Kyoto, Japan's most fascinating city, is made up of many different districts each with its own distinctive atmosphere, charm and history.
Many of Kyoto's districts reflect the various Japanese arts, crafts and trades that have traditionally thrived for centuries in that area.
You'll still find kimono weaving in the Nishijin area in the west of the city and Geisha hurrying to their appointments in the teahouses of Pontocho and Gion downtown, just as they also have for hundreds of years.
The eastern hills of Higashiyama are famous for their many historic temples and shrines such as Ginkakuji, Nanzenji and Enkoji. The western, less populated, side of the city is known for the Zen temples and gardens of Kinkakuji, Ryoanji and Myoshinji.
Further north are the mountain retreats of Kibune and Kurama and to the north east the imposing Mount Hiei, home to the mountain monks of Enrakuji.
Kyoto is best seen on foot or by bicycle, though if you need to move around more quickly use the cross-shaped subway, jump on a bus or hail a ubiquitous taxi.
The Kamogawa and Takanogawa rivers form a 'Y-shape' through the middle of the city, with their confluence at Demachiyanagi. Cycle down the banks of the river to the main shopping areas of Shijo Kawaramachi, Sanjo and Teramachi. If you are in Kyoto near the end of the month, don't miss the thriving temple markets of Toji Temple, south of Kyoto Station, on the 21st and Kitano Tenmangu, to the west of town, on the 25th of each month.
Kyoto District Guides 
