After careful evaluation, the scientific committee of the Swiss Tourism Awards then selected the City of Kyoto and awarded the prize:

Best Travel Destination

“For its natural scenery, temples, shrines, towns and houses that blend into a setting of extraordinary beauty.”

Kyoto, the ancient capital of Japan, is a cultural jewel that boasts an intrinsic beauty in its rich history, its sacred temples and secular traditions.

The beauty of Kyoto is embodied in its many temples and shrines, which date back to past times. Its majestic Buddhist temples represent Japanese architecture and spirituality.

Zen gardens capture the essence of Japanese serenity and offer an environment of tranquility and contemplation.

Kyoto’s Old Town, known as Gion, is a picturesque neighborhood with cobbled streets, traditional houses and geishas that still preserve the ancient traditions of Japanese entertainment.

The city is also famous for its traditional festivals, such as the Gion Matsuri in July, which celebrates Japanese culture and traditions through performances, processions and fireworks.

Kyoto’s cuisine is renowned for its refinement and offers traditional dishes such as kaiseki (formal Japanese cuisine), tofu and roast wagyu beef