Choose from 1,872 Fun Things to Do in Asia
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Khoo Kongsi Clan House
Hidden in a maze of alleyways in Georgetown sits one of Malaysia’s most important clan houses, the Khoo Kongsi Clan House. During Malaysia’s economic boom in the nineteenth century, many Chinese families relocated to Penang and built kongsi, or clan houses, to promote a sense of community.
The Khoo clan was one of the most prosperous in Malaysia -- considered one of the “Five Big Clans” that made up the Hokkien Chinese community in Penang. The Khoo Kongsi Clan House comprises a main clan house -- one that resembles a Chinese temple, an administrative building, an opera state and more than 60 houses and shops.
The original kongsi was built in 1851 but was destroyed by fire in 1894. The current clan house dates back to 1906. Inside, you’ll find intricate carvings, ornamental architecture, painted murals and beautiful traditional Chinese ceramic sculptures. After touring the clan house, be sure to visit the administrative building and terraced houses of the complex, and notice how the architecture changes from distinctly Chinese to incorporating elements of British colonial style.
Address: 18 Cannon Square, Penang 10200, Malaysia
Hours: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Admission: RM 10/pax
From ¥ 70
Klungkung (Semarapura)
Klungkung is a small Balinese town of great historical, cultural, and artistic importance. It was the seat of rule for Bali's most powerful dynasty of rajas, Dewa Agung. During this time, the island experienced an illustrious period of rich cultural and artistic significance, and Klungkung was at the center of it all.
Klungkung Palace was built in the early 18th century, but largely destroyed by the Dutch at the beginning of the 20th century. The most fascinating remains of the palace include the Bale Kambang, also known as the Floating Pavilion, and the famous Kertha Gosa, or Hall of Justice. The latter was used as a court for the Klungkung kingdom, where disputes and cases were raised and settled. This open-sided pavilion is a superb example of traditional Klungkung architecture, and has a ceiling completely covered with intricate murals.
Elsewhere in Klungkung, there are a number of markets and shops to amble around, along with several museums and galleries, with a particular focus on the traditional Indonesian wayang artform.
Practical Info
Klungkung is situated around 25 kilometers from Ubud on the main route towards the eastern towns of Padang Bai, Candidasa, and beyond.
Address: Klungkung, Bali, Indonesia
From ¥ 262
Kirtipur Village
Kirtipur is one of several ancient kingdoms in the Kathmandu Valley that were once independent, but now make up part of greater Kathmandu. It’s a prime destination to learn about the Newar people, who are one of Nepal’s many distinct ethnic groups and the original inhabitants of the Kathmandu Valley. Come to Kirtipur for exquisite architecture, hilltop temples, and sweeping city views.
The Basics
Located on a hill to the southwest of central Kathmandu, Kirtipur is thought to be one of the oldest settlements in the valley. Wandering around its winding streets feels like walking through a traditional Nepali village, yet Kirtipur offers some of the finest views of sprawling Kathmandu and the hills and mountains beyond. It’s full of cobblestone streets, old brick houses with elaborately carved door and window frames, and multitiered pagodas.
Many travelers don’t get to Kirtipur as part of Kathmandu trip, yet it’s easy to reach and worth visiting. It can easily reached as part of a longer hiking or biking trip around the southern edges of the Kathmandu Valley.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Kirtipur is famous for its Newari cuisine. Carnivores should try the spicy meat curries, while everyone can enjoy bara pancakes or potato and bamboo shoot soup.
- Kirtipur has many beautiful Hindu and Buddhist sites, including the Hindu Uma Maheshwor Temple, the Bagh Bhairab Temple, the Chilancho Stupa, and the Shri Kirti Bihar Buddhist monastery.
- Allow two hours of slow wandering to see the sights of Kirtipur.
How to Get There
You can easily reach Kirtipur by local bus from Kathmandu’s Ratna Park bus stand or Patan’s Lagankhel bus stand. It takes roughly half an hour, longer when the traffic is heavy. Most visitors will find it easier to get a taxi, as drivers around central Kathmandu know the way. Buses and taxis both stop on the main street at the bottom of the hill; walk up hill to reach the historic part of town.
