If there’s an eternal city in the world, it’s surely Kyoto, Japan’s cultural soul, a heady mix of ancient tradition and contemporary charm. Kyoto is one of the most special places in the country, from stunning shrines to greenery, there is so much to experience. If you’re working on a visit, here are some highlights and activities to consider for your itinerary.

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Fushimi Inari Taisha is one of the most famous places in Kyoto, known for its thousands dazzling wisteria colored gates of torii which are seen on a way to a holy mountain Inari. It is a Shinto shrine that is famous for Inari, the god of rice and prosperity and thus it is a spiritual destination, 'must-see'. A walk around the snaky lanes that are covered with torii gates gives marvelous panoramas and peacefulness and is a great opportunity to escape a city that is too busy and ankle-deep busy.

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Nijo Castle

For history buffs, Nijo Castle is a good place to learn about the feudal past of Kyoto. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was home to Tokugawa shoguns and is known for its elaborately decorated interiors, scenic gardens and the “nightingale floors,” which chirp when walked on as a security measure against intruders. In springtime when the cherry blossoms bloom the castle grounds shine beautifully so it’s one of the best things to do in Kyoto for anyone interested in culture and history.

Kinkaku-ji

Kinkaku-ji, also called the Golden Pavilion, is definitely among the most beautiful and attractive sights in Kyoto. It is a Zen temple that is lavishly covered in gold leaf, and it perfectly mirrors itself in the pond around, hence, offering a view of a dream in every season. It is a cultural site imprinted in the hearts of pilgrims due to its fantastic architecture, serene atmosphere, and penniless garden design. Travelers feel not only they have gone through a centuries-long historical section but also are way out of this world by the depth of the artistry symbolisms in its construct.

Maruyama Park

While the building of footpaths by the wide channels, the romantic bridges and the poetic ponds were seamlessly mixed into one of the best areas for people to have such nice times while meditating in nature, the effect on the environment was not so destructive. Among the other attractions, people come to see the famous weeping cherry that is lighted with digital projections during sakura season. One of the most interesting maple leaves to see in Kyoto is the maples in Maruyama Park, located between Yasaka Shrine and Kiyomizudera Temple. And, aside from other things, Maruyama Park is again the most suitable resort for having a picnic and to be part of the traditional hanami for local excursions and tourists alike to celebrate the beautiful view of the Cherry Blossoms growing this time of the year.

Kyoto Botanical Gardens

The Kyoto Botanical Gardens afford an eye-pleasing and fresh retreat to the nature fans, which breaks the monotony of temple and shrine excursions with their picturesque settings and serene atmosphere. Covering an area of 240,000 square meters, the gardens have a magnificent variety of plant life, from different blossoms and cherry trees to a spacious plant house overwhelmed with unknown species. The gardens in both spring and autumn are scenic with prideful colors, which in turn are a perfect place to escape, relax and get more in touch with nature.

Heian Shrine

Another highlight is the Heian Shrine, famous for its impressive torii gate and extensive gardens. Built to celebrate Kyoto's 1100th anniversary, this Shinto shrine has an elegant design loosely modeled around the former Imperial Palace in the city. The gardens surrounding the shrine are especially beautiful when dressed up with ponds, arched bridges and seasonal flowers. If you want to get a taste of Kyoto’s rich history and artistic prowess, a visit to Heian Shrine is a great way to start.

Exploring Kyoto’s Rich Heritage

Besides the above-mentioned landmarks, there are plenty of unique experiences one can have in Kyoto which include: engaging in the age-old tradition of a tea ceremony, renting an oven and the exploration of cozy alleys consisting of old Japanese wooden houses. Whether it is a leisure walk along Gion hoping to come across a geisha or the eating of local delicacies at Nishiki Market, Kyoto, never fails to offer a captivating experience in the city.

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Wrapping up now

This is where history, culture and nature blend ideally, making Kyoto visit none for you. You are exposed to sights that are always fascinating, whether it is wandering old shrines and castles that are grand, exploring gardens or markets filled with life. Kyoto’s attractions are eternal whether you go to Maruyama Park cherry blossoms or Kinkaku-ji with its golden splendor.