[2024 Kyoto Attraction] Travel Guide for Nijō Castle (Updated Sep)

Kyoto Nijo Castle UNESCO World Heritage Site

#myhiddengems #kyoto #unesco #worldheritage #100waysoftravel visited nijo castle in 2023 and 2024. It is one of the seventeen Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto. The castle consists of two concentric rings (Kuruwa) of fortifications, the Ninomaru Palace, the ruins of the Honmaru Palace. It was built in 17th century and in use till 1939. Be prepared to spend a few hours if you want to have the full experience. It can be done within 1-2 hours but you definitely want to come back for more! P.s. the noodle is really nice and delicious lol!

Two-Day Trip Report in Kyoto

My two-day journey in Kyoto was enriching and memorable, filled with explorations of the city’s renowned temples, gardens, and historical landmarks. Day One was dedicated to exploring the Arashiyama district, where I visited the iconic Bamboo Grove and Tenryu-ji Temple. The scenic walk along the Katsura River was particularly tranquil. The day concluded with a visit to Nijo Castle, which impressed with its elaborate paintings and architecture. Day Two started with an early visit to Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of red torii gates that create a visually stunning landscape. The day continued with a stroll through the Gion district, known for its well-preserved machiya houses and the possibility of spotting a geiko or maiko in their traditional attire. I ended the day at Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, which was breathtaking at sunset. trip was a fantastic blend of natural beauty and cultural richness, making Kyoto a city that truly captivates the spirit of traditional Japan.

Exploring the Majestic Nijo Castle, a World Heritage Site in Kyoto

Kyoto is known for its plethora of temples and shrines, yet castles are fewer in number, with Nijo Castle standing out as a World Heritage Site. Built in 1603 from hinoki cypress, it was erected by Tokugawa Ieyasu to protect the Imperial Palace and serve as the shogunate's residence in Kyoto. The castle is renowned for its expansive gardens and moat, reflecting its historic grandeur. Encircled by a moat, Nijo Castle welcomes visitors with the Ninomaru Palace, a complex of six buildings that served as the opulent palace of the Tokugawa shogunate, one of Japan's few remaining palace complexes. The wooden palace floors creak underfoot, even when walking in socks, instilling a sense of reverence. Inside, the castle boasts murals from the prominent Kano school, intricate beam carvings, and ornate metal decorations, rivaling the luxury of a shogun's palace. Photography of these national treasures, however, is not permitted. The castle's centerpiece, the Honmaru Palace, is a 'castle within a castle,' encircled by an inner moat and once used as a royal villa. It has been preserved as a cultural property, showcasing the lifestyle of the imperial family, and was recently renovated. The castle's extensive Japanese garden presents a variety of seasonal landscapes: cherry blossoms and azaleas in spring, crape myrtles in summer, colorful maple leaves in autumn, and peach and plum blossoms against winter snow. In spring and summer evenings, the castle hosts a spectacular light projection event, casting vibrant, dreamlike patterns on the imposing walls—a breathtaking experience not to be missed during a nighttime visit.

Chasing Castles

Timeless Elegance: Nijo Castle, located in Kyoto, is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its exquisite architecture and historical significance. Stepping into its grounds transports you back to Japan's feudal era, offering a captivating glimpse into the country's rich cultural heritage. The castle's beautiful gardens, opulent interiors, and intricate craftsmanship make it a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and admirers of traditional Japanese aesthetics. Whispers of History: Nijo Castle holds a significant place in Japan's past, as it served as the residence of the Tokugawa shoguns during their visits to Kyoto. Exploring the castle's various buildings, such as the Ninomaru Palace, allows you to walk in the footsteps of the powerful rulers of old. The "nightingale floors," which squeak to alert against potential intruders, and the stunning wall paintings add an air of mystery and intrigue to your visit, evoking tales of samurais, courtiers, and political intrigue. Serenity Amidst Nature: Nijo Castle is surrounded by a tranquil and meticulously landscaped garden, known as Ninomaru Garden. This oasis of serenity offers a respite from the bustling city, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature's beauty. The garden features carefully curated ponds, stone bridges, and seasonal flowers, creating a picturesque and serene environment that invites contemplation and relaxation. Taking a leisurely stroll through the garden provides a chance to connect with the natural world and find moments of peace and tranquility.