When to Get There
There’s never really a bad time to visit Kirtipur. For clear Himalayan views, visit between November and February. If you want to enjoy some authentic Newari food while in town, time your visit around lunch or dinner time.
Cycle to Chobhar
Just to the south of Kirtipur is the lovely village of Chobhar. Although the development of Kathmandu is advancing, there are still fresh green rice fields here, as well as the Chobhar Gorge and the Chobhar Caves. Active travelers will enjoy hiring a bike from Kathmandu or Patan and cycling to Kirtipur and Chobhar in a day.
Address: Kirtipur, Nepal
From ¥ 642
Khao San Road
The famous half-mile (one km) stretch that is Khao San Road features bars, budget guesthouses, mid-range hotels, internet cafes, tattoo shops, travel agents and so much more. What emerged as a backpackers’ hub in the early 1980s thanks to its laidback, carefree vibe today attracts a whole range of tourists and locals, particularly musicians and art students.
Most people who visit Khao San Road simply stroll through, stopping to shop, eat and drink. There are all kinds of eateries, from local street food to restaurant fare and even a McDonalds. During the day and into the evening, this busy road is lined with stalls selling clothing and an array of typical tourist items, while after dark, bar-goers spill out onto the street while live bands and dance music entice passersby.
Khao San Road is a popular starting and finishing point for various tours of Bangkok, particularly those that focus on the Old Town area. Bike tours often begin here, while certain day and night tours end on the road, allowing travelers to enjoy everything that its energetic nightlife has to offer.
Insider's Tip: Due to its popularity among tourists, Khao San Road sees more than its fair share of scams, which are mainly centered around tours and transport. To avoid this, it’s best to book in advance.
Practical Info
Khao San Road is in the Banglamphu (Old Town) area of Bangkok, about a 20-minute walk from the Grand Palace. Express boats, buses and taxis all serve the area, but there is no connection via the Skytrain or metro.
Address: Khao San Road, Bangkok 10200, Thailand
Admission: Free
From ¥ 80
Khlong Toey Market
This bustling local gem is the largest fresh food market in Bangkok, with stalls selling produce straight from rural farms, raw meat and seafood direct from the nearby fishing port. Khlong Toey is particularly crowded in early mornings, when locals arrive in search of the best fare but despite long lines the vibe is still pretty relaxed.
While travelers can find random items like batteries and electronics, the real draw here is food. Come prepared to sample fruits and vegetables straight from market shelves, or to tuck into steaming hot plates of green curry at one of the mom and pop breakfast and lunch stalls.
Practical Info
This market is open from 6 a.m. until 2 p.m. It is accessible via the MRT at Khlong Toey station. It is also possible to reach using the 45, 46, 72, 102 and 107 buses.
Address: Bangkok, Thailand
Hours: Open from 6 a.m. until 2 p.m.
From ¥ 201
Killing Fields of Choeung Ek
A trip to this historic spot just 15 kilometers south of Phnom Penh is not for the faint of heart. Known as The Killing fields, some one million Cambodians were murdered here by the Khmer Rouge between 1975 and 1979. Nearly 9,000 bodies have been discovered—including former prisoners from Tuol Sleng.
A Buddhist stupa marks the memorial, and visitors can gaze through its clear walls at some 5,000 human skulls—all victims of the bloody regime. Dozens of mass graves are visible and it is not uncommon for travelers to find human bones, teeth or discarded clothing here—particularly after heavy rains—as a large number of people are still buried in shallow graves.
Practical Info
Choeung Ek is located at Roluos Village in the Dangkor District, 15 kilometers outside of the capital. It’s easily accessible by car, motor-taxi or bus. Admission is US$6 and helpful audio tours are included in the price.
