Kyoto

For 16 generations, master gardeners in this one family have dedicated their lives to preserving one of the nation's most cherished – and highly sought-out – symbols.

Run by the same family for the past 12 generations, this more-than-300-year-old inn is considered one of the finest in all of Japan.

Cultural expert Sara Aiko shares her picks for the best places to admire cherry blossoms in Kyoto, from the secluded Heian Shrine to Kiyomizu Temple at night.

From vandalising ancient sites to disrespecting local culture, we're increasingly aware of travellers misbehaving – and this could ultimately be a good thing.

Acclaimed writer Pico Iyer describes his first walk in Kyoto 26 years ago, when he found understanding between a Shinto shrine and a 7-Eleven and fell in love with the city forever.

After the sun goes down, geishas recede behind closed doors and teahouses shut down for the night, the ancient Japanese city offers spectacular nighttime charms.

Imbued with a sense of the divine, these five locales are known for their religious histories and sacred spaces that attract visitors and devotees from around the globe.