Travel

How to spend a long weekend in Kyoto

Japan's thousand-year capital

12.10.2017

By WanderLuxe

How to spend a long weekend in Kyoto

Once the capital city, this place is a cultural heartland where the Japanese themselves go to see the true, ancient Japan. And the icing on the matcha cake is that Kyoto’s highlights can be explored in just a few days. Our guide to spending a long weekend in Kyoto will have you saying “miso happy” in no time.

 

1. Traditional ryokans (or luxury hybrid ones!)

hoshinoya ryokan kyoto

More than just a place to sleep, ryokans are an opportunity to experience true Japanese culture, hospitality and service. But don’t expect the modern comforts of a Western-style hotel, ryokans are comprised of minimalist tatami mat-rooms. You will be expected to trade your clothes and shoes for Japanese-style robes and slippers; sleep on traditional Japanese futon bedding; and indulge in a multi-course kaiseki dinner. If you’re eager to experience an urban ryokan, Kyoto is the best place to do so. We stayed at Arashiyama Benkei, which contains its very own Japanese hot spring (also known as an onsen). Immersing yourself in these hot baths can be both therapeutic and just downright interesting—mainly because bathing suits are strictly not allowed!

 

2. The Bamboo Forest

what to do in kyoto on a short trip_bamboo forest

Located in Arashiyama, the Bamboo Forest has been labelled as one of the most beautiful groves on earth. Whilst the beauty of its towering and interconnected green stalks is what had us lusting for a visit, it is actually listed as one of the “100 Soundscapes of Japan” set by the Japanese Ministry of Environment. This is due to the interplay of eery and unique sounds created by the rustling and bending bamboo as it sways in the wind. Be sure to get there early though. You’ll want to avoid the onslaught of photographers keen to get a shot of this natural wonder.

 

3. Sushi, of course!

what to do in kyoto on a short trip_sushi

A little-known fact about sushi is that it has various regional styles such as the Kyoto-style sushi offered by the restaurants Izuju and Izuu in Kyoto’s famous Gion district. Centuries ago, Kyoto had a tough time acquiring fresh food, so Kyoto-style sushi had to incorporate a lot of cured fish. Give the sabazushi a try—pickled mackerel with sushi rice. Our favourite was the inarizushi—sushi rice in pockets of sweet beancurd skin simmered in a traditional hearth.

 

4. The main shrines and temples

what to do in kyoto on a short trip_fushimi inari shrine

In a city with over 2,000 shrines and temples, beggars really can be choosers. Perhaps the single most iconic sight in all of Kyoto is the Fushimi-Inari-Taisha Shrine. Dedicated to the gods of rice and sake in the 8th century, this magical shrine is comprised of a seemingly unending path of over 5,000 vibrant orange torii gates. And if navigating your way through this maze doesn’t take your fancy, head to Kamigamo-jinja Shrine instead; the perfect sanctuary for those seeking calm and solace.

 

5. Geishas

what to do in kyoto on a short trip_geisha

Of course, no trip to Kyoto is complete without having spotted a real-life geisha. Though they can be found throughout Japan, Kyoto is considered the birthplace of geisha culture. Gion Centre is where you’ll want to be but you’ll need some serious luck (tracking down a geisha is like finding a needle in the proverbial haystack)! If playing “Where’s Wally” isn’t your idea of a good time, then arrange for a private geisha meeting at one of the many tea houses. For a fee, you’ll be able to sip green tea and observe a unique geisha performance; the perfect end to your getaway in majestic Kyoto. 

 

This story was originally posted at WanderLuxe by The Luxe Nomad

Dream a little, travel a lot. That’s our philosophy. We’re full-time nomads with a passport in one hand and laptop in the other, traversing the globe to find the best hideaways, eateries, and local scenes. And on our luxury villa and apartment booking portal TheLuxeNomad.com, you’ll know you’re always up for your best trip yet (with the best rates).

 

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