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Once the capital of Japan, Kyoto remains the cultural heart of the country. The sense of tradition is palpable, from the scarlet gates of the Fushimi Inari Shrine to the charming teahouses of Gion. More than 1,600 Buddhist temples and 400 Shinto shrines punctuate the city, including UNESCO World Heritage sites like Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion). And just when you think the city couldn't get any more beautiful, find yourself amongst the hushed, towering bamboo groves of Arashiyama. Between these serene spaces, you’ll find bustling markets, world-class museums, and restaurants serving kaiseki - Japan's multi-course haute cuisine.
Kyoto offers an intimate look at Japan's past and its enduring traditions. Whether you're partaking in a tea ceremony or watching a maiko (apprentice geisha) performance, Kyoto promises an immersion into Japanese culture that few places can match.
Venture into the northern outskirts of Kyoto, to the Ohara area, which boasts beautiful temples and rural landscapes that offer a break from the city's more frequented sights.
When visiting Kyoto, it's important to respect local customs, which includes following the etiquette in temples and shrines, and refraining from taking photos of geishas without their permission.