
Stay at a Machiya-Style Hostel in Kyoto
Utsuwa is a designer hostel in Kyoto that provides visitors with an affordable way to get an authentic, local experience in Japan's ancient capital!

Grab a Bite at Gion's New Hard Rock Café
Let’s take a look at the unique menu items you can enjoy only at the café’s Kyoto branch.

Geisha in Kyoto Prepare for New Year
Geisha in Kyoto's Gion district begin their traditional New Year’s rituals. Click to learn more about the <i>koto hajime</i> ritual.

You Ain't Never Heard 'Aladdin' Like This!
Have you seen this stylish and dynamic performance by the members of two Japanese high schools? It's truly worthy of a full-scale Disney production!
5 More Fantastic Kansai Hikes
Kansai is home to some amazing hiking spots that offer both interesting trails and stunning views. So what are you waiting for? Grab those shoes and get trekking!
Dine on Decadent, Artisanal Donuts in Kyoto
Koe Donuts is bringing ethical, artisanal donuts to Kyoto—so you can satisfy your sweet tooth without feeling guilty.
Kemari: Japan’s Ancient Ball Game
People in Kyoto are reenacting an ancient type of Japanese football that was played by nobles centuries ago.
Awesome Ways to Spice up the Night in Kyoto
Kyoto is known for its iconic cultural landmarks and enduring place in Japan's history. But when the sun goes down, there's still plenty of opportunity to explore and have fun!
Riding the Rails: The Sagano Scenic Railway
The Sagano Scenic Railway runs the popular sightseeing train known as the Sagano Romantic Train, which takes you on a seven-kilometer journey between Kyoto’s Arashiyama district—a tourist spot in the Sagano area famous for fall foliage—and Kameoka.
Kyoto's Amazing Gion Festival
Kyoto's incredibly historic, long-standing Gion Festival reached its thrilling climax!
Kyoto Gets a Rockin' New Restaurant
One of Kyoto's most traditional areas is getting a very modern new addition in the form of a Hard Rock Café! But of course, it has a tradition-inspired Kyoto twist!
Travel to Kyoto on a Traditional Train
With tatami mats, noren curtains and a zen garden, this is one of the most stunning and surprisingly affordable ways to travel in Japan.
Top 10 Hydrangea Flower Spots in Kyoto
Kyoto is gorgeous throughout the year, but especially when covered in beautiful flowers! Here are the top 10 hydrangea flower spots in Kyoto!
Traditional Flavors at New Kyoto Shake Shack
The popular American burger chain is opening a location in Kyoto, and new menu items will make use of Kyoto's high-quality Uji matcha!
Looking for Luxury? Japan Has You Covered!
As international customers rush to discover Japan's many charms, efforts are being made to attract affluent tourists looking for high-end luxury experiences.
Uji: An Awesome Day Trip from Kyoto
Home to some of the best green tea and one of the most recognizable temples in Japan, Uji is a destination that shouldn't be missed if you're exploring Kyoto and the rest of the Kansai area!
All-Star Kabuki at Kyoto's Minamiza Theatre
Yearly Kabuki event "Kaomise Kogyo," a series of plays with several famous performers in the cast, has begun at Minamiza Theatre in Kyoto.
Omotenashi of English-Speaking Geisha in Kyoto
The “flower town” district of Gion in Kyoto is where geiko and maiko in glamorous kimono enchant people with their talents, elegance and grace. One geiko in particular shines through her use of two languages; a unique dialect of Japanese, and English.
JR West & Hello Kitty Combine for Max 'Kawaii'
JR West teams up with Hello Kitty to clad its Kansai Special Rapid train in kawaii decals, which means passengers can ride from Kansai Airport to Kyoto in a colorful Kitty train cabin!
Fushimi: Come to the Shrine, Stay for the Sake
Most famous for the iconic Fushimi Inari shrine, Kyoto’s Fushimi district is also one of Japan’s top sake-producing regions. Be sure to make the most of your visit by taking a look around its historic brewing district. Kanpai!