Kyoto, the former imperial capital of Japan, is a city steeped in history and tradition. With its well-preserved temples, shrines, and gardens, Kyoto offers visitors a glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural heritage. The city is also known for its stunning natural beauty, with its many parks and gardens providing a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of city life.
June is an ideal time to visit Kyoto, as the weather is mild and pleasant. The city is also less crowded than during the peak tourist season in July and August. During June, visitors can enjoy a variety of festivals and events, including the Gion Matsuri, one of Japan’s most famous festivals. Here are nine of the best things to do in Kyoto in June 2024:
1. Visit the Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Kiyomizu-dera Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Kyoto’s most popular tourist attractions. The temple is known for its stunning wooden architecture and its beautiful natural setting. The temple is built on a hillside overlooking the city, and visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto from the temple’s veranda. Kiyomizu-dera Temple is also famous for its Otowa Waterfall, where visitors can drink from three different streams of water that are said to bring good luck.
2. Walk through the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
The Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is a magical place that is located on the outskirts of Kyoto. The forest is made up of thousands of towering bamboo trees, and the sound of the wind rustling through the leaves is truly unforgettable. Visitors can walk through the forest on a variety of trails, and there are also several temples and shrines located within the forest.
3. Visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine
The Fushimi Inari Shrine is one of the most important Shinto shrines in Japan. The shrine is known for its thousands of red torii gates, which form a path leading up to the mountaintop. Visitors can hike to the top of the mountain, or they can take a cable car to the top. From the top of the mountain, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto and the surrounding countryside.
4. Attend the Gion Matsuri
The Gion Matsuri is one of Japan’s most famous festivals. The festival is held in Kyoto every year in July, and it lasts for over a month. During the festival, there are a variety of events and activities, including parades, music performances, and tea ceremonies. The highlight of the festival is the Yoiyama Parade, which is held on the evening of July 17. During the parade, floats decorated with lanterns and flowers are paraded through the streets of Kyoto.
5. Visit the Nishiki Market
The Nishiki Market is a lively market that is located in the heart of Kyoto. The market is known for its fresh seafood, vegetables, and fruits. Visitors can also find a variety of souvenirs and handicrafts at the market. The Nishiki Market is a great place to experience the local culture and to try some of Kyoto’s delicious food.
6. Visit the Kinkaku-ji Temple
The Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion, is one of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks. The temple is covered in gold leaf, and it is reflects beautifully in the surrounding lake. Visitors can walk around the temple and admire its beauty, or they can take a boat ride on the lake. The Kinkaku-ji Temple is a must-see for any visitor to Kyoto.
7. Visit the Ginkaku-ji Temple
The Ginkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Silver Pavilion, is another one of Kyoto’s most famous temples. The temple is covered in silver leaf, and it is located in a beautiful garden. Visitors can walk around the temple and admire its beauty, or they can relax in the garden and enjoy the peace and tranquility. The Ginkaku-ji Temple is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
8. Visit the Ryoan-ji Temple
The Ryoan-ji Temple is a Zen Buddhist temple that is known for its rock garden. The rock garden is made up of 15 rocks that are arranged in a bed of white gravel. The meaning of the rock garden is unknown, and it is up to the individual visitor to interpret its meaning. The Ryoan-ji Temple is a great place to meditate and to reflect on the meaning of life.
9. Visit the Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama
The Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama is a park that is located on the outskirts of Kyoto. The park is home to over 130 Japanese macaques, and visitors can observe the monkeys in their natural habitat. The park also has a variety of hiking trails, and visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto from the top of the mountain.
These are just a few of the many things to do in Kyoto in June 2024. With its rich history, beautiful scenery, and delicious food, Kyoto is a city that has something to offer everyone.
Culture
Kyoto is a city with a rich and vibrant culture. The city is home to many traditional festivals and events, and visitors can experience the local culture by attending one of these events. Kyoto is also home to a number of museums and art galleries, and visitors can learn about the city’s history and culture by visiting one of these institutions.
Best Months to Visit
The best time to visit Kyoto is in the spring (March-May) or fall (September-November). During these seasons, the weather is mild and pleasant, and the city is less crowded. However, Kyoto is a popular tourist destination, so it is important to book your accommodations and flights in advance.
Nearby Transportation
Kyoto is a well-connected city, and it is easy to get around using public transportation. The city has a subway system, a bus system, and a train system. Visitors can also rent a bicycle or a car to get around the city.
Local Food
Kyoto is known for its delicious food. The city is home to a number of Michelin-starred restaurants, and visitors can also find a variety of affordable and delicious food at local restaurants and street stalls.
Best Hotels
There are a variety of hotels to choose from in Kyoto. Visitors can find hotels to fit all budgets, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels. Some of the best hotels in Kyoto include the Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto, the Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto, and the Hyatt Regency Kyoto.
Conclusion
Kyoto is a city that has something to offer everyone. With its rich history, beautiful scenery, and delicious food, Kyoto is a city that is sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors.
