Once the capital of Japan, Kyoto remains one of the destinations most beloved by people who travel to the far-eastern nation.

Famous for its culture and beauty, this city provides the perfect introduction to hundreds of years of Japanese history, thanks to the fact many of its ancient buildings are among the most well-preserved in the country. 

In Kyoto, tourists can find a whopping 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a massive temple overlooking the Southern Higashiyama sightseeing district, and the Nijo-jo Castle, a special destination for people who want to soak into the ancient power of the samurai. 

Many of Kyoto’s historic sites are immersed in nature, including the Katsura Imperial Villa, which over the centuries left many speechless for its beauty.

Among them, internet user Violetvz wrote on the travel website Tripadvisor: “The tranquillity and beauty of this villa will make you want to sit on the grass and just relax in the atmosphere – beautiful.” 

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What makes this ancient city often named one of the prettiest in the world by its visitors is also its ability to stun tourists by hiding marvellous points of interest and locations in plain sight.

Kyoto’s shops and restaurants are at times tucked into narrow streets, where visitors will often stumble across new sights and attractions they hadn’t noticed before.

With more than 400 Shinto shrines and 1600 Buddhist temples to visit, this city offers a unique spiritual experience. 

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But Kyoto’s huge cultural offer doesn’t stop at its ancient sites or its outstanding natural views. 

Rather, over the years it has made a name for itself also for its amazing food culture. Among the must-try are vegetarian dishes, influenced by Chinese Buddhism, beef cutlet and soba noodles with dried herring. 

One of the unmissable experiences for those travelling through the ancient capital is the traditional Kyoto-style course meal – a formal multi-course dinner followed by the tea ceremony, which is a light meal offered before a strong tea. 

Those interested in tasting a little bit of everything that is offered in Kyoto should go to the Nishiki Market, where can be found stalls with any type of food, produce and even cookware.

Given its beauty and the many cultural attractions in Kyoto, the city draws millions of tourists every month.

According to the Kyoto Prefecture, in December 2022 alone a whopping 4.33 million people visited the city. 

Flights from London in January will set you back around £600 and can take around 19 hours with a layover.

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