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Academic English

“tour of kyoto, japan”, pre-listening exercise.

Imagine you are going on a bus tour of a famous city like Kyoto, Japan. What general places do you think you would visit? What things would the tour guide point out about a famous landmark (for example, the date of its construction)?

“take in” = attend a movie, concert, or play “ Why don’t we take in a traditional Japanese play while we’re in the city? “

“for a song” = very cheaply “ We were able to buy these Japanese dolls for a song .”

Listening Exercise

A. Listen to the recording and answer the questions.

Tour of Kyoto, Japan

What time is the bus leaving, the golden pavilion was build in _____., the ryoanji temple is famous for its _____., there are many _______ to visit in gion., visitors have ______ minutes to tour the castle., post-listening exercise.

Are there any sightseeing tours available in your home city? If so, where would they take a visitor to your city? Pretend you are the tour guide hosting exchange students in your city. What details about the city would you share with your guests? What would be the best way to see your city: on foot, by bicycle, by bus, or by taxi?

• Easy Listening
• Intermediate Listening
• Difficult Listening
• Academic English Listening

Kyoto, Japan: The Ultimate Travel Guide

In Kyoto , on Japan’s main island of Honshu, rich history and tradition meet stunning natural beauty in what can only be described as a harmonious tapestry. The former capital of Japan is still very much considered its cultural capital, with thousands of ancient temples and shrines, bustling geisha districts, and an exquisite food scene. In this ultimate travel guide to Kyoto, discover timeless, tranquil allure as we explore its countless treasures, bridging the gap between past and present.

Best Known For: Buddhist Temples and Shinto Shrines

As one of the oldest, most traditional cities in Japan, it’s no surprise that Kyoto’s star attractions are its 2,000+ Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples. During its golden age as Japan’s capital, Kyoto was also the cultural center of the country. Today, it’s home to 17 UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Sites — all but one a temple or shrine. One, Kamigamo Jinja, is the city’s oldest, founded over 1,340 years ago in 678.

Explore Kyoto’s most prestigious temples and shrines on our guided tours, which offer expert local insight and insider secrets. For example, our Best of Kyoto Day Tour takes you to Nijo Castle, the Kyoto Imperial Palace, the famous Golden Pavilion, and many more hidden gems. You can also explore these Kyoto highlights via bike on our Kyoto Bike Tour .

Kyoto Guide: Essential Travel Information

Interactive map of kyoto.

More Things to See in Kyoto

Explore the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: Considered one of the most beautiful places in Japan , the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove , or “Bamboo Forest,” is exactly what it sounds like—a tranquil path leading through thick, towering bamboo. Explore the path on foot or bicycle.

Indulge in Kyoto’s tea culture: Kyoto’s history is closely tied to traditional Japanese tea culture. In fact, the birthplace of matcha is just south of Kyoto, in bustling Uji. Visit Kyoto & Uji in one day on our Kyoto & Uji Tour – From Kyoto & Osaka .

Soak up Japanese history: Each time period and Japanese society has imprinted itself on the countless Heritage Sites in Kyoto. Explore Buddhist and Shinto history on this afternoon shrines and temples tour , get to know the Emperors of old on a morning royal-themed tour of Kyoto , or combine them both in a full-day excursion into the depths of Japanese eminence.

Experience Gion, the geisha district: Kyoto is one of the best places in Japan to experience traditional geisha culture, known here as geiko . Four of the city’s five primary geiko districts are in the Gion district , and you can experience them on the Evening Food Tour . Indulge in a 10-course meal while exploring some of the district’s most iconic, historical streets. 

Where to Stay in Kyoto

Bustling, beautiful Kyoto has several distinct regions and no shortage of excellent hotels in each. To help you make a decision, consider what part of the city you’d like to stay in. 

Downtown Kyoto: Downtown is the best place to stay overall, putting you within easy walking distance of the city’s best bars , restaurants, and shops. You’ll also be conveniently located near public transportation and several major attractions. There’s a pleasant mix of big-name and boutique hotels downtown, catering to all types of travelers.

Higashiyama: Divided into Southern and Northern Higashiyama, this is one of the oldest, best preserved, and most scenic parts of Kyoto, with a large concentration of temples, shrines, and other attractions. Gion is here, as well as some of the city’s best restaurants. 

Kyoto Station: Just slightly removed from the hustle and bustle of downtown and the major tourist hubs, staying near Kyoto Station offers convenience and proximity to public transport. Many of Kyoto’s best family hotels are also in this area. 

If you’re planning to visit other cities in Japan, such as Tokyo or Osaka, consider one of our all-inclusive multi-day Kyoto tour packages . These allow you to explore several places on one trip and get a more authentic feel for Japan as a whole, plus all tours and hotels are included!

Kyoto Food Guide: Restaurants & Markets

Kyoto’s food scene is a major aspect of its culture. Like the city as a whole, its cuisine leans heavily traditional, with an emphasis on seasonal and pickled foods. Foodies will find everything from traditional multi-course meals known as kaiseki to tea houses and yudofu , a simple, casual tofu hot pot dish. Sweets and snacks, okashi , are also prominent in Kyoto cuisine. 

Also in Kyoto is the renowned Nishiki Market , highly regarded as one of the best food markets in the world. The covered outdoor market spans five city blocks, with over 100 vendors and restaurants inside. Experience the city’s rich and diverse food culture on a guided food tour . One of the standouts is the Evening Food Tour in Kyoto’s Gion District , which includes a 10-course feast.

Kyoto Guide: Things to Book Ahead 

In popular tourist destinations like Kyoto, it’s wise to book several things well in advance. The Imperial Palace is often closed to visitors, so make sure to reserve your spot on a Kyoto tour that visits this relic of Kyoto. Besides accommodation, these include wildly popular food and drink tours with limited availability. Some often sell out, like temple and shrine tours.

If you find yourself with some extra time while in Kyoto, make sure to venture out and visit the surrounding magical places. Nara, for example, is situated just 38 km from Kyoto, making it an ideal day trip from Kyoto. Join our half-day trip to Nara from Kyoto or see the best of both cities on our Kyoto & Nara Day Tour . Alternatively, spend a day visiting Osaka on our Best of Osaka Tour from Kyoto . With so much to see and do in Kyoto and its surrounding regions, we highly recommend booking one of our multi-day Kyoto tour packages to ensure you do it all. However long your itinerary, and whatever your Japan travel budget , we are sure to have a package to suit your requirements. From our 8-Day Budget Japan Tour Package to our 11-Day Ultimate Japan Private Tour Package , allow us to show you the highlights of this magical country.

See all Kyoto Tours

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Kyoto Self-Guided Audio Tour

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Learn more about the top 23 tourist attractions in Kyoto. Its history, culture, myths, architecture, and other important facts are in this audio commentary.

The top 10 advantages for those who prefer flexibility on their tour.

• Safe - Not required to download, with just a click of secure access links it can be listened to online on any device.
• Save - The lowest price in the city.
• Stories - No imagination stories, only verified information.
• Schedule - Listen at your own convenience of time, pace, and location,
• Select - Preferred languages and attractions.
• Self-control: No need to be behind someone's instructions in always.
• Share - with co-travelers in just a click.
• Soft - Selective crafted words that make you listen again.
• Simple - Use our personally created itinerary which starts from the city's central station and then gradually moves one by one.
• Smart - in all aspects

Activity location

• 901 Higashishiokojicho, Shimogyo-ku
• 600-8216, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan

Meeting/Redemption Point

• Kyoto, Kyoto, Japan
• Thu, Apr 18 -
• Fri, Apr 19 $9
• Sat, Apr 20 $9
• Sun, Apr 21 $9
• Mon, Apr 22 $9
• Tue, Apr 23 $9
• Wed, Apr 24 $9
• Thu, Apr 25 $9
• Fri, Apr 26 $9
• Sat, Apr 27 $9
• Sun, Apr 28 $9
• Mon, Apr 29 $9
• Tue, Apr 30 $9
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• Thu, May 2 $9

Self-Guided Audio Tour

• Activity duration is 3 hours 3h 3h

What's included, what's not

• What's included What's included Private access links validity up to 6 days
• What's included What's included Private access link to the audio guide in one playlist for 23 attractions
• What's included What's included Private access link to a tour itinerary map of 23 attractions with audio guide individually
• What's excluded What's excluded Entry fees (wherever required)
• What's excluded What's excluded Transportations (pick-up and drop-off)

Know before you book

• Public transportation options are available nearby
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• How to use it? Audio guide access links will be sent to you in an email on your selected date of travel before your starting time. Once received Link (1) Simply click on our Sound Cloud secured web link to listen to your preferred attraction audio guide (or) listen to the entire attraction audio guide to plan your visit accordingly. Link (2) Simply click on our Google My Map secured web link to reach your preferred attractions and listen to the audio guide (or) find nearby attractions to you to visit and listen to the audio guide.

Activity itinerary

Kyoto station building, higashi hongan-ji temple, fushimi inari-taisha shrine, tofuku-ji temple.

• Admission ticket not included

Sanjusangendo Temple

Kiyomizu-dera temple, sannenzaka ninenzaka, kodai-ji temple, kennin-ji temple, nanzen-ji temple, eikando zenrinji temple, heian shrine, ginkakuji temple, shimogamo jinja, kyoto imperial palace, nijo castle, kitano tenmangu shrine, kamigamo shrine, kinkakuji temple, ryoanji temple, tenryuji temple, best deals on things to do, top experiences in kyoto.

Kyoto Tour Two Days in Kyoto Itinerary

• Published on : 23/04/2020
• by : Japan Experience
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Kyoto Tour: Two Days in Kyoto Itinerary: For those travelers to Kyoto who have just 2 days to see the ancient capital's many sites, what to do? What to choose? What to weed out?

Kyoto Tour: Two Days in Kyoto Itinerary 京都

Day 1 - arashiyama, bamboo forest, sagano scenic railway, day 2 - higashiyama.

