Kyoto Tourist Trap Tips by dogears

The famous Rock Garden at Ryoanji Temple lacks that zen tranquility due to overcrowding.

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At Least Do This: The walking paths and the lake are very beautiful. The atmosphere and food at the "Seven Herb Tofu Restauraunt" is sublime (and prolongs life). [Restaurant is 3/4 of the way around the lake]
Alternative: See the dragons on the sliding doors in the Temple. Throw a coin in the "Tsukubai" stone wash basin. Buy postcards and save the film.

Kyoto Imperial Palace
Not a tourist trap, but only moderately interesting inside the walls of the inner Palace. No admittance to any of the buildings or through the beautiful garden around the pond.
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At Least Do This: The grounds outside the central Palace walls are similar to Central Park in New York City - a huge landscaped area located in the center of the city. Good spot for lunch.
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Alternative: Go to Katsura (Rikyu) Imperial Villa instead (see "Must see actiitvies")