pay a visit.

Tip:
To peek at this paradise, you’ll need to hop on a 40-minute tour (they have English audio guides), which loops around the centerpiece pond. Sadly, you can't snoop around the buildings, and snapping pics is only allowed in designated areas.
To snag a spot on a tour, you gotta rock up in person (don't forget your passport) to the Imperial Household Office at Kyoto Gyōen. If you're feeling lucky, you can try your hand at scoring a spot on their website, but move fast – they go like hotcakes!

If you can only squeeze in one Shinto shrine visit during your Kyoto stay, Fushimi Inari-Taisha should be your top choice. As the primary shrine for 40,000 Inari dedications nationwide, it holds sway as the divine abode of fertility, rice, sake, and prosperity.

A sight to behold, this captivating complex sprawls across a mountain, boasting over 10,000 vermillion torii gates that weave through dense woodlands along a 4-kilometer trail. Stone foxes, guardians with granary keys, dot the landscape, alongside five shrines, mausoleums, and sake-laden altars. In Shinto belief, foxes serve as messengers to 'kami' (gods), bridging our world and the next.

While wandering through the crimson tunnel may feel surreal, the shrine's focus remains firmly rooted in worldly affairs. Originally honoring rice and sake gods since AD 711, its emphasis later shifted to commerce, evidenced by black kanji inscriptions on torii gates, each donated by businesses hoping for prosperity.

Venture to the hilltop, where countless altars await, erected by devotees after individual visions of Inari. Traditional stores peddle noodles and religious items, while a viewing point offers a stunning panorama of southern Kyoto. With its playful yet sacred ambiance, embellished by myriad fox statues, the hill exudes an enchanting allure, making Fushimi Inari the city's crown jewel.

Why You Should Visit:
Apart from ample photo ops along the winding mountain trails, it offers a mystical journey through sacred terrain, rejuvenated by crisp mountain air.

Tips:
While amenities are sparse, stores and eateries dot the path, but consider carrying water. The trek to the summit is rewarding, especially in solitude, so aim for an early start to avoid crowds and relish the serene charm.

Established in 1236, Tofuku-ji stands as one of Kyoto's oldest and grandest Zen monasteries, nestled amidst the picturesque Eastern Hills. Stepping into its grounds feels like a journey back in time, as remnants of medieval charm still linger, inviting exploration of its renowned attractions: a lush gorge adorned with two thousand maples and a modern masterpiece of a garden.

True to Zen principles, the temple's layout follows a simple yet elegant design, with key structures aligned along a central axis. While most buildings are modern reconstructions, a testament to resilience after a devastating fire in 1881, the Sanmon ceremonial gate remains an imposing symbol of the temple's grandeur. Adjacent to it lies the intriguingly named "100 man toilet", featuring meticulously aligned circular openings in padded earth, alongside washrooms that once served hundreds of monks using an innovative sauna system.

Venturing further, the journey across a roofed bridge spanning a ravine leads to the revered Founder’s Hall, a site that requires a fee for entry. During autumn, the gorge teems with visitors drawn by the mesmerizing hues of its maple foliage; however, for aficionados of gardens, the spotlight falls on the Abbot's Quarters, encircled by the renowned Hasso Garden by Shigemori Mirei, credited with revolutionizing Zen garden design.

Each section of the garden tells a unique story, blending tradition with innovation. The Southern Garden features rocks symbolizing the Isles of the Immortals, juxtaposed with mossy mounds representing the top five Gozan Zen temples. Meanwhile, the Western Garden introduces a departure from convention with its raked gravel squares, and the Northern Garden captivates with a fading checkered pattern stretching into the distance. Lastly, the Eastern Garden ingeniously repurposes old pillars to depict the revered Big Dipper of Daoism, seamlessly intertwining myth and modernity to transcend traditional design constraints.

Tip:
Be sure to carry cash, as entrance fees are required for each of the garden areas. Prior research can help you decide which garden best suits your preferences.

