Kyoto: A Last Minute City Guide

Kyoto, located in the Kyoto Prefecture of the Kinki section of Japan, was once the Japanese capital. Today the city is home to more than 1.5 million people and has almost as many designated World Heritage Sites as Rome.

In the older sections of Kyoto you’ll still find alleyways full of wooden houses, zen gardens, and old temples. In the newer sections you’ll find, in contrast, a more contemporary, industrialized society.

When to Visit Kyoto

The absolute best time to visit Kyoto is during the fall months. Between October and November you’ll have the opportunity to watch as the foliage changes from brilliant green to the beautiful oranges, yellows, and reds you’re accustomed to seeing in other countries in the northern hemisphere. The natural landscape only adds to the awesomeness of the already brilliant Japanese temples set within them.

Temperatures during the fall months hover between 12 and 20 degrees Celsius (or 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit). The fall months are, of course, the busiest so if you want to visit during this time of year you should aim to book your Kyoto hotel well in advance.

Transportation throughout Kyoto

It really isn’t difficult to find your way around Kyoto. The roads are laid out in a grid-like pattern similar to many other large cities. If you see an “avenue” it will be running from north to south. Streets, on the other hand, run from east to west.

Most of the popular tourist attractions can be reached from the center of the city by foot. If you wish to venture towards the outside areas of the city you’ll need to take the public transportation system. Renting a bicycle is also an affordable and reasonable alternative to walking

The bus system is clean, reliable, and safe. Bus number 10 is one of the most efficient and can get you to just about any tourist destination available. The subway lines are also safe and effective. There are two lines: one running north/south and the other running east/west.

Kyoto Tourist Information

One of your first stops upon arrival in Kyoto should be to the Kyoto Tourist Board. Here you’ll be able to get a brief overview of the city as well as maps of both attractions and the public transportation systems. There are three main locations throughout the city:

• The Kyoto Tourist Information center can be found at JR Kyoto Station B/D 9^th Floor Shimogyo Ward
• The Kyoto City Tourist Information center can be found at JRKyoto Station Building 2^nd Floor Shimogyo Ward
• The City Tourist Association Visitor Information Center can be found near the Heian-jingu Shrine.

Avoiding Smoke in Japan

If you’re a non-smoker than you should understand that cigarette smoke is commonplace in Japan. The government has a general partnership with the tobacco industry and that partnership results in revenue to the cities. Smoking in Japan is considered a “right” and you’ll see very little efforts – anywhere – to promote what most westerners view as their social rights to freedom or clean air.

If you really want to avoid smoke you’ll have to avoid most public restaurants, outdoor events, and any other public area. If you stay at a traditional ryokan (Japanses inn) you won’t even be able to request a non-smoking room. They simply don’t exist. Be prepared to deal with smoke throughout your travels.

Health and Safety in Kyoto

As usual, Kyoto is a relatively safe city within which to travel. You should take standard safety precautions, especially during the crowded fall months. Don’t carry large wads of cash, don’t carry your passport with you if it isn’t necessary, and don’t let your personal belongings out of your site. During the evening hours you should use taxis or local transportation instead of walking through strange areas.

Tipping Etiquette in Japan

In Japan it is often considered rude to leave a tip so you will almost never see anyone leaving a tip in any public establishment. If you should happen to stay in a ryokan you may leave a tip for a particular individual who has given you stellar service. If this is the case you should never pull money out of your pocket or wallet and try to hand it to anyone. Put the money in an envelope before handing it over. In a regular hotel, most staff members are trained to refuse your offer outright.

Learning Japanese Phrases

There is plenty to see and do in Kyote and while you may run into a few English speakers it is important to learn at least a few Japanese phrases to help you get around. Here are a few to get you started:

• Kon-nichi-wa (Hello)
• Sayonara (Goodbye)
• Ogenki desu ka? (How are you?)
• Arigato (Thank you)
• Dozo (Please)
• Eigo wo hanasi masu ka? (Do you speak English?)
• Sumimasen (I’m sorry or Excuse me)

The city of Kyoto is brimming with stunning Japanese restaurants, amazing festivals, and incredible nightlife, and dozens of historic, cultural, and natural attractions. Prepare yourself for a journey you’ll always remember!