Follow The Amazing Race to Kyoto
Did season 37, episode 3 leave you dreaming of a trip to Japan’s most beautiful city? From samurai soccer to origami art, experience the best of Kyoto with our race-inspired guide
Warning: The Amazing Race season 37 spoilers ahead! Bookmark this page and come back later if you’re not caught up...
With ancient temples and prized gardens, it’s no wonder Kyoto is so widely renowned as Japan’s most beautiful city—and in episode three of the new season of The Amazing Race, teams zip through some of its most captivating locations.
After speeding into the city from Osaka on the Shinkansen bullet train (see our experiences guide below for more details), contestants have their skills challenged at Shiramine Jingu shrine during a Roadblock challenge that requires them to master kemari (aka samurai soccer), passing the ball five times.
Then it’s a mad dash for the Detour, where teams choose between showing off their ninja skills and perfecting their origami fold, before power-walking to the finish line at Konkai Kōmyō-ji temple.
As contestant Jonathan points out, “There is nothing that compares to this in America.” Japan’s picturesque former capital is home to over 2,000 temples and shrines, traditional tea houses, and serene gardens that come to life in a sea of pink during cherry blossom season.
Follow The Amazing Race to Osaka
To experience everything that Kyoto has to offer, aim to spend at least two or three days there—and be sure to slow down so you can really take it all in. Walk meditatively through the legion of orange torii gates at Fushimi Inari; amble around Nishiki Market while munching on free samples; pause to watch the sun set from the hilltop Kiyomizu-dera temple; or take a sunrise stroll through a tunnel of green in the Arashiyama district’s beloved bamboo grove.
In Kyoto, you can expect a fascinating tapestry of contrasts, with historical sites tucked in between signs of modern life (hello, FamilyMart convenience stores).
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The Amazing Race-inspired Kyoto experiences
Ready to explore everything that Kyoto has to offer? Scroll down to our maps for incredible eats and gorgeous hotels that will help you make the most of your Amazing Race-inspired vacation.
Find new episodes of The Amazing Race on Wednesdays at 9:30 p.m./8:30 p.m. Central on CBS/Paramount+
Visitors looking for luxury will fall for Hotel the Mitsui, an urban oasis that combines five-star service, traditional amenities like a thermal spring spa, and a scenic location right next to Nijō Castle. Hyatt Regency Kyoto offers surreal views of cherry blossoms during the spring, plus the opportunity to take tea in their historic tea house, once a samurai meeting place. Or stretch out at The Blossom, a hotel noted for its value, spaciousness, and in-house onsen. Millennial travelers will appreciate the sleek design of the Ace Hotel, the chain’s first property in Japan, and value-seekers of any age will love the clean design and in-house laundry facilities at OMO5 Kyoto Sanjo.
If you’re vegan or gluten-free, Engine Ramen is the perfect place to enjoy Japan’s signature soup—and still provides plenty of options for meat eaters. Enjoy traditional Japanese curry (a very different dish than Indian or Thai versions) at Pontocho Yakuzen Curry. Munch on outstanding fried pork cutlets at Tonkatsu Ichiban and oversized egg sandos at Café Momoharu. Kyoto is famous for matcha, so sip on some of the best at Shimizu-Ippoen café—or cool off in summer with their knockout kakigōri (shaved-ice dessert).
Kyoto was founded over 1,200 years ago, so delve into the past by visiting sites across the city. Join up with a guide for a walking tour around the Gion district and hear all about the tea houses, geiko (geisha) culture, and stories that define this historic neighborhood. Take part in a private tea ceremony in a traditional Japanese home, or learn about nerikō (kneaded incense) at Sennyū-ji temple from a master of the Senzan Goryu School of Kodo. Kyoto is also home to many extraordinary gardens, from simple, zen-style spots to extravagant emperor’s estates (they even inspired David Bowie’s music). Pick your favorites to explore on a customizable private tour with a guide who will help you understand the significance of each serene location.
Laura Studarus is a Los Angeles-based writer, traveler and tea drinker who has contributed to Lonely Planet, Wired, and The Daily Beast among others. Sometimes she can go for several hours without a cup of tea.
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