Fact Sheets & Video - Kyoto

Insiders Kyoto

If there is one place where history resides more than anywhere else in Japan, it is in Kyoto. Capital of Japan from 794 to 1867, Kyoto has no less than 17 sites listed on the UNESCO World Heritage list, 24 museums and 37 universities and has hundreds more of temples and shrines.

Kyoto is one of the rare cities (with Nara) which was spared the US carpet bombing during WWII in order to preserve the cultural heritage. But as visitors first set eyes on the city, the impression is one of chaotic concrete ugliness, even worse than other major Japanese cities. But if you take the time to get beneath the city's concrete veneer, you will be rewarded with natural scenery, ancient temples & shrines, traditional townhouses and perhaps even a glimpse of one of the last remaining geishas.

There are many 'must see' sites in Kyoto, including the Golden Pavillion (the city's most famous temple & perhaps even Japan), the Gion geisha district, Kyoto Imperial Palace and Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine. For something different head a little outside of the city to explore the moss covered Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple where you'll find hundreds of unusual Buddha statues. Spend a few hours there and see if you can find the surfing Buddha, the two tipplers, the saxophone player, the photographer and the disciple doing a handstand!

A great way to discover Kyoto's charms is to experience city living as the locals do. The Iori machiya (townhouses) have all the architectural characteristics of traditional Kyoto townhouses: open entrances with complex beam-work, tatami-matted rooms, tokonoma alcoves, plaster walls and courtyard gardens. You can also learn the art of Japanese cuisine in a fun and informative cooking class held in a nearby local home. Wash your meal down with some sake tasting at a traditional brewery to complete your Kyoto experience!

Further Information:

Kyoto, JAPAN

JAL fly to Osaka via Tokyo

From $1687 ex east coast

JAL reservations phone: 1300-525-287

www.jal.com.au

Prices correct at 14/4/08. Prices include surcharges, fees & taxes, Conditions apply.

NOTE: There is no airport in Kyoto. Fly to Osaka and take a train to Kyoto (approx 75 minute train journey).

Sujiya-cho Machiya

Traditional townhouse stays. Prices start from start from AU$546 per night (for up to 4 people). Price is room only and includes service charge and tax. Conditions apply.

Tel: +81 75-352-0211

Email: info@kyoto-machiya.com

www.kyoto-machiya.com/www_english

Kyoto Hotel Okura

Kawaramachi-Oike, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto

(81) 75-211-5111

http://kyoto.okura.com/

Japan National Tourist Organization (JNTO)

Address: Level 7, 36-38 Clarence Street Sydney NSW 2000

Office Hours: 9:00 - 17:00 (Monday - Friday)

(02)9279-2177

www.jnto.org.au