Daytripping in Kyoto and Tokyo
While Tokyo is a dynamic and cosmopolitan city as well as a must see destination in the world- only 2 and a half hours away via Japan’s high speed bullet train, shinkansen, you can be whisked away from the hustle of Tokyo to Japan’s cultural capital- the ancient and peaceful city of Kyoto.
Virtually unscathed by the effects of the War, Kyoto is not only considered to be historically significant but is also one of the most beautiful cities in the world. As the city is graced with temples and lush landscaped gardens of cherry and maple trees- each new season brings a different and vibrant color palette. In spring, the city is awash in pink and white with cherry blossoms blooming in every corner and by Fall it glows in warm hues of yellow, orange and red. Offering the best views of the city is the picturesque Buddhist Kiyomizu Dera Temple (Pure Water Temple), founded in 780 atop a hill on a waterfall. www.kiyomizudera.or.jp
Equally as celebrated is the 14th century Zen Kinkakuji Temple whose top two floors are covered in goldleaf and surrounded by a large pond. Formerly built as a Samurai residence, it was destroyed and painstakingly restored to its original splendor in 1955. www.shokoku-ji.or.jp
One of the best ways to indulge in Buddhist culture is to experience a Shojin, a temple vegetarian lunch that incorporates the four elements of taste- sweet, sour, hot, savory- that can be experienced at the Tenryuji temple. www.tenryuji.com
To fully immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery of Kyoto, take a ride on the Sagano Romantic train that winds through the mountainous gorge dotted with cherry blossoms and the rustling river below. www.sagano-kanko.co.jp
After taking in all the sites, experience a formal Japanese tea ceremony first hand at Taihouan where the tea master will whisk matcha (green tea powder) paired with seasonal sweets. Learn about the subtleties and proper etiquette between the host and guest and how to properly hold a tea bowl and sip while showing gratitude in silence. www.kyoto-uji-kankou.or.jp
Not only is Kyoto known for its natural beauty and culture but also its food. In some instances you can have the best of both worlds. At a Ryokan, you can experience multi course Japanese dinner with traditional Japanese entertainment provided by the Geikos (Kyoto Geishas) and Maikos and for a moment venture into their clandestine world. www.thehatanaka.co.jp
One of the highlights of Kyoto dining is the Kaiseki that takes the preparation of food to a new level using seasonal ingredients and infusing the formal French style of cooking with Japanese tradition taking into consideration taste, texture, appearance and color of each course. The result is a delicious array of intricate and delicate small dishes that are prepared in front of you like fine pieces of art. A top choice is Okumura based in the heart of the historical Geisha and Maiko district of Gion. www.restaurant-okumura.com
The best place to stay and experience Kyoto is at the centrally located Hotel Okura which is situated within walking distance to all of the major attractions and shopping areas and offers stellar views of downtown Kyoto. www.kyotohotel.co.jp/english
On your way back to Tokyo, one of the top hotels to stay in is the luxuriously appointed 5 star Park Hyatt hotel perched high above an office building in Shinjuku. The oversized 500 sq foot rooms with forever views of the cosmoplitan skyline retain the calm zen Japanese design aesthetic with slate bathrooms and plush bedding and furniture, while the swimming pool on the 47th floor is an oasis in the sky. Best known as the backdrop for “Lost in Translation” the NY Bar & Grill on the 52nd Floor, is still one of the hottest bars in Tokyo that features live jazz in an sophisticated atmosphere with some of the best views in Tokyo. www.tokyo.park.hyatt.com
The best way to travel to Japan is on Japan Airlines offering daily direct flights from NY, LA, Chicago and San Francisco to Tokyo’s Narita Airport and the newly opened Haneda Airport just 20 minutes away from downtown Tokyo. www.jal.com
I want to go! I don’t want to wait until next summer!
Throughout the continent of Asia there are many resorts that offer courses in transcendental meditation, buddhism for beginners, iron yoga, etc.