For those travelers to Kyoto who have just two days to see the ancient capital's many sites, what to do? What to choose? What to weed out?

As long-time Kyoto residents, we suggest breaking down the city into geographic areas and focus on a group of temples, shrines, etc. that are in close proximity and can be seen comfortably in a short time.

Day one takes in Arashiyama, day two Higashiyama.

Arashiyama is a beautiful area several kilometers west of downtown Kyoto. Arashiyama is hard by the Katsura River and flush against the mountains that encircle the city.

Arashiyama is among the most famous places in Kyoto and all of Japan. It is best known for Tenryuji Temple , its bamboo forest, the Katsura River, Togetsukyo Bridge, the Sagano Romantic ("Torokko") Train , as a wonderful place to stroll, and for its Monkey Park.

Arashiyama is a great day out.

Here is a suggested itinerary.

A short walk from either the final stop of the Hankyu Line, Arashiyama Station, or the Keifuku Railways (" Randen ") Arashiyama Station, is the Togetsukyo Bridge. (It is also possible to take the JR Saiin Line to Saga-Arashiyama Station. From there, it is a 10-15-minute walk.) It spans the Katsura River and in some form has stood for 400 years. It offers views of the river and nearby mountains.

Tenryuji Temple

Having taken the requisite selfie, it is time to move on to Tenryuji Temple, the best-known temple in Arashiyama. Tenryuji is the head temple of the Tenryu sect of Rinzai Zen Buddhism and is ranked first among Kyoto's top five Zen temples, or Gozan: Nanzenji, Shokokuji, Tofukuji and Kenninji are the other four.

Tenryuji was created in honor of Gautama Buddha, and was founded by the Shogun Ashikaga Takauji (1305-1358).

Prior to the founding of Tenryuji, the Empress Tachibana no Kachiko, who was the wife of the Emperor Saga, created a Buddhist temple named Danrinji on the exact same spot. In the mid-thirteenth century, however, Emperor Gosaga and his son Emperor Kameyama converted the grounds into an imperial villa.

The villa was later converted into a temple in order to hold a memorial service for Emperor Go-Daigo. Tenryuji Temple grew to contain 150 sub-temples. Fire, however, decimated the temple no less than five times in the 14th and 15th centuries, and then again in the Onin War, and yet again in 1815. Tenryuji as it stands today dates mainly from the Meiji Period . In 1994, Tenryuji became a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Suggested time - 40 minutes to 1 hour .

From here, a short walk brings you to the Bamboo Forest . This is, literally, a large grove of bamboo trees. It is very popular with tourists, but well worth a stroll. Even on the hottest days of summer, it is cool and peaceful.

Within the forest is Okochi Sanso Villa . It was originally the estate of the famed film actor Okochi Denjiro (1898-1962). The main house here is a beautiful example of traditional Japanese residential architecture; in addition, there is a tea house and gorgeous gardens.

From here it is a 10-15-minute stroll through the Bamboo Forest (again) and a pleasant neighborhood to the Torokko Arashiyama Station.

Suggested time - 30-45 minutes in Okochi Sanso Villa; 15 minutes through the Bamboo Forest .

The Sagano Scenic Railway (also known as the Sagano Romantic Train or Sagano Torokko) is a sightseeing train line that runs along the Hozugawa River between Arashiyama and Kameoka .

It is an old-school train that runs through the mountains, slowly and above the river. The trip takes about 25 minutes to arrive at Kameoka. For this tour, we will enjoy the station building and keep on moving.

Suggested time - 30 minutes for the ride and the station .

Next on the tour is the Sagano Doll House. You will now come to the Sagano Doll House. Beyond this, follow the narrow road up and up, past old machiya-like homes.

Suggested time - 20 minutes .

The last two stops on a full-day walk are the Kyoto Okusaga Shoji Photo Museum and Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple .

The latter has thousands of Buddhist statuettes. If you are fortunate enough to be in Kyoto during the Bon period - in mid-August when the souls of one's ancestors return to earth on their annual visit - the entire place is lit up at night with candles.

The Sento Kuyo festival is held in late August at the temple from 5.30 - 8.30 pm. It is magic. (Please check with the Tourist Office in Kyoto for the exact dates.)

Suggested time - Okusaga Shoji Photo Museum & Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple (45 minutes) .

Now it is time to retrace your steps back to the central part of Arashiyama. Green tea ice cream or the foot baths at the Keifuku Arashiyama Station are highly recommended.

For the very ambitious - or those with children - a side trip is to walk to the monkey park. Iwatayama Monkey Park houses roughly 150 monkeys. They are wild monkeys native to Japan, but are used to people.

Walk Itinerary: Togetsukyo Bridge - Tenryuji Temple - Bamboo Forest - Okochi Sanso Villa - Torokko Arashiyama Station - Sagano Doll House - Kyoto Okusaga Shoji Photo Museum - Adashino Nenbutsu Temple.

At night, it is best to head back into central Kyoto. Dining and drinking options are far greater and more interesting than in Arashiyama. A walk along Pontocho or through Gion is highly recommended. Shops, restaurants and bars abound.

Arashiyama Access

Hankyu Railways: Take the train to the last stop, Hankyu Arashiyama Station. If you are coming from central Kyoto or Osaka , you will need to change at Katsura.

Keifuku Line : Ride to the last stop, Arashiyama.

JR Sanin Line: (Sagano Line) From Kyoto Station , take a local train to Saga Arashiyama Station.

Bus: Best avoided because of traffic jams. From Kyoto Station, stop C6, take bus 71, 72, or 73.

Day 2 of your Kyoto visit takes in Higashiyama ("eastern mountain"). Higashiyama is a broad area that runs along the eastern side of the city, and we break it into two areas: north and south. The northern section can be done in half a day, the southern area requires a day.

The northern section of Higashiyama is one of the most pleasant areas of Kyoto, retaining an almost semi-rural feel. It is mostly free of tour buses and traffic jams, and features Shugakuin and Ichijoji.

Northern Higashiyama

Northern Higashiyama is an area full of Buddhist temples and traditional gardens and makes for an ideal half-day stroll. There are wonderful views of Mount Hiei throughout the walk.

The walk begins at Shugakuin Station on the Eizan Line. This is accessible via Demachiyanagi Station on the Keihan Line or bus #5 from Kyoto Station to Shugakuin Rikyu-michi bus stop.

Sekizanzenin Temple

Walk north east along the side of the small Otowa River and turn left to enter Sekizanzenin Temple up the hill from the concrete torii gate. This free-admission temple dates from the 9th century and has a pleasant carp pond and even an Edo Period fire-engine on display.

Suggested time - 20-30 minutes .

Shugakuin-rikyu Palace

From Sekizanzenin, walk back the way you came and then turn left up to the gates of Shugakuin-rikyu Palace . Turning right past the entrance to the palace, you will see some beautiful old houses with wooden entry gates and gardens on your right. Look out for the Chinese characters 山脱解 above the gate. The small Japanese garden contains stone Buddhist images.

Walking straight along this lane affords great vistas of Mount Hiei to your left and brings you out at Saginomori Shrine - a pleasant Shinto shrine with towering cypress trees and plum and cherry blossoms in spring.

Turning left here and up the hill is Manshuin Temple , which was founded by Saicho (767-822) and originally stood on Mount Hiei. The Tendai sect temple moved here in 1656 and contains a lovely Japanese rock garden and original teahouses.

Suggested time - 30 minutes at Manshuin .

Walking back down the hill, bearing south brings you to an area still containing a number of Edo and Meiji Period walled farm houses, still owned by their original and wealthy families.

A 15-minute stroll south will bring you to Enkoji Temple , a Rinzai sect temple that has stood here since the 17th century. Enkoji has a small garden and a beautiful screen painted by the artist Maruyama Okyo. Tokugawa Ieyasu ordered the priests of Enkoji to study Confucianism and their ancient wooden type sets are preserved in the temple.

Suggested time at Enkoji - 30 minutes .

A 5-minute walk to the south is Shisendo Temple , which was established as a Soto sect temple in 1966 on the grounds of a retreat built Jozen Ishikawa (1582-1672), a scholar, warrior, master of the tea ceremony and landscape architect.

Virtually next door to Shisendo is the Hachidai Shrine, now dedicated to the legendary Japanese swordsman Musashi Miyamoto (1584-1645), and the author of The Book of Five Rings , who fought one of his famous and deadly duels here.

Suggested time at Shisendo and Hachidai Shrine is about 40 minutes .

Walking along the road up the mountain leads to Tanukidani Fudoin , a Shingon sect temple noted for its popular car blessing ceremonies and sales of lucky charms for safe driving.

On the evening of July 28 from 7 pm, Tanukidani Fudoin hosts a fire festival, where yamabushi mountain priests blow conches and walk across the hot ashes of burnt pine branches. Spectators can hot foot it across too. The main hall of the temple is built on pillars and from the veranda there are good views over Kyoto.

Suggested time including walking up and down from Tanukidani Fudoin is about 50 minutes .

Southern Higashiyama

This walk wends it way through southern Higashiyama, heading south along Philosopher's Walk, passing many temples and shrines, and ultimately ending at Kiyomizu Dera (temple). It is a full day's walk.

For those coming from Enkoji or Shisendo, walk down the hill, with Mt. Hiei at your back, until you arrive at Shirakawa Dori (street). Turn left. Walk for roughly ten minutes until you get to Imadegawa Dori. Turn left. A hundred or so meters on the right is the beautiful Hashimoto Kansetsu Garden & Museum , once the refined home of the Japanese painter Hashimoto Kansetsu (1883-1945). From here it is several minutes to the Silver Pavilion (Ginkakuji) and the northern end of Philosopher's Walk.

If you are coming from other parts of the city, the Silver Pavilion is a 15-20 minute walk from Demachiyanagi Station on the Keihan Line from Sanjo Keihan Station or take bus #5 from Kyoto Station.