Address: Roluos Village, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Hours: Daily 8am-5pm
Admission: $6
From ¥ 178
Kim Bong Carpentry Village
Kim Bong carpentry village is located within the Cam Kim commune in Hoi An. Since the 16th century, the village has been known for its carpentry and traditional woodworking products, the results of which can be found within prominent buildings across the region and beyond.
The style of Kim Bong carpentry is said to be influenced by the Cham Kingdom, China, Japan, and of course local Vietnamese artisans. The craftspeople here all begin as apprentices, earning the rank of masters only by years of hard work and dedication. The work being produced in the village can largely be divided into three main categories: ancient architectural construction, civil wooden furniture, and shipbuilding. In addition, many of the artisans have more recently shifted their focus to the recovery of historical monuments and relics, especially traditional ancient houses around Hoi An.
Today, bicycle tours of the village are common, allowing visitors to pass through streets lined with open-fronted workshops and witness the artisans at work. Visitors are also able to purchase items produced in the village at its various souvenirs shops, which sell everything from small, low-cost items, such as coasters, to huge expensive pieces, such as religious statues and intricately crafted wooden doors.
Practical Info
Kim Bong Village is around a 10-minute boat ride from Hoi An Old Town. There is no entrance fee to enter.
Address: Cam Kim commune, Hoi An, Central Vietnam, Vietnam
Admission: Dependent on tour
From ¥ 149
Kids' City
The family-friendly, 17,000-square-foot Kids' City at Macau's City of Dreams is a place for kids to play, get involved with various activities, eat, and even sleep. Split into four main zones (dream, excite, create, and explore), this indoor park allows little ones to enjoy slides, rope bridges, ball pits, and inflatable bouncy castles.
There's also plenty to develop kids' creative sides, with soft clay, origami, and brightly colored crayons complete with a glass wall for scrawling on. A walk-in closet with princess dresses and superhero costumes will keep those who like to play dress-up amused, while arcade games, consoles, and an interactive video wall will appeal to older children. Professionally trained staff members are on hand at all time, allowing adults to relax for a few hours while the kids roam and play.
Insider Tip: Most hotels in the tourist area of Macau provide free shuttle buses to all major attractions, meaning you can get a free ride to the City of Dreams for your visit to Kids' City.
Practical Info
For convenience, it's best to pre-book your Macau Kids' City admission ticket, which allows entry for one child and one accompanying adult. Extra adults incur an additional charge. Tickets include two hours of play, but additional time can be purchased in 30-minute increments.
Address: Level 2, City of Dreams, Cotai Strip, Macau, China
Hours: 10:30am-9:30pm
Admission: Monday to Friday: MOP 120 / Weekends & school holidays: MOP 150 (Kid plus adult price)
From ¥ 531
Koh Haa
A tiny, remote cluster of five uninhabited islands some 10 miles off the coast of Koh Lanta in the Thai Andaman hides an underwater paradise. Here, striated granite pinnacles dotted with gnarly trees tower above some of Thailand’s clearest and bluest waters. Koh Haa’s shock of white sand beneath its central, protected cerulean lagoon affords a breathtaking backdrop for some of the best snorkeling and diving in the country.
Comprised of northerly Ko Haa Neung, central Koh Haa Sam and southerly Ko Haa Yai, as well as two tiny unnamed pinnacles guarding sentry at the mouth of the lagoon, the underwater landscape is just as rugged as the rocky islets themselves. Protected swim-through caves hide lobster, morays and schools of shimmering fish, while vibrant coral is littered with psychedelic nudibranchs (sea slugs), and drop-offs provide the occasional glimpse of deeper denizens such as sharks. Sixteen recognized dive sites with names such as Lost Pinnacle, The Cathedral, Lionfish Den and Cliff Jump Cove divulge some of what’s in store.
Practical Info
It’s not easy to get to Koh Haa, which means chances are high you’ll share this paradise with only a few other boats. However, as word has gotten out, tour operators from as far afield as Phuket—more than 50 miles away—have begun offering day-long snorkel trips to the area. These often involve long boat rides and can incorporate other island stops. An alternative allowing for more snorkel or dive time around Koh Haa is to leave from points on the island of Koh Lanta. Regardless of your point of origin, the open ocean crossing to Koh Haa can be rough even in the calmer seasons post-monsoons between November and March. Make sure that if you make the trip, you do so with a trusted outfitter.
