Japanese society, which is an intriguing mix of old and new, is one of the many reasons to visit Japan and learn more about Japanese culture and history.

One of the most popular tourist destinations is Kyoto Japan, an ancient city that was lucky enough to have escaped bombing during World War II. Its architectural glory has been kept intact and the history of Kyoto can be visually relaxed before your eyes.

Kyoto, once the capital of Japan, is known for its wealth of shrines and temples. There are so many that you will need several vacations if you wanted to visit them all.

And because there are so many possible things to do, you need to be quite selective when planning your itinerary.

You may want to enjoy exploring the region and soaking up Kyoto’s history, whether on a bike tour or on foot.

The railway in Kyoto Japan

Ironically, if you arrive by train, the first sight you’ll see of this ancient city is a very modern structure.

The train station in Kyoto, Japan is huge and worth exploring in its own right. If you take the escalator to the top, you’ll go above the roof level and enjoy spectacular views of the city from the observation deck.

This, the most important link in Japan’s railway system, opened in 1997.

Within the 15-story complex you will find a shopping center, a hotel, a department store and a movie theater.

And yes, there is even a helipad.

If you are traveling on a tight budget, you can easily find numerous accommodations.

Ryokan guesthouses

Ryokan guest houses, which are very popular, present the traditional side of Kyoto, Japan.

Within them you will find tatami floors and floors shōji screen doors, true symbols of Japanese culture.

Its furnishings are simple but comfortable.

There are also a number of other guesthouses, hostels and budget hotels for business travelers and tourists.

toji temple

Toji Temple should be high on everyone’s list of things to see.

It is the tallest wooden structure in Japan and has the largest pagoda in Japan on its grounds.

nijo castle

Nijo Castle is one of the best examples of a castle in Japan and is also located in Kyoto, Japan.

The castle is made up of a large moat, various gardens, two teahouses, buildings and beautiful cherry trees.

Nijo Castle was completed almost 400 years ago, in 1626, and handed over to the city in 1939.

The Kyoto International Manga Museum

The Kyoto International Manga Museum is one of the more unusual attractions that you might want to visit.

The museum houses a collection of 200,000 comics.

Keep in mind that Manga Comics is a central part of Japanese culture and you will see not only why they have become popular in the West as well, but also why you may want to read some of them on your visit to the Manga Museum.