A$3,000 | 10 days | from Sydney | Comfortable
Why you'll love it
Kyoto was Japan's imperial capital for more than a thousand years, and it's home to thousands of temples and shrines. It gets Triptakeo's top score for culture, and 9 out of 10 for food, romance and safety, making it one of the best places in Asia for a slower, more traditional trip.
The best time to visit Kyoto is March to April or October to November. Cherry blossoms usually peak in late March or early April, and autumn leaves colour the temple gardens later in the year. These are also the busiest periods, so book accommodation well ahead.
The thousands of red torii gates at Fushimi Inari are best walked early in the morning. Arashiyama's bamboo grove, Kiyomizu-dera's wooden terrace and the Golden Pavilion are other highlights. In the evening, walk the old streets of Gion, and graze your way through Nishiki Market by day.
Kyoto suits couples, culture lovers and anyone adding a traditional side to a Japan trip.
Your trip cost
For 10 days from Sydney