Japanese name: 神戸北野異人館
The Kitano district is dotted with elegant Western-style mansions built by foreign residents in the Meiji era. These ijinkan mansions reflect a unique blend of cultures and offer a glimpse into Kobe's international history.
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Himeji Castle is Japan's most spectacular feudal castle, earning the nickname White Heron Castle for its dazzling white walls. It is the best-preserved original castle in Japan and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Kiyomizudera is a UNESCO World Heritage temple founded in 778, famous for its large wooden stage jutting out from the main hall over a hillside. The phrase jumping off the stage at Kiyomizu means to take a brave leap of faith in Japanese.
Fushimi Inari is famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that form a tunnel winding up Mt. Inari. Dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice and business, it is visited by millions of people each year.
The Golden Pavilion is a Zen temple whose top two floors are covered entirely in gold leaf, reflecting beautifully in the mirror pond beneath. Originally built as a retirement villa for a shogun in 1397, it is now one of Japan's most iconic sights.
Arashiyama is a scenic district on the outskirts of Kyoto known for its stunning bamboo grove, the Togetsukyo Bridge, and traditional restaurants. The area is particularly beautiful in spring cherry blossom season and autumn.
Gion is Kyoto's most famous geisha district, lined with traditional machiya townhouses and teahouses. Evening walks along Hanamikoji Street offer the rare chance to glimpse a maiko or geiko in full traditional dress.