Japan is well known not only for safety but also for cleanliness. This photo is at Nijo Castle’s park at Kyoto, Japan. I was stunned for its greeny environment because it is calm, quiet and relaxing. Alot of people taking photos of the Castle, but this beautiful scene really caught my attention. #givethanks

Nijō Castle

#japantrip Such beautiful castle! paid 1300 yen at the time of writing to go in to the castle. You have two types of tickets. A ticket to walk around the court (which is cheaper at 800 yen) and another ticket which allows you to walk around the court and go inside the actual castle (1300 yen). The second option is worth it.. great history. What they have done in the inside takes you back to the edo period. You will need around 2 hours for this, especially in the heat. The area is exposed to the sun. Not much shade. There is an observation deck (not high.. but there steps involved to get up there. Not wheelchair accessible) where you can see Kyoto. At the back of the court, there are plenty of rest areas, with vending machines and toilets. at the end of the route, there is gift and souvenirs shop. Overall, great experience

Nijo Castle's Hidden Wonders

#japantrip Nijo Castle, Kyoto's UNESCO-listed gem, mesmerized me with its subtle elegance and "nightingale floors" that squeaked with every step, warning of intruders. As I explored the castle's opulent interiors, intricate wood carvings, and beautifully painted sliding doors revealed the refined tastes of the Tokugawa shoguns. The serene gardens, designed by Enshu Kobori, provided a tranquil oasis. Nijo Castle's unique blend of architecture, history, and clever security measures makes it a must-visit destination. Uncover the secrets of Japan's feudal era and experience the subtle grandeur of Nijo Castle. A hidden gem awaiting discovery.

Samurai Secrets: A Journey Through Nijo Castle

This is my favourite castle among all the castles I visited in Japan so far. Nijo Castle in Kyoto is a UNESCO World Heritage site and it is a stunning example of feudal-era architecture. A must-visit for history enthusiasts. Getting There - You can get there via local train. Highlights - This castle was built in 1600s as the castle of Tokugawa Ieyasu, first shogun of the Edo period. The castle has the most beautiful gardens, intricate interiors. The most famous feature is the "nightingale floors", which "chirps" or creaks when stepped on, orginally meant to warn against intruders. The beautiful castle offers a glimpse into Japan's samurai history and culture. #japantrip #awesomepic #history #culture #kyoto #castle #100waysoftravel #travellerswonderland #japan

The Meeting of History and Beauty, Nijo Castle

Nijo Castle in Kyoto is a place where you can feel the historical charm of Japan. This castle symbolizes the authority of the Tokugawa shogunate and harmonizes grand architecture with beautiful gardens. The 'chirping floor' known as Naritabashi is particularly impressive. It evokes stories from the past when it was used to guard against intruders. The intricate interior decorations and the pristine gardens showcase the essence of traditional Japanese beauty. The serene atmosphere felt while touring the castle leaves a deep impression on visitors. Nijo Castle, where historical value and natural beauty blend together, is a must-visit spot in Kyoto.

Kyoto in a Day: Journey through Japan's Cultural Heart

Public transport is convenient in Kyoto, you can get around pretty easily. Also for matcha lovers, Kyoto is the place to indulge in endless matcha desserts and snacks. 1. Kinkakuji Highlights - A beautiful golden pavilion temple. Another icon of Kyoto. Too levels are covered in gold leaves and beautifully reflects and glitters in the sun. A must visit in Kyoto but it might be extremely crowded during peak periods. 2. Nijo castle Highlights - One of the best castles I have visited. Have a tour inside the castle and admire the beautifully painted screens. The creaking floorboards add to the fun of touring the castle. 3. Ryoanji Temple Highlights - This is a famous rock garden with 15 rocks beautifully arranged. This is in the Arashiyama area and near Tenryuji. A UNESCO site worth visiting and experience zen buddhism. 4. Tenryuji Temple Highlights - Went in autumn and the views in the garden is breathtaking. This is in the Arashiyama area and experience zen buddhism and chill vibes here while admiring the beautiful garden.

