5 free things to do in serene, historic Kyoto
By Chehui Peh |
June 15, 2013, Saturday
|
Print Edition
Print Edition
KYOTO, Japan's ancient capital and a living display of Japanese culture and history, is a must-see for visitors to the country. Apple's Steve Jobs loved Kyoto so much that he only vacationed there. And it's not difficult to understand this foreign obsession with the city. Kyoto's street are filled with traditional wooden houses, and it's renowned for its temples, sakura and autumn hues. While one of Japan's most beautiful cities, Kyoto is also known as one of its most expensive. But here are some things you can do without reaching into your pocket.Kiyomizu Temple
Kiyomizu Temple (Kiyomizu Tera) is arguably the top tourist attraction in Kyoto, with images of the temple accompanied by spring cherry blossom, autumn leaves or winter snow a staple in many calendars. And if you stick to the temple grounds outside the gates that lead to the main site, you'll be able to explore the ancient architecture for free. Another little known fact is that Kiyomizu has an amazing view of Kyoto if you step onto the stone balcony to the left of the main entrance.
Nishiki Market
Walking along a narrow, centuries-old street, you'll be able to get a multi-sensory impression of what markets were like in ancient Japan. Nishiki Market was founded around 1311, when the first fishmonger opened a shop along what is today one of the best places to buy local produce in Kyoto. By the 16th-century Edo period, Nishiki had become a prosperous fish market which expanded to include other foods. Running from Teramachi Street to Takakura Street, it's pedestrian-friendly and a great place to spend an afternoon. Munch away on food samples from various stores to get a taste of the goodies on offer without having to buy!
On the trail of geisha in Gion
Photography enthusiasts, culture lovers and excited tourists always have one item in common on their itineraries - seeking out geisha in Gion. Once one appears, people rush over with their cameras or try to discreetly photograph them from afar. These traditional Japanese female entertainers who perform classical arts for their patrons are immaculately dressed in traditional kimono. They are most frequently sighted in Gion, a district famous for its preservation of traditional architecture and entertainment, including geishas. As most of the geisha are active at night for their various engagements at ochayas - tea houses where geisha perform - try taking a walk around Gion between 4pm and 8pm. While admiring the wooden houses, you may be able to catch a glimpse of some of these women preserving the ancient arts of Japan.
Take an architectural tour
Many old houses in Kyoto have been preserved, their facades remaining unchanged from earlier periods, even though the interiors have been revamped to reflect modern tastes. For this architectural tour, start at Kyoto railway station, with its impressive high ceilings. There is also a free observatory in the station which is worth a visit. Next, head down to the Kyoto Design House along Fukunaga-cho. Designed by renowned architect Tadao Ando, the concrete building is particularly impressive inside, where an installation resembling falling sakura petals hangs from the top floor. Opposite the Kyoto Design House are many creative shops that retain their original facades. Walk along Shijo for a chance to experience the real Kyoto; far away from the tall buildings and bright lights along the main street. As there are only a few street lamps and most shops close at night, try going during the day for a better view and an opportunity to take amazing images.
Arashiyama
A short train ride away from the city center is Arashiyama, at the western outskirts of Kyoto. A popular historic town, the most iconic landmark is the Togetsukyo Bridge (Moon Crossing Bridge), which was built during the Heian period (794-1185) and reconstructed in the 1930s. Located beside forest-covered mountains, it is a beautiful place for photographs. Head down to the bamboo groves in Arashiyama, take a hike on the paths and enjoy the fresh air. And if you're there during spring or autumn, bring a bottle of sake! Sitting under the trees is always the best way to enjoy a cup of the local liquor.
Kiyomizu Temple (Kiyomizu Tera) is arguably the top tourist attraction in Kyoto, with images of the temple accompanied by spring cherry blossom, autumn leaves or winter snow a staple in many calendars. And if you stick to the temple grounds outside the gates that lead to the main site, you'll be able to explore the ancient architecture for free. Another little known fact is that Kiyomizu has an amazing view of Kyoto if you step onto the stone balcony to the left of the main entrance.
Nishiki Market
Walking along a narrow, centuries-old street, you'll be able to get a multi-sensory impression of what markets were like in ancient Japan. Nishiki Market was founded around 1311, when the first fishmonger opened a shop along what is today one of the best places to buy local produce in Kyoto. By the 16th-century Edo period, Nishiki had become a prosperous fish market which expanded to include other foods. Running from Teramachi Street to Takakura Street, it's pedestrian-friendly and a great place to spend an afternoon. Munch away on food samples from various stores to get a taste of the goodies on offer without having to buy!
On the trail of geisha in Gion
Photography enthusiasts, culture lovers and excited tourists always have one item in common on their itineraries - seeking out geisha in Gion. Once one appears, people rush over with their cameras or try to discreetly photograph them from afar. These traditional Japanese female entertainers who perform classical arts for their patrons are immaculately dressed in traditional kimono. They are most frequently sighted in Gion, a district famous for its preservation of traditional architecture and entertainment, including geishas. As most of the geisha are active at night for their various engagements at ochayas - tea houses where geisha perform - try taking a walk around Gion between 4pm and 8pm. While admiring the wooden houses, you may be able to catch a glimpse of some of these women preserving the ancient arts of Japan.
Take an architectural tour
Many old houses in Kyoto have been preserved, their facades remaining unchanged from earlier periods, even though the interiors have been revamped to reflect modern tastes. For this architectural tour, start at Kyoto railway station, with its impressive high ceilings. There is also a free observatory in the station which is worth a visit. Next, head down to the Kyoto Design House along Fukunaga-cho. Designed by renowned architect Tadao Ando, the concrete building is particularly impressive inside, where an installation resembling falling sakura petals hangs from the top floor. Opposite the Kyoto Design House are many creative shops that retain their original facades. Walk along Shijo for a chance to experience the real Kyoto; far away from the tall buildings and bright lights along the main street. As there are only a few street lamps and most shops close at night, try going during the day for a better view and an opportunity to take amazing images.
Arashiyama
A short train ride away from the city center is Arashiyama, at the western outskirts of Kyoto. A popular historic town, the most iconic landmark is the Togetsukyo Bridge (Moon Crossing Bridge), which was built during the Heian period (794-1185) and reconstructed in the 1930s. Located beside forest-covered mountains, it is a beautiful place for photographs. Head down to the bamboo groves in Arashiyama, take a hike on the paths and enjoy the fresh air. And if you're there during spring or autumn, bring a bottle of sake! Sitting under the trees is always the best way to enjoy a cup of the local liquor.
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