Japan has a rich history of tradition and technology. For this reason, most individuals with a penchant for travel would consider it a touring destination country. Japan’s Kyoto and Tokyo are cities with contrasting stories. Tokyo is a modern city of neon with skyscrapers, while Kyoto is an archetypal city full of temples, tea ceremonies, and kimono geisha. So are you spoiled for choice on where to start your tour between Tokyo and Kyoto?
Prime Destination Start-Point Choice Factors Between Kyoto and Tokyo
Picking a prime destination start-point between Tokyo and Kyoto is not easy. Some would say that the choice should be straightforward between preference for a contemporary or traditional setting. But picking between the two cities isn’t that easy based on the exciting and contradictory aspects of the cities. Here is a guideline to help you make that tough choice.
- Which city between the two has the edge over the other in terms of food?
The two cities have some distinct variances in their foodstuff scenes. Tokyo is way multicultural with Italian, Chinese, and French restaurants. It is perfect for individuals who are not keen on out and out Japanese delicacies. On the other hand, Kyoto is very traditional with Japanese delicacies that you may not be privy of. So if your interest is in sampling some of these delicacies, then Kyoto is your best bet to start with.
Both cities have remarkable high-end food, and you can eat in separate restaurants that are Michelin-starred on each vacation day. You only need to have the ability to buy them. Tokyo is more expensive in-spite of a few affordable spots you can eat out while Kyoto is more affordable overall.
- Which city between the two is prime for partying?
Tokyo and Kyoto have different party scenes. Tokyo, as a big city, has an enormous array of choices for partying. All you need to do is go to an area of your choice within the town and sample before picking a partying spot. Its customary nightlife spot is Roppongi, while Shikokitazawa offers live music and low-key bars. Situated in Shinjuku are world-class music and bars.
Kyoto has a dire party culture with bars forming the common spots. Exceptions include spots like Club Metro located in an abandoned subway section. The party spot has live bands, performances on the avant-garde, and DJs.
- Which city is best for nature recreation?
Tokyo has a few beautiful spots to sample nature though most consist of gardens and parks, which are a little lame for a special nature experience. The only befitting wild spot with a primeval forest is in Meguro district- Institute of Nature Study. But you can visit Nikko, Hakone, or Kamakura also to sample nature.
Kyoto has more nature spots that you will enjoy and are easily accessible. Its location is in a corridor between mountains. The city’s west has the regarded Arashiyama, a spot to take walks on the forested slopes or a boat cruise. On the north-east, Kyoto has the sacred Hiei-Zan that is a sanctuary of religion- Tendai Buddhism. The north has lots of trekking paths that link the towns of Kibune and Kurama. Kyoto city is not very large, and therefore you can cycle from the temple to the park avoiding the subway rush-hour hustle. Even though you are a student who is writing a paper it would be better not to waste your time and look at the places here. Anyway, ask essay writing services to help you during your unforgettable journey!
- Which city between the two has an edge on history and culture?
Kyoto has a plethora of Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples to sample from if you have a penchant for culture and history. The best spots to find these cultural and historical places are Philosopher’s Path and Higashiyama to the city’s east and Arashiyama to the west. That said, every neighborhood has a local one, and you only need to walk around to see them. To the city’s south lies the traditional low-key Fushimi area. It has a spectacular shrine, thousands of shrine gates up the mountain, and a magnificent view of the city.
Tokyo has an innovative and contemporary architecture that defines it. But, it also houses some temples, and venerable shines. Examples include the National Art Center in Kurokawa Kisho, the Asahi Beer Hall infamously synonymous with Philippe Stack, and St. Mary’s Cathedral in Tange Kenzo.
Both cities of Tokyo and Kyoto host a few excellent museums, though Tokyo has more based on its area size. You need to apportion a whole day to venture out and explore different museums in Ueno Park. You should consider sparing some time to visit the Nezu museum and the plain but captivating museum of Meguro Parasite. The Art Triangle in Roppongi inspires you to visit during daytime hours. You will sample the superb galleries of diverse artistic periods and styles. Mitaka’s Ghibli Museum is arguably the best in Tokyo. You will sample and explore the uninhabited unique animated world of Miyazaki Hayao. You need to book ahead and be punctual as tickets sell out way before time.
Kyoto’s best include the Insho Domoto, Sumiya Motenashi Museum, and Global Manga Museum. It also has the Miho Museum, a striking I.M. space that is Pei-designed and which holds foreign and Japanese antiquities.
Conclusion
The best city to start your tour with depends on your individual preferences. Tokyo will give you an energized introduction if you decide to begin with it. Kyoto, on the other hand, will introduce you gently and allow you to trial a little of everything. So choose wisely and explore the two beautiful cities in Japan.
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