TEA CEREMONY
CHERRY BLOSSOMS
KIYOMIZUDERA TEMPLE
FEATURED Port of Call
KYOTO, JAPAN From the port city of Kobe, travel to Japan’s imperial capital of Kyoto and its mesmerizing array of grand temples, shrines, palaces and gardens. As the region is home to an astounding 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites, you’ll quickly understand why Kyoto’s historic districts have been at the center of Japanese culture for over 1,000 years. Look out over the meticulously preserved old Kyoto Town from the famed wooden terrace of Kiyomizudera Temple in Higashiyama district before exploring the similarly celebrated Ginkakuji (Silver Pavilion), Yasaka Shrine and Maruyama Park. Walk atmospheric streets lined with 17th-century traditional restaurants and teahouses in the Gion district, birthplace of Japan’s geisha culture. Take in the sights, sounds and smells of Nishiki Market before enjoying a sumptuous kaiseki (multi-course) meal. In Kyoto’s north, be sure to witness the upper two levels of revered Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion) reflecting gold on a tranquil pond.
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