Kyoto was once the nation’s capital, before being moved to Tokyo in 1868. While it is no longer the capital, it is still the heart and soul of Japan. Kyoto offers visitors a look into a well preserved history, traditions and cultures of years gone by. With 17 UNESCO world heritage sites as well as breathtaking scenery and warm and welcoming people, Kyoto is a destination to put on your list.
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Kyoto
things to do
There is so much to do in Kyoto, here are some of our top recommendations.
Featured Kyoto Articles
Chasing Powder in Japan by Train
Mountainwatch | Travel One of the great things about travelling in Japan is the ease and efficiency of the rail system, particularly the multiple Shinkansen lines. The sleek Shinkansen, known as the Bullet Train, travels at spee [...]
First Snow Has Fallen – Japan’s Resorts Are Waking Up!
As the mountains across the Northern Hemisphere are starting to disappear under a blanket of snow, ski enthusiasts around the world are starting to dust off their gear, in preparation for those first powder turns! Japan is leading [...]
Everything You Need to Know About Hakuba: The Ultimate FAQ for Your Japan Ski Trip
There’s truly something for everyone in Hakuba. Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Japanese Alps, Hakuba Ski Resort is one of Japan’s standout alpine destinations. With deep, consistent powder, expansive terrain, and [...]
The Grasshopper’s Japan 2025-2026 Seasonal Outlook – La Niña Set to Deliver Above Average Snowfall
Mountainwatch |The Grasshopper Welcome back new and regular guests to our Japanese Seasonal Outlooks. With the weather in the southern hemisphere getting warmer and the northern hemisphere getting cooler it’s time to look ahead [...]
Snow Machine Returns to Hakuba Valley in 2026 – With a Monster Lineup Locked In
After a huge edition in 2025, Snow Machine is officially heading back to Japan in 2026 – and the frosty festival favourite is shaping up to be even bigger this time around. Held in the breathtaking Hakuba Valley, Snow Machin [...]
Discover Tohoku: Japan’s Untapped Powder Playground
If you’re dreaming of deep snow, quiet slopes, and authentic Japanese charm, it’s time to look beyond the usual suspects. Far from the crowds of Hakuba and Niseko, Tohoku lies tucked in the north of Honshu, where heavy snow fa [...]
