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  Former Imperial Villa Nijo Castle

  The castle was built to serve as Ieyasu Tokugawa’s residence when he came to Kyoto. It even served as the stage for restoration of Imperial rule. The only building that remains standing today is the Ninomaru-goten Palace, which is also designated as a national treasure.

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  Nishiki Market

  Also known as "Kyoto's Kitchen," this market features local delicacies including Kyoyasai (specifically certified vegetable varieties grown in Kyoto), seafood, pickled dishes, and Obanzai (Kyoto-style side dishes). There are dine-in spaces and restaurants where you can bring your own food as well in the market. Enjoy the local flavors to your heart's content.

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  Kenninji Temple

  This ancient Zen temple in Kyoto was established during the Kamakura era by Yousai, an ordained Zen monk who is also known as the person who first brought the tradition of tea and tea ceremony to Japan, earning him the name "Chaso". The gorgeous “Wind and Thunder Gods” painting and the “Twin Dragons” painting will surely impress you.

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  Kyoto Tower

  View all of Kyoto from the observation deck that sits 100 meters above the ground. Change your perspective and enjoy a different view of the areas and places you have visited.

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  Kitano Tenmangu Shrine

  This shrine is the birthplace of the "Tenjin faith," and enshrines Sugawara no Michizane. This shrine is famous for its beautiful nature and is home to the Bai-en (Ume garden) and the Momiji-en (Autumn maple garden). There is lots to see here, including the main shrine, which is designated as a national treasure.

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  Kyoto Railway Museum

  This museum is full of original machines and items, such as the former Nijo Station House made out of wood and steam locomotives lined up in a round-house garage equipped with a turntable. Get a feel for the romance of the early Japanese modern-period.

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  Ryoanji Temple

  Besides the famous Japanese rock garden, the scenery around the pond to the south side of the grounds is also breathtaking. You can enjoy Shojin ryori (Buddhist cuisine) such as Yudofu (boiled tofu) at Seigenin, located in the temple premises.

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  Kyoto City Zoo

  This historical zoo is the second to ever be opened in Japan. There are facilities in the zoo where you can pet, feed, and handle animals.

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  National Museum of Modern Art, Kyoto

  This museum serves as a bridge between modern and contemporary art. It features art collections that are changed every 2 to 3 months. You’ll be left surprised and amazed no matter how many times you visit.

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  Kyoto National Museum

  This museum collects, stores and exhibits works of art and cultural properties related to Kyoto, spanning across various fields including Japanese sculptures, paintings, written works and handicrafts. The museum shop and cafe are also popular.

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  Togetsu-kyo Bridge

  The bridge against the backdrop of Arashiyama is an iconic sight representative of Kyoto. You can rent boats upstream and enjoy the scenery from the boat when the weather is nice.

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  Nonomiya Shrine

  This historical shrine appears in the chapter called "The Green Branch (Sakaki no Maki)" in the Tale of Genji (Genji Monogatari). It is also famous as the place where unmarried female members of the Imperial family appointed as priestesses to serve Ise Jingu Shrine (Saios) went to purify their bodies.

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  Shimogamo Shrine

  The vast grounds of the shrine surrounded by nature are home to the prestigious shrine and many other historical ruins. It's a great place to take a leisurely stroll. According to one theory, this shrine has been an object of faith and worship since the pre-era (BC/BCE).

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  Kiyomizu Temple

  This temple is a must-see in Kyoto. This temple was established in 778 as a place of worship for the deity Kannon. The scenery from the platform, the platform itself, and the Buddhist temples on the grounds are all very impressive.

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  Nanzen-ji Temple

  This is the Daihonzan (main temple) of the Nanzen-ji branch of the Rinzai Sect of Zen Buddhism. Don't miss the Sanmon Gate, the red brick aqueduct and the Hojo Garden. The temple also holds regular workshops and events such as sutra copying and Zen meditation.

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  Byodo-in Temple Phoenix Hall

  Byodo-in was initially Fujiwara Michinaga's vacation villa which was later turned into a temple by his son Yorimichi. It is said that the famous Phoenix Hall (Hououdo) is an attempt to project the image of paradise on to this world. The temple continues to convey the glory of the Fujiwaras to this day.

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  Amanohashidate

  Loved for a long time, this is one of Japan's three most famous sights and also appears in the Hyakunin Isshu. The sight of thickly growing pine trees along the 3.6 km long sandbar that seems to be floating on the deep blue sea is truly mystical.

Gourmet dining near the hotel

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  Shinshindo, Omiya Store

  This long-standing bakery first opened in 1913 and one branch is located inside the Shijo-Omiya Station building. It's a short walk from Villa Fontaine.

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  Fruit parlor Yaoiso

  This “Fruit Parlor” is said to have been opened by a fruit specialty shop in 1869. Their famous fruit sandwich has been loved by customers for over half a century.

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  DONGURI, Shijo-Omiya Store

  This store specializes in Kyoto-style okonomiyaki made exclusively with ingredients such as wheat and vegetables sourced directly from Kyoto. They have multiple branches all throughout Kyoto.

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  Yamamura Gyubei: Omi Beef Steak & Wine

  This is a yakiniku (grilled/barbequed meat) bar directly managed by a butcher shop which has been in operation for more than 40 years in Kyoto. Enjoy Omi beef and Japanese black beef in a casual setting.

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  Kameya Yoshinaga

  Founded in 1803. Our store offers the unique "Sliced Yokan" served on bread and other novel desserts that match today's modern lifestyle, all while maintaining our traditional taste.

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  Crème Brûlée Donuts

  This crème brûlée donut specialty shop is so popular that sometimes you may need to back order their donuts. Be sure to visit the shop to try their soy milk donuts sealed with caramelized custard cream to enjoy a sweet texture you've never experienced before.