What are the cultural highlights of Kyoto, Japan for first-time visitors?

Kyoto is a city steeped in tradition and culture, making it a must-visit destination for travelers to Japan. For first-time visitors, there are many cultural highlights to explore, including:

• Kyoto's temples and shrines: Kyoto is known for its many temples and shrines, some of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Some of the most popular include Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion), Ginkaku-ji (the Silver Pavilion), and Fushimi Inari-taisha, which has thousands of vermilion torii gates.
• The Gion district: Gion is Kyoto's famous geisha district, where you can see geisha (known locally as geiko) and maiko walking to and from appointments. You can also enjoy traditional tea ceremonies and dine at some of Kyoto's best restaurants.
• The Philosopher's Path: The Philosopher's Path is a pedestrian path that runs along a canal and is lined with cherry blossom trees. It's a great place to take a walk and enjoy the natural beauty of Kyoto.
• The Arashiyama bamboo grove: Located on the outskirts of Kyoto, the Arashiyama bamboo grove is a peaceful and scenic place to visit. The towering bamboo stalks create a unique atmosphere, and you can also visit the nearby Tenryu-ji Temple.

These are just a few of the cultural highlights that Kyoto has to offer. Exploring the city's traditional neighborhoods, such as Pontocho and Nishiki Market, is also highly recommended. And don't forget to try some of Kyoto's famous cuisine, such as kaiseki (a multi-course meal), tofu, and matcha green tea.