From peaceful gardens to mouthwatering local delicacies, discover the best activities in Kyoto, the former capital of Japan.

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Japan

Kyoto

The Best Things To Do and See in Kyoto

Kyoto's traditional inns, or ryokan, boast luxurious spas, incredible multi-course meals, and beautiful bamboo and tatami accents. Experience the best of them through these top picks.

The 8 Best Ryokan in Kyoto, Japan

Sumo wrestling, wearing a kimono, making textiles – discover 11 of the quirkiest experiences you can have when visiting Tokyo.

12 Quirky Experiences in Tokyo, Japan

For a small country, Japan comprises some strikingly diverse landscapes. We check out 10 of the most breathtaking towns in Japan.

The 10 Most Beautiful Towns in Japan

Forget the ordinary with these 12 underrated destinations from Japan that you’ve been missing.

12 Must-Visit Places in Japan, as Recommended by Locals

Featured Articles

At once ultra-modern and enduringly traditional, Japan’s capital is a kaleidoscope of pop culture, history and innovation. There’s something to stimulate the senses around every corner, whether it’s the buzz of a pachinko parlour, the scent of incense at Sensō-ji temple, the neon lights of Kabukichō or the sight of blossoming cherry trees.

Tokyo’s tech-savvy reputation is embodied in its futuristic skyscrapers, high-speed bullet trains, robot restaurants and nine-storey electronics stores. Japan’s penchant for all things eccentric is evident everywhere, from eye-popping street style to stores, streets and whole districts devoted to manga, anime and kawaii culture. Meanwhile, old-world Japan can be found in the city’s historic shrines, Japanese gardens and in the narrow streets of old-fashioned quarters such as Asakusa.

Introducing Tokyo

Tokyo is an incomparable city where everything you do will be unlike anything you’ve known before. Eating is an experience in itself, with concepts ranging from monster, maid and animal cafés to traditional tea ceremonies. To eat and drink like a resident, head to Shinjuku and explore the Golden Gai’s maze of tiny drinking dens and Omoide Yokocho’s izakaya (Japanese pubs). Take in the sheer size of the world’s most populated city from atop the 634m-tall Tokyo Skytree, or by braving the crowds at the infamous Shibuya Crossing. Finally, make sure to enjoy quintessentially Japanese traditions, whether by watching a sumo tournament or soaking in an onsen (natural hot spring).

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