Address: Koh Haa Islands, Khao Thong, Mueang Krabi District 81000, Thailand
From ¥ 636
Khan Market
Recognized as the most expensive shopping district in Delhi, travelers in search of glitz and glam will find it inside the confines of Khan Market. What started as a complex of roughly 150 stores and half as many apartments eventually transitioned from a Mecca for the middle class to a costly commercial real estate locale.
Visitors can wander the storefronts of popular brands like Nike and Reebok, comb through silver shops, books stores, electronic depots and cloth houses. Afterwards, tuck into savory plates of upscale local cuisine at one of the well-known restaurants like Salim’s Kebabs.
Practical Info
The market is close to India Gate and is accessible using the Delhi Metro Violet Line to the Khan Market underground station. It is closed Sundays.
Address: New Delhi, India
Hours: Closed Sundays
From ¥ 149
Kingdom of Dreams
The Kingdom of Dreams complex is pitched as India's first live entertainment, theater, and leisure destination. Spread over six acres, it’s a place where India’s art, heritage, cuisine, and performing arts are celebrated in one sprawling complex. It’s made up of three main areas – the Nautanki Mahal, the Showshaa Theatre, and a cultural and cuisine area known as Culture Gully.
Nautanki Mahal is a state-of-the-art auditorium with a seating capacity of 835. Designed like a grand palace, it stages elaborate Indian and international theater productions using the latest hi-tech equipment to bring the theater to life – including a hydraulic stage, a matrix sound system, and automated fly bars.
Showshaa Theatre is the latest addition to the Kingdom of Dreams. It’s a 350-seat amphitheatre where various theatrical performances take place, including productions based on Indian mythology. Meanwhile, Culture Gully is the arts and food boulevard at the complex. Here, themed restaurants and kitchens representing the cuisine and architecture of the 14 states of India are all contained under a sky dome.
Practical Info
The Kingdom of Dreams complex is located in Sector 29, Gurgaon, near the Leisure Valley Park. It’s open from 12:30pm to 12am. Very small children are not permitted to attend some of the shows, so be sure to check ahead.
Address: Sector 29, Gurgaon, India
Hours: Ties-Sun 12:30pm to 12am
Admission: Varies
From ¥ 229
Klias Wetlands
The wetlands of the Klias Peninsula are known for containing lush mangrove forests full of unique wildlife. There are dozens of tropical bird species, as well as monitor lizards, Proboscis monkeys, long tail macaques and silver Languor monkeys, all endemic to Borneo. A visit to the wetlands is particularly interesting at dusk, when the tree-dwelling monkeys become active for feeding.
After sunset, it possible to see fireflies dotting the sky with their light. Water buffalo, tree snakes, and eagles are a few of the other possible wildlife sightings, though the bizarre behavior and appearance of the Proboscis monkey is what most come to see. There may also be crocodiles lurking along the river!
It’s a chance to be immersed in nature and see many of the unique species of Sabah in their natural environment. Leisurely boat cruises on the river are the best way to see the area.
Practical Info
The Klias Wetlands are located about 120 kilometers south of Kota Kinabalu, Borneo. It is about a two hour journey by car. Wearing mosquito repellent is recommended.
Address: Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
From ¥ 32
Khao Yai National Park
Located just two hours northeast of Bangkok, the Khao Yai National Park is the oldest and largest national park of its kind in Thailand. Covering more than 2000 square meters in the Panom Dongrak mountain range, the park is sprawled across four provinces. The area features one of the largest monsoon forests in mainland Asia and has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site (as part of the Dong Phayayen-Khao Yai Forest Complex).
