English version
1. Nama Yatsuhashi
“Otabe” is a famous Kyoto sweet—soft, triangular mochi filled with sweet red bean paste. Popular as a souvenir, it comes in classic flavors like cinnamon and matcha, as well as seasonal varieties like chocolate, black sesame, and cherry blossom.
2. Kiyomizu-dera Temple
A UNESCO World Heritage site offering a breathtaking view of Kyoto. Each season brings a new beauty—cherry blossoms in spring, vibrant leaves in autumn. The Japanese idiom “Jumping off the stage of Kiyomizu” originates from this temple, meaning to take a bold leap or make a big decision.
3. Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
This temple’s dazzling gold-leaf exterior makes it one of Kyoto’s most photogenic spots. It’s often compared to Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion)—both are UNESCO World Heritage sites, but which do you prefer?
4. Gion Festival
One of Japan’s three major festivals, held every July with over 1,100 years of history. Its grand parade features beautifully decorated floats moving through Kyoto’s streets. When I was a student, I watched it from a friend’s house while enjoying somen noodles—what a lucky view!
5. Kibune Kawadoko (Riverside Dining)
From May to September, wooden platforms are set up over the Kibune River, allowing you to enjoy Kyoto cuisine in a cool, refreshing atmosphere. Even on the hottest summer days, the riverside breeze keeps you comfortable, and you can even touch the water from your seat!
6. Gozan Okuribi (Daimonji Bonfire)
A traditional event held every August 16 at 8:00 PM. Five mountains surrounding Kyoto are lit with enormous bonfires forming the characters “大” (Dai), “妙法” (Myoho), “舟” (Funagata), “左大” (Hidari-Dai), and “鳥居” (Torii-gata). This ritual guides the spirits of ancestors back to the afterlife, lighting their way with warm flames.
7. Maiko (Apprentice Geisha)
Maiko are young girls training to become geisha in Kyoto’s hanamachi (geisha districts). Many begin their training right after junior high school, around ages 16-17, spending about a year learning dance, etiquette, and the unique Kyoto dialect.
Recently, some private streets have banned taking photos or blocking Maiko’s path, so please be respectful when visiting.
8. Inuyarai (Traditional Bamboo Fences)
Have you seen curved bamboo fences in front of Kyoto’s machiya (traditional townhouses)? Originally, they were designed to keep stray dogs from urinating on walls, but they also served as protection against burglars and splashing mud from the rain. I love inuyarai—it adds to Kyoto’s unique charm and traditional beauty.
Mina-han, Kyoto e oideyasu! (Everyone, come visit Kyoto!)
