- By Area: Tourist Spots -
Temples, bamboo, and a thousand torii—taste the essence of the ancient capital in one sweep.
Kiyomizu-dera
Founded in 778. From the famed “Kiyomizu Stage,” the cityscape of Kyoto unfolds in spring and fall colors. The Otowa Waterfall is beloved for blessings in matchmaking and academic success.
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
A bamboo tunnel that rustles with every breeze—otherworldly and serene. Pair it with Togetsu Bridge and a Hozu River boat ride to savor seasonal scenery to the fullest.
Fushimi Inari Taisha
Renowned for its seemingly endless vermilion “Senbon Torii.” The head shrine of Inari across Japan, dedicated to bountiful harvests and prosperity. The paths at dawn and dusk feel exquisitely mystical.
A shrine founded in the Nara period, famed for its vermilion thousand-torii tunnels.
A historic shrine celebrated for blessings in business prosperity.
Seated at the foot of Mount Inari, the shrine is said to date back to 711. From the Edo period onward, devotion broadened from agriculture to household safety and especially prosperous business, drawing crowds year-round amidst seasonal scenery.
The iconic “Senbon Torii” forms a tunnel of vermilion gates along the approach, creating a dreamlike spectacle. Each gate is a votive offering by worshippers, with donor names inscribed—an irresistible photo spot for many.
Stone foxes—the messengers of Inari Ōkami—stand throughout the grounds, often holding jewels or keys. At the rear worship hall, the “Omokaru Stone” fortune ritual is popular. The surrounding streets offer eateries and shops for inari sushi and sweets after your visit.
The shrine is easily reached from Kyoto Station by train, making it an accessible must-see for domestic and international visitors alike.
A Zen temple from the Muromachi era, whose gold-leaf-clad pavilion shimmers over the pond.
A golden beauty mirrored on the water—simply breathtaking.
Officially Rokuon-ji, Kinkaku-ji originated as the villa of Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, the 3rd shogun of the Ashikaga shogunate. After his death, it was rebuilt as a Zen temple around 1397, with lavish gold leaf covering its walls.
Despite its opulence, it embodies Zen spirit. The three-tiered pavilion intriguingly mixes styles—upper levels in Zen style, the lower in warrior-residence style. Reflected in Kyōko-chi (“Mirror Pond”), the glittering pavilion captivates visitors.
The gardens blend dry landscape and strolling pond styles, harmonizing with seasonal nature. Autumn foliage and winter snowscapes are particularly striking. In 1994, it was inscribed as part of the UNESCO site “Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto.”
Tea stalls and paths make for pleasant strolling amid the temple grounds.
A World Heritage temple from the Nara period; the hilltop stage offers sweeping views of Kyoto.
The cityscape spreads below—an unforgettable vista.
Kiyomizu-dera is an ancient temple traditionally dated to the Nara period. Its buildings grace the Higashiyama slopes, forming a UNESCO-listed ensemble. The main hall’s celebrated veranda—“Kiyomizu Stage”—soars about 13 m high, built without nails using interlocking timber. Spring cherry blossoms and autumn foliage draw especially large crowds.
At the front lies Otowa Waterfall, whose sacred streams are believed to grant longevity and academic success. Visitors ladle water from three separate flows. Within the grounds is Jishu Shrine, famous for matchmaking, making this area a beloved love-luck spot.
From the precincts, you command a stunning panorama of Kyoto—on clear days, the view stretches as far as Arashiyama. Evening light-ups conjure a magical atmosphere during special openings.
The temple is a convenient bus ride from Kyoto Station. Nearby, the stone-paved lanes of Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka host classic tea houses and souvenir shops. Strolling these streets is quintessential “Old Kyoto.”
Formally Jishō-ji, this temple epitomizes Higashiyama culture with its gardens and the famed Silver Pavilion.
Serene moss gardens—an emblem of Higashiyama aesthetics.
Commissioned by Ashikaga Yoshimasa in 1491 as a mountain villa, it later became a Zen temple. While plans once called for silver leaf, they were never realized—hence the moniker “Silver Pavilion.”
The architecture blends styles—lower levels in shoin style, upper levels in warrior-residence and Zen styles—exuding subdued elegance. The dry landscape garden of white sand and moss at the rear ranks among Japan’s finest, influencing later gardens like Ryōan-ji’s.
The stroll garden harmonizes mossy greens, water, and the pavilion—a picture of refined taste, especially with spring blossoms and autumn colors. Like Kinkaku-ji, Ginkaku-ji joined the UNESCO list in 1994. Close to the Philosopher’s Path, it is easy to combine with other Higashiyama highlights.
A walkway through soaring bamboo—an ethereal, photogenic world of green.
A mystical path woven by bamboo.
The grove unfolds across Arashiyama in western Kyoto. Tall bamboo—often 20 meters high—clusters densely, forming a canopy overhead and enveloping visitors in filtered light. Strolling here feels like stepping into another realm.
Paths link nearby Tenryū-ji and Nonomiya Shrine. Spring’s fresh greens and autumn’s fiery hues create striking contrasts with the bamboo. Many visitors linger to photograph the tranquil scene.