As you might expect then, the Khao Yai National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, and offers some truly spectacular natural scenery to marvel at. Some 200 elephants call the park home, as do tigers, leopards, Malaysian sun bears, deer, gibbons, snakes, and macaques. Keen birdwatchers will be in their element around the park’s designated walking trails, with the bird list here reaching over 390 species, including one of Thailand's largest populations of hornbills.
Practical Info
At only 175 kilometers from Bangkok, the Khao Yai National Park is easily reached from the capital by both train and bus. In addition, there are now domestic flights arriving into the area from other parts of the country. There is an entrance fee of 400 Baht for international visitors to enter the park.
Address: Nakhon Ratchasima, Pak Chong District, Thailand
Admission: 400 Baht entrance fee for international visitors
From ¥ 774
Khari Baoli Spice Market
One of the largest wholesale spice markets in Asia, Old Delhi’s Khari Baoli is well worth a visit for the intensity of its sights and smells alone. Along with fresh spices of all shapes, sizes, and colors, this market sells myriad nuts, herbs, dry fruits, and grains—often displayed in heaping, photo-worthy mounds.
The Basics
Dating back to the 17th century, this gargantuan market in the Chandi Chowk neighborhood is a must-explore for anyone who wants to pick up spices, herbs, chutneys, tea, and other edibles to take home to friends and families. (Despite it being a wholesale market, you can buy in small quantities.) With its piles of colorful spices as far as the eye can see, it’s also a great place for photography—rivaled only by the colorful textile market nearby.
Khari Baoli market is a popular stop on most tours of Old Delhi, and having a guide on hand can make identifying and purchasing items easier than if you go at it alone.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Khari Baoli is essential for foodies, market lovers, and first-time visitors to Old Delhi.
- You don’t need to bargain. Spices at this wholesale market are sold by weight and their prices are generally as marked.
- Wear comfortable footwear—most Old Delhi visits require a fair bit of walking.
- If you have allergies or are sensitive to scents, you may want to wear a mask, as all of the spices can cause people to sneeze and cough.
- The market is not accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
Khari Baoli is in the western end of Chandni Chowk, just south of Old Delhi Railway Station and west of the Red Fort. By metro from New Delhi, take the Yellow Line to Chandni Chowk station, a 10-minute walk from the market.
When to Get There
The Khari Baoli spice market is open year-round, though you’re better off visiting in the winter months or first thing in the morning to avoid the heat—particularly in May or June. Like the rest of the markets in Chandni Chowk, Khari Baoli is closed on Sunday.
DIY Masala Chai
While cooking with fragrant spices can be daunting to those new to Indian food, one of the most popular Indian treats, masala chai (spiced tea), is also one of the easiest things to make. Simply heat black tea leaves in a pot of water with some cinnamon, cardamom pods, and a few pieces of clove. When the mixture comes to a boil, reduce the heat, add milk and a bit of sugar, and serve.
Address: Khari Baoli Road, New Delhi, India
From ¥ 146
Kinabalu National Park
Kinabalu National Park hugs the base of Mount Kinabalu like a lush, thick blanket. Sharing the same incredible biodiversity and UNESCO World Heritage status as the mountain that towers above it, Kinabalu National Park is recognised as one of the most important biological sites in the world.
For those who can’t conceive climbing Mount Kinabalu’s challenging slopes. Kinabalu National Parks presents an excellent alternative. Home to an estimated 5,500 plant species, including several hundred varieties of orchids and pitcher plants, 326 bird species and over 100 mammals, a walk in the park has never been this diverse.
There are 11km (7mi) of marked and graded trails across the Park, many of which cut across the mountain forest vegetation, which ranges from from rich dipterocarp and coniferous forests to montain oak and alpine meadow plants.
Kinabalu National Park is in the eastern Malaysian state of Sabah. Buses from Kota Kinabalu take three to four hours to reach Kinabalu National Park (138km/85mi).
Address: Kinabalu National Park, Sabah, Malaysia
From ¥ 287
Kitanomaru Park
Located just north of the Imperial Palace grounds in Tokyo, Kitanomaru Park was once the site of the northernmost section of Edo Castle, where members of the Tokugawa clan lived. In 1969 in celebration of Emperor Showa’s 60th birthday, the area was opened to the public as a woodland park.
