Top Reasons to Go to Kyoto

Architecture: Despite modernization, about 27,000 traditional houses remain. The preservation districts include Sannen-zaka, Gion Shin-bashi, and the canal street leading to Kamigamo Jinja.

Gardens: Chinese-influenced gardens symbolize paradise on earth. The karesansui (dry gardens) of Zen temples signifies the eternal quest for completeness; the most famous of these is at Ryoan-ji.

Crafts: Traditional craftspeople still work here. There's no shortage of art and antiques shops, secondhand kimonos are a bargain, and ceramics, lacquerware, and woven bamboo make great souvenirs.

Live Culture: Professional dancers and performers, geisha are revered as an embodiment of culture, with their opulent kimonos; hair ornaments; and artistic skills.

Festivals: Experience one of Kyoto's many festivals including the Aoi (Hollyhock) in mid-May, the Gion in July, the Jidai (Costume) in October, the Daimon-ji in August, and Kurama in May and October.