Japan is an island nation located in East Asia, bordered by the Pacific Ocean on the east and the Sea of Japan on the west. It is known for its rich history, unique culture, beautiful landscapes, and advanced technology. Japan has a population of almost 125 million, of which nearly 122 million are Japanese nationals (2022 estimates).

Founded in 1924, the Kyoto Botanical Gardens is around 240,000㎡ and houses an impressive 12,000 species of plants, making it the oldest and most comprehensive public botanical garden in Japan. Though it fell into disuse in 1945, it was revived and reopened to the public in 1961.

One of the oldest Shinto shrines in Japan, Shimogamo Shrine is one of a pair alongside Kamigamo Shrine that was constructed in the sixth and seventh centuries in order to protect against malign influences. The shrine complex is surrounded by the Tadasu no Mori forest that shelters visitors in a world of green and winding streams as well as a small shrine used to pray for beauty.

Ryoan-ji is a Zen temple located in northwest Kyoto, Japan. It belongs to the Myoshin-ji school of the Rinzai branch of Zen Buddhism. Ryoanji Temple is the site of Japan's most famous rock garden, which attracts hundreds of visitors every day. An interesting feature of the garden's design is that from any vantage point at least one of the rocks is always hidden from the viewer.

Arashiyama is a pleasant, touristy district in the western outskirts of Kyoto. The area has been a popular destination since the Heian Period (794-1185), when nobles would enjoy its natural setting.

Kiyomizu-dera is the temple of the Goddess of Mercy, a symbol of religious belief for more than 1,200 years. Kiyomizudera, literally Pure Water Temple, is one of the most celebrated temples of Japan. It was founded in 780 on the site of the Otowa Waterfall in the wooded hills east of Kyoto, and derives its name from the fall's pure waters.

Ginkaku-ji, officially named Jisho-ji, is a Zen temple in the Sakyo ward of Kyoto, Japan. It is one of the constructions that represent the Higashiyama Culture of Muromachi period.

Fushimi Inari Taisha is one of the most famous and iconic Shinto shrines in Kyoto, Japan. It is renowned for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates that create a mesmerizing tunnel-like path through a dense forest.

Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion, is a renowned Zen Buddhist temple located in Kyoto, Japan. It is celebrated for its stunning architecture and its reflective pond, which creates a picturesque and reflective setting. The garden complex is an excellent example of Muromachi period garden design.

Nijo Castle is a historic and culturally significant castle located in Kyoto, Japan. It is renowned for its architectural beauty, well-preserved Edo-period buildings, beautiful gardens, and its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nijo Castle was built in 1603 as the Kyoto residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Edo Period (1603-1867).