Kyoto is one of the few bigger cities in Japan that was not bombed during the second world war, which made it possible to protect a lot of cultural treasures to the afterworld. During 1200 years, Kyoto was the capitol of the aristocracy and the Emperor and a lot of time and effort was placed in preserving the traditional style. The city has more than 1600 Buddhist temples and 270 Shinto shrines. A walk through the central parts of Kyoto, where you can see the lively market place Nishiki-koji, de beautiful quarters of Kiyamachi and the famous geisha-quarters in Gion and Ponto-cho will put you in a special mood. 
You must visit the Golden Pavillion, Kiyomizu-dera, Heian Jingu, the Imperial Palace and the fortress, Nijo-castle with its famous nightingale floor. It's quite easy to find ones way around Kyoto and it is relatively easy to get to all the main attractions. A visit to the Imperial Palace demands a special permission from the Imperial Household. As a tourist you can get such a permission in a few days.