I departed from Tokyo and had set aside 2 days for Kyoto, the ancient capital of Japan (It's purely coincidental that Tokyo and Kyoto are anagrams. Tokyo is 東京 in kanji (literally 'East Capital') whereas Kyoto is 京都 or 'Capital City'). For me, Kyoto is a significant cultural centre representative of Japan, if not the most representative, and I wouldn't miss it for the world for my first trip to Japan.
The Kyoto tourist services centre is much commendable, it's located right at the Kyoto Train Station. You can head there for brochures and ask questions like 'I have 2 days in Kyoto, what do you recommend visiting?' or 'Where is the nearest onsen?' These were my exact questions as I hadn't plan for anything apart from my accommodation. The staff were knowledgeable and conversant in English and a few other languages (I doubt they will entertain queries in Elvish). I knew that Kyoto was famed for its temples and geisha, but it was here that I learnt about the guided tour at the Kyoto Imperial Palace, in English no less and for no cost. The palace is only open to visitors on the guided tour, so you can't roam freely around the grounds.
Kyoto Station
Palace Grounds
I signed up for tour that morning and got a place, I think you can book in advance online too.
Stark contrast to the Forbidden Palace in Beijing definitely
I always prefer some commentary when visiting any historical place. The Japanese guide shared tons of interesting stuff in English (I ashamed to say I've forgotten much what she said) and made sure we didn't wander off to where we shouldn't, like inside the rooms.
The roof is made of layers of cypress bark
Here's a sneak shot at our fab guide. The doors and the curtains can be lifted when the weather is hot.
What's a palace without a garden?
With the priceless murals
The grounds around the palace is now a park, lovely!
Here're shots of the information sheet I got at the tourist services centre, you can also find out more from the Palace website link below.
Cost: free
Access: Imadegawa Station or Citybus 205, 17, 4
Related Posts:
Japan Day 6 – Kyoto, Day 1:
- Kyoto via overnight bus
- Arrive at Kyoto Station, raid Tourist Centre again
- Kyoto Palace Tour
- Ryoanji Temple
- Rokuonji Temple(Golden Pavilion Temple)
- Nijo Castle
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