Nijō Castle, welcoming visitors from 8.45am to 5pm, is a veritable time machine that transports visitors back to Kyoto’s illustrious past. From the nightingale floors, a type of flooring system designed to make chirping sounds when walked on, to the meticulously manicured gardens, every corner of the castle is full of cultural and visual wonders. Indoor photography, however, is strictly prohibited to preserve the integrity of historic art and artefacts.

The district of Higashiyama boasts three particularly well-known streets that are usually at their liveliest from late morning until early evening. There’s Ninenzaka, a stone-paved avenue lined with beautifully preserved machiya (traditional wooden houses) that now serve as teahouses and souvenir shops; Sannenzaka, with its array of shops selling traditional Kyoto crafts and famed sweets; and Ishibei-koji Lane, a narrow, stone-paved alley with exclusive inns and restaurants that offers a snapshot of old Kyoto.

Known for its sweeping views of Kyoto, the temple is a favourite amongst locals and travellers alike, especially during the cherry blossom and autumn seasons. Kiyomizudera translates to ‘pure water temple’, a nod to the Otawa Waterfall running through the temple grounds. This water is divided into three separate streams, each said to bestow a different blessing: longevity, success at school, or a fortunate love life. The temple is open from 6am to 6pm (6.30 pm during summer months) and often busiest in the late afternoon, so a morning visit may be quieter.

You probably won’t play with the free-roaming Macaques at Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama since touching them is a strict no-no, for your safety and theirs, but you can enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto in the midst of nature. Feeding the monkeys with food purchased at the site is allowed under supervision. There is a little hike up to the park, which opens from 9am to 4 pm, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring water in warmer months.

Adjacent to the Monkey Park is the ethereal Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Open 24 hours a day, the grove stands as an oasis of tranquillity and the sound of rustling bamboo has been named one of the “100 Soundscapes of Japan” by the Japanese Ministry of Environment. It tends to get crowded as the day progresses, so an early morning visit allows for a more peaceful experience. Plus, the soft morning light filtering through the bamboo offers a magical setting for those perfect, Insta-worthy photos. 

Whether it’s a cycling adventure, a riverside picnic, or a leisurely coffee by the banks, Kamo River—meaning duck in Japanese—offers a tranquil break from the city’s hustle and bustle. The riverbanks are popular with locals and tourists alike, particularly in the evening when the area comes alive with lively street life.

Modern teppanyaki restaurant Yasaka in the Park Hyatt Kyoto serves up a memorable dining experience against the backdrop of the Higashiyama hills. The restaurant merges Japanese cuisine with French-inspired cooking and makes for a wonderful venue for occasion dining. As the sun begins its descent, settle into an elegant dinner in which the culinary theatre takes place before your very eyes and a golden glow illuminates the chefs’ deft movements. 

Gion, Kyoto’s traditional geisha district, serves as a time portal to a bygone era. As dusk falls, the winding lanes and traditional teahouses come alive, offering a chance to indulge in a variety of activities and, if fortune favours you, catch a fleeting glimpse of a geisha or maiko (apprentice geisha). Remember to respect their privacy and refrain from intrusive actions or aggressive photography.

You can also sample a selection of Kyoto’s finest sake at a local brewery, partake in a traditional tea ceremony, or visit the illustrious Gion Corner, where a medley of Japanese arts like tea ceremony, flower arrangement, and puppet play is demonstrated.

At Pontocho Alley, old-world teahouses stand shoulder to shoulder with modern bars and izakayas, creating a vibrant canvas of Kyoto’s unique nightlife. Lose yourself in the neon-lit labyrinth, perhaps stepping into a welcoming izakaya to sample yakitori grilled to perfection, accompanied by a cold beer.

A tip for the wise: Pontocho is best explored after sunset when the alley is brimming with energy. Yet, the narrow alley can get crowded, so if you seek a particular dining spot or wish to enjoy a riverside view, an early arrival or a reservation is advisable. 

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