Kyoto: A Guide to One of the Friendliest Cities in Asia

When you think of the friendliest city in Asia, Kyoto probably doesn't cross your mind. However, it should. It's one of the prettiest, best, and friendliest cities in all of Japan that is definitely worth checking out if you ever get over to Asia. Personally, I've been to Kyoto dozens of times, and I absolutely love it. Every time is like a new adventure. This quick-reference guide will give you a few inside points of Kyoto, some great places to stay, and some fun things to do.

How to get to Kyoto:
Kyoto is located in the Tamba Highlands mountain region of Japan. It's in an absolutely beautiful area that used to be known as the Imperial Capital of Japan. To get to this breathtakingly beautiful region of the world, there is an international airport called The Kansai International Airport that offers flights from dozens of airlines and flights from over 50 U.S. cities. Once you land at the Kansai airport it's about a one hour ride to the Osaka-Kobe-Kyoto metropolitan area, which is almost like the "downtown" region of Kyoto. You can rent a car, take a train, take a ferry, a bus, or a train into Osaka-Kobe-Kyoto. All are available at the airport.

Where to Stay:
Kyoto has many beautiful hotels. It truly depends on where in Kyoto you would like to stay, but here are a few of my favorites.

The Westin Miyako Kyoto is the perfect hotel if you still want the luxuries that an American hotel offers. The hotel is located only about 2 minutes from the Keague subway station, which gives it easy access to get virtually anywhere in Kyoto. It features many American hotel luxuries, such as an outdoor pool, a private garden, a 24 hour fitness center, free shuttle service, high speed internet, live entertainment, restaurants on site, and much more. The hotel also features 7 great restaurants and one bar so the food really offers something for everyone. To make reservations, go to the Westin website

Another great option, but very different from the Westin, is the Matsumoto Ryokan. The Matsumoto is a true Japanese style hotel, and features convenient access to subway systems, bus lines, and transportation so you can, once again, go virtually anywhere. The rooms reflect those of true Japanese styles of living, and may be a bit different than what you're used to if you've never been to Japan before. The rooms include the basic: bed, television, desk, etc. but many don't include couches, because in Japan they mostly sit on floor cushions instead. Takes some getting used to, but if you want the true Japanese style, this is it. The rooms also feature air conditioning, and upon check in you will be provided with a Yukata which can be worn as a robe, pajamas, whatever you want. To make reservations, go to the Matsumoto Ryokan website.

Activities:
One of the best things about Kyoto, aside from how pretty it is, is how much there is to do there. Kyoto is filled with attractions from dozens of museums, to seeing the local University, to taking a tour of temples and shrines, and even family activities! Here's a few of my top picks.

The Museum of Kyoto is perfect for first-time visitors to Kyoto, or those who just want to learn a little more about this great city. The museum was recently renovated (completed in 2005) and contains virtually everything about Kyoto from the history, to the people, and also features a wide selection of Kyoto art. The museum also features restaurants, shops, a cultural information desk, and much more. It's open from 10am-7:30pm (the restaurants are open later, however) and more information can be found here.

There are also several temples and shrines in the Kyoto area. Each are unique, and very cool to see. Many feature gardens (tea gardens, flower gardens, memorial gardens, etc) and some even feature beautiful cherry blossoms in the autumn seasons. Most are not free (and cost about 500 yen for admission, but most children are free) but it's definitely something that will allow you to experience the true Japanese culture.

The Kyoto Municipal Zoo is a lot of fun for adults and kids alike. The zoo features over 700 animals and also includes a full size library, an arcade, and much more. The zoo has been open since 1903, and features many historical features, as well as many renovated features. It's open from 9am-5pm from March through November and costs around 500 yen.

Where to eat:
Kyoto offers many different types of restaurants, most of them being Japanese. Many of the locals eat at izakaya's (which are more like bars) and shokudo's (which are similar to diners in America). Kyoto also features many traditional Japanese cuisine places, sushi bars/restaurants, and much more. For a full list of Kyoto restaurants and their features, click here.