Kyoto: Things To Do

Geisha walk Women of the flower and willow world are notoriously shy, but you’ll increase your chances of a photo opportunity with one of them (and learn about the city) on one of geisha-expert Peter Macintosh’s "lecture walks." Kyoto Sights & Nights; 011-81-905-169-1654; www.kyotosightsandnights.com
culture | tour | smart splurge | history

Imperial Household Agency Home to the Imperial family until 1868, visitors can only enter the palace with a guide – reserve a tour online with the Imperial Household Agency at least four days ahead. Central; Kyoto Gyoen 3, Kamigyo-ku; 011-81-75-211-1215; sankan.kunaicho.go.jp/english/guide/kyoto.html
family | architecture | history

Japanese Traditional Arts This course offers a chance to try your hand at a variety of traditional Japanese arts, including tea ceremonies, Noh drama dances, calligraphy, martial arts, flower arrangements, and Zen meditation. Central; 144-6 Sujiya-cho Takatsuji-agaru, Tominokoji-dori, Shimogyo-ku; 011-81-75-352-0211; www.kyoto-machiya.com/www_english/culture/index.html
culture | new | art

Kinkakuji Built in 1397 as Shogun Yoshimitsu’s retirement villa, this glittering pavilion has burned down numerous times (now only the top two stories are covered in genuine gold leaf). Avoid daytime crowds; visit during early evening. North; 1 Kinkaku-ji-cho Kita-ku; 011-81-75-461-0013; www.shokoku-ji.or.jp/english/e_kinkakuji/index.html
family | architecture | history

Kiyomizudera Enjoy stellar views of Kyoto from this hilltop temple’s large terrace. While you’re here, drink the spring water – many believe it has healing powers (the name translates to “pure water temple"). East; 294 1-chome Kiyomizu, Higashiyama-ku; 011-81-75-551-1234; www.kiyomizudera.or.jp (Japanese Only)
architecture | views | religion

Sanjusangendo This temple contains 1,001 statues – each slightly different – of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. The gilded carvings line Japan’s longest wooden structure, a 328-foot-long hall. East; Higashiyama-ku, 657 Mawari-cho Sanjusangendo; 011-81-75-525-0033; sanjusangendo.jp (Japanese Only)
architecture | religion | sculpture