Readers of Travel and Leisure Magazine in the US have voted Kyoto as the top travel destination to visit this year.
Kyoto is a large metropolis located in the central part of the island of Honshu in Japan and is known among locals as ‘The City of Ten Thousand Shrines’. As the former imperial capital of Japan and with 1.5 million inhabitants, Kyoto always has something to offer tourists from far and wide.
Every year tourists are attracted to Kyoto by its beautiful cherry blossom and zen gardens. Kyoto’s famous Japanese cuisine has also proven particularly popular among tourists, although it comes at a price. The Daily Mail lists Kitcho restaurant as the world’s most expensive dining experience, with a meal and drinks pricing at $600.
Kyoto architecture and tourist accommodation is also a big hit with travellers. Japanese inns called Ryokans with traditional sliding doors and hot spring bathing areas are being offered to tourists, but come with a modern feel to cater for western travellers.
Travel and Leisure Magazine’s poll of American readers was dominated by European cities, with Florence, Rome, Istanbul, Seville and Barcelona all making the top 10. The all important number 1 spot however was taken by this up-and-coming travel hot spot in Japan.
1. Kyoto, Japan
2. Charleston, South Carolina, USA
3. Florence, Italy
4. Siem Reap, Cambodia
5. Rome, Italy
6. Istanbul, Turkey
7. Seville, Spain
8. Barcelona, Spain
9. Mexico City
10. New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