Today, Kitanomaru Park is home to the Science Museum, National Museum of Modern Art and Nippon Budokan indoor arena, as well as two castle gates now designated as national important cultural assets. Tayasu-mon gate at the northern end of the park was erected in 1636, making it the oldest gate remaining in the Edo Castle complex. In springtime, the 330 trees lining the castle moat passing through the park burst with cherry blossoms; it’s one of Tokyo’s most popular sites for hanami, the Japanese custom of enjoying the annual blossom display.
Practical Info
The easiest way to reach Kitanomaru Park is by taking the Hanzomon line to Kudanshita Station.
Address: Chiyoda, Tokyo 102-0091, Japan
From ¥ 676
Kintamani Volcano
Two hours by road from Denpasar in Bali’s northeastern highlands lies the region known simply as Kintamani Volcano. The Indonesian island’s only district without a shoreline, it’s famous instead for its volcanoes. On the rim of the Batur caldera, 4,921 feet (1,500 meters) above sea level, several villages (Penelokan, Batur, and Kintamani) afford impressive views of Mt. Baturn, an active, sacred volcano.
The Basics
Visitors come to Kintamani Volcano not for its beaches (there are none) but for its stunning active volcano, outdoor adventures, and cultural appeal. One of the most popular activities in the region is a sunrise trek to the top of sacred Mt. Batur—an active volcano—though it’s also possible to cycle downhill through UNESCO-listed rice terraces, soak in the hot springs on the shores of Lake Batur, tour a coffee plantation, watch a traditional Barong dance performance, or visit one of the island’s most important directional temples, Pura Ulun Danu Batur.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Kintamani Volcano is a must-see for adventure travelers and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Bring a warm layer of clothing; the temperatures here are significantly cooler than the towns of Bali’s coast.
- Experience the region by volcano trekking, downhill cycling, or Balinese cultural sightseeing.
How to Get There
Situated about two hours from the beaches of South Bali, many travelers visit Kintamani on a day trip from Ubud. Daily buses run between Ubud and the villages of the area, but the most convenient way to get there is a guided full-day tour.
When to Get There
It is best to arrive at Kintamani early, as cloud cover and fog often set in by late afternoon, disrupting the views.
Bali Aga Culture in Kintamani
The indigenous Balinese of the highlands, often called the Bali Aga or “mountain Balinese,” have their own distinct traditional culture, often well-preserved due to their isolation in the island’s interior. To experience this ancient culture in Kintamani, pay a visit to the village of Trunyan, known for its excellent views of Mt. Batur and its unusual cemetery, where the deceased are laid to rest out in the open at the foot of a holy tree, simply covered with cloth beneath canopies of bamboo.
Address: Kintamani, Indonesia
From ¥ 196
Khooni Darwaza
Literally translated as ‘Bloody Gateway’, Khooni Darwaza is an ancient tiered archway located in the middle of Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, the road that connects New and Old Delhi. This Mughal-Afghan style structure has a long and bloody history, and legend has it that its ruins are eerily haunted.
Built by Sher Shah Suri in the mid-16th century, Khooni Darwaza would go on to be associated with a series of brutal murders and other atrocities throughout history. The most famous of these incidents involved the killing of three Mughal princes during the Indian Rebellion in 1857. The sons of Bahadur Shah Zafar were brutally murdered here on the orders of a British major, and the story goes that the three princes still haunt the archway to this day, waiting patiently to avenge their killings.
Those looking for something a little different from a tour of the Indian capital can embark on a haunted places in Delhi private tour. This combines a visit to Khooni Darwaza with other eerie sites seeped in mystery, such as Sanjay Van, the Nicholson Cemetery, the Delhi Cantonment, and House No. W-3.
Did You Know? Khooni Darwaza has seen many more bloody and tragic incidents throughout the years. For instance, during the partition of India and Pakistan in 1947, many refugees were murdered here by rioting crowds while on their way to a camp at the Old Fort.