Staying near Nijo Castle in Kyoto, the subway is super convenient

📍Attraction addresses: Nijo Castle, Kiyomizu-dera, Sannenzaka, Ninenzaka 🏝️Reservation guide: No reservation needed 🚗Transportation guide: Near the subway, very convenient 💗Other tips: The subway near Nijo Castle is very convenient. We stayed at the InterContinental Crowne Plaza. Although the hotel is relatively old, the service is still good. The surrounding environment is very quiet and safe at night. Taking the subway to Kiyomizu-dera, Sannenzaka, and Ninenzaka is nearby and within walking distance. There are many tourists at Kiyomizu-dera, Sannenzaka, and Ninenzaka, so it is recommended to go early. It can be quite tiring to walk around, but Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka have many places to eat and drink, making it easy to take a break. Highly recommended.

🌸 Exploring Kyoto's Charms: Temples, Trains & Traditions 🏯🚂

Kyoto, an enchanting city where every step tells a story of Japan's rich history and culture. From serene temples to scenic train rides, join me as I recount the magic of Kyoto's top attractions. 🎋 Arashiyama Address: Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-0007, Japan Get lost in the enchanting Bamboo Grove, cross the picturesque Togetsukyo Bridge, and soak in the cultural vibes. Arashiyama is a feast for the senses, complete with onsen and traditional treats. Don't miss the Sagano Scenic Railway for a unique farewell song from the driver! 🚂🌿 🚃 Arashiyama Sagano Romantic Train Address: Saga Tenryuji Kurodocho, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto City Torokko Saga Station to Torokko Kameoka Station Experience the allure of the valley by train, spotting kayaks and riverboats along the way. The Sagano Romantic Train journey is a must-do for the breathtaking views and a thrilling river return trip. 🛤️🌊 ⛩️ Kiyomizu-dera Temple Address: 1-294, Kiyomizu, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto, 605-0862, Japan Rain or shine, Kiyomizu-dera's elegance is unmissable. Climb the steps for a panoramic view of Kyoto, shop for souvenirs, and immerse yourself in the beauty of this historic temple. 🌧️🍵 🏮 Fushimi Inari Taisha Address: 68 Fukakusa Yabunouchicho, Fushimi-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture A spiritual hike through thousands of vermillion torii gates awaits at Fushimi Inari Taisha. Whether day or night, the journey to the summit is a mesmerizing adventure. 🦊🚪 🏰 Nijō Castle Address: 541 Nijōjōchō, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8301, Japan Step into the world of the Tokugawa shoguns at Nijō Castle. Explore the opulent rooms, marvel at the chirping nightingale floors, and wander through the exquisite gardens. 🏯🍃 Kyoto will always hold a special place in my heart, with its blend of tradition and tranquility. Until next time, keep wandering and wondering! #Kyoto #KyotoAttractions #Japan #JapanTravel

