Steeped in history and culture, Nanzenji Temple 南禅寺 is one of the 5 great Zen temples in Kyoto and occupies a huge piece of land. It offers many attractions that will enchant travelers: a rare Roman-style aqueduct, the largest temple gate in Japan, Zen rock gardens, and stunning autumn colors.
Inside a 100-year-old machiya or traditional townhouse near Nanzenji, Blue Bottle Coffee Kyoto is a must-visit for both coffee lovers and interior design buffs. Sipping a good cup of coffee in a cafe that pays homage to Japanese aesthetics and heritage while melding with modern coffee culture sure has its draw.
% Arabica is one of Kyoto’s best-selling coffee stands, popular among locals & international visitors who flocked to its cafes in Kyoto and around the world. With a latte art champion and a specialty coffee trader at its helm, % Arabica quickly became one of the must-visit cafes for coffee lovers in Kyoto.
Nestled in the quieter part of the renowned Arashiyama district is Jojakko-ji 常寂光寺. A charming temple hidden away at the base of Mount Ogura, its unassuming rustic beauty is often underrated. During autumn, it’s a place where Japanese maple leaves, ginkgo trees, and moss meet in an explosion of colors.
IZAMA 居様 serves up Kyoto home-style food, platter meals or obanzai おばんざい in a traditional Kyoto townhouse. Concocted of skillfully arranged small dishes, the chefs brings the natural flavors, colors, and Kyoto style of cooking to the forefront. Read our review on IZAMA’s seasonal bento box obanzai.
Kiyomizu-dera 清水寺 is Kyoto’s most famous temple. Almost every traveler who passes through Kyoto would have made a trip to see this UNESCO World Heritage Site, built on the hillside of Higashiyama, with its nailless main hall and especially during its autumn peak.
