Kyoto: Where 'Old Japan' Is Alive and Well

Caroline Morse Teel is the Managing Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline.

Caroline joined Boston-based SmarterTravel in 2011 after living in Ireland, London, and Manhattan. She's traveled to all seven continents, jumped out of planes, and bungeed off bridges in the pursuit of a good story. She loves exploring off-the-beaten path destinations, anything outdoorsy, and all things adventure.

Her stories have also appeared online at USA Today, Business Insider, Huffington Post, Yahoo, Boston.com, TripAdvisor, Buzzfeed, Jetsetter, Oyster, Airfarewatchdog, and others.

The Handy Item I Always Pack: "Earplugs. A good pair has saved my sleep and sanity many times!"

Ultimate Bucket List Experience: Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro.

Travel Motto: "Don't be boring."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat: "Aisle (when the first class private suite isn't available)."

E-mail her at cteel@smartertravel.com.

See recent posts by Caroline Morse Teel

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Unlike the bright lights and skyscrapers of Tokyo, Kyoto makes an effort to preserve Japan’s history. Visit this area to see important sites like the Imperial Palace, the former residence of Japan’s Imperial Family. Venture inside to see intricate decorations and artwork, or stay outside to enjoy the private garden.

A whole district of Kyoto is a UNESCO World Heritage site—Gion is home to Geishas and traditional tea houses. Come here to see kabuki, or for a more modern nightlife scene.

Don’t skimp on the shopping while you’re in Kyoto! There are plenty of antique shops, art studios, and crafts to fulfill all your souvenir needs here.

Where is it? Just north of Osaka in Japan. Fly to Kansai International Airport (check prices) and take a train or bus.

Where to Stay? At centrally located Royal Park Hotel .

What Else Should I Know? The Kyoto City Tourist Information Center has English language maps and other helpful resources.

Who’s it For? People who want to see “old” Japan.

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(Photo: Shutterstock/takayuki)

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