Sanjūsangen-dō is truly remarkable in every aspect. Stretching a staggering 387 feet (118 meters), it holds the title of the longest wooden building worldwide. Within its walls stand 1,000 life-sized Buddha figures, arranged on each side of an immense sitting statue. Constructed in the 1160s, this hall served as the private sanctuary of Go-Shirakawa, a former emperor, within his vast estate.

Motivated by his faith in Amida, the ex-emperor sought to honor the deity who vowed to welcome all who invoked his name into his Pure Land paradise. The statues portray Kannon, a messenger of Amida and bodhisattva bridging the gap between worlds. Here, Kannon takes the form of the so-called Senjū Kannon, with eleven faces and a thousand arms!

Walking amidst these rows of statues can evoke a sense of awe akin to standing before a celestial choir. Despite their uniform appearance at first glance, each statue is subtly unique in body shape, eye width, and robe design. Legend has it that with enough contemplation, one may even recognize a familiar face among them.

Unfortunately, the original brightly colored building, representing the Pure Land, fell victim to fire in 1249; as a result, 875 of the statues had to be replaced. Facing west towards Amida's Pure Land, worshippers would have been greeted by the dazzling spectacle of the statues bathed in the morning sun's first rays when the central doors swung open. In a city renowned for its enchanting moments, this sight undoubtedly stood out as the most magical.

Tips:
Photography inside the hall is strictly prohibited, so consider purchasing the inexpensive guidebook with lovely pictures and informative text as a keepsake. And before departing, take a leisurely 10-15 minute stroll through the small garden surrounding the hall, a tranquil oasis deserving of appreciation.

Perched high above the sight-dense Southern Higashiyama district, Kiyomizu stands as a timeless emblem of Kyoto, seamlessly blending the sacred with the secular. Beyond the throngs of visitors lies a remarkable temple offering panoramic vistas of the city below. And if you dare to brave the crowds during cherry blossom season, the nighttime illumination of the surrounding trees is a sight to behold.

The temple's genesis is intertwined with the Otowa Spring, aptly named Kiyomizu, or "Pure Water". In 778, monk Enchin Shonin, guided by a divine vision, discovered this sacred spring. Inspired by this revelation, an aristocratic benefactor bestowed a grand hall upon the site, modeled after noble palaces rather than traditional temples, and featuring a regal shingled roof. Within resides a revered 1,000-armed Kannon, unveiled to the public only once every 33 years.

A precipitous viewing platform, originally a stage for sacred dances, offers vistas over the verdant slopes. Supported by colossal pillars without a single nail, the platform's edge plunges 13 meters (43 feet) below. Once a tragic endpoint for desperate souls, it now serves as a vantage point for admiring southern Kyoto's scenic splendor.

Jishu Shrine and the temple's verdant grounds harbor secrets and traditions. Expectant mothers seek solace at the pagoda, praying for safe childbirth, while the Otowa Spring draws pilgrims lining up to sip its healing waters. Divided into three streams, each purportedly bestowing health, longevity, or success, visitors must choose wisely—a tradition upheld for over 1,200 years.

Behold the quaintness of Kyoto's eastward lanes, where flagstones pave the way to a journey back in time. These lanes, steeped in history and tradition, stretch like ancient veins connecting the city's revered temples, serene gardens, and "ryokan" inns.

As you meander along, revel in the absence of unsightly overhead wires—oh, the luxury! And fear not, for rickshaw rides await, manned by eager lads donning traditional attire, while colorful yukata-clad maidens add a splash of festival flair. Truly, it's a time warp back to yesteryear, complete with throngs of fellow time travelers.

Amidst the historical façades, modernity peeks through in the form of upgraded shops and eateries—because who wouldn't want a Starbucks nestled within an ancient wooden house? Step into shops, and you'll find yourself surrounded by tantalizing treats like Japanese sweets, pickles, and souvenirs galore. Fancy a tea ceremony or perhaps renting a kimono? Look no further, for this is the ultimate destination for all your cultural cravings.

