The 8 alternative things to do in Kyoto
There is something other-worldly about Kyoto; Geisha tip-toe through the cobbled alleyways of downtown Gion, whilst zen monks care tenderly for manicured gardens in long-adored temples – it’s the picture-perfect image of traditional Japan. With its World Heritage shrines, age-old traditions and effortless charm, it is easy to see why Kyoto reigns supreme as one of Japan’s leading travel destinations, but beyond the sprawling bamboo forests and photographer-filled tourist hotspots is a lesser-known side to the city. Fashion brands display their latest works in converted machiya townhouses and specialist rice wine cocktails are served on a rooftop overlooking the Kamo River. In recent years, over-tourism has become an issue in Kyoto and so now is a better time than any to look beyond the popular tourist haunts and discover a new side to the city. From artisans to architecture and mindfulness to markets, here are eight ways to experience the many wonders of Japan’s ever-evolving ancient capital.
Ben Richards1. Shop the work of Japan’s master craftspeople
It’s fair to say you won’t be short of places to spend your Yen when walking the streets of Kyoto, with a huge range of traditional and contemporary retail on offer. The latest to join the scene is POJ Studio, a traditional Japanese townhouse-turned-retail space located a stones throw from the iconic Kiyomizu-dera temple. Browse the best of Japan’s handicrafts, from hinoki wood tableware to unique tie-dye indigo wall hangings. For those keen on antiques, the Heian Shrine Antique Market is held on the 10th each month in front of Heian-jingu Shrine; home to over 100 stalls of antiques and second-hand clothing from all over Japan.
Addresses: POJ Studio, 427-19 Myohoin Maekawacho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto 605-0932; Heian Shrine Antique Market, Okazaki Nishitennocho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8341
2. Visit a fashion-first boutique art gallery
With many ageing buildings in the city comes a great opportunity for creativity. Several brands and fashion labels are turning their ideas towards traditional machiya architecture, including legendary label Issey Miyake. Together with interior designer Naoto Fukasawa, the brand has transformed a 132-year-old townhouse into a new store and gallery space. ‘Kura’ meaning storehouse, hosts exhibitions detailing the stories behind some of the label’s most popular products – a must-visit for fans of fashion and design. Other boutiques include Hosoo Gallery, curated by the kimono textile specialist of the same name, in their sleek minimalist flagship store. And if that isn’t enough, y Gion is a multi-use facility and cultural hub hosting art exhibitions, live music and a rooftop bar with panoramic views over the Kamo River.
Addresses: Issey Miyake, 604-8112 Kyoto, Nakagyo Ward, Tsuchiyacho, 89; Hosoo Gallery, 412 Kakimotocho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8173; y Gion, 605-0086 Kyoto, Higashiyama Ward, Benzaitencho, 19
3. Engage all five senses with a private temple experience
With plenty of World Heritage sites and temples to choose from, most visitors flock to the likes of the shimmering gold Kinkaku-ji, or the vermillion torii gates of Fushimi Inari Taisha. In order to escape the crowds, hotels including Aman Kyoto and The Shinmonzen host personalised visits to some of the city’s hidden temples. Learn mindfulness meditation from a Buddhist priest at Ryosoku-in Temple, located inside the grounds of Kenninji, or indulge in a dose of shinrinyoku (forest bathing) amongst the exquisite gardens and maple trees of Koetsu-ji. Exclusive tea ceremonies are also held at many temples, as well as invite-only experiences hosted by Kyoto’s illusive Geiko (geisha), the epitome of Japanese hospitality.
Addresses: Ryosoku-in, 591 Komatsucho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0811; Koetsu-ji: 29 Takagamine Koetsucho, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 603-8466
Ben Richards4. Experience the work of world-renowned architects
Modern architecture might not be the first thing that springs to mind when taking a trip to Japan’s spiritual capital, but be sure to keep your eyes peeled for some architectural gems in amongst the machiya townhouses and maze-like alleyways. Designed by Pulitzer Prize-winning architect Tadao Ando, the Garden of Fine Arts Kyoto is a concrete maze of overlapping bridges, walls and waterpools and features recreations of many famous artworks. A little further out of town is The Kyoto International Conference Center, a brutalist megastructure designed by Japanese architect, Sachio Otani. Located on the shore of Lake Takaragaike, the site is designed around an extensive Japanese garden and has become a symbol of Japan for architecture fans worldwide.
