Kyoto Top 10 by our Travel Angel, Saki 京都のトップ10

Sometimes it's hard to navigate your way through Kyoto's most popular temples and gardens. To discover the former imperial capital without the crowds of tourists, follow the guide ...

• The Shimogamo Jinja, the oldest shrine in Kyoto, is in the heart of the Todasu no Mori forest.

• The Ryôsoku-in temple, a small dojo of the Kennin-ji temple where everyone can come and practice zazen, Zen meditation.

• The Miyako Messe, international exhibition hall. Take a walk down to the basement to admire the Kyoto Traditional Handicrafts Exhibit.

• Ishibe Koji Street, which leads from Yasaka Jinja Shrine to Kôdai-ji Temple. Quiet and full of charm, ideal for an evening stroll.

• Chushojima district in Fushimi district, easily accessible after you visit the Fushimi Inari Taisha shrine. Discover the Gekkeikan Sake Museum, take a boat trip on the river, or go shopping in the surrounding shops.

• The Otagi Nenbutsu-ji temple and its 1200 statuettes of Rakan, a disciple of Buddha, all sculpted by devotees. To visit during your stay in Arashiyama.

• Hônen-in, another temple, this one dedicated to the founder of the Buddhist school of the Pure Land. Visit in particular the dry garden and the moss garden, which invite to contemplation ...

• Kurama onsen, hot spring a few minutes walk from Kibuneguchi station. For a moment of relaxation in sulfurous and beneficial waters ...

• The village of Ohara: the charm of the Japanese countryside 40 min by bus from the center of Kyoto, at the foot of Mount Hiei.

• Shinmonzen, Furumonzen streets for a stroll past the antique and ceramic shops, and Shinbashi street for a night stroll.