Practical Info
Located along the Bahadur Shah Zafar Road, Khooni Darwaza is easily accessible by taxi or rickshaw. The nearest metro stations are Pragati Maidan and ITO. If arriving with a taxi driver or asking for directions, note that the gateway is also referred to as Lal Darwaza.
Address: Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, New Delhi, India
Hours: Sunrise
From ¥ 473
Khao Sok National Park
The lowland jungles of Khao Sok National Park, one of the wettest areas in Thailand, are believed to be the oldest rain forests on the planet. While the Thai Islands are most famous for their stunning beaches, this 161,000-acre (65,154-hectare) park boasts spectacular limestone formations, small streams, waterfalls and dense greenery that provides a home for a dizzying biodiversity.
Famous animal residents include sambar deer, gibbon, sun bears, Malayan tapir, gaur, banteng, macaque, mouse deer, porcupine and some 200 species of birds. It’s also one of the few places in the world where you can spot the planet’s largest flower, the Raffesia.
While rain is a practical inevitability, it shouldn’t hold you back from the abundant outdoor adventures on offer in the park. Trekking, boat tours and night safaris are three of the most popular activities on the menu, but park visitors can also explore the region via caving, kayaking, zip-lining, tubing, bamboo rafting and birdwatching.
Practical Info
Flash flooding poses a risk at Khao Sok’s waterfalls and caves during the rainy season, so if you’re planning to visit these types of sites, it’s best to go with a guide.
Address: Surat Thani Province, Thailand
From ¥ 509
Kiyomizu Temple
Kiyomizu Temple (Kiyomizu-dera) is one of Japan’s oldest and most eye-catching Buddhist temples. Its classic red pagoda has been influential to Japanese architecture for centuries. Located on a hilltop, Kiyomizu Temple is also worth visiting for its sweeping views over Kyoto.
The Basics
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kiyomizu Temple should not be missed when visiting Kyoto. Although originally built in 798, most of the current buildings date from the 17th and 18th centuries because of repeated fires throughout the years. Lovely gardens and shrines surround Kiyomizu Temple, and the stage just off the Main Hall is famous for its city views.
Kiyomizu Temple is a must-see attraction in Kyoto, so most organized tours include it on their itineraries. It’s also easily accessed via public transport. The complex offers tours of the temple and grounds conducted by a Buddhist priest.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Although the temple is part way up Mount Otowa, it is fully wheelchair accessible, with no-step paths and special vehicle access via the emergency road entrance to save climbing the steps.
- The temple grounds are large, with 30 buildings and gardens to stroll through. While it’s possible to visit quickly, if you’re trying to see many highlights of Kyoto in a short time, it’s also worth spending a couple of hours here.
- There is a small admission charge.
How to Get There
Kiyomizu Temple is best reached by bus. From Kyoto Station, catch City Bus no. 206 or 100 (on Saturdays and holidays, take the Kyoto Bus no. 18) and get off at Gojozaka and walk east. Buses are also available from Hankyu Kawaramachi, Keihan Gion-Shijo, and Keihan Shichijo stations. There are no parking lots at the temple, and nearby lots tend to get crowded quickly due to the temple’s popularity.
When to Get There
The temple is open every day from 6am until 6pm or 6:30pm, depending on the season. Special night-viewing sessions are also organized in each season, when the temple remains open until 9pm. Every season at Kiyomizu Temple offers a different experience: the temple is surrounded by snow in winter, blossoms in spring, greenery in summer, and fiery leaves in fall.
Stage on a Cliff
The Main Hall of Kiyomizu Temple is built upon a steep cliff, and the stage that hangs out in front offers amazing views of Kyoto. While this may seem like a precarious perch, especially in an earthquake-prone country, the platform has survived since 1633. The traditional construction method consists of 18 wooden pillars and uses no nails.
Address: Kiyomizu Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto 605-0862, Japan
Admission: Varies
From ¥ 122