Tip:
For those seeking respite from the daytime crush of tourists, a strategic visit during the early morning or evening hours is advised. Sure, the shops may be closed, but the subdued lighting only adds to the enchantment of the ancient surroundings.

Ebisu-jinja is a quaint Shinto shrine paying homage to one of Japan's Seven Gods of Fortune and Prosperity, a local lad amidst gods hailing from distant lands like China and India. Ebisu's cheery visage graces the shrine's surroundings, depicted in stone carvings and sold on various trinkets. Always depicted with a hearty laugh, he often sports a rod and a fish, typically a red bream symbolizing celebration. Ebisu's tale is one of resilience, as he rose from humble, unlucky beginnings to become one of Japan's most beloved deities.

According to medieval lore, Ebisu entered this world with severe deformities, leading his own parents to abandon him. Adrift at sea in a reed-woven boat, the infant was rescued by a compassionate fisherman who raised him as his own. Despite his physical challenges, Ebisu's indomitable spirit never wavered, his smile a beacon of hope. Now revered as the god of good fortune, he watches over fishermen, laborers, and children alike, his story a testament to triumph over adversity through unwavering optimism and hard work.

While Ebisu Shrine falls under the realm of Shinto folk religion, its roots intertwine with the nearby Kennin-ji Buddhist temple. Legend has it that the temple's founder, Yōsai, found himself in dire straits during a tempestuous sea voyage back from China. Seeking divine intervention, he prayed to Ebisu, the guardian deity of seafarers, and miraculously, the storm abated. Grateful for his safe return, Yōsai erected a shrine in Ebisu's honor upon founding Kennin-ji. This harmonious blend of religious reverence underscores Japan's inclusive approach, where Shinto and Buddhism coexist seamlessly, their rituals often intertwined in daily practice.

The moat and stone walls are impeccably maintained, though compared to castles elsewhere, their dimensions are relatively modest. However, what lies within is a palace renowned for its exceptional artwork. Established in 1603, the castle served not as a display of military might, but rather as a strategic base from which the Tokugawa shoguns could oversee the emperor.

Upon entering, visitors are guided through a magnificent Chinese-style gate leading to the Ninomaru Palace. Built in 1626 for a ceremonial visit by the emperor, it symbolized a unification of imperial and shogunate factions, prompting the employment of top artists of the era to adorn its rooms. Additionally, these were intended to serve as the shogun's residence in Kyoto.

Comprising five interconnected buildings arranged hierarchically, the palace delineates spaces for functionaries, Outer Lords, Tokugawa allies, and private chambers. A unique feature is the Nightingale Corridor, which functions as an alarm system by emitting squeaks when walked upon, safeguarding the palace's wealth of artwork, including over 1,000 paintings. Noteworthy among them are depictions of sturdy pine trees, symbolizing Tokugawa power.

Adjacent to the palace lies a pond garden featuring rugged rocks evoking military strength. The path encircling the grounds leads past an ancient villa, scenic viewpoints, and tea houses. Abundant cherry trees dot the landscape, particularly enchanting when illuminated during springtime. Together, the castle and cherry blossoms conjure images of samurai and fleeting beauty, offering a profound connection to the essence of Japanese culture here at Nijo.

Tips:
Be sure to wear socks, as shoes must be removed to explore the interior. For a deeper understanding of the complex's history, consider renting audio guide headphones. Alternatively, you can join the English language tour, which runs daily at 10 AM and 12:30 PM.

Kyoto's crowning jewel, Kinkaku-ji, stands out like a golden beacon, especially when the sun decides to show off. Its top floors are gilded with gold, casting an otherworldly shimmer that dances on the pond below. Originally a holiday home for shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, it got a divine makeover into a temple after his passing in 1408.

