Kyoto Highlights – Super Cheap Japan

Kinkaku-ji Temple

Kinkaku-ji Temple, AKA Temple of the Golden Pavilion, is something you really have to see with your own eyes. The beautiful temple on a lake is surrounded by a quiet, peaceful garden and a real must see in Kyoto. Also a World Heritage site. Budget travel tips Worth combining with the Arashiyama Bamboo Groves, to save onContinue reading “Kinkaku-ji Temple”

Ginkaku-ji Temple

Ginkaku-ji (Temple of Shining Mercy) is a stunning Zen Buddhist temple and a highlight of any trip to Kyoto. The traditional Japanese garden around the temple is full of interesting stone/gravel decorations and a ‘wishing stone’. Budget travel tips Combine this with a trip to Nanzen-ji temple, via the Philosopher’s Walk. This should provide for a whole afternoon/morning’sContinue reading “Ginkaku-ji Temple”

Arashiyama Bamboo Groves

Why pay to enter a garden when you can walk through some very Japanesy bamboo groves! The Arashiyama Bamboo Groves make a nice walk or cycle ride for people who want to experience the quiet, tranquil side of Japan. Top Tips The Arashiyama area in general makes for a nice scroll, after going through the bamboo groves.Continue reading “Arashiyama Bamboo Groves”

Philosopher’s Walk

A famous and historic Kyoto walk, from Ginkaku-ji Temple to Nanzen-ji. A number of other smaller but interesting shrines are dotted along the path. Time: 30 minutes How to get there Start at either Ginkaku-ji Temple to Nanzen-ji, then take the route below from there. Map

Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

Fushimi Inari Taisha is a rather unique shrine complex. Hundreds of red gates take you up a mountain, giving you a great view of Kyoto at the top. Budget travel tips Make sure you walk up and explore the hundreds of red gates going up the mountain. Take the bus if you have a busContinue reading “Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine”

Nijo Castle

Another UNESCO World Heritage site, Nijo castle is another must see in Kyoto. The free Japanese garden is nice to walk around, and the castle buildings provide plenty of photo taking opportunities. Budget travel tips Come here early, as it takes a while to explore. It’s best to take the bus here, as the subwayContinue reading “Nijo Castle”

Kiyomizudera Temple

One of the most celebrated Buddhist temples in Kyoto and a UNESCO World Heritage site. There is plenty to see, such as a pagoda, plus various Buddhist building and monuments. Also, try out the wish-granting Otowa waterfall! Budget travel tips Check out the shopping street approaching Kiyomizudera. To avoid the crowds, come in the early morning/sunriseContinue reading “Kiyomizudera Temple”