Kyoto

Its temples, shrines, historic neighborhoods, traditional food and seasonal foliage make it a strong choice for cultural travel. The Japan National Tourism Organization describes the city and surrounding prefecture as major centers of Japanese cultural history, with traditional wooden townhouses, shrines, temples and historic streets. Autumn foliage is a seasonal attraction, particularly in areas such as Ohara, while districts including Gion and Higashiyama offer opportunities to explore traditional architecture and local culture.