Nestled amid lush greenery and facing a tranquil pond, Kinkaku-ji flaunts the grandeur of Kitayama's aristocratic era. The first floor echoes Heian-period palaces, with timber pillars and whitewashed walls. Ascend to the second floor, and you'll find yourself in a samurai's abode, complete with statues of Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of compassion, and the Four Heavenly Kings, mythical protectors of the cardinal directions. Meanwhile, the third floor adopts the aesthetics of a Zen Hall, inspired by Chinese design, topped with a golden phoenix.

Wandering the grounds, you'll stumble upon the former head priest's residence ("Hōjō"), and lush gardens frozen in time. Spot others tossing coins for luck? Take a shot yourself – aim for the statue's lap, and fortune may just smile upon you.

Exiting, you'll pass a teahouse, souvenir shops, and a quaint subtemple housing a statue of one of the Five Wisdom Kings, possibly carved by the esteemed monk and scholar Kobo Daishi, who founded the Shingon school of Buddhism.

Tip:
Dodge the crowds by visiting on Monday or Tuesday mornings. But if you crave the golden pavilion bathed in sunlight, swing by late afternoon or at sunset – it's pure magic.

Not too far from the bustling heart of Kyoto lies a vast expanse of greenery, home to a staggering 50,000 trees. Stretching nearly a mile in length, this rectangular plot of land was once the exclusive domain of the emperor and his entourage, complete with 200 fancy noble houses. But when the capital packed up and moved to Tokyo in 1868, this area fell into disuse. Thankfully, it's now preserved for the enjoyment of the public, though it still plays host to various ceremonies like the coronation of a new emperor.

Now, here's the kicker: the emperor's old stomping grounds, known as Gosho, are now open to the public! Visitors can wander around the wooden buildings, soaking in the ambiance of symbolic authority. Lacking any fortifications, these buildings blend seamlessly with their surroundings, practically inviting the outdoors in with their sliding panels opening onto verandas overlooking a serene pond garden.

Originally constructed in 794, the current setup dates to 1855 after a series of unfortunate fires. Enclosed by a wall and crisscrossed with gravel pathways, the palace retains its essence—think low, sweeping rooflines and lots of wood—but it's been given a modern makeover.

As for exploring, you have options: follow the simple route marked with English signage or join a free guided tour in English (lasting an hour at 10 AM and 2 PM) at the Imperial Household Office in the park's northeastern corner. Just don't forget your passport—it's your ticket to join one of these tours!

Once the favorite retirement getaway of Yoshimasa, the eighth Ashigaka Shogun, who refined the famous tea ceremony tradition, this 15th-century Zen Buddhist temple – designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994 – is often called the 'little sibling' of Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), yet boasts even more scenic and exquisite gardens. The twist? Ginkaku-ji never actually got a silver makeover; it's the moonlight dancing on its dark exterior (originally coated in black lacquer) that gives it that shimmering effect. Moreover, the grounds comprise a famous 1.75-acre dry sand garden that, in turn, reflects the moon's glow and would appear like a "sea of silver sand". Crafted with perfect precision and featuring a Mount Fuji-inspired cone, this marvel alone is worth the trip!

From the "Moon-Viewing Platform", the landscape unfolds into a moss garden with ponds, islands, quaint bridges, streams, and a variety of foliage. Eventually, the walkway snakes up to a lookout point of the entire temple grounds and the sprawling city beyond. The path is beautifully solid underfoot, paved with a mix of large and small stones, and equipped with sturdy bamboo handrails for easy climbing.

Despite the crowds, you'll find moments of serenity here. And since the walk is one-way, there's no worry of jostling with fellow visitors.

Why You Should Visit:
This temple has it all: stunning gardens, bamboo grove, charming water features, and a walkway up to view the whole complex.

Tip:
For the best experience, visit early in the day or at sunset to enjoy the views in peace. And don't forget to check out the gift shops, where you'll find unique rabbit-themed treasures and fan souvenirs not found elsewhere in Kyoto.