If your trip to Kyoto is all organized but your travel itinerary is looking a bit empty, let us give you a helping hand.Think of Kyoto and then say the first thing that comes into your head. You probably said “Kyoto Imperial Palace,” right? Being such a well-known landmark, you simply can’t miss it. Throw your luggage into the car and tick it off your bucket list.You’ll have to rise with the sun if you want to check out all the fascinating sights this place has to offer. Gion Corner and Heian Shrine are non-negotiable. Higashi Honganji Temple and Sanjusangendo Temple shouldn’t be forgotten either.Near the city center, Nishiki Market is one attraction to consider putting on your to-do list. Yasaka Shrine and Kinkaku-ji are also not far away and worth a detour.

If you’re ready for a day trip, pack your bags and make your way to Miyazu. Situated 50 miles away, it has lots to keep you busy. Kyotango is one more place you shouldn’t miss. It’s situated 60 miles away. Jump out of the car, stretch those legs and discover what this place is all about.

Nothing’s quite as dazzling as being beside the sea in the early hours of the evening. Take a drive to Manohama Beach and catch sight of the sun’s rays glittering over the water before it vanishes into the horizon. You’ll find this striking beach 12 miles from Kyoto.

If you have some work-related business to attend to in Kyoto, chances are you’ll be spending a lot of time at a major convention center. If that’s the case, you might want to hear about some of the ones that have cafés and restaurants nearby:

• Miyakomesse (1 mile away).
• Kyoto TERRSA (2 miles away).
• Kyoto International Conference Centre (4 miles away).

Venturing to Kyoto to be wowed by Kiyomizu Temple and Nijō Castle? Now that’s what we call a dream road trip! But you’ll need to give a little thought to just how you’ll get around. Driving in this metropolis can be stressful, so opt for a smaller ride, like a compact car. You’ll be squeezing past traffic and maneuvering into tight car spaces like a local. If you want to leave the driving for outside the city, that’s all right with us too. Book something a little larger and more comfortable, like a four-wheel drive, and explore the bays of Kyoto Prefecture.

For some of us, owning a prestige vehicle is little more than a pipe dream. But renting your dream ride is well within your grasp! Imagine the feeling of cruising the open roads in a snazzy sports car, even if it’s only for a few days. Or perhaps you’re just after a cheap ride to get you quickly from A to B. Flashy or thrifty? Whatever you decide, one thing’s for sure — there’s a rental car to suit your style in Kyoto.

The left-hand side of the road is where you’ll be driving in Kyoto. Also take note that the controls of your rental car here, such as the steering wheel and stick shift (if your car has manual transmission), will be on the opposite side of what you’re used to.

It can be. Cruising around the block looking for a parking spot is all part of the experience in Kyoto. Getting close to busy attractions is easier if you research your options ahead of time.

As the population of Kyoto is around 1,459,600, expect some denser traffic in the downtown area. Before and after work is when traffic is at its peak, so it’s wise to stay off the road during these times.

Most residential areas in the city of Kyoto have a 40km/h speed limit. Outside these areas, the speed limits typically range between 30km/h and 100km/h.

One of two things will happen. Your chosen car rental company may charge the amount stated on the fine to your credit card. This is the usual approach. Alternatively, it may forward your contact details to the relevant local agency so the fine is sent to you directly.

As in many places, regular cell phone usage is not permitted while driving in Kyoto. An exception applies for hands-free or Bluetooth capabilities. Just ensure you stay focused on the road.

The legal BAC (blood alcohol content) limit when operating a vehicle in Kyoto is 0.03%. If you’re planning a big night out, leave your rental car behind and organize another way of getting home instead.

You aren’t permitted to turn on a red light in Kyoto. When you encounter one, enjoy a mindful moment until the light flicks back to green.

Although there are a small number of exceptions, seat belts must be fastened when the vehicle is in motion in Kyoto Prefecture.