Kinkakuji is visually stunning, with walls completely covered in dazzling handmade gold leaf which glints spectacularly in the sunshine.

Higashiyama is a beautifully preserved and historic part of the city with wooden homes and traditional merchant shops lining narrow streets.

Pontocho is an atmospheric district offering the best of Kyoto food culture, from affordable dining  to exclusive eateries.

Being a geisha is a vocation and Gion is where these dedicated and talented artistes live, study, breathe their art, and ply their trade.

Walk through hundreds of  vermillion torii gates and climb  up a mountain at the iconic  Fushimi Inari Shrine.

Kiyomizudera is a spectacular temple that illustrates the quality and innovation of traditional Japanese carpentry and craftsmanship.

Yasaka Shrine is one of the most famous shrines in Kyoto. Established in 656, the shrine is well known for its flamboyant annual Gion Matsuri.

Tofukuji is a Zen temple with several magnificent features, including Tsutenkyo Bridge, the Sanmon entrance gate, and beautiful rock gardens.

Nanzen-ji Temple is known for its beautiful 350-year-old wooden entrance gate and Romanesque aqueduct made of red bricks.

Visit the gorgeous Ginkaku-ji  Temple (Silver Pavilion), a  cornerstone of Japanese culture since the 14th century.

The Philosopher’s Path is a stone-paved path that stretches for 2 kilometres along a canal lined with cherry blossom trees.

Sample a wide range of tasty  snacks and pickles at Nishiki  Market, the oldest food market in the city.