English is widely spoken in Kyoto, but learning a few key phrases and carrying a good bilingual map is still wise. Most guidebooks provide some language help; for a good map, purchase Kyoto-Osaka: A Bilingual Atlas by Kodansha.
Avoid weekends
If possible plan your visit for during the week. Regardless of the season, accommodations are always pricier, and crowds bigger, on the weekends.
Show respect
Every time you enter a shrine or temple you will be asked to take off your shoes. Choose easy to remove footwear and take care to wear socks without holes.
A little peace
For a true spiritual experience, visit one of the lesser known shrines – while the more famous temples are beautiful, the smaller ones often have more of an air of tranquility and peace.
Traditional arts
Kyoto is guaranteed to whet your appetite for traditional Japanese entertainment – the best place to experience the arts (Kyoto-style dance, Japanese harp, tea ceremonies) is at Gion Corner.
Steel shock
Don’t be disappointed at your first glimpse of the city – chances are you’ll enter through the huge, glittering, glass-and-steel train station, but the tiny cobbled streets most expect are laced through Kyoto.
