Kyoto Entertainment Guide - For fun, recreation, and relaxation

Uzumasa Movie Village

Movie buffs should definitely make a beeline for Japan's answer to Hollywood, the Uzumasa Movie Village. It is the prefect counter to endless shrines and museums and is loaded with samurai and ninja film sets. It also comes with a fun theme park.

Bathing at Funaoka Onsen

Everyone should try out a traditional Japanese bath house on a visit to the Far East. It is the epitome of Japanese spa experience and Funaoka Onsen has one of the best settings and facilities. There is an outdoor bath in stunning grounds along with a sauna and herbal bath as well as single-sex indoor pools.

Meditation

There are many options in Kyoto to have a session of this traditional Japanese practice. Taizo-in and Shunko-in temples in northern Kyoto both offer Zen meditation sessions. They also teach all about meditation and the experience is authentic.

Ryoanji Temple garden

The Ryoanji Temple is impressive in its own right, although its Zen rock garden is the main feature and one of Japan's best done. It dates back to the 1400s and features 15 rocks and is the perfect setting for a spot of meditation, after which visitors can amble about the garden.

Nightlife

Most bars are in Central Kyoto around Kiyamachi, where the best shopping and dining can also be had. If you're not sure where to go, this area has most options and it is easy to find somewhere to relax here. Hostesses can also be found here. There aren't that many pumping nightclubs in town although one or two of the top-end hotels have options.