Kyoto Guide: Best things to do, eat and stay

Start early with a brisk hike in one of Kyoto’s unmissable sights, the Arashiyama Bamboo Groove. Immerse yourself amongst the towering stalks of bamboo and clean fresh air. Along the Sagano walking path, you will soon stumble upon Nonomiya Jinja, a small shrine with plenty of history.

Here, you will find many native Japanese couples or singles coming to seek a blessing for love. After all, it enshrines Shirafuku Inari Daimyōjin, a matchmaking deity. Meander around the property and you might uncover a charming moss garden around the back away from the crowds.

Don’t miss out on Tenryu-ji Temple, which is right around the corner. Ranked first among the city's five great Zen temples, the world cultural heritage site houses a legendary painting of a striking cloud dragon on the ceiling of the Dharma Hall. Head out back and you’ll find yourself in the alluring Sogenchi Garden, one of Japan’s oldest gardens kept unchanged since the 14th century.

Flanked by Mount Arashi as the backdrop, the lush landscape makes it one of the best sights to witness, especially during spring and autumn. Consider walking the sacred grounds where you’ll be treated to verdant greenery and dainty flora and fauna.

Touted as the Geisha district, Gion is a time capsule that reminisces the best of old Japan regardless of night and day. It is studded with many interesting souvenir shops, snack stops, and of course, traditional ryokans (small Japanese inns). The busy Hanamikoji Street is where you’ll find some of the most exquisite dining experiences while the Shirakawa area offers dreamy canal views flanked by willow trees.

For the Yasaka shrine and pagoda, you’ll need to traipse along Higashiyama District. There you’ll also find the world’s first and only Tatami-floored Starbucks hidden in one of the Machiyas (traditional Japanese houses). As for the chance encounter with geishas, it goes without saying to be respectful and avoid harassing them for photos.

Ground yourself for a zen-induced tea ceremony session at the stately quarters of Yuuhisai Koudoukan. The wooden structure dates back to the Meiji era and today, it has become a learning institution that honours the way of tea. Tea Master Toru-san journeys you into his peaceful moss garden where you’ll set foot on stone paths to a bamboo waiting alcove. The ceremony is set to impart the ways of tea to all guests with wagashi (assorted handmade treats) as accompaniments.

Each drinkware is specially picked by Toru-san as he shares the lineage of each cup. Who knows? You might very well be using the same cup Roger Federer, David Beckham or even the Queen of England used when they were here.

One of Kyoto’s most beautiful sights to see, this ultimate Torii gate destination is home to Inari, the Shinto god of rice. The main shrine area is a spectacle in its own right so make a stop to wander the grounds before embarking on the forest trail upwards Mount Inari. Expect massive crowds and a sea of cameras at the beginning of the trail where the Torii gates are densest.

As you ascend, you’ll find souvenir shops, teahouses, and restaurants until you reach the Yotsutsuji intersection where there is a beautiful viewpoint of Kyoto city. Those looking to reach the summit can continue with the circular trail where you’ll immerse yourself in the true tranquil nature of the forested area of the mountain.

Rule of thumb – the farther you go, the lesser the crowd. There are moments when you’ll be in the company of a skulk of fox statues (Inari’s messengers) and no one else. After, hit up Vermillion cafe at the end of the trail to refuel with artisanal coffee overlooking lush greenery.

If there is one sight-seeing spot you can’t miss, it is this. And don’t let the 400 yen (S$3.90) entry fee dissuade you. Known as the pure water temple, the magnificent Kiyomizu-Dera is built on a cliff without the use of a single nail and dates back to 778 AD. Make a quick prayer in the main shrine and head to the viewpoint that offers mesmerising aerial views of Kyoto city, especially during sundown. The leisurely trail will then take you downstream to Otowa Waterfall where you can drink from and is said to bring good fortune.

Venture into the cobblestoned alley of Pontocho, where ancient wooden facades and lantern-lit doorways beckon you to immerse yourself in its spirited embrace. Follow the melody of glasses clinking, and salivate over the alluring char from sizzling yakitori joints leading you into the vibrant tapestry of izakayas, cocktail bars, and hidden joints – all amidst the cackle from the inebriated.

In summer (May to September), restaurants on the Eastern bank will open up the Kawayuka (temporary platforms) overlooking the Kamo River for guests to enjoy some alfresco dining as well as to beat the heat.

There’s no better place to practise the over 500-year-old art of Ikebana than at its birthplace. At the Ikenobo headquarters, adjacent to Rokkakudo Temple, one-time sessions start from just 6,000 yen (S$58.20). Get in touch with the history and different styles of Ikebana (Rikka, Shoka, and Modern Free Style) that evolved through time. Your canvas isn’t just about using up those lovely flower bouquets, it includes the use of even the buds, branches, and leaves. All you need to do is to surrender your consciousness to your creativity and find your flow. The rest will follow.