Hirano Jinja, a Favorite Hanami Spot

Hirano Jinja, a Favorite Hanami Spot

Hirano Jinja (Shrine) is a very old Shinto shrine — established in the year 794. It is among the most popular spots in Kyoto among Japanese people for its gardens and numerous cherry trees, for viewing the flowers, singing and drinking.

Tenjin-san Market, Kitano Tenmangu Shrine

Tenjin-san Market, Kitano Tenmangu Shrine

If you’re in Kyoto on the 25th of every month, be sure to attend the “Tenjin-san” flea market. It is held at the Kitano Tenmangu Shrine. As many as 1000 stalls line up on the shrine precincts as well as in the area around the shrine.

Kinkaku-Ji, the Golden Pavilion

Kinkaku-Ji, the Golden Pavilion

Kinkaku-ji (金閣寺, lit. “Temple of the Golden Pavilion”), is a Zen Buddhist temple in Kyoto. The garden complex is an excellent example of Muromachi period garden which is considered to be the classical age of Japanese garden design.

The Geisha and Maiko

The Geisha and Maiko

Geisha (芸者) or geiko (芸子) as they are called in Kyoto are traditional Japanese female entertainers who act as hostesses and whose skills include performing various Japanese arts such as classical music,

Yasaka-no-To

Yasaka-no-To

A long pagoda rising overlooking the floating world of Gion below, Yasaka-no-To Pagoda is a lovely sight by day or night.

While most pagodas come complete with temples, Yasaka-no-to Pagoda stands

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Fushimi Inari Taisha (伏見稲荷大社) is the head shrine of Inari, located in Fushimi-ku, Kyoto, Japan. The shrine sits at the base of a mountain also named Inari which is 233 metres above sea level, and