NEIGHBORHOOD
Thousands of temples and shrines are scattered around the corners of this old capital. The coexistence of historical and contemporary shapes the city’s poetic scenery.
neighborhood
"WHEN YOU'RE HURRYING AROUND TOO QUICKLY," HE HAD SAID, "THERE'S A PART OF THE WORLD YOU CAN'T SEE. IF, FOR EXAMPLE, YOU'RE TAKING A WRONG DIRECTION IN YOUR LIFE, IT'S ONLY WHEN YOU STOP AND LOOK AT THINGS CLEARLY THAT YOU CAN REVISE YOUR DIRECTION AND TAKE A MORE PROPER COURSE. THEN MESSAGE OF ZEN IS THAT IN ORDER TO FIND OURSELVES, WE'VE GOT TO LEARN TO STOP." ― PICO IYER, THE LADY AND THE MONK: FOUR SEASONS IN KYOTO
A city that has charmed writers from Yuki Mishima, Yasunari Kawabata, to Pico Iyer, Kyoto frequently poses as the backdrop of literary works. Thousands of temples and shrines are scattered around the corners of this old capital. The coexistence of historical and contemporary shapes the city’s poetic scenery. From unmissable sights as Katsura Imperial Villa, Kinkakuji, Ginkakuji, Sanjusangendo, and Rurikoin, to intricate artisanal crafts by Kanaami Tsuji and Kaikado, or the complex flavors of Kyo-cuisine, or the heritage of Geisha culture, no one can resist the beauty found in Kyoto.
The best way to explore Kyoto is by feet. Within a stone throw’s distance, one may be at a temple, a shrine, or look out to a mountain view, and be by the riverside. This is a city to satisfy diverse interests. There are many hip cafes and roasteries for a coffee break from the historical sights, or find a tea ceremony paired with German chocolates in a tucked away gallery. Kyoto is a city full of stories waiting to be discovered.
ACCESS
A 15-minute drive from Kyoto Station, located at the intersection of Karasuma and Marutamachi, and 5 minutes walk to Kyoto Imperial Palace.
It’s good to have a morning jogging or enjoy a quiet and fresh time in this Imperial Palace woods.