Ginkakuji is arguably the zenith of Japanese artistic expression. The fifteenth century temple was originally a villa for the Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa, a less than competent ruler but tremendous patron of the arts in a time of conflict and instability.

Suggested time for Hashimoto Kansetsu Garden & Museum and Ginkakuji together is about 1 hour, 20 minutes, though you could spend longer .

From there, begin walking along Philosopher's Walk . Along this tree-lined path are Honen-in Temple, Anrakuji Temple, Eikando Temple, and  Nanzenji Temple . The path stretches for about 2 kilometers (a bit more than a mile). Philosophers Walk is a favorite spot for cherry blossom viewing in Kyoto.

Suggested time for Philosopher's Walk is about 30-40 minutes

The end of Philosopher's Walk takes you to Keage Station, which is on the Tozai (east-west) line of the Kyoto subway and in front of the Westin Miyako Hotel.

A side trip is just south in Okazaki, which is home to the Kyoto Zoo and several of Kyoto's best museums: the Kampo Museum, Hosomi Museum, Kyoto National Museum of Modern Art, and Kyoto Municipal Museum of Art.

The next stop is Chion-in Temple .

Turn right and walk down the slope from Keage Station. At Jingu-michi (street), turn left. Walk up the slope lined with trees. This is the beginning of Maruyama Park. Chion-in is on the left.

Chion-in is the headquarters of the Jodo sect of Buddhism and was built in 1294. It is also home to the largest bell in Japan.

Suggested time for Chion-in is about 25-35 minutes .

From here, walk through  Maruyama Park .  Yasaka Shrine is on your right, and Gion just out the front gate and across the street.

You are now entering one of the most beautiful and popular parts of Kyoto. Exiting the park on the south side, you will wander narrow streets with temples all around you.

You should find yourself on Nene no Michi, a beautiful traffic-free street with   Kodaiji Temple on your left and the quaint alley Ishibei-koji on your right.

Kodaiji was built in 1605 at the behest of Nene, a noblewoman who was married to Toyotomi Hideyoshi. After his death in 1598, Nene decided to become a nun and founded the Buddhist temple Kodaiji. It is perched atop a hill above Nene no Michi.

On the opposite side of the street from Kodaiji is Ishibei Koji Street, a lovely alley with wooden homes, restaurants, and ryokan (Japanese style inns).

Continuing south on Nene no Michi, you will ultimately arrive at Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka. These are narrow sloped streets with traditional shops.

Walking from Maruyama Park, seeing Yasaka Shrine and Nene no Michi should take an hour .

Jostling with the crowd - and doing a bit of shopping - you walk up the slopes, which will bring you Kiyomizuzaka, the path that leads to  Kiyomizudera Temple .

Kiyomizu Dera is the most visited site in Kyoto. The original Kiyomizu Temple dates from the eighth century C.E. and is composed of several Buddhist temples.

The most well-known aspect of Kiyomizu dera is the huge veranda of the main hall. It juts out from the mountain on wooden pillars and is quite impressive.

Walking back down Kiyomizuzaka, you can take the bus back to Kyoto Station from Gojo-zaka. Take bus number 100 or 206.

We suggest an hour or more in and around Kiyomizu dera.

For those interested in eating out, nearby Gion and Kiyomizu are both full of establishments.

Accommodation in Kyoto

Japan Experience offers many holiday rentals in Kyoto in some great neighborhoods throughout the city; The famous entertainment area of Gion and Philosopher's Path, a quiet and pretty spot, popular with locals. Their comfortable accommodation in Kyoto has everything that you need for a trip and is a perfect base for any stay. See japan-experience.com/rent-a-house-in-kyoto for further details.

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From Osaka: Kyoto Private Day Tour

• Kyoto , Osaka , Private Tours , Tour Reviews

The ‘From Osaka: Kyoto Private Day Tour’ offers travelers the opportunity to embark on a fully customizable and all-inclusive experience, allowing them to discover the must-see sights of Kyoto.

Imagine exploring the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, visiting the iconic Kinkaku-ji Temple, and strolling through the historic Geisha district of Gion, all at your own pace.

With a friendly driver who speaks Japanese, English , and Chinese , you can enjoy a private group experience in a comfortable 7-seater or 10-seater vehicle.

The tour offers a flexible travel plan, with no upfront payment required and the option for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Get ready to learn about the beauty and cultural heritage of Kyoto with this exceptional private day tour.

Quick Takeaways

• Fully customizable itineraries with the option of free cancellation and flexible travel plans.
• Professional driver fluent in Japanese, English , and Chinese for clear and effective communication.
• Fully immersive and personalized experience with customization options for the itinerary.
• Hassle-free transportation throughout the day in a comfortable 7-seater or 10-seater vehicle.

Not for you? Here's a few more great tours and experiences nearby.

• Private Transfer From Osaka Kansai Airport (Kix) to Maizuru Port
• Osaka Kansai Airport (Kix) to Osaka Hotels – Round-Trip Private Transfer
• Private & Custom Osaka-Nara Day Tour by Land Rover Discovery Sport 2018
• Round-Trip Private Transfer From Osaka Kansai Airport to Kobe

Activity Details

The activity details of the Kyoto Private Day Tour from Osaka include:

• Free cancellation
• Flexible travel plans
• Duration of 10 hours

This tour offers fully customized itineraries in Kyoto, allowing you to explore everything this beautiful city has to offer. With the convenience of a private transportation service , you can enjoy a hassle-free and comfortable travel experience.

The tour provides a professional driver who’s fluent in Japanese, English, and Chinese, ensuring clear communication throughout the day. You can choose between a 7-seater or 10-seater vehicle, depending on the size of your group.

The tour also offers pick-up from your hotel in Osaka and efficient route planning to all the sights. Whether you want to visit famous landmarks or discover hidden gems, this tour allows you to create your own unique itinerary in Kyoto.

During the Kyoto Private Day Tour from Osaka, visitors can enjoy a fully immersive and personalized experience of the city. The tour offers customization options , allowing travelers to create their own itinerary and explore everything Kyoto has to offer. The experience includes a professional private transportation service , ensuring comfort and convenience throughout the day. Travelers can choose between a 7-seater or 10-seater vehicle, depending on the size of their group. One of the highlights of the tour is the friendly driver who is proficient in Japanese, English, and Chinese, making communication easy for international visitors. With their language proficiency and efficient route planning, the driver ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience for all. The table below provides a visual representation of the experience:

Travelers can rest assured that this tour provides a comprehensive and personalized experience of Kyoto, with an emphasis on comfort and convenience.

One of the highlights of this tour is the friendly driver’s proficiency in Japanese, English, and Chinese, ensuring clear communication and a seamless experience for all travelers.

With a fully customized itinerary, this private day tour offers the flexibility to explore everything Kyoto has to offer. The tour includes hassle-free transportation throughout the day, with a professional private transportation service providing a comfortable vehicle for convenience.

Whether you want to visit the famous temples, stroll through the traditional neighborhoods, or indulge in delicious local cuisine, the efficient route planning ensures that you make the most of your time in Kyoto.

The tour also offers a private group experience, allowing you to enjoy the sights at your own pace. Choose between a 7-seater or 10-seater vehicle and enjoy the convenience of pick-up from your hotel in Osaka.

This tour provides a truly unforgettable experience, with a friendly driver and a customized itinerary, all wrapped up in a seamless transportation service.

Full Description

What makes this private day tour in Kyoto stand out from other tours?

This tour offers a fully customizable itinerary , allowing you to explore everything that Kyoto has to offer according to your preferences. With hassle-free transportation throughout the day, you can relax and enjoy the sights without worrying about navigating the city.

Here are four key features that make this tour unique:

• Customizable itinerary : Tailor your day in Kyoto to visit the attractions that interest you the most.
• Hassle-free transportation: Enjoy a comfortable and easy travel experience with professional private transportation service.
• Return to your hotel or any other destination: After a day of exploration, you’ll be conveniently taken back to your hotel or any other destination in Kyoto or Osaka.
• Comfortable and easy travel: Travel in a comfortable vehicle, accompanied by a friendly driver who speaks Japanese, English, and Chinese.

With these features, you can make the most of your time in Kyoto and create lasting memories.

The reviewer praised the Kyoto Private Day Tour for its customizable itinerary and hassle-free transportation. They rated the tour with an overall score of 4.7 out of 5. The reviewer, a GetYourGuide traveler from the United States, had a positive experience and considered the booking to be verified. However, they mentioned some issues with the driver’s knowledge and experience. Despite these minor setbacks, the reviewer still gave a tip, indicating their satisfaction with the tour. It is important to note that the customizable itinerary and hassle-free transportation were the main highlights of the Kyoto Private Day Tour. This feedback suggests that while the driver’s performance may have had some room for improvement, overall customer satisfaction was still achieved.

To start exploring Kyoto on the Kyoto Private Day Tour from Osaka, travelers can follow the clear and efficient directions provided by the friendly driver who speaks Japanese, English, and Chinese. The driver will ensure a hassle-free experience, offering expert guidance on getting around the city and the best transportation options . Here are four key things to know about the directions:

• Detailed Itinerary: The driver will provide a fully customized itinerary, taking into account your preferences and interests, and planning an efficient route to all the must-see sights in Kyoto.
• Convenient Transportation: Travel in comfort and style with a private vehicle, available in either a 7-seater or 10-seater option. The vehicle will be waiting to pick you up from your hotel in Osaka and will be at your disposal throughout the day.
• Language Support: The driver’s multilingual skills in Japanese, English, and Chinese ensure effective communication, making it easier to navigate the city and ask for any assistance or recommendations.
• Flexibility and Convenience: Whether you want to return to your hotel or explore other destinations in Kyoto or Osaka, the driver will accommodate your needs, providing hassle-free transportation and ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable travel experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Top Attractions in Kyoto That Can Be Included in the Customized Itinerary?

