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GAY KYOTO
Discover this City with our Quick and Practical Guide to Visit the Best Attractions, Savor Typical Dishes and Have Fun in the Best Gay Bars. All this through the Rainbow Eyes of the World Mappers
What to See, Best Places to Sleep, Where to Eat and to Have Fun in KYOTO?
Find it out with the World Mappers !
LGBT KYOTO
Kyoto, a historic city in Japan, has a small but growing LGBT scene. The community expresses itself in spaces such as inclusive bars and at events such as Kyoto Rainbow Pride, which promotes acceptance and pride. Although less visible than Tokyo, Kyoto is becoming more open and welcoming to LGBT people, maintaining a balance between tradition and modernity.
WHAT TO SEE in KYOTO?
10 THINGS TO SEE in KYOTO
Gion - Geisha District
Gion is the famous geisha district in Kyoto, known for its historic streets, traditional teahouses (ochaya), and maiko and geiko performances. The district retains the atmosphere of old Japan, offering an authentic experience of traditional Japanese culture. The best time of day to visit Gion is after 6:00 p.m., when the geisha come out to the teahouses to entertain the men. They are usually seen on the wooden Tatsumi Bridge or in the boutiques and upscale Japanese restaurants of Hanamikoji Street.
Kiyomizudera Temple
Kiyomizudera is a famous temple in the city known for its wooden terrace that offers panoramic views of the city. Built without nails, the temple is surrounded by beautiful gardens and cherry trees, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Kinkaku-ji Temple, the Golden Pavilion
Kinkaku-ji, or the Golden Pavilion, is one of Kyoto's most famous temples, known for its beautiful gold-leafed pavilion. Nestled in a zen garden, its beauty reflects in the surrounding pond, creating a serene and iconic atmosphere.
Sannenzaka, Ninenzaka & Hokan-ji
Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka are two charming historic streets in Kyoto, famous for their traditional wooden houses and artisan boutiques. These streets retain the atmosphere of old Japan and offer a charming stroll through souvenir shops and teahouses. Hokan-ji Temple is also very picturesque.
Ginkaku-ji Temple, the Silver Pavilion
Ginkaku-ji, or the Silver Pavilion, is a zen temple famous for its elegant minimalist design. Although it is not covered in silver, it symbolizes the understated and refined beauty of Japanese culture. The zen garden and the surrounding landscape complete the harmony.
Fushimi Inari Taisha
Fushimi Inari Taisha is a famous Shinto shrine known for its endless paths of red torii that wind along Mount Inari. Dedicated to the god of rice and abundance, it is a spiritual and iconic place in Japan.
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is a picturesque forest of tall bamboo that creates an enchanted and serene atmosphere. The paths that pass through the forest offer a unique experience, immersed in nature, with soothing sounds of the wind in the reeds.
Philosopher's Path (Tetsugaku no michi)
The Philosopher's Path, or Tetsugaku no michi, is a picturesque walk along a canal in Kyoto, lined with cherry trees. The path, about 2 km long, offers a quiet contemplative atmosphere, perfect for reflection, especially during the cherry blossom season.
Pontocho
Pontocho is a charming, narrow street in Kyoto, famous for its traditional restaurants and entertainment venues. Along the Kamo River, it offers a historic atmosphere with wooden houses and the chance to see geisha and maiko roaming around.
Nijo Castle
Nijō Castle is an example of Japanese feudal architecture, known for its elegant interiors and landscaped gardens. Built in 1603, it is famous for its "singing floors" and important historical role as a shogunal residence.
Kyoto Imperial Palace
The Kyoto Imperial Palace, former residence of the Japanese imperial family, is an elegant complex surrounded by extensive gardens. Although no longer the seat of the imperial family, it retains traditional architecture and offers a glimpse into the history and culture of imperial Japan.
Ryoan-Ji
Ryoan-ji is a Zen temple in Kyoto famous for its rock garden, considered a masterpiece of Japanese landscape art. The garden, composed of sixteen rocks arranged on white gravel, invites meditation and reflection.
Nishiki Market
Nishiki Market is a lively indoor market, famous for its wide range of fresh produce, local foods and Japanese specialties. This is a great place to enjoy authentic gastronomic delights and discover culinary traditions.
Heian Shrine (Heian-Jingu)
Heian Shrine, or Heian-Jingu, is a large Shinto shrine in Kyoto, famous for its imposing red torii gate and beautiful landscaped gardens. Built in 1895, it is dedicated to the emperors Kammu and Komei and is a beautiful example of traditional Japanese architecture.
Yasaka Shrine & Maruyama Park
Yasaka Shrine, known for its lively celebrations and the famous Gion Matsuri festival, is located near Maruyama Park. Maruyama Park offers green spaces and natural beauty, ideal for walking and viewing cherry blossoms.