🎌 Enchanting Kyoto: Top Must-See Spots 🏯✨

Kyoto's charm never fades, and my journey through its historic streets and breathtaking landmarks was nothing short of magical. Here's a snapshot of the attractions that stole my heart! 🏰 Nijō Castle 541 Nijōjōchō, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto Step back into the shogun era at Nijō Castle! With its massive stone walls, serene gardens, and the 'nightingale' floors that chirp underfoot in the Ninomaru Palace (no pics, please!), it's a cultural treasure trove. Grab a Chinese guidebook at the entrance for a well-structured tour. Definitely a highlight of my Japan adventure! ⛩️ Fushimi Inari Taisha 68 Fukakusa Yabunouchicho, Fushimi-ku, Kyoto A mesmerizing hike awaits at Fushimi Inari Taisha, lined with countless torii gates. The further up you go, the fewer the crowds and the more magnificent the gates. Pro tip: arrive before 9 AM for crowd-free photos. It's a spiritual journey that's both exhilarating and serene. 🗼 Kyoto Tower 721-1 Higashishiokoji-cho, Karasuma-dori Shichijo-sagaru, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto Kyoto Tower, right across from Kyoto Station, offers a dazzling view of the city, especially at night. While I skipped the ascent (Japan has many towers!), the area buzzes with great food spots and shopping centers like GU. The tower's unique collaborations, like with Hibike Euphonium, make for a musically enchanting experience. 🌊 Kamo River Kamo River, Kyoto Strolling along Kamo River is a Kyoto ritual for me. Whether it's watching eagles soar or ducks glide by, the river exudes tranquility. With lovely riverside shops and autumnal leaves that beckon passersby, it's the perfect spot for a leisurely walk or a picnic on the grassy banks. 🍁 Kiyomizu-dera Temple 1-294, Kiyomizu, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto Rain or shine, Kiyomizu-dera Temple is a vision of beauty, with a backdrop of Kyoto city that's especially stunning in clear weather. The path leading up is a treasure trove of matcha and mochi delights. Despite some renovation works, the temple's charm and array of protective charms make it a must-visit. 🌉 Togetsukyo Bridge 1-5 Sagatenryuji Susukinobabacho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto A walk across Togetsukyo Bridge in Arashiyama is a tradition. Spanning the gentle Katsura River, the bridge offers panoramic views of the western hills. Despite the gusty winds that almost claimed my hat, the breathtaking vistas of red maples and lush mountains are unforgettable. Kyoto, with its blend of history and nature, has left an indelible mark on my traveler's soul. I can't wait to return and uncover more of its secrets! #Kyoto #KyotoAttractions #Japan #JapanTravel

The Charm of Nijo Castle in Kyoto

Nijo Castle is a place where you can deeply experience the history and culture of Japan. The beautiful gardens and splendid architecture captivate visitors. Particularly impressive is the unique 'nightingale floor' soundproofing structure, and a stroll through the serene gardens brings peace to the mind. The murals and decorations inside the castle provide valuable insights into the lives of the nobility of the time. Well-organized information panels help visitors understand the history. If you want to escape the hustle and bustle and spend a leisurely time, a visit is highly recommended. Nijo Castle is a must-see on a trip to Kyoto.

Japan Travel｜80% of people who come to Kyoto will regret not visiting Nijo Castle

Many people visit Kyoto mainly to see various shrines and temples. Perhaps it's because I've watched too many Japanese historical dramas, but I'm really fascinated by buildings with stories like 'Ōoku' 😂, so I came to Nijo Castle. To be honest, Kyoto is a place to see the 'ancient capital'. Japanese culture: Shinto, Shogunate Royalty, and the beauty of 'Ichigo Ichie' are all indispensable. So if you come to Kyoto and don't visit Nijo Castle, you will really regret it. It's like missing one-third of Kyoto's soul. 🌈 Scenic Features: Nijo Castle, also known as Nijo Palace, was built by Tokugawa Ieyasu in 1603. It served as the Kyoto residence for the Shogun, similar to a temporary palace. It is also a symbol of the power of the Edo Shogunate. 'Watching him build tall buildings, watching him entertain guests, watching his building collapse...' From the prosperity of the Tokugawa family to the Meiji Restoration's return of power to the Emperor, Nijo Castle has witnessed the rise and fall of the Tokugawa Shogunate. 📷 PS: I even think that taking kimono photos here is a niche but excellent choice! It's much more grandiose than the popular spots crowded with people! It has a very Yamato Nadeshiko vibe. 🕐️ Opening Hours: ☆ 8:45-17:00 (last entry at 16:00) ☆ Ninomaru Palace 9:00-16:00 ☆ Closed: December 26 - January 4, and every Tuesday in December, January, July, and August (if Tuesday is a holiday, it will be closed on Wednesday) 🏝️ Route Recommendations: 👀 What to See 🔹 Moat It has a bit of a mini Forbidden City feel, with some traces of historical fires. 🔹 Honmaru Palace & Ninomaru Palace ☆ The walls and sliding doors inside the palace are painted with famous works by Kano school painters! The Japanese-style screen paintings are very gorgeous! Walking through the long corridors feels like being in a historical drama. ☆ Tang Dynasty atmosphere ☆ You can see the rooms where the Shogun met with envoys and subordinates and lived. ☆ The nightingale floor, which makes chirping sounds when walked on to prevent assassins (some say it's due to old age and disrepair). 🔹 Gardens of the Two Palaces Meticulously designed in the Japanese Shoin style. 🔹 Ruins of the Tenshu You can overlook the scenery of Nijo Castle. 💗 Other Tips: 1⃣️ You need to take off your shoes inside the palace, and photography is prohibited, so there are no photos. 2⃣️ Honmaru is currently under renovation. When we visited, it was also inaccessible due to typhoon damage. However, it's just a small palace, and the rest is still worth seeing. 🌸 Cherry Blossom Viewing Spot: You can see the 'King of Cherry Blossoms', the Yaezakura. 🌙 During the cherry blossom season, there are night openings from late March to April. The entire Nijo Castle is illuminated with a dazzling light show. ⏰ Recommended time: 1-3 hours 📢 Audio Guide: Chinese audio guides are available for rent at the entrance. 💰 Tickets: 800 yen + Ninomaru 1300 yen (available online and on-site) 📌 Transportation 🚇 Subway Take the Tozai Line to 'Nijojo-mae' Station 🚌 Bus ☆ From JR Kyoto Station, take City Bus No. 9, 50, or 101 to 'Nijojo-mae' Station ☆ From Hankyu Karasuma Station, take City Bus No. 12 or 101 to 'Nijojo-mae' Station

