With

With
the mountains in the distance and urban areas both old and
new,
Kyoto can feel like a picturesque, old-timey town in some
parts, and like one of the world’s most beloved, bustling cities in
others. There are few cities in the world that offer such endless
visual bounties. Tranquil walks along temple trails, shopping at
lively food markets and geisha-spotting in Gion is all part of a
typical, sightseeing-packed day here.

With over 1,000 temples and shrines, Kyoto is something of a
cultural theme park, making it a top destination for travellers.
Yet there are ways and means of avoiding the flocks of photo-hungry
visitors. Low-season months of September, October and May combine
(usually) idyllic weather with cheaper prices and fewer crowds
hankering after cherry blossoms and autumn leaves. Early morning or
late-night visits to the most famous of shrines and temples also
provides a peaceful and altogether more atmospheric experience of
the ancient capital.