The top attractions in Kyoto that can be included in the customized itinerary are the top rated temples and the best scenic spots . Visitors can explore these beautiful sites and enjoy a memorable day tour.

Is Lunch Provided During the Day Tour or Should We Bring Our Own?

Yes, there is a vegetarian option for lunch during the day tour. However, it is recommended to bring your own snacks. The tour provides a fully customized itinerary, hassle-free transportation, and a comfortable travel experience.

Can the Driver Provide Recommendations for Local Restaurants or Shops in Kyoto?

The driver of the private day tour can provide recommendations for local restaurants and shops in Kyoto. They are knowledgeable about the area and can suggest the best places to dine and shop.

Are There Any Additional Costs or Fees That Are Not Included in the All-Inclusive Price?

There are no additional costs or hidden fees in the all-inclusive price of the private day tour. Guests can enjoy a hassle-free experience without worrying about any extra expenses.

Can the Driver Assist With Taking Photos or Acting as a Tour Guide During the Day Tour?

The driver’s role during the day tour includes providing photography assistance and acting as a tour guide. They are happy to help you capture memorable moments and provide information about the sights you visit.

The ‘From Osaka: Kyoto Private Day Tour’ offers travelers a fully customizable and all-inclusive experience to explore the must-see sights of Kyoto. With a friendly driver who speaks multiple languages and a comfortable vehicle, visitors can enjoy a private group experience.

The tour provides a flexible travel plan, no upfront payment required, and the option for free cancellation. Despite some minor issues, the tour has received positive feedback, making it a great option for those wanting a hassle-free and enjoyable day trip to Kyoto.

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The Perfect 7-Day Japan Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

Japan captured my heart from the moment I firs visited. The delicious food, the rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, vibrant history, and the very friendly and polite people – it all blew my mind.

But Japan often feels impenetrable, especially to first-time visitors. While I think Japan deserves a minimum of 10 days, I get that some people might only have a week, so I wanted to write this, my ideal seven-day itinerary for Japan for a first-time visitor.

With only a week, there’s not much you can see unless you really rush it. And I don’t think you should do that.

So this itinerary only focuses on Tokyo and Kyoto (the most popular destinations) as well as some day trips from each. If you wanted to rush things a little, you could add in Osaka (more on that at the end).

(Note: If you purchased a Japan Rail Pass , activate it on arrival. That way, you can take advantage of the free JR trains throughout the city.)

Table of Contents

Japan Itinerary Day 1: Tokyo

Japan itinerary day 2: tokyo, japan itinerary day 3: tokyo, japan itinerary day 4: kyoto, japan itinerary day 5: kyoto, japan itinerary day 6: nara, japan itinerary day 7: tokyo, an alternative itinerary.

Tsukiji and Toyosu Fish Markets Cure your jet lag with some food! In 2018, Tokyo’s main fish market moved to Toyosu. It is now twice the size of Tsukiji (the old one), making it the largest such market in the world. Here you can eat fresh sushi for breakfast, just a few feet from where it was hauled in from the sea, while marveling at the chaotic atmosphere.

You can still head to the old market in Tsukiji to eat, shop, and wander as well. I like it a lot, because there are more food options! Food and drink tours of the Tsukiji Outer Market are available for around 15,000 JPY.

Toyosu Fish Market is open Monday-Saturday 5am-5pm, though most shops don’t open until 7am. Admission is free, but you have to pick up a visitor’s pass when you enter. Tsukiji Fish Market’s hours vary by shop (usually 5am-2pm). Admission is free.

teamLab Planets This digital art installation is a multi-sensory and immersive experience in which you become part of the artwork, walking barefoot through the four exhibition spaces and gardens as you interact with the installations’ elements in unique ways. It’s really fun! TeamLab is generally sells out in advance, so I recommend getting your tickets online ahead of time .

Take a walking tour Walking tours are a great way to get the lay of the land while connecting with a local guide. I always go on one or two when I arrive somewhere. Tokyo Localized offers many free tours, including a classic overview and ones of both the famed Harajuku and Shinjuku neighborhoods. Its Imperial Palace tour would be the most convenient one after teamLab.

The Imperial Palace Formerly Edo Castle, the Imperial Palace was built in the 15th century, and some of the walls and moats from that time are still in use to this day. When the emperor moved from Kyoto to Tokyo in 1869, he took Edo for his new palace and renamed it. While you can’t go inside, it is surrounded by beautiful grounds, a moat, and a park worth wandering through. You can also see the changing-of-the-guard ceremony (though it’s relatively low-key and unassuming). Admission to the grounds is free.

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden This park is over 144 acres and home to some 20,000 trees. Most of the original park was destroyed in World War II but was rebuilt and reopened in 1949. During spring, it is one of the best places to see cherry blossoms. My favorite area is the landscape garden, which has several ponds with bridges and islands. It’s a peaceful oasis away from the urban hustle and bustle.

Depending on how you feel relative to your jetlag, you could fit a few more activities before you end your day. Check out this post for suggestions .

• Senso-ji – This is Tokyo’s most popular and famous temple. Beautifully painted, it sits in a scenic spot near a pagoda and the lovely Kaminari Gate. There’s a huge statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, inside the main hall. It’s very busy during the day, so maybe check out the grounds in the evening.
• Asakusa Shrine – This nearby Shinto shrine is much more peaceful, with fewer visitors, but with people praying, meditating, or performing traditional rituals. It was built during the Edo period (1603–1868) and survived the air raids of World War II.

Afterward, head to Ueno Park . Spanning over 133 acres, Ueno Park was established in 1873 on land formerly owned by a 17th-century Buddhist temple. It gets super busy in cherry blossom season, as there are over a thousand trees here. Throughout, you’ll find various stalls and vendors selling snacks, drinks, and souvenirs. On weekends, there are usually cultural events or festivals showcasing traditional arts, music, and dance. Four of Tokyo’s main museums are here:

• Tokyo National Museum – Established in 1872 on the north end, this massive building is the oldest and largest art museum in Japan. It houses one of the world’s largest collections of art and artifacts from Asia, particularly Japan.
• Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum – This museum showcases rotating exhibitions of contemporary and traditional Japanese art.
• National Museum of Nature and Science – This museum features a wide range of permanent and temporary exhibitions covering natural science and history.
• Tosho-gu Shrine – This beautiful 17th-century Shinto shrine has carved gold doors and other ornate carvings. It’s worth seeing up close!

Afterward, walk down to Akihabara to explore the video game parlors, arcades, and anime shops. This very buzzy area is ground zero for all things electronic, and it’s fun to play many of the games. This is where you’ll find the famous maid cafés, where servers dress up as maids and serve you food and drinks. These range from big touristy ones to holes-in-the-wall (the girls on the street are promoting the latter, which are a lot more culturally fun). They aren’t cheap, though, as you have to buy drink packages and pay a fee, but they’re kitschy and fun.

In the evening, visit Shinjuku and then drink in Golden Gai . In Shinjuku, you’ll find a plethora of cool bars, bright lights, and tiny hole-in-the-wall eateries. Be sure to wander down Memory Lane (aka Piss Alley) for tiny izakaya joints and bars. Afterward, head over to Golden Gai, a warren of narrow alleyways with a bit of a red-light-district feel, flanked by diminutive backstreet bars. It’s quite touristy but also a lot of fun. I’ve had some wild nights here!

With Arigato Tours , you’ll learn about the neighborhood while stopping to sample Japanese classics like sushi, yakitori, and ramen. The 23,900 JPY cost includes a drink and dishes at four stops.  

Kamakura Here you can see a 13-meter (43-foot) bronze statue of Buddha that was built in 1252. It was initially constructed within Kotoku-in Temple, but that has since been washed away by several storms, so it now sits in the open air. Admission to enter the temple grounds is 300 JPY, while it’s 20 JPY to go inside the statue. The journey there — around an hour — is free with a Japan Rail Pass .

Tokyo Disneyland I’m a sucker for Disney. You’ll find many of the same classic rides from Disney World here, like Splash Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain, The Haunted Mansion, and everyone’s favorite teacup ride, The Mad Tea Party. But there are several unique attractions as well, like Pooh’s Hunny Hunt and Journey to the Center of the Earth.

Ticket prices vary depending on the day and time, but full-day admission begins at 7,900 JPY for adults and 4,400-6,200 JPY for children. It’s best to book in advance .

Mount Fuji Mount Fuji is located an hour outside of Tokyo. An active stratovolcano (which last erupted in 1708) and covered in snow for almost half of the year, it stands an impressive 3,776 meters (12,389 feet) and provides one of the most iconic views in the country. One of the Three Holy Mountains of Japan, Mount Fuji is both a Special Place of Scenic Beauty and a UNESCO Cultural Site. In the summer, the mountain is open to hikers, who take 5-12 hours to reach the summit (traditionally, they depart at night to arrive at the top for the sunrise).

If you don’t want to hike, you can simply visit on a day trip. There are buses that can take you partway up, where you’ll be offered sweeping vistas of the surrounding area. Guided day tours from the city cost around 12,000 JPY.  

Wander the Bamboo Forest For a relaxing break, head to Arashiyama and let the dense and towering stands of bamboo envelop you. Located near the famous Tenryu-ji temple, it’s one of the most beautiful places in the entire country. It’s not that big, but there are some hidden areas to explore. Just make sure to arrive early if you want to enjoy it without the crowds (it fills up fast after sunrise).

While there, I would also recommend visiting the Okochi Sanso Garden, which (along with the home) belonged to the famous Japanese actor Denjir? ?k?chi (1898–1962). It’s not free (it’s 1,000 JPY), but it’s really nice and has some wonderful views.

Visit the Golden Pavilion Originally built in the late 14th century as a retirement villa for the shogun (military governor), this iconic structure was later converted into a Zen Buddhist temple. The present-day edifice dates only to the 1950s, however, when a monk attempting to kill himself burned the historic original to the ground. The rebuilt temple is covered in brilliant gold leaf, symbolizing purity and enlightenment. Each of the three stories exhibits a different architectural style. Completing the scene are the serene reflecting pool and traditional Japanese gardens that contain lush foliage, manicured trees, and scenic walking paths.