Niko-Jo is a historical place that come alive at night.

Niko castle is a historical place in Kyoto, Japan that has rich history and beautiful architecture.

Nijō Castle

During your last visit to Nijō Castle, you had some beautiful and special moments. Here are some of them: 1. Exploring Historic Buildings: Enjoy wandering the corridors of the castle and exploring the grand historical buildings. I enjoyed continuing to places used by samurai and shoguns in the past, and discovering the historical and cultural impact of those places. 2. Castle Gardens: Enjoy the beauty of the surrounding Nijō Castle gardens. I enjoyed walking through the flower-filled corridors and taking in the breathtaking scenery, beautiful trees, and expansive green spaces. You would have enjoyed the cherry blossoms or lotuses in spring or summer. 3. Art Gallery: You may have visited the art hall inside the castle, where paintings and historical artifacts are displayed. You would have enjoyed viewing traditional Japanese paintings or other artworks that represent the cultural heritage of the region. 4. Experiencing Serenity and Tranquility: I enjoyed the serenity and tranquility in the castle gardens, where I could take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city in a quiet and beautiful setting. Those moments provided you with an opportunity to enjoy authenticity, meditation, and relaxation. 5. Spirit of History and Culture: You would have felt the spirit of ancient history and culture during your visit to Nijō Castle. I was able to learn about the details of the lives of former rulers and stories associated with the castle, which brought depth to your experience and enhanced your understanding of Japanese history. These are some of the beautiful moments from your last visit to Nijō Castle. These moments will remind you of the beauty of cultural heritage and the history of the place, and you will cherish wonderful memories of your visit.

Japan Trip

Lovely Lomg story at Osaka Numba Japan 1. ที่อยู่ - Kyoto ไฮไลท์ -Watnamsai คะแนน - 10 2. ที่อยู่ - Numba ไฮไลท์ - Universal คะแนน - 10 3. ที่อยู่ - Osaka ไฮไลท์ - Numba คะแนน - 10

A Former Imperial Villa in Kyoto

#2024wish There are world-famous sites such as the Golden Pavilion and the Fushimi Inari Taisha, but Nijo Castle (二条城) should also not be missing from your Kyoto itinerary. Mostly built in 1603, the palace functioned as a second home for the Tokugawa shogun who stayed here when he visited Kyoto. Many of the beautiful original structures are still standing and visitors are welcome to have a close look at the structures, gardens, and painting gallery. Enjoy the greenery! I want to visit this place again in 2024.

