Big city, lots of culture
by bennieofzo
April 1st - 30th: 'Miyako Odori', cherry dance at the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo Theater.
May 1st - 24thth: 'Kmogawa Odori', dance at the Pontocho Kaburenjo Theater.
May 15th: 'Aoi Marsuri', Hollyhock festival of Kamigamo and Shimogamo shrines.
May, 3rd sunday: 'Mifune Matsuri', boat festival on the Oi-river.
June 1st - 2nd: 'Takigi Noh', noh performance at Heian Shrine.
July 17th: Grand Parade of 'Gion Matsuri'.
August 16th: 'Daimoni', bonfire on Mt. Daimonji.
October 22nd: 'Jidai Matsuri' , festival of the ages of the Heian Shrine.
December 31st: 'Okera Mairi' of the Yasaka shrine
Maiko/Geiko for a day
by sandrafiza
I went to this shop near Kiyomizu-dera Temple to dress as Maiko. The name of the shop is Studio Shiki. They have two shop - you can check the website for the shop details. I love the experience so much and I love the kimono that I choose. The kimono has a beautiful painting on it but a bit heavy. As an Asian, our skin is a bit dark but it does not show at all, except for my hand. And everybody was surprise when I told him or her that is I. This make me happy knowing that the transformation is a success and I did not waste my money.
The price is not that expensive and compare to the other shop that you can find in the Internet, this shop offer the best rate. Plus the shop is on your way to Kiyomizu-dera temple. Since everybody will go to Kiyomizu if you go to Kyoto, why not stop by at this shop.
Please give a try if you have a chance. The experience and memory is price less.
Hire a Taxi For the Day
by giampiero6
When You are cruising around Kyoto..if you have a few folks in your group as your taxi driver if you can hire them for the day/several hours. With 4 people in each cab, we were able to arrange to have a cab for about 8 hours at the rate of 8000 YEN. that comes out to about US$20 per person. WELL worth it as you get right to your temple, enjoy the experience, come out and can go on to your next. Very convenient and very wise, since taxis' won't usually be haning around the temple and calling them will take time. In addition, if you have some japanese or are with someone who does, you might get some nice tips and advice.
Kyoto Station
by bkoon about Various
If you have problem finding food, go to the Kyoto Station as there are many eateries and restaurants there. Prices are very affordable and servings were big. Udon and Cold Soba Set. The green tea offered was good too.
Nijo Castle
by kevarms
This impressive castle complex was built for the Shogun, Tokugawa Ieyasu, in the 17th century and it was here that the last Shogun resigned to the Emperor Meiji in 1867. The main part of the castle is known as Ninomaru Palace, and consists of five buildings connected by corridors. Interesting features include the spectacular decoration (screen paintings and carvings) and wooden floorboards designed to squeak to detect intruders.
The castle gardens are lovely too.
Opening Hours: 8.45-5.00
Sign in with Facebook
Philosopher's Path
Adashino Nenbutsuji's Stupa
Golden Pavilion
Magnificent View of the Temple