1 Kinkakuji-cho, Kita-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto, +81 075-461-0013, shokoku-ji.jp. Open daily 9am-5pm. Admission is 500 JPY.

Admire Ryoan-ji Temple This is my favorite temple in Kyoto. Originally established in 1450 as a residence for a high-ranking samurai, it was soon converted into a Zen temple and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a mausoleum that houses the remains of seven emperors. Its traditional rock and sand garden is considered one of the best in the country. There’s also a teahouse where you can experience the traditional Japanese tea ceremony ( chanoyu ) as you overlook the Kyoyochi reflecting pool.

There are other temples in the area to check out as well:

• Daitoku-ji Temple – This massive complex dating back to 1315 covers almost 60 acres. It contains several dozen temples and is a good place to see a variety of Zen gardens and architectural styles. It’s also deeply linked to the Japanese tea ceremony, as several of the country’s most noteworthy masters studied here.
• Toji Temple – This is home to Japan’s tallest pagoda (five stories high). Founded in 796, just after Kyoto became the capital, it was one of only three Buddhist temples allowed in the city.

Go on a sake brewery tour Kyoto has a sake (rice wine) brewing tradition going back 400 years and is known for some of the best in the world, due to using the area’s pure natural spring water in the brewing process. Arigato Tours offers an excellent three-hour tour of Fushimi (the brewing district) for 23,320 JPY, including stops at several breweries, a guided tour of the Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum, and tastings.  

See the Fushimi Inari Shrine This mountainside Shinto shrine, dating back to 711, is dedicated to Inari, the god of rice and prosperity. It’s known for its thousands of vibrant orange torii gates that form a network of trails leading up Mount Inari. You can hike the trails on your own while enjoying panoramic views of Kyoto below or join a guided hiking tour , on which you’ll get off the paved paths and into hidden bamboo groves. Get here as early as possible to avoid the crowds.

68 Fukakusa Yabunouchicho, +81756417331, inari.jp. Open 24/7. Admission is free.

Walk around Higashiyama Spend an afternoon walking along the narrow streets of one of the oldest and best preserved districts on your own or on a walking tour . The traditional machiya buildings (traditional wooden townhouses) are filled with small shops selling local specialties and handicrafts, as well as restaurants and teahouses. It’s a popular area in which to participate in a tea ceremony . Another nice place to stroll in this neighborhood is the Philosopher’s Path, which follows a cherry-tree-lined canal that’s beautiful and meditative even when the blossoms aren’t in season.

Visit Kiyomizu-dera One of a number of UNESCO sites in ancient Kyoto, Kiyomizu-dera (meaning “pure water temple”) is located in the foothills of Mount Otowa in the eastern part of the city. It’s one of the most famous temples in all of Japan. It was established in 778, but most of the existing buildings date to the 17th century. There’s not a single nail used in the construction, which becomes all the more impressive once you see how large the temple is, which is best known for its wooden terrace that juts out over the hillside. The temple’s name comes from the nearby waterfall whose waters (from which you can still drink today) are said to have wish-granting and healing powers.

1 Chome-294 Kiyomizu, +81 75-551-1234, kiyomizudera.or.jp. Open daily 6am-6pm. Admission is 400 JPY.

Explore Shorin-ji Temple This small temple dates back to the 16th century. What makes it worth visiting is its meditation classes. You’ll get to tour the temple and then be instructed in zazen , the Japanese style of meditation. It’s a very unique experience and something that I think will add a lot of depth and nuance to your visit (especially if you’ve seen a lot of temples). Just make sure to dress comfortably.

15 Chome-795 Honmachi, +81 75-561-4311, shourin-ji.org. Open daily 10am-4pm. Admission is 800 JPY.

Wander the Nishiki Market Nishiki Ichiba is now one of the biggest indoor markets in town. Known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen” and spanning over five blocks, it is full of vendors selling traditional dishes from the region, classic Kyoto souvenirs, and really just about anything else. There are over a hundred stalls here, many of which have been in the same family for generations. Opening hours depend on the shop but are typically from 9am to 6pm.

To dive deeper into Japanese food culture, you can take a food tour of the market . It’s the best way to learn about all the food you’ll see, as well as the market’s history.

Explore Gion Gion, the historic geisha district, is renowned as being one of the most iconic and atmospheric areas of town. It’s known for its traditional wooden machiya houses, narrow alleyways, cobblestone streets, and preservation of geisha (known locally as geiko) culture. Lining the main street are ochayas (teahouses where geishas entertain), small shops, and many restaurants, ranging from upscale kaiseki restaurants serving traditional Kyoto cuisine to casual eateries.

To really learn more about this amazing party of town and its past, take a walking tour of Gion . You’ll learn a ton and get a lot of context. They cost around 1,800 JPY.

At night, go to the Pontocho Row , a narrow street lined with restaurants, hole-in-the-wall bars, and jazz clubs. It’s one of the more lively areas in Kyoto.  

Nara was the capital of Japan in the eighth century, so there are lots of buildings and temples here that are upwards of a thousand years old (which is rare in Japan, due to the prevalence of fires and earthquakes, as well as World War II). Some things to do:

• Frolic with deer – The real draw in Nara are the deer. Since the 17th century, those in and around the city have been considered sacred. You can buy crackers to feed them or just watch them stroll around carefree.
• See the Buddha – Don’t miss a visit to Todai-ji, the world’s largest wooden building, home to a 16-meter (52-foot) Buddha statue. It was built in 738 and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Take a walking tour – This guided half-day walking tour for 11,500 JPY includes all of Nara’s highlights as well as a traditional lunch.

Ryogoku Kokugikan, Japan’s most famous sumo wrestling arena, hosts tournaments three times each year, in January, May, and September. Tickets sell out quickly, so book online in advance. Prices vary but start around 3,200 JPY for arena seats. You can book a ticket online here (you’ll be accompanied by a guide too, so you can learn more about the tradition as it unfolds before your eyes).

To learn more about the sport in in the off-season, book a tour of a sumo stable .  

So, if you want to add another city to this itinerary you can follow this breakdown:

• Days 1 & 2: Tokyo
• Days 3 & 4: Kyoto
• Day 5: Nara
• Days 6 & 7: Osaka

Tokyo, Kyoto, and Nara are all covered above. As for Osaka, some of my favorite things to see and do:

Take a food tour Known as “the Kitchen of Japan,” Osaka boasts a diverse culinary scene. Mouthwatering sushi and sashimi, Kobe beef and Japanese BBQ, and flavorful ramen can all be found here in abundance. Plus, there are local specialties like okonomiyaki (a savory pancake with egg and vegetables) and kushikatsu (kebab skewers). You can take a food tour for around 13,000 JPY, a ramen and gyoza cooking class for 9,500 JPY, or just wander and eat.

Osaka Castle One of the most famous landmarks in the country, the castle was originally built in the late 16th century by Toyotomi Hideyoshi and played a pivotal role in the unification of Japan during the Sengoku period (1467-1615). Over the centuries, it has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times due to wars, fires, and natural disasters. The current version dates to 1931. The castle is situated amid sprawling grounds and surrounded by a moat. It’s also home to a small but insightful museum and an observation deck that offers some picturesque urban views.

Dotonbori This is arguably Osaka’s most iconic district, known for its vibrant nightlife (bars, clubs, theaters, and music venues), colorful signage, and delicious food. It’s best seen at night due to the plethora of huge neon lights and signs lining both the canal and streets, which have become symbols of Osaka’s nightlife. A guided walking tour that includes Dotonbori as well adjacent neighborhoods is 6,500 JPY.

Shitennoji Temple This temple is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Japan, founded in 593. The architecture is a blend of traditional Japanese and East Asian styles, featuring impressive pagodas, gates, and shrines set amid serene gardens. Stroll through the tranquil grounds, admire the beautiful architecture, and learn about the temple’s historical and cultural significance at the museum. The temple is 300 JPY to enter, the garden is 300 JPY, and the museum is 500 JPY.  

Japan is one of my favorite countries. While it’s relatively small, it offers an amazing array of things to see and do (as well as some of the best food in the world). With seven days, you can easily see a good number of the main highlights and get a taste for the incredible history and culture. It will be a busy week, but this itinerary ensures you’ll still have some time to slow down, relax, and take in the local pace of life.

Just make sure you get a Japan Rail Pass before you go. While it’s not as cheap as it used to be, it will likely save you time and money!

Book Your Trip to Japan: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . They are my two favorite search engines, because they search websites and airlines around the globe, so you always know no stone is being left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the most comprehensive inventory so they are best for booking a hostel. If you want to stay in a hotel or guesthouse in Japan, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancelations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it, as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel! I list all the ones I use to save money when I travel — and I think they will help you too!

Be sure to check out the Japan Rail Pass if you’ll be traveling around the country. It comes in 7-, 14-, and 21-day passes and can save you a ton of money!

Looking for More Travel Tips for Japan? Check out my in-depth Japan travel guide for more ways to save money, information on costs, tips on what to see and do, suggested itineraries and reading and packing lists, and much, much more!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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Source: ABC Radio Sydney | Program: Nightlife

Nightlife Travel - Kyoto, Japan

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The ancient city of Kyoto is a must when visiting Japan. Once the seat of Japan's imperial court, these days most tourists head to the famed Golden Pavilion. Philip Clark on Nightlife spoke with two lovers of Japan, and Kyoto in particular, Michelle Mackintosh and Steve Wide, who have written a guidebook aimed specifically at those who want more from a visit to Kyoto, called Hidden Pockets in Kyoto, and they share a few secret spots on Nightlife. 