SUGGESTED ITINERARIES
Visiting this city at its best depends essentially on how long you have to fully enjoy it. Here is a solution based on the number of days available to you:
Day 1 - Kyoto #1 (Kiyomizu-dera, Sannenzaka, Ninenzaka, Gion, Pontocho, Kamo River and Nishiki Market) - Google Maps
Day 2 - Kyoto #2 (Imperial Palace, Philosophy Path, Ginkaku-ji and Heian-Jingu) - Google Maps
Day 3 - Kyoto #3 (Nijo Castle, Kinkaku-ji, Ryoan-ji, Ninna-ji and Arashiyama) - Google Maps
Day 4 - Kyoto #4 (Fushimi Inari-taisha, Sanjusangendo, Toji Nishi Honganji Temple and Higashi Hongaji) - Google Maps
(By opening the Maps with Google, you can easily follow our path)
5 BEST EXCURSIONS from KYOTO
We advise you to book the best excursions here: Viator - Musement - Get Your Guide
Osaka
Nara
Himeji Castle
Miyajima & Hiroshima
Kobe
Click'n'Go - Click on Hotels, Restaurants, Bars & Clubs
to find them on the Map or visit their Website
WHERE TO SLEEP in KYOTO?
10 BEST GAY FRIENDLY HOTELS in KYOTO
Travelodge Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi *** ® Tested by World Mappers
Map'Hotel • TRAVELODGE KYOTO SHIJO KARAWAMACHI
Our stay at Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi was an amazing experience. From the moment we arrived, as a gay couple, we noticed the focus on inclusivity and the warm welcome that made us feel at ease. The hotel is perfectly located in the heart of Kyoto, making it easy to access the city’s main attractions, from temples to historic districts. Our elegant and comfortable room was a perfect retreat after long days of exploring. The staff was always helpful and courteous, ensuring our every need was met. It was a pleasant and peaceful experience, and we highly recommend it to all couples, including LGBTQ+ travelers.
WHERE TO EAT in KYOTO?
10 BEST RESTAURANTS in KYOTO Quality / Price
€€€€ - Premium Pound Gion
€€€€ - Kobe Beef Niyama Teppanyaki
€€€ - What’s Matsusaka Beef
€€ - Kikyo Sushi
GAY NIGHTLIFE in KYOTO
BEST GAY PLACES, BARS & CLUBS in KYOTO
Apple (Gay Bar)
Azure (Gay Bar)
bell KYOTO (Gay Bar)
KITSUNE KYOTO (Gay Club) ® Tested by World Mappers WORLD KYOTO (Gay Club)
TRAVEL TIPS about KYOTO by World Mappers
Don't miss Adashino Nenbutsuji Temple, known for its thousands of small stone statues, each dedicated to forgotten souls. This quiet and melancholic place offers a contemplative atmosphere, especially suggestive during sunset, when the statues create an almost surreal landscape.
Let yourself be transported by the enchanting Kodai-ji Buddhist Temple. It is an ancient Buddhist temple renowned for its beautiful zen gardens and historical architecture. Famous for its rock garden and bamboo garden, it also offers a panoramic view of the city from the terrace.
Do you wanna enjoy a breathtaking view of the city? Kyoto Tower is the ideal place! Standing 131 meters tall, it is the main observation point of the city. Located near the central station, it offers spectacular views of the city and the surrounding mountains, especially at sunset and at night. With its futuristic design, it is a modern icon that contrasts with the historical tradition of the city.
Take part in a traditional tea ceremony for an authentic Japanese cultural experience. For example at Kimono Tea Ceremony Kyoto Maikoya at Nishiki! They will also make you dress in a traditional Japanese kimono.
"SECRET KYOTO"
Unusual and Particular Places to See in Kyoto
Outside the classic places to visit of the city, there is a "Secret Kyoto" that has simply bewitched us. Here are the 5 Things and Places to See in Secret Kyoto:
Okazaki Shrine - is dedicated to the deity of fertility and children. Famous for its rabbit statues, which are considered divine messengers, it attracts visitors for prayers related to fertility and health. In the center of the shrine, pink and white rabbits decorate a small red railing; these tiny rabbit statues can also be purchased at the shrine shop, and contain a fortune.
Kyoto Botanic Gardeno - with over 12,000 different species of plants, it is the oldest and most diverse in Japan. A special feature is its "Cherry Garden": during the cherry blossom season, visitors can admire a splendid collection of cherry varieties, which create an enchanting visual and fragrant spectacle.
Yasui Kompira-gu Shrine - is a place famous for its "Breaking and Binding Stone" (enkiri/enmusubi). Visitors pass through a hole in the stone to break negative bonds or form new, positive ones. It is a unique and spiritual place.
Kimono Forest - is an art installation located at Arashiyama Station. Composed of luminous cylinders covered in colorful kimono fabrics, it offers an enchanting walk, especially at night. It combines tradition and modernity in a unique visual experience.
Kyoto Station Skyway - is an elevated observation deck that offers spectacular views of the city. Located in the futuristic architecture of the station, it allows visitors to walk between large glass windows, admiring Kyoto from above, especially at sunset.
INSTAGRAMMABLE KYOTO
Instagrammable Places to See in Kyoto
Don't miss the best instagrammable places in Kyoto, here are our favorites:
GAY TOURS in KYOTO
Do you want to discover the city and enjoy one of Best Gay Tours in Kyoto? We recommend the following local operator(s):
MyGayTour.com - Tour Operator offering tours and excursions dedicated to the LGBT+ community Worldwide. Special Tours and Gay & Lesbian Friendly Guides ready to make you discover the beauties of this destination.
5% Discount Code for MyGayTour Following The World Mappers "WORLD5"
Info & Booking: info@MyGayTour.com - Check all Prices here: www.MyGayTour.com
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