It’s time to explore one of Japan’s best-loved cities during its most popular season. Kyoto in spring is an extraordinary sight, with cherry blossom adorning the city and streets buzzing with visitors from all over the world. When we think of Japan, Kyoto is often one of the first places we imagine and at this time of year, the city starts ramping up the festive spirit. But as the world has come to a halt, let us bring the essence of Kyoto to you.
Kyoto is undoubtedly the historical heart of Japan. Since originally serving as the Emperor’s residence from 794 until 1868, a number of wars and fires have devastated the city over the centuries, yet its historic significance saved it from becoming a target during World War II. To this day countless iconic structures, such as Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Kiyomizu-dera, Nijo Castle and Kyoto-gosho (Kyoto Imperial Palace), have been beautifully preserved.
If it’s outdoor space you're interested in, Kyoto is also home to a number of stunning gardens and greenery, including the atmospheric Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. For cuisine, Nishiki Market, the Pontocho or Gion districts and traditional ryokans offer a variety of street food and fine dining.
But it’s Kyoto’s legacy of arts and crafts that makes it Japan’s cultural capital, even in the 21st century. One-thousand years of serving as the home of the Imperial Court nurtured world-renowned techniques in pottery, dolls, kimono and textiles, to name but a few. These specialist skills have evolved through the generations to ensure that artisanal artforms remain essential to contemporary living. Like in our specially curated collection of authentic Kyō arts and crafts, traditional techniques are ingrained in modern Japanese lifestyle goods.
While we may have to wait a little longer to visit, we hope you've enjoyed our whistle-stop tour of Japan's most-loved region.
Images: Goway Travel, Context Travel