KMK: 5 Fun Things To Do in Kyoto

Title: 5 Fun Things To Do In Kyoto

We’ve touched on Japan before, and specifically the wonderful city of Tokyo, which ought to be on just about everybody’s travel list. Kyoto gets a little bit less attention from international tourists, but it’s equally fascinating in some ways. These are some of the things you can try to see and do to enjoy a stay there.

Saiho-ji

The idea of Japanese zen gardens has become popular all over the world, and has even morphed into various forms. For instance, while some even in the West aspire to construct actual zen gardens in their homes’ back yards, others content themselves with (somewhat gimmicky) interior zen garden features. There is even an app that allows users to tend this kind of garden, said to bring peace and tranquility to iOS devices. Actually, the app works rather well, serving as a soothing, almost meditative digital experience. But it’s worth keeping in mind that this whole concept is based on the real thing – that is to say, unique, relaxing, and beautiful gardens often found in Japanese cities. Saiho-ji is just such a garden, and one of the best in the world. It’s designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and with good reason. A still pond, moss-covered ground and trees, and a general sense of peace and quiet make it well worth a visit.

Kiyomizu Temple

Japan’s greatest cities are marked by incredible old temples, and Kyoto is certainly no exception. This is a particularly large temple, and one situated in an absolutely beautiful manner. It’s on Otowa Mountain, and a sort of porch on the main level affords visitors stunning views of the surrounding forest (with the main city in the near distance). It’s a particularly incredible spot to behold the famous cherry blossoms of Japan come spring time.

Geisha Walking Tours

Geishas are often misunderstood, and have almost become legendary over the years. Some have a misconception that geishas are the same as escorts, as they’ve been portrayed in some works of fiction. Others believe geishas are primarily inventions of fiction. A video game online may have taken the fairest approach to these characters and their culture. Using geishas as theme characters for a slot machine, the game preview begins with, “Enter the mysterious world of the Japanese geisha.” That’s what it is – a mysterious world of service and hospitality – almost like the early-20th century butler culture explored by author Kazuo Ishiguro in The Remains Of the Day. Anyway, you can actually experience a little bit of this culture in Kyoto, a city known for its geishas, by taking an authentic walking tour. You’ll explore geisha districts, perhaps see some in action, and learn about this most unique cultural quirk of Japan.

Nishiki Market

It wouldn’t be a visit to a major East Asian city without a bustling market. In this case, Nishiki Market may not be too much to look at (unless you simply love the concept of crowds and authentic culture, which is perfectly valid), but it’s a great deal of fun to explore. It’s essentially a sprawling food market with over 100 stands and kiosks, where you’ll naturally find some of the more authentic cuisine in the city. International visitors may be surprised at some of the offerings, given that the version of Japanese cuisine that’s typically taken up abroad is somewhat limited. But rest assured you’ll find some delicious things to eat, even if you have to take a few leaps of faith.

Club World K-Pop

I can’t say I have personal experience with this – but, if you’re from Korea or interested in Korean culture and you’d like to find some of it in Kyoto, word has it there is k-pop to be found in the Kyoto nightlife scene! Specifically, Club World, which is one of Kyoto’s largest nightclubs, cycles through different kinds of music from night to night, and apparently features k-pop some of the time. In all seriousness the club scene in Kyoto is fairly strong in general, and Club World should make for a good night out whether or not it’s featuring k-pop on a given night.