Nightlife - Surrogacy as a way to raise family, science news with Charley Lineweaver, travel tips for Kyoto

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July 16th, 2023

Our Man In Kyoto, Jonti Davies Explores the City's Finest Record Stores

Even if you've never been or don't plan on going, kyoto vinyl shop photos and descriptions prove enticing.

Our man in Japan, Jonti Davies takes us on a tour of Kyoto's record stores_ed.

Kyoto is not only a microcosm of everything that those on the outside looking in love about Japan—vermilion torii gates x infinity, the pale pink petals of sakura trees, and occasional whiter-than-white geisha faces—it’s also home to a thriving underground live music scene, a friendly cottage recording industry of local labels and cassette-sharing, and a central mile or two filled with excellent record shops. Here are ten of my favorites, followed by the best of the rest.

  Recordshop GG

  Meditations

  100000t alonetoco

  Workshop Records

  Plastic Soul Records

 Parallax Records

  Experimental music headz and the avant garde -curious will get a buzz out of Parallax Records. Manager Katsura Mouri is a wild turntablist who fashions exquisite drones and hums out of the abused circuit boards of battery-operated toy record players; she’s even been known to kick decks in her live performances, but that’s a story for another time!

The actual selection of vinyl at Parallax is limited but hand-picked by Mouri-san, highlighting only the most out-there of records in various left-field niches. The CDs and cassettes on offer are equally mind-bending. Oh and the flooring is made of old records. Visiting Parallax is above all a tactile experience.

 Art Rock No. 1

 One of the mainstays of Kyoto’s record shop scene, operated by the guy who also organizes many of the city’s regular record fairs together with other stores, Art Rock No. 1 recently moved to more spacious premises (the old place was infamous for having aisles barely wide enough for single file movement) and still stocks the same broad range of sounds. City Pop-chasers in particular would do well to dig here.

  Honto Record

  Jet Set Records

Sixth Garden Records

Also worth a visit…

  Joe’s Garage

Run by a friendly old rocker and adapting Warhol’s VU banana as its logo, Joe’s Garage is just north of Shijo-dori, Kyoto’s main shopping street, and sells jazz and rock records at very fair prices handed over in banana-emblazoned bags that make for cool souvenirs. Only downside is the thick cigarette smoke. 

Bootsy’s is a no-compromise kind of place. Cash only, for one thing. The mood is a bit serious, too, verging on dour, but the records are top-notch. Mainly pre-1980s.

Cremona Records

On the top floor of a random building to the northwest of Kyoto’s old Imperial Palace, Cremona is a family business that’s been passed down through three generations to the current owner. A 50-50 split of jazz and rock records, including genuine rarities marked (correctly) at prices into tens of thousands of yen…

  Super Milk

 The first record shop I ever visited in Kyoto, and yes, I’ll admit I was taken in by the bizarre name. Hip-hop and jazz are the main genres at Super Milk .

 Toradra Records

Up a couple of flights of stairs, above a hair salon and on the same row as a shisha bar in one of central Kyoto’s sleazier nooks, Toradra is laid-back and does a good line in jazz, rock, soul, and reggae. 

  pocoapoco

 A dark basement filled with all sorts. The air is somber, almost intimidating, but the selection of pre-1980s Japanese music in particular is pretty impressive.

Hotline has been here since 1985. It feels like it’s on its last legs, so visit while you still can.

  Second Royal Shop

A small shop run by Kyoto indie label Second Royal Records in a quiet neighborhood west of the city center, selling other records from indies and majors alongside their own quirky output.

 Prototype Records

A cool little spot just off the Teramachi shopping arcade with a decent but limited collection and BGM pumped through a pair of JBL 4311A monitors.

  Hachi Record Shop and Bar

 We’re getting into listening bar territory here (which will be better served in a future article), but Hachi does have a small retail side to its operation upstairs.

 To slide open the shaky doors to Taiyo is to step back 50 years to a time when Japanese folk rock was at its pacific peak. The owner was probably in his thirties then, and he was very happy to reminisce when I recently picked out a Maki Asakawa album and asked for some Yoshi Ikuzo records. Cash only.

  Davada Coffee & Records

Similar to the concept of Plastic Soul Records but with fewer records and more of a focus on serving high-grade drip coffee. Only a few minutes’ walk from Kyoto Station , so worth dropping by when you first arrive and need a shot of caffeine. Or a record.

 Pure Jamaican fire, Black Ark is named after Lee Perry’s studio of the 1970s. Rough original presses, stacks of sevens, top tunes galore.

About Jonti Davies: Jonti Davies moved from the UK to Japan at the age of 20. Two decades on, he is a translator and writer whose words have appeared everywhere from  The Wire   to Time Out, and whose own leftfield productions  and mixes of Japanese music are played on BBC Radio Lancashire's long-running On The Wire show. Jonti is also passionate about vintage audio gear: his current system includes a restored Thorens TD 125 Mk II, a tube-driven Luxman SQ38FD amp, and a pair of Altec 600B speakers from 1947. A lifelong fan of Japanese underground music, you’ll find him listening at obscure live venues around Kyoto and Osaka most weeks. Introduce yourself and he'll happily buy you a beer.

2023-07-16 06:18:48 PM

Malachi Lui wrote:

woah! this is absolutely amazing. great information and exquisite writing, this has to be the best kyoto record shopping guide anywhere on the internet! i look forward to reading more of your work in the future!

2023-07-16 07:13:20 PM

Jonti Davies wrote:

Thanks Malachi, it was a pleasure to put together. Next stop: Sapporo!

2023-07-16 10:44:57 PM

Anthony wrote:

RE: The Kyoto Record Stores Coverage Jonti Davies—Out there puttin’ in work for us music lovers worldwide… that piece was excellent!

2023-07-17 07:24:45 AM

Arigatou, Anthony!

2023-07-17 04:30:18 PM

Jeff 'Glotz' Glotzer wrote:

Yeah this is amazing! I really loved this piece. Keep on!

2023-07-17 08:07:24 PM

Thanks Jeff!

2023-07-18 06:02:51 PM

George white wrote:

Very nice shops, and a wonderful story!

2023-07-20 08:25:55 PM

JACK L wrote:

"a central mile or two filled with excellent record shops. Here are ten of my favorites, followed by the best of the rest..." qtd J. Davis

From the above pictures of 10 Kyoto record stores, I can only see tons & tons LPs of soul, hip-hop, rock, jazz, Japanese pop & classic music. How come I don't see any western classical music LPs selling in all above stores ???? Do Japanese not like western classical music at all ????

As a classical music vinyl addict, I am disappointed. Surely, I don't want to fly 15 hours non-stop to Kyoto for classical LPs which are apparently so scarcely available there, price irrespective.

2023-07-20 09:59:48 PM

Jack, for better or worse, most Western classical records sold in Japan are extremely cheap (!) and end up in the bargain bins of large junk shop chains such as Hard-Off. Central Kyoto doesn't have any such shops, but there are a couple if you drive out into the remote suburbs bordering Osaka.

Just last week at a Hard-Off store in the north of Osaka I scored a dozen classical LPs (mint) that were originally part of a mail order-only series through CBS/SONY Family Club (early 1980s pressings) for a mere ¥1,000 all-in (about $7). This kind of thing: https://www.discogs.com/release/10106785-Bach-Glenn-Gould-Concerto-In-F-Major-Partita-No-1-In-B-Flat-Major-Partita-No-2-In-C-Minor

As for the larger question of whether the Japanese like Western classical music, they clearly do, as concerts are well-attended. However, most of the home listening audience switched to the CD format in the 1980s and has never really looked back.

This is a curious side-effect of what is known as the "Galápagosization" of Japan and its relationship with technology, where formats and platforms that are not adopted, rejected, or treated with apathy in other parts of the world develop a uniquely significant cultural and everyday status here. Until very recently, many people were still using the style of flip-phone that disappeared from Western life in the early 2000s. CDs, too, remain oddly popular.

2023-07-21 02:23:24 PM

""Galápagosization" of Japan" qtd J Davis

Yes, centuries-traditional "Only Japan" mentality of Japanese nowadays is sooo deep rooted. Having dealt business with major companies in Japan decades ago, e.g. Mitsubishi Corp, Mitsui Group, etc, I know pretty well Japanese businessmen typical way of thinking - tradition & self-esteem.

"CDs, too, remain oddly popular." qtd J Davis

Why not? Sony (+Philips) invented audio CDs. Loyalty is uniquely dip-rooted in Japan.

Above said, why hip-hop, soul & the like music LPs are so popularly displayed in the above 10 Kyoto record stores?? Hip-hop & soul music were African-American music originated in & got very popular across USA in the 1750-1970 era. Pretty contrary to Japanese' All-Japan close-door mentality to promote African-American music 'imported' from the US. in Japan !!!

My suggestion is: marketability . For younger Millennial & older General Z music lovers in Japan somehow (??) love hip-hop & soul music from America. Business is to make money !! I can't blame those Kyoto store promoting African-American music LPs !

2023-07-27 05:45:58 PM

" Central Kyoto doesn't have any such shops, but there are a couple if you drive out into the remote suburbs bordering Osaka' qtd J Davis.

Having dealt long enough business with major companies in Japan decades back, my impression of Japan is still the same since day one: a busy disciplined international trading hub. Not a resourceful place for buying classic music records for leisure, IMO.

FYI, my small LP collection (only 1,000+ LPs) is built starting only 6-7 years ago when I switched back from digital to vinyl from scrap, comprising 99% pre-owned stereo LPs picked up from my neighborhood thrift stores only some 15-20 minutes driving from my home. Believe it or not, I pay only 1 buck or so a piece, including over 40 digitally mastered LPs in mint condition !! I can't complain my being a vinyl cheapskate !!!

Still much cheaper than any Hard-Off stores in Osaka ($7 each). So handy to get them, saving me flying 15-hour non-stop flight over there.