Why you should visit Nijo Castle

Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled in the heart of Kyoto, stands as an emblem of Japan's rich historical legacy and architectural brilliance. This imposing fortress, built in the early 17th century, boasts a unique blend of defensive structures, lavish gardens, and exquisite interiors that captivate visitors from around the globe. What sets Nijo Castle apart is its ingenious "nightingale floors," designed to chirp like birds when walked upon, acting as a security feature against intruders. This remarkable acoustic engineering is just one facet of the castle's multifaceted allure. Upon entering the palace complex, visitors are greeted by splendid gardens, tranquil ponds, and meticulously maintained landscapes, offering a serene ambiance ideal for contemplation. The Honmaru Palace, the primary residential quarters, showcases exquisite paintings and intricate woodwork, serving as a testament to the opulence enjoyed by feudal lords of the time. One of the main attractions is the Ninomaru Palace, renowned for its stunningly adorned sliding doors, featuring elaborate paintings by renowned artists of the Kano School. These "screaming dragons" and vibrant scenes depicting nature and folklore are a marvel to behold, offering a glimpse into Japan's artistic heritage. Exploring the castle grounds provides a chance to wander through the various teahouses, gates, and defensive structures, each narrating a different aspect of Japan's feudal history. Visitors can participate in guided tours to gain deeper insights into the castle's history and architectural significance. Immerse yourself in cultural activities like tea ceremonies or traditional Japanese performances to delve further into the essence of the castle's heritage. To reach Nijo Castle, take a short walk from Nijojo-mae Station on the Tozai Subway Line or via various bus routes from Kyoto Station.

garden light show at night

The castle is extraordinary and the garden too pretty to exist. Go there, you will be fascinated by the details and art of the place! Nijo Castle was a great experience, a dive into the tradition and lifestyle of a Shogun. The castle itself was a wonder. The main hall now serves as a museum, with wonderful descriptions of each room inside, the meaning of the decor and the purpose for which it serves

World Heritage: Nijō Castle in Kyoto 🇯🇵

#schoolholidays Nijō Castle in Kyoto is one of the must-visits during our recent trip to Kyoto as the structure is excellently preserved and it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site not to be missed! With its amazing grand structures, Nijō Castle does not fail to impress adults and kids alike. Highly recommended to go earlier in the day to avoid the crowds, and you can really admire this historical gem! My rating of this attraction: 4.5 ⭐️ out of 5! #Kyoto

Nijo Castle Night Festival

#fallishere During the Autumn period, the world heritage site - Nijo Castle, had a night festival going on. The place was livened up at night, just like in the day, with special light and sound effects. It was mysterious and fun as you enter a historical site in the night and you get a different kind of feel and atmosphere. You still get to enjoy the castle's architectural designs and history and you will be amazed that it can still look so beautiful even in darkness. This night festival is called Naked Flowers at Nijo Castle and we love the suspense in the night.

Imperial Kyoto

#kyototrip 🏰 Imperial Palace: Stepped into the past at the Imperial Palace, surrounded by beautiful gardens and historic structures, each echoing tales of Kyoto's rich history. 🌳🏯 🏯 Nijo Castle: Explored the ornate Nijo Castle, with its "nightingale floors" and beautiful gardens, a true testament to Kyoto's architectural brilliance. 🚶♂️🏰 #KyotoExploration #MountFujiViews #CulturalHeritage #TempuraFeast #UdonDelights #TravelJoy #KyotoAdventures

Motorikyu Nijo castle garden

During my trip in Kyoto I visited the Motorikyu Nijo castle garden and enjoyed the views of the garden and had a nice long walk . The garden was huge and filled with so many flowers. As it was only May, there were rarely any pretty hydrangeas yet. If you love these flowers will suggest to go in June as they will bloom and the entire castle and the garden will be so much nicer. There are lots of pretty places in the garden to take pictures and you can gawk at the nice flowers. Also an entrance fee is required and you can top it up to enter the castle as well.

nijo castle garden

#wecreate during my time in Kyoto Japan , I made a trip to Nijo castle and I visited the garden here. it was a pretty good experience as now is the season of hydrangeas and the flowers looked so pretty! will recommend taking plenty of pictures here as it looks like a dream come true. the garden was huge and there were also some pond area which makes everything look so nice. you can learn about the history of the castle while visiting the garden too. everything was clean and looked good. will recommend coming. there is an entrance fee that you will need to pay but it’s worth it to look at the flowers.

Beautiful picture amidst the scorching heat!

