The intimate details of Kyoto's intriguing geisha culture
Originally, it was thought the kanzashi’s long single pin could ward off evil spirits. There’s even a theory that the pins could be used in self-defence
New Kyoto hotel: Sophistication meets Japanese sensibility
Kyoto's new hotel is so fresh you can still smell the pale paint.
There's a good reason to visit Kyoto during the quiet of winter
Without the high-season tourist crush, a wintertime visit to Kyoto offers Zen-like serenity.
Japan's resident robot teacher of Buddhist thought
A robot instructing tourists in Buddhist thought in a Zen temple may seem odd for those not accustomed to Japanese mores.
Lessons in the subtle art of killing people quietly
Ninja master Izo Ichikawa is upstairs waiting to induct us further into the subtle art of killing people quietly.
Taking a dry bath in Japan - this is what it's like
I'm wearing nothing but black disposable underpants and a white hairnet.
The most magical gardens you can see in Japan
Most visitors to Kyoto tour temples, but Japan's old capital has outstanding classical gardens too.
The most surprising place to shop in Kyoto
Some of Japan's shrine market selling such collectables as fabrics, ceramics, kimono, hair ornaments and scrolls, have been running for hundreds of years.
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For first-time visitors to Japan, Kyoto is a perfect, manageable and inspiring introduction to a magical country and its distinctive culture.
