Japan is a picturesque and meditative country. Despite the giant billboards you often see in depictions of Tokyo, and the fact that the country occupies one of the leading positions in the global economy, it is a country replete with traditional architecture and customs, perfect for the honeymoon couple who wish to enjoy culture, tradition and history.
Long before Tokyo became the capital city, Kyoto, Japan, nestled in the mountains of Western Honshu, was the imperial capital of the country. As the city was spared from bombing during WWII, there are still hundreds of historical monuments and artifacts intact today. But this country is not just about the preservation of customs – this is a place where tradition is vibrant and alive in everyday experiences. Honeymooners are able to step back in time in the romantic and Zen atmosphere of Kyoto, a great destination any time of the year.
There are literally too many monuments and special spaces in Kyoto to visit, but here are some top highlights to wet the palate.
The District of Gion
Gion is not only the home of Kabuki theatre and Ochaya (Japanese teahouses) but is also the city of Geishas, the infamous female artisan/entertainers dating back to the late 1500’s. Walking through this labyrinthine district will feel as though you’ve have stepped back in time as you peruse the intimate tea shops and drinking rooms hoping to catch a glimpse of a kimono-clad maiko or geisha on her way to entertain her clients with singing, dancing and good conversation. In the summer, enjoy a dinner along the Kamogawa River, or at any time of the year, visit the shopping districts with shrines and altars tucked in between shops and in alleyways.
Ryokans
Experience the Zen of Japanese luxury in traditional Ryokans, a type of inn dating from the Edo period (1600s). Upon opening your ornate wood doors, you will see floors expertly fitted with Tatami mats. Open the closets and find a cushy Futon and incredibly soft and plush satin or silk comforters. On your honeymoon, there will be nothing more romantic that soaking in a traditional wood bath together and donning silk kimonos before laying out your bedding. In the morning, slide open your Shoji paper doors for a traditional breakfast provided by the Ryokan. To find a traditional inn that suits what you’re looking for, check out: www.ryokan.or.jp.
Temple highlights
Kyoto may be known as the city of a thousand temples, but in fact there are over 1500 temples to explore. As the former capital and residence of the emperor until 1868, the city was expertly oriented and meticulously designed as a virtual Garden of Eden of the East. Even if you are not Buddhist, you will feel the Zen overcoming you as you walk through the magnificent structures and listen to the divine chanting of the monks. Just to name a few of the temples you cannot miss are the Buddhist Chionin Temple, which boasts the largest gate and the heaviest bell in Japan, the Kinkakuji Temple, painted in gold, or Sanjusangendo, the longest wooden temple in Japan which houses the infamous 1001 Kannon – these Buddhist goddesses of mercy stand in rows upon rows and will have you and your new spouse feeling blessed and inspired by the time you walk the length of the temple. For more information on the temples of Kyoto and associated Buddhist events, visit: www.templefees.com.
Monument highlights
There are over 400 shrines, 4 palaces, and an unparalleled amount of museums, gardens and other monuments. Kyoto boasts more UNESCO World Heritage Sites than any other city in the world. One suggestion for couples on their honeymoon, to ensure that a good amount of monuments are covered, is to join a walking tour of the city. It may not be the most private of honeymoon experiences, but you will have a lot to talk about and many treasured experiences to remember of your honeymoon. One highly recommended walking tour company is that of Hajime Hirooka, better known as Johnnie Hillwalker, one of the oldest and most knowledgeable guides of Kyoto. Check out his website at: http://web.kyoto-inet.or.jp/people/h-s-love/.
Garden highlights
Kyoto is just gorgeous and simply romantic in springtime, when their famous cherry blossoms are in full bloom and many locals celebrate their arrival with festivals, parties and picnics. Alongside Ikebana flower arrangements and sculptured Bonsai trees, you can enjoy a traditional picnic of healthy fish and rice with vegetables under a Sakura tree.
If you feel up to it, travel just outside Kyoto, where you will also find many Onsens, or natural hot springs where you can enjoy a mineral bath for honeymoon, baby-soft, skin.
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