Impressed with this shot at Nijo castle. Did not expect to get this effect amidst the scorching heat.

Japan Kyoto Travel Guide

[Opening]: Overview of recommended destinations. The recommended destination this time is Kyoto, Japan. It is the ancient capital and cultural center of Japan, with a long history and cultural heritage. It is also one of the most popular tourist cities in Japan. Kyoto is located in the central part of Honshu Island, the third largest city in Japan. It has numerous temples, shrines, gardens, and ancient buildings, rich in cultural heritage, and an important place to learn about traditional Japanese culture and history. ⛺️[Must-visit spot]: Kiyomizu-dera: Kiyomizu-dera is one of the most famous temples in Japan, built in 778 and located on a mountaintop. It is one of the iconic buildings of Kyoto. The three-story pagoda, the courtyard paved with white sand, and the thousand-year-old trees of Kiyomizu-dera are all worth seeing. Kinkaku-ji Temple: Kinkaku-ji Temple is a temple covered in gold leaf, built in 1397, and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Japan. There is a beautiful Japanese garden around the temple, which is perfect for strolling and enjoying the scenery. Nijo Castle: Nijo Castle is a castle built in 1603. It is one of the largest castles in Japan and an important political center in Japanese history. Here, tourists can learn about Japanese history and culture. Gion: Gion is one of the most famous entertainment districts in Kyoto, with many traditional Japanese hotels, geisha houses, tea rooms, etc. It is a great place to experience Japanese traditional culture. 🛬[Travel Guide]: Recommended travel time: 7-10 days Recommended duration of travel: 5-7 days Tour sequence and itinerary arrangement: Day 1: Arrive in Kyoto and visit Nijo Castle to learn about Japan's history and culture. In the evening, experience traditional Japanese culture and cuisine in Gion. Day 2: Visit Kinkaku-ji Temple and Ryoan-ji Temple, appreciate Japanese gardens and architectural styles, and go shopping in the commercial street near Kyoto Station in the afternoon. Day 3: Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Yasaka Shrine to learn about Japanese religious culture and mythology. In the evening, you can go to a Japanese restaurant near Gion to taste delicious food. Day 4: Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine and Arashiyama, experience the natural beauty and scenic spots of Japan, and relax at a hot spring hotel near Arashiyama in the evening. Day 5: Visit Nanzen-ji Temple and the Philosophy of Zen to learn about Japanese Zen culture and philosophy. In the afternoon, you can go to the Kyoto National Museum and Kyoto Imperial Palace to learn more about history and culture. Day 6: You can choose to travel to cities around Kyoto, such as Nara and Osaka, or delve deeper into local traditional crafts and cultural activities in Kyoto, such as dyeing, making and tasting matcha. Day 7: On the last day, you can visit the markets and shops in Kyoto, buy local souvenirs and handicrafts, or taste various local specialties on the local food street. 🏨[Accommodation Guide]: In Kyoto city, you can choose to stay in hotels near Gion or Kyoto Station, both of which are very convenient and offer many options. Alternatively, you can choose to stay in hot spring hotels or guesthouses near Arashiyama or Inari Shrine, and experience traditional Japanese hot springs and scenic spots. 🧡[tips]: Suggested to purchase a one-day Kyoto sightseeing bus ticket, which allows for convenient visits to major attractions in Kyoto. When visiting temples and shrines, please dress appropriately and avoid being too revealing or casual. When enjoying the geisha performance in Gion, please do not take photos or videos so as not to affect the performance and the geisha's mood. Please follow the culture and rules of Japan, such as not making loud noises in public places and not littering.

It would've been great to take pictures of what's inside this castle but it is prohibited to take pictures or videos inside, so I needed to settle with just these. So, Nijou Castle is another castle from Kyoto. What's fun inside is that they offer free Sake (Rice Wine) tasting! It was really a fun time there. #wintergetaway

Originally built in in the 1600s under the rule of Tokugawa Ieyasu, Nijo Castle is one of Kyoto's most well-preserved historical monuments. The site at which the Meiji period and Japan’s era of modernization began, the castle is a UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site. When it comes to things to do in Kyoto, Nijo Castle should be your first stop. #wintergetaway #wintergetaway