Addresses: Garden of Fine Arts Kyoto, Shimogamo Hangicho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-0823; The Kyoto International Conference Center, 422 Iwakura Osagicho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-0001
Ben Richards5. Visit the studios of Japan’s most treasured artisans
From glass blowers and ceramic artists, to incense makers and textile producers, Japan’s ‘Shokunin’ (artisans) dedicate their lives to mastering their craft. Shinji Sekizuka, designer and maker of traditional Japanese footwear and ‘zouri’ sandals, works under the name of Hakimono Sekizuka and makes each custom piece completely by hand in his beautifully converted workshop and showroom. At Ryushodo Hayashi, a 180-year-old shop in the heart of the city, Keijirou Hayashi hand rolls incense sticks of the highest grade with gentle scents of sandalwood, agarwood, and kyara spilling out onto the street – you can’t miss it. For more from Kyoto’s craftspeople, be sure to pay a visit to the Nishijin Textile Center to learn all about Kyoto’s longstanding textile tradition.
Addresses: Hakimono Sekizuka, 642-19 Iwakura Hanazonocho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-0024; Ryushodo Hayashi, 604-8258 Kyoto, Nakagyo Ward, Hashihigashizumecho; Nishijin Textile Center, 602-8216 Kyoto, Kamigyo Ward, Tatemonzencho, 414
Ben Richards6. Take a hike
Looking for a unique vantage over Kyoto city, or maybe you need to stretch your legs after a long flight? Why not head into the hills via The Kyoto Isshu Trail. The hiking trail takes you through Kyoto’s eastern, northern, and western edges, via mountains, forests and rice paddies. The 70km total hike can of course be done in segments, with popular choices being the Daimonjiyama route, providing stunning views over the city, minus the crowds, or a hike of Mt Atago, taking you to Kyoto’s highest point. Whether it’s an afternoon adventure or a full day in the hills, this off-the-beaten-track experience is sure to add something a little different to your Kyoto trip. Official Kyoto Isshu Trail maps can be purchased from major bookstores including Maruzen (also available in English).
7. Spend time doing nothing
This might seem counterintuitive when you have just flown halfway across the world to your favourite destination, but where better to experience the luxury and tranquility of a spa experience than in Kyoto. Literally translating to ‘breathing’, Kokyu Spa is based around the concept of natural healing. A 120 minute ‘breathing spa’ course is offered, featuring an extensive treatment including hot stone press, enzyme cleansing and aroma counselling. Located off Nijo Teramachi, the spa and gallery space is housed in a converted machiya townhouse designed by Souta Youriki. For something a little more traditional you can visit Sagano Onsen Tenzan-no-yu, Kyoto’s largest bathhouse and spa complex, located on the west side of the city. Here visitors can enjoy a pure hot spring onsen bathing in a classic setting. Not a bad way to end a busy day of exploring.
Addresses: Kokyu Spa, 509-2 Hoteiyacho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-0963; Sagano Onsen Tenzan-no-yu: 616-8315 Kyoto, Ukyo Ward, 峨野宮ノ元町55-4-7
Ben Richards8. Embark on a personalised journey
A city like Kyoto has many layers; of culture, etiquette and customs that even the locals can find hard to fathom. This means getting beneath the surface can be difficult, even for the most seasoned of traveller. With the help of specialist travel experts, you will be able to experience life like a local and track down those lesser-known experiences and locations. Luxury travel experts like Boutique Japan and Wondertrunk & Co specialise in creating custom itineraries around your needs as a traveller to ensure a one-of-a-kind experience far away from the well-known sightseeing spots. Maybe you want to find the best kaiseki course in town or gain access to one of Gion’s private teahouses, your dedicated travel expert will be there to make your ideas into reality.