The best views of the Imperial Palace come not from hanging out on the ground, but by having dinner at dusk at The Peninsula's restaurant, "Peter." Bring the binoculars ;)
Shinjuku Gyoen is one of Tokyo's largest parks, completed in 1906. one of Tokyo's most popular SAKURA (Cherry blossom) viewing spots.
Fancy hotel. Very pricey, but the rooms are nice. Conveniently located, and they run a free shuttle to and from the Kyoto Station, with a stop at the Gion district as well. Staff speaks English.
At the top there is only another shrine; nothing more, not even a view. Instead, walk until you can see an overview of Kyoto city. After that, call it a day & visit another historical monument.
The Philosopher's Walk is a pedestrian path that follows a cherry-tree-lined canal in Kyoto, between Ginkaku-ji and Nanzen-ji passing Hōnen-in, Ōtoyo Shrine, and Eikan-dō Zenrin-ji. (30 min) Read more.
Wonderful atmosphere. Smal historicl side streets with old architecture and random geisha sightings. Just give you time wandering around the streets in late afternoon, evening.
After seeing the main buildings of the temple and passing through the garden you will come to the northern gate of the complex and enter Arashiyama's famous bamboo forest. Read more.
