Kyoto’s hotels and ryokan can be fully booked in March, April, May, October and November. But don’t give up if you can’t find a room in Kyoto! You can stay nearby in Osaka, Otsu, Nara or even Nagoya. On this page, I describe each city and recommend some convenient hotels. Continue reading

Kyoto has a river running through it: It’s called the Kamo-gawa and it’s really just one long park which Kyotoites use for relaxation, exercise and contemplation. Continue reading

When you close your eyes and think of Japan, you’re probably picturing Kyoto: sublime Zen gardens, mysterious Buddhist temples, colorful Shinto shrines, graceful geisha. The fact is, Kyoto is the most rewarding city in Japan and a place all travelers should visit at least once in their lives. Continue reading

Kyoto is a wonderful city for walking – it’s compact, largely flat, the weather is comfortable most of the year, and drivers are sane. Here are three different one day itineraries for walkers, covering the famous districts of Southern Higashiyama, Northern Higashiyama and Arashiyama Continue reading

Japan’s cherry blossoms are famous the world over, but the fall foliage in Kyoto is perhaps even more beautiful. Here’s our guide on how to see the Autumn Colors in Kyoto at its best. Continue reading

Japan is finally open! Travelers from most countries can now enter Japan without applying for a visa in advance. Best of all, there are NO Covid protocols to enter Japan: You do NOT need proof of vaccination or a negative test to enter Japan. Continue reading

Three days in Kyoto allows you to explore the main sightseeing districts and then head off the beaten path into the northern mountains. This is the perfect way to spend three full days in Kyoto. Continue reading

One of the finest vacation rentals in Kyoto, Koto Inn is a lovingly restored Japanese machiya with all the comforts that Western travelers have come to expect. Continue reading

Kyoto is absolutely gorgeous during foliage season, but you’ll have to plan carefully to see the best trees and avoid the worst crowds. This two-day itinerary allows you to make the most of this special season in Kyoto. Continue reading

What is the best time of year to visit Nara? What’s the weather like in Nara month by month? Here, I’ll give you all the answers. Continue reading