Kyoto Highlights
Day Tour
The best of Kyoto in one day.
Kinkakuji Temple - Golden Pavilion
Kiyomizu Temple
Kyoto Imperial Palace
Nijo Castle
Heian Shrine
Sanjusangendo Hall
Kyoto Handicraft Center
Himeji Castle
Day Tour
Experience Japan's best castle!
World Heritage site.
Includes trip on bullet train
Plus tour sake brewery museum
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CENTRAL KYOTO
Nijō Castle (二条城). Certainly one of the
highlights of Kyoto. The series of ornately-decorated reception
rooms within the Ninomaru complex is particularly impressive, and
known for its "nightingale floors" - wooden flooring which makes
bird-like squeaking sounds when stepped on. From the donjon of the
inner castle, you can get good views over the castle layout, and
the rest of the city. Open daily, 8.45am-5pm, with last admission
at 4pm. Admission ¥600. Nearest bus stop: Nijojo-mae. Nearest
subway station: Nijojo-mae.
The Imperial Park is a large, peaceful area
in the centre of Kyoto, centred around the Imperial Palace.
The Palace itself is only open to visitors on pre-booked guided
tours - English tours take place at 10am and 2pm Monday-Friday,
and bookings must be made at the Imperial Household Agency,
located to the west of the palace complex. The park is home to
50,000 trees, including cherry, plum and peach tree orchards.
The Museum of Kyoto is particularly
worthwhile if you have a burning interest in ancient pottery,
otherwise not really worth a visit. Open daily 10am-8.30pm.
Admission ¥500. Located on Takakura-dori. Nearest bus stop:
Shijo Karasuma. Nearest subway station: Karasuma Oike.
Nishi Honganji Temple
Toji Temple, an oasis of calm near central
Kyoto, its pagoda is the tallest wooden structure in Japan.
