One of Kyoto's most famous attractions, this temple was originally built in 1397 as a residence for shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu. The structure was completely covered in gold leaf, earning it the name Golden Pavilion.
Attraction type: Religious site
Tel: 075/461-0013
This most-visited temple in Kyoto was built to honor Kannon, the goddess of mercy. It's beautiful hillside location offers spectacular views of the city and valley below.
Attraction type: Religious site; Town center/square/plaza; Lookout
Address: Mt. Otowa, Kyoto, Japan
Tel: 075/551-1234
Nijo Castle, Kyoto
Ryugen-in Temple, Kyoto
This world heritage site was the home of Tokugawa leyasu, one of the most powerful men in Japan. The castle was built as a residence and not for defense purposes. However, to protect the shogun from enemies, special creaky floorboards were installed to warn of anyone approaching.
Attraction type: Castle
Address: Horikawa Dori and Nijo Dori, Kyoto, Japan
Tel: 075/841-0096
This temple is home to the most famous Zen rock garden in Japan, which has been in existence since the 15th century.
Attraction type: Garden; Religious site
Address: Goryoshita-cho, Daitokuji-cho Murasakino Kita-ku, Kyoto, Japan
Tel: 81 75 491 7635
Gion, Kyoto
Osaka Castle (Osaka-jo), Osaka
The most famous neighborhood in Kyoto is also known as the Geisha district. It is here, among the teahouses and private clubs that you can catch a glimpse of a geisha in full dress including white makeup.
Attraction type: Neighborhood
Once the largest castle in Japan when originally built in the 1580s, this castle has an observation platform with city views and a history museum that uses holograms, 3D pictures and other technologies to describe the history of the castle and the period during which it was built.
Attraction type: Castle
Address: 1-1 Osakajo, Chuo-ku, Osaka, Japan
Tel: 06 6941 3044
Todaiji Temple, Nara
Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion), Kyoto
Attraction type: Religious site
Tel: 0742/22-5511
Built in 1482 by the shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa, this Zen temple was supposed to have been finished in a coat of silver. Although this step never occurred, the temple is still known by the name Silver Pavilion.
Attraction type: Religious site
Tel: 075/771-5725
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