GETTING THERE & AROUND

British Airways, Japan Airlines and All Nippon Airways fly direct from London to Tokyo daily, from where it’s easy to connect to Kyoto by bullet train (2hrs 15mins). ba.com jal.co.jp ana.co.jp Average flight time: 14h.

It’s possible to explore Downtown Kyoto on foot, but for sights further afield it’s easy to get around using the city’s efficient subway system. The bus network is also very easy to use. The Kansai One pass, available at subway and train stations or convenience stores, gives unlimited travel on buses and trains in Kyoto and the wider Kansai region. kansaionepass.com

WHEN TO GO

Spring is a beautiful time to visit Kyoto, with average temperatures of 14C in April and the city’s trees smothered in cherry blossom, but it’s also a very busy time of year. Summers are humid and average 33C in August, while autumn often has mild weather — highs of 23C in October — without the crowds of spring, and with gorgeous foliage colours. Winter is often cloudy, windy and rainy, with a January average temperature of 10C.

WHERE TO STAY

Hyatt Regency Kyoto, Sanjusangendomawari neighbourhood. Doubles from

£220, B&B. hyatt.com

Mercure Kyoto Station, Aburanokojicho neighbourhood. Doubles from £120, B&B. mercure-kyoto-station.com

MORE INFO kyoto.travel

Rough Guide to Japan. RRP: £18.99

HOW TO DO IT

InsideJapan can tailor a trip to Kyoto, offering three nights at the Royal Park Hotel from £480 per person, B&B, with a day of private tours and experiences, including a private tea ceremony. Excludes flights. insidejapantours.com