Nestled among mountains in Western Honshu, has a reputation worldwide as Japan's most beautiful city. Natural scenery, temples, shrines, towns and homes intermingle with a poignant historical beauty are the reason for people to called Kyoto that "Japan's heartland" and it is said that it is impossible to know the real Japan without knowing Kyoto.

Main Attractions
Kyoto's main attraction for tourists is the large number of temples, shrines and castles that are there. There are over 2,000 sites, and many of them are UNESCO heritage sites. Two of the most well-known places are Nijo Castle and Shoren-In temple.

Travel Tips
Kyoto does not have its own airport. The nearest international gateway is Kansai International Airport south of Osaka. JR West's Haruka limited express train runs to Kyoto twice per hour (1 1/4 hours, ?3490, and no charge with Japan Rail Pass). Cheaper limousine buses run once or twice an hour to the south entrance of Kyoto Station (1 3/4 hours; ?2300).

Most domestic flights land at Osaka's Itami Airport. Airport limousine buses run three times per hour to the south entrance of Kyoto Station (1 hour, ?1280).