As the cultural heart of Japan, Kyoto has more museums, temples, galleries and theaters than any other in the country, since it was spared from heavy bombings during WWII. There are 17 World Heritage sights located in Kyoto, and people who visit this ancient capital city (from 794 to 1868) are guaranteed to get a better awareness of Japanese cultural arts, architecture and history just by walking the streets, interacting with residents and touring the famous sights.
Kyoto is home to thousands of traditional gardens, Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines, and it's impossible to see everything in just a few days. With convenient train stations located near major attractions, an abundance of taxis and well-groomed walking and biking trails, Kyoto is a city that begs to be explored and promises a glimpse back to Japan's ancient days of shoguns, geishas and monks.