That said, what impressed most as a visitor in Japan is the cuisines over there instead of vinyl records. The most delicious fresh raw seafood (sashimi in Japanese, my very seafood fascination) I ever tasted in Japan was in a popular raw seafood-only specialty shop in a large mall in downtown Nagasaki. It is a self service seafood shop with a special continuous revolving conveying-belt serving mechanism. Sooo fresh & mouth-watering delicious yet so inexpensive: For only US$16 per person to feed up my wife & me there. I miss such fresh food seafood so much even after many years todate! Sauced eel fish rice dish is my next most favorite food in Japan. Soup noodle dish (ramen in Japanese) is my third favorite there.

2023-07-27 07:49:15 PM

$7 for a dozen, Jack, not $7 each. :) I'm glad you've had some great experiences with the food in Japan. Sashimi, unagi (eel) and ramen are delicious, aren't they! I also enjoy tempura, udon and soba.

2023-07-23 11:12:03 PM

bill schweitzer wrote:

I visited Kyoto for 3 weeks in 2001 and returned with hundreds of records. I was looking primarily for Japanese original issues of American jazz musicians and of course, Japanese issues of hard to find records. I kept all the bags as mementos, but when I tried to find them to check against your list, they had been misplaced, but I DO remember Hard Bop. Since it was upstairs with a metal door, it reminded me of Fred Cohen's Jazz Record Center in NYC. The owner (like most of the owners I met) was extremely friendly and wanted to talk shop (I owned a store in San Francisco at the time). We exchanged emails later, but I never went back and he never looked me up in SF. I did a day trip to Osaka and found most of the stores concentrated in one area, which made life easier. A few idiosyncrasies I found amusing. All artists were alphabetized using their first name, so Art Pepper l was always at the front of the section. Almost all the shops were upstairs from the street and you had to read the signs out front. Since my Japanese was not very good, and the numbering was not consecutive, but referred to when the building was built relative to the others, I relied on the round black record symbol to guide me. As you can probably surmise, I had a wonderful time, one of the great travel experiences of my life.

2023-07-23 11:22:47 PM

One last thing to add. The stores were extremely clean, almost spotless. Even my wife who would hardly enter any record store (including mine), was comfortable in all of them. Wonderful article. Thanks .

2023-07-24 09:24:27 PM

Thanks for the comment, Bill. Sounds like you had a memorable trip. And yes, the first-name alphabetizing here in Japan is always a puzzle!

I'll be heading down to Osaka in the autumn to produce a follow-up guide, so look out for more nostalgia there.

2023-07-26 04:14:25 PM

"the first-name alphabetizing here in Japan is always a puzzle!" qtd J Davis.

Is it for compiling convenience or what ? In the multi-national company I am now working (with over thousand branch stores all over USA, Canada & Mexico), the staff users' names to operate the store computer systems all start with the first letter of the staff's first name ! I think it is a matter of compile convenience rather than cultural matters.

"I'll be heading down to Osaka in the autumn .." qtd J Davis

Well, it only takes 14 minutes on bullet train from Kyoto to Osaka station & 28 minutes by fast train for 1/3 of the fare. It takes less time than my driving from home to my work store (20 minutes) !!

Talking about "nostalgia", I think I miss Akihabara, the world's largest electronics & home appliances exclusive town bigtime considering I am a audio handyman !!

2023-07-26 09:59:07 PM

You're right, Jack, Osaka is a short hop from Kyoto; however, I'm spending the summer in Hokkaido. :)

2023-07-27 04:20:57 PM

"Hokkaido" qtd J Davis

Honshu & the other southern islands of Japan are never too nippy in winter, a trench coat will keep us warm enough. But Hokkaido, the 2nd largest & northest island so close to Russia, can be extremely cold in winter. Bundle up in winter, nooo kidding.

Driving can be pretty dangerous on icy deep winter roads going north to Hokkaido. Jump into the bullet train to Sapporo is the safest way which only takes 3-4 hours.

I am used to drive on deep icy & snowy road in this Great White North country (-45C !!!!) on a made-in-Japan all-wheel-drive SUV with winter tires for over 3 decades now. So far no icy accidents, thank goodness.

For me, having seen enough snow & ice around here in winters, I long for warm weather trips down the south in winters.

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In Kyoto, Five Hotels to Add to Your Travel Wish List

The city’s newest crop of hotels — from a luxury retreat on a historic estate to a 10-room inn surrounded by forested mountains — were worth the wait.

By John Wogan

The pandemic lockdown in Japan coincided with a flurry of new hotels, especially in Kyoto, where the Park Hyatt, Aman and Four Seasons were joined by a group of independent properties and the first Ace hotel in the archipelago. When the country finally reopened to foreign visitors in October 2022, tourists came flooding back to the city of 800-year-old temples and bamboo forests spoiled for choice of accommodations, at a range of prices. The number continues to grow: Next month, the wellness-focused Six Senses brand will open its first Japanese outpost in the city’s Higashiyama district, home to many of the main tourist sites. Here, a look at five of Kyoto’s newer hotels that are redefining the city’s hospitality scene.

Hotel the Mitsui Kyoto

Andre Fu, the interior designer behind hotels like the Upper House in Hong Kong and Villa La Coste in Aix-en-Provence, France, has infused his signature aesthetic (extravagantly refined, with warm woods and luxurious textures) within the confines of a particularly historic area of Kyoto. The 161-room Mitsui, opened in late 2020, sits across from Nijo Castle, an enormous 17th-century compound and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s in stark contrast to the hotel, whose only timeworn element is an imposing entrance gate — a traditional wood structure over 300 years old and a remnant of the days when the Mitsui family lived on the grounds. Once past the gate, you’ll find a glass-and-steel building, designed by the Japanese architect Akira Kuryu, and landscaping that’s meant to echo the original garden pathways of the Mitsui residence, planted with cherry trees and steppingstones that meander above a glassy pond. The four food and drink venues include the French-Japanese Toki, overseen by the chef Tetsuya Asano (previously of the Ritz Paris), and the Garden Bar, strategically positioned to capture seasonal views, like the spring cherry blossoms and blazing autumnal foliage, out of massive double windows. Rooms from about $1,360 a night.

Ace Hotel Kyoto

The youthful Ace hotel brand might seem like an odd fit in staid Kyoto. But this 213-room property, which opened in 2020, fits seamlessly into the city center thanks to a collaboration between the Japanese architect Kengo Kuma and the California-based design firm Commune. Kuma, who designed the Japan National Stadium (the centerpiece of the 2021 Tokyo Olympics), renovated the imposing 1920s-era, red brick Kyoto Central Telephone Office, while adding an industrial-looking building — sheathed in copper sulfide plating, cedar, glass and concrete — next door. Commune infused the guest rooms with Ace’s signature mix of bright colors and patterns: original dyed prints from the Japanese folk artist Samuro Yunoki sit alongside Tivoli radios, turntables and vintage records. The most popular part of the hotel, though, might be the street-level branch of Stumptown Coffee Roasters — the first in Japan. From about $300 a night.

Arashiyama House Mama

Like Kyoto’s dozens of temple gardens, this 10-room property offers an immediate sense of calm. Its entrance is so discreet, you could easily miss it. (Look for the flowing white cloth curtain with simple black signage, behind which is a garden path leading to a minimalist building made of wood, concrete and glass.) The hotel’s location informs the interior design: Thirty minutes west of central Kyoto, the Arashiyama district is defined by nature, with the Katsura River at its center, and filled with bamboo groves and surrounded by forested mountains. Guest rooms are simply furnished with beds, chairs and tables handmade by both Kyoto artisans and the Danish furniture maker Carl Hansen & Son, and each one has a soaking tub. Rooms from about $540 a night.

The Shinmonzen

The Gion district epitomizes Kyoto for many visitors, with its maze of narrow alleys and ryokans, traditional Japanese inns. It’s here, on a quiet side street among artists’ studios, antique shops and galleries, that the Shinmonzen opened in December 2021. Although it’s a new build, the aim was for the hotel to blend in with the surrounding structures. To accomplish this, the famed Japanese architect Tadao Ando created a wooden facade that replicates a machiya , one of the venerable townhouses found throughout Kyoto. There are only nine guest rooms, but they’re unusually spacious, and all have balconies with views of the Shirakawa River. Each one is an ode to Japanese interior elements, furnished with tatami mats, shoji (panels lined with rice paper) and cypress soaking tubs. And for dining, the chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, whose restaurant empire spans the world, devised a menu blending French, American and Asian influences, sourcing much of the produce from local farms. Rooms from about $1,500 a night.

Maana Kiyomizu

A three-suite hotel near the 16th-century Toyokuni Shrine, Maana Kiyomizu is the latest offering from Maana Homes, the small local hospitality group, which operates two other properties in the city. This one, opened in the winter of 2022, is located in Higashiyama, and is a complex of four machiya that also houses POJ Studio — a boutique that sells artisanal Japanese crafts and home goods. There’s also Kissa Kishin, the second branch of a popular Gion cafe, which serves coffee, matcha and pastries and acts as the unofficial social center for the property. The Japanese architects Uoya Shigenori and Takeshi Ikei renovated the suites to create a minimalist wabi-sabi ideal of city living, where handmade pottery from Shigaraki (a town famous for its ceramics) are the only decorative flourishes to be found. Rooms from about $560 a night.

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• A2 listening

Tour of London

Take a tour of London by listening to this tour guide and do the exercises to improve your listening skills.

Instructions

Do the preparation exercise before you listen. Then do the other exercises to check your understanding.

Preparation

Do this exercise before you listen.

