Understand

Nestled among the majestic mountains of Western Honshu, Kyoto was the ancient capital of Japan and the esteemed residence of the Emperor from 794 until the Meiji Restoration of 1868, when the capital was relocated to Tokyo. Throughout its millennium-long reign as the center of Japanese power, culture, tradition, and spirituality, Kyoto became adorned with a remarkable collection of palaces, temples, and shrines, constructed for emperors, shoguns, and monks alike. Despite the ravages of World War II, Kyoto miraculously escaped the bombs that befell many other Japanese cities, thus preserving its treasure trove of prewar buildings, including the charming machiya townhouses. While Kyoto evolves with the passage of time, blending tradition with innovation, remnants of its rich heritage stand proudly among the striking modern architecture, such as the iconic Kyoto Station complex. Prepare to be captivated by the harmonious fusion of the old and the new in this enchanting city.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Sushi: Sushi is a traditional Japanese dish consisting of vinegared rice served with various toppings, typically fish or seafood. The rice is usually accompanied by a small piece of nori (seaweed) and sometimes features a dab of wasabi, pickled ginger, or soy sauce. There are many variations, including nigiri (hand-pressed sushi), maki (rolled sushi), and sashimi (slices of raw fish).

Ramen: Ramen is a widely popular soup dish in Japan that includes Chinese-style wheat noodles served in a meat or fish-based broth. It is often garnished with ingredients such as pork, dried seaweed, menma (fermented soybean paste), scallions, and miso paste. The dish can be found in various styles, including tonkotsu (pork bone broth), shoyu (soy sauce broth), and miso.

Tempura: Tempura is a deep-fried dish where seafood, vegetables, or mushrooms are battered and then cooked in hot oil. The light, crispy batter turns golden brown and creates a contrast with the soft textures of the ingredients inside. Traditional tempura elements include shrimp, sweet potato, pumpkin, spinach, and green beans. It is typically served with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, Mirin, and dashi.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing