This beautiful and peaceful temple is a true gem located in the north east part of the city at the bottom of Mount Hiei. Note that it is only open to the public twice a year, in the Fall and the Spring.

The Byodoin Temple in Uji is only illuminated and open to the public a few evenings a year. We were quite lucky to find out about it and see the amazing Phoenix Hall under such conditions. 
Byodoin Temple is a striking example of Buddhist Pure Land (Jodo) architecture.

The Shugaku-in Imperial Villa is a set of gardens and outbuildings in the hills of the eastern suburbs of Kyoto. It consists of the Upper, Middle and Lower Villa areas, each featuring gardens and buildings of the traditional imperial style. Created as an imperial summer retreat, the garden complex is a fine example of Japanese landscape design.

The Japanese Tea Ceremony or “Way of Tea” (Chado or sado, as the ceremony is known) is one of Japan’s best-known traditional cultural practices, and something everyone can and should experience while in Kyoto. Yes, Kyoto is where the tea ceremony was born and remains its spiritual heart.