Top Rated Attractions in Kyoto

Light filters through towering bamboo stalks and casts a fey glow and moving shadows over the path that winds uphill through the forest. The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is one of Kyoto's most famous sights and people breathe in the crisp air and walk through the verdant tunnel to appreciate the peace and serenity as the world fades away. At the end of the path, at the crest of the hill lies the Okochi-Sanso Villa, an elegant home that once belonged to Okochi Denjiro, a famous actor. Nestled amidst the undulating slopes, this villa and garden are spectacular.

In the midst of Kyoto's concrete jungle, the Kyoto Imperial Palace Park provides a healthy dash of green to denizens' tired eyes. This stunning park surrounds the magnificent Kyoto Imperial Palace and is a quiet haven where to spend a lazy afternoon with a loved one, or simply take a stroll along its verdant grounds. Although not among the most favored cherry blossom spots in the city, this park is home to quite a few blooming wonders, including the plum arbor on the west side and the shidare-zakura that flowers during late March or early April.

The Philosopher's Walk is the poetic name given to the path between Nanzen-ji and Ginkaku-ji. It is indeed like something out of a dream. As you walk by the canal, pink cherry blossoms fall from the spring trees. The path takes you past lovely little shrines and temples. It was given this name in honor Nishida Kitaro, a professor at the nearby Kyoto University, who did the best of his philosophical contemplation on this route.

Maruyama Park is one of the most beautiful places in Kyoto and is completely packed in April. In spring the cherry blossoms bloom pink and picturesque. In fact, cherry blossom viewing is an integral part of the community’s annual activity. One of the main attractions here is a cherry tree that lights up in the night, to the delight of the audience that wait for the moment. One can get into the park from the Yasaka Shrine, which is upon Shijō Street.

A distinctive Kyoto landmark built in 1964 and situated directly in front of Kyoto station, this 131-meter-high, slim orange and white tower, resembling a torch, is generally panned by guidebook writers, but illuminated at night it serves as a truly handy location device. Inside are an observation platform, souvenir shop, hotel and a large bathhouse, plus an assortment of weird and wonderful amusements and arcade games.

Just a short distance from the city center and train station of Minoo City is the abundant natural beauty of Minoo Park. You can find wild monkeys here and learn about insects at the Insect Museum. The museum displays some 9,500 specimens from about 2,600 species both from Japan and overseas. There is also a Butterfly Garden and a large 200-square-meter hothouse where more than 200 specimens flit about, allowing one to view them in their natural habitat throughout the seasons. Admission: free.