3 Things To Do In
Kyoto

Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto is renowned for its striking path lined with thousands of vermilion torii gates, creating a mesmerizing tunnel that leads up Mount Inari. This Shinto shrine, dedicated to Inari, the god of rice, has become one of the most iconic images of Japan, attracting visitors from around the globe. The gates, known as Senbon Torii, signify the entrance to the sacred and are donated by individuals and businesses, each bearing inscriptions of the donor’s name and the date of donation. The shrine’s origins date back to 711, predating Kyoto’s establishment as the capital, and it holds a significant place in Japanese culture, symbolizing success in business and a good harvest​​​​.

The journey through the gates is not just a visual feast but also a spiritual experience, leading to various smaller shrines and offering spots where visitors can engage in traditional practices like purchasing Omikuji, paper fortunes that can be tied onto the shrine if unfavorable, symbolizing leaving the bad luck behind. The shrine complex also features Ema plaques and paper cranes, symbols of wishes and hopes, adding a deeply personal touch to the visit. The hike up the mountain can take about 2-3 hours, offering serene views of Kyoto and a deeper exploration of the shrine’s extensive grounds​​​​.

Visiting Fushimi Inari Taisha provides an unforgettable experience, combining natural beauty, cultural richness, and a deep sense of tranquility. It stands out as a testament to Japan’s enduring traditions and the personal connections people make with the divine.

La Collina Ōmi-Hachiman, situated in Shiga Prefecture, Japan, is a picturesque destination renowned for its unique architectural design by Terunobu Fujimori. The site seamlessly blends into its natural surroundings, featuring organic shapes and natural materials that enhance the beauty of the lush greenery, rolling hills, and tranquil water features. Visitors can explore walking trails that offer stunning views of the countryside. The destination also boasts a variety of shops and cafes that highlight local products, artisanal goods, traditional crafts, and locally sourced cuisine, making it an ideal spot for shopping and dining.

Additionally, La Collina Ōmi-Hachiman offers various workshops and activities, such as pottery making and confectionery classes, allowing visitors to engage in hands-on experiences that reflect the local culture. Accessible by public transportation, it serves as a popular day-trip destination for both tourists and locals from nearby cities like Kyoto and Osaka. Complementing the historical and cultural richness of Ōmi-Hachiman, La Collina provides a modern yet harmonious space that attracts visitors year-round, offering a perfect blend of nature, art, and cultural exploration.

The Kyoto Costume Museum, also known as the Kyoto Costume Institute, is a renowned institution in Kyoto, Japan, dedicated to the preservation and exhibition of clothing and textiles from various periods, especially those related to Japanese culture and history. The museum is known for its extensive collection that spans from the Heian period to the modern era, showcasing traditional Japanese garments such as kimonos, as well as Western-style clothing that has influenced Japanese fashion over the years.

Visitors to the museum can explore a wide range of exhibitions that detail the intricate craftsmanship, materials, and evolution of Japanese and global fashion. The displays often include rare and historically significant pieces, offering insights into the social, cultural, and artistic aspects of clothing. The Kyoto Costume Museum is not only a treasure trove for fashion enthusiasts and historians but also provides an educational experience for anyone interested in the cultural heritage and aesthetic sensibilities of Japan. Through its exhibitions and research, the museum plays a crucial role in preserving and interpreting the history of fashion and textiles.