Tour guide:  Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen and welcome to this fantastic tour of London by bus. My name’s Greg and I’m your guide this afternoon on our tour of London. As you can see, we’re on an open-top bus, so you can see all the attractions from your seat and you don’t need to walk anywhere. And please don’t worry about the rain, I’m sure it’ll stop soon. A-a-and please ask any questions at any time. Tourist 1:  I have a question. Tour guide:  Yes? Tourist 1:  Do you have extra umbrellas? I mean, if it rains a lot. Tour guide:  Err, no, we don’t have any extra umbrellas, but don’t worry, I’m sure the rain will stop soon. Right, OK, so where are we going on our wonderful tour? Well, the tour takes two hours and we are going to visit all the famous sites. First we’ll see Madame Tussauds, the museum with wax models of famous people and celebrities, then we’ll drive along the most famous shopping street in the world, Oxford Street. After that we’ll see the famous clock Big Ben and The Houses of Parliament. As we drive along the river you’ll see the popular attraction, the London Eye, from which you can see the whole city on a sunny day. Then we’ll see Tower Bridge and the famous Tower of London before arriving at Buckingham Palace, just in time for a cup of tea with the Queen. Tourist 2:  Is that included in the tour? A cup of tea with the Queen? Tour guide:  Err, well, no, not exactly, but there’s a lovely café near the palace where you can get a cup of tea.  (Sound of a storm right overhead, loud thunder and very heavy downpour) Tourist 1:  I have another question. Tour guide:  Yes? Tourist 1:  Can we have our money back? We’re getting off the bus. Tour guide:  Err, well, you see ... Quick! Run! Everyone off the bus! ... 

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April 17, 2024 • pillow talk

Raven gates & adam gottschalk celebrate 3-year anniversary with sweet video and japan trip.

Three trips around the sun!

Bachelor Nation fans got to know and love Raven Gates Gottschalk on Season 21 of “The Bachelor” and on Season 4 of “Bachelor in Paradise,” where she met her husband, Adam Gottschalk.

The two welcomed their son Gates in January 2022 and their second baby boy, Max, in July 2023.

Now, the couple is celebrating three years married with a sweet family video and a trip to Japan!

Raven took to Instagram to share a video with their two sons to celebrate the milestone.

Alongside the sweet video, she wrote, “Happy 3 year Anniversary to the love of my life @adam_gottschalk let’s keep building a life we love together 💓🥹”

Adam commented on Raven’s video, writing, “Happy anniversary my love ❤️ 😘 love this life with you 🥹”

The couple also celebrated their anniversary with a special trip to Japan and Raven shared pics from the adventure.

Raven and Adam posed for a series of pics in Tokyo and she wrote, “Exploring Japan 🇯🇵 marked off my travel bucket list! We spent a week exploring Tokyo and Kyoto 🌸 This month will mark 3 years of being married to my travel buddy. 😘 China, Thailand, Italy, and now Japan! Where should we go next??”

Adam also shared photos from the trip and shared that they visited Kyoto after enjoying their time in Tokyo.

We love following along as these two continue to explore the world and grow their family together.

Cheers to many more years! Happy anniversary, Raven and Adam.

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7 Best things to do in Japan in 2024

A s a travel enthusiast starts planning a 2024 travel itinerary, Japan, the Land of the Rising Sun, ticks all the boxes. It is the ultimate travel destination thanks to its historic streets of Kyoto, savoring delicious street food in Osaka, exploring the religious shrines, or staying at the ryokans . From the age-old cherry fields to the peaceful country roads, this place is a feast for the senses.

Springtime being this place's truly magical venture, Japan comes alive with color and energy, and visitors are feasted on a lot of enjoyable destinations to explore. Its rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty offers an array of adventures for every travel enthusiast.

Disclaimer: This is purely the writer's opinion, and might have missed some favorite destinations.

The top activities to experience in Japan in 2024

Whether the avid traveler is a history buff, a food enthusiast, or a nature lover, Japan is the perfect place for their visit in 2024.

Ahead, Team Sportskeeda has thoughtfully created a list of the seven best things to do in Japan in 2024 and make the most of their visit.

• Explore Kinkaku-ji at Kyoto
• Enjoy Hanami in Tokyo
• Feed the deer at Nara
• Learn about the city's history at Hiroshima
• River cruise at Osaka
• Ski at Hokkaido
• Sun-bask on the shorelines of Okinawa

1) Explore Kinkaku-ji at Kyoto

Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan , is a must-visit spring destination for avid travelers. Considering that the best time to travel is in late March to early April, this holiday and sightseeing place is well-known for its cherry blossoms in full bloom.

Sight-seers should not miss the spectacular Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and the traditional Gion District. For lodging, one should consider staying at a classic ryokan to experience the hospitality at its best. Kansai International Airport, the nearest airport, can be easily commuted to thanks to local transportation.

Once in Kyoto, one should also make sure to try out the local cuisines, like kaiseki (a multicourse feast) and various matcha confectionaries. Noted diners like Nishiki Market and Pontocho Alley also rule the culinary delight list.

2) Enjoy Hanami in Tokyo

Be it the onset of autumn or spring, the metropolis of Tokyo, Japan, is always bustling with a unique blend of modernity and ritual. Including Senso-ji Temple and Meiji Shrine, this metropolis' main attractions are decorated with cherry blossoms, catering to a panoramic view.

Once in Tokyo, tourists can enjoy activities like hanami (flower viewing) picnics in Ueno Park and boat or yacht cruises along the Sumida River. For an unforgettable stay, visitors can select a hotel in the vibrant Shibuya or Shinjuku districts and indulge in a wide variety of delectable local cuisines, like sushi tempura and ramen at Tsukiji Outer Market, and the food stalls at Ameyoko Market.

Read more: 6 Best European countries to visit in Summer 2024

3) Feed the deer at Nara

Nara, well-known for its friendly deer and ancient religious shrines, it is always the perfect time for any travel enthusiast to visit this charming destination.

Visitors can engage in activities like feeding deer and exploring the picturesque Isuien Garden at Nara Park and Todai-ji Temple, the main attractions they shouldn't miss. Once here, a holiday enthusiast can stay at cozy homestays or ryokans for an authentic lodging experience. There are also sample local delicacies, like Kakinoha sushi and persimmon leaf sushi, at the best diners in the Nara-machi district.

4) Learn about the city's history at Hiroshima

Hiroshima, a Japan metropolis with a resilient spirit and a profound history, is best visited in early April. From the local Hiroshima Airport, courtesy of its travel-friendly communication, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Shukkeien Garden are the main places of interest that offer serene beauty. Here, tourists can engage in activities like visiting the Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island and the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum to learn about the city's history.

One can also plan their stay at comfortable hotels and savor local cuisines like okonomiyaki and oysters from the best diners like Okonomimura and Mitaki-en.

5) River cruise at Osaka

Considered one of the most vibrant cities, Osaka is famed for its lively environment and mouthwatering delicacies. The best time to visit is late March or early April. Once landing at the Kansai International Airport, a vacationer can enjoy their holiday by visiting the main attractions, like Osaka Castle and Dotonbori.

Thanks to its panoramic view, travelers can enjoy local activities like exploring the bustling Kuromon Ichiba Market and river cruising along the Okawa River. Planning a 2 to 3-day trip to Osaka, a vacationer can book their stay at downtown's trendy hotels and indulge in local cuisines like takoyaki , okonomiyaki , and kushikatsu at street food stalls, and best-eating joints like Mizuno and Kani Doraku.

Read more: 6 Best treks in the world

6) Ski at Hokkaido

Hokkaido, the northernmost island, is a must-see spring holiday destination in Japan, courtesy of its spectacular natural attractions. When hiring local transportation or pre-paid cabs from New Chitose Airport, the best time to visit is late April or early May. During this time, tourists can enjoy the main attractions, such as the vast fields of Shikisai-no-Oka and the majestic beauty of Shikisai Hill.

They can engage in activities like exploring Biei's charming beauty, skiing, Onsen (hot springs), enjoying a relaxing soak in the famous Noboribetsu hot springs, or staying at comfortable ryokans or motels with stunning mountain views. They can also savor these gastronomical delights in local delicacies like fresh seafood , spicy ramen, and tasty dairy products at the best diners like Ramen Yokocho and Nijo Market.

7) Sun-bask on the shorelines of Okinawa

Off-boarding at the Naha airport, Okinawa's gorgeous shorelines and rich history welcome avid travelers, making it an excellent destination year-round for all travel enthusiasts visiting Japan. Once here, travelers can explore the lively marine life at the Churaumi Aquarium and the Ryukyu culture of historical Shuri Castle.

They can rest and recoup at beachfront resorts like the Ritz-Carlton, Okinawa, or Halekulani, Okinawa, to experience the true essence of Okinawa, Japan. Visitors can also spoil their tastebuds with the local flavors of sample Okinawan soba, agu pork , goya champuru, and rafute pork.

Read more: 6 best Spring destinations in the world to take a family vacation

These are the seven best things to do in Japan in 2024 that promise an array of unforgettable experiences for travel enthusiasts. So, avid travelers can start backpacking to enjoy their adventure-packed holiday.

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Improved corporate governance in Japan is paying off, Amundi says

Years of calling for better corporate governance in Japan are finally bearing fruit for Amundi SA, Europe’s biggest money manager.

Pressure from the Tokyo Stock Exchange has amplified the voices of fund managers calling for listed companies to increase their valuations. One success case for Amundi has been Gunze, an underwear maker whose shares have risen about 13% over the last 12 months compared with no change in the Topix textiles and apparels index.

"It’s great to see the company listening to investors’ opinions and taking actual actions,” said Harukawa, whose performance has beaten more than 80% of his peers over the past three years. "We are seeing changes in those industries that previously wouldn’t have done anything on governance even if we engaged,” he added.

Gunze started as a textile manufacturer. The 128-year-old Japanese company expanded into semiconductors and medical materials over the decades. The Osaka-based firm has been selling unprofitable businesses and real estate as well as unwinding its cross-shareholdings. Amundi owns a 1.76% stake in Gunze, according to data compiled by Bloomberg.

Some of the top holdings of Amundi’s Japan target strategy include Toppan Holdings, Ricoh, Shizuoka Financial Group, Kyoto Financial Group and TS Tech. Amundi manages about ¥190 billion ($1.2 billion) using this strategy and Harukawa, who is 46, has been leading it since 2005.

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