Exiting the grove reveals the view of Togetsu Bridge over the Katsura River—one of Kyoto’s signature vistas throughout the seasons.
Access is easy from Hankyu Arashiyama Station. Nearby draws include Tenryū-ji and the Sagano Scenic Railway. Beloved as a classic Arashiyama route.
A Rinzai Zen temple revitalized under Ashikaga Yoshimitsu; its World Heritage garden is celebrated.
An ancient temple where garden and Arashiyama scenery blend.
Founded in 1359 and later revived, Tenryū-ji is part of the UNESCO “Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto.” Its famed Sōgen-chi Garden, attributed to Musō Soseki, is among Japan’s oldest strolling pond gardens, integrating dry landscape elements with a central pond and Arashiyama as borrowed scenery.
From the main hall, gaze past the garden toward the mountains—an iconic Tenryū-ji composition. Historic buildings and tea gardens dot the precincts, while the nearby bamboo grove and Nonomiya Shrine complete a serene circuit.
The temple is a short walk from JR Saga-Arashiyama and Hankyu Arashiyama stations, making it a convenient hub for exploring Arashiyama.
Built by Tokugawa Ieyasu in 1603, featuring opulent Ninomaru Palace and vast Japanese gardens.
A dazzling castle showcasing Momoyama culture.
Constructed as the Kyoto residence of the shogunate, this flatland castle later hosted emperors and shoguns. The Ninomaru Palace brims with lavish paintings by Kano-school artists and famous “nightingale floors” that chirp underfoot as a security measure.
The surrounding gardens include the grand Ninomaru Garden—a strolling pond garden—renowned for cherry blossoms and autumn foliage. Seasonal light-ups and projection mapping events add ethereal charm at night.
Steps from Subway Tōzai Line’s Nijōjō-mae Station, the site is easy to reach and a staple of Kyoto sightseeing alongside Kinkaku-ji and Kiyomizu-dera.
One of Japan’s “Three Views”: a long sandbar lined with pines, arcing across Miyazu Bay.
An iconic scenic vista among Japan’s top three.
Stretching about 3.6 km, the white-sand bar dotted with some 8,000 black pines resembles a “bridge to the heavens.” It can be crossed on foot or by bicycle, with famed viewpoints like Kasamatsu Park and Viewland offering the “upside-down” perspective through your legs—said to reveal a dragon in the sea.
On clear days, panoramic views span the Sea of Japan and the Tango Peninsula. Sunrises and sunsets paint the sandbar in dramatic hues.
Accessible from Kyoto Tango Railway’s Amanohashidate Station; ropeways and lifts aid the ascent to the observation decks.
Kyoto’s historic geisha district with stone-paved lanes and traditional townhouses; spot maiko and geiko.
A storied hanamachi where Kyoto’s traditional arts breathe.
Centered on Gion Shirakawa and Hanamikoji Street, classic teahouses and restaurants line the lanes near Yasaka Shrine. At dusk, lanterns glow and the atmosphere turns elegantly nostalgic.
Nearby are Kennin-ji and historic riverside scenery. Alongside the preservation of tradition, modern cafés and shops have flourished, making Gion lively day and night.
Steps from Keihan Gion-Shijō Station; visitors sometimes glimpse maiko on their way to engagements—observe respectfully to preserve local culture.
The former residence of Japan’s emperors within Heian-kyō; expansive gardens exude courtly grace.
A majestic palace preserving Kyoto’s imperial history.
The palace served as the imperial residence until 1869. Within the Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, halls such as Shishinden and Seiryōden display refined classical architecture. Many structures are Important Cultural Properties.
The gardens feature strolling ponds, plum groves, and cherry avenues—tranquil in all seasons. Special openings in spring and autumn reveal interiors usually off-limits.
A short walk from Subway Karasuma Line’s Imadegawa Station; the spacious grounds are ideal for leisurely exploration near central Kyoto.
A Heian-era Buddhist temple in Uji; the National Treasure Phoenix Hall is its crowning glory.
A World Heritage site of exquisite elegance.
Founded in 1052 by Fujiwara no Yorimichi, Byōdō-in’s Phoenix Hall appears to float over a pond, with east and west wing corridors flanking the central hall—an image minted on the 10-yen coin. Inside sits a wooden Amida Nyorai statue, backed by a procession of celestial musicians (Unchū Kuyō Bosatsu), masterpieces of Heian Buddhist art.
The pond-strolling garden frames seasonal beauty—cherry blossoms in spring, vibrant foliage in autumn, and occasional evening illuminations. The temple museum houses treasures and offers deeper context.
Roughly a 10-minute walk from JR Uji or Keihan Uji Stations. As a UNESCO site, entry is ticketed, but the grounds reward unhurried visits.
Held every July, Gion Matsuri is one of Japan’s three great festivals—Kyoto’s vibrant summer spectacle.
A time-honored festival coloring Kyoto’s summer.
Originating as a ritual to quell epidemics in the Heian period, the festival spans a month of events. The grand highlight is the Yamahoko Junko (float procession) on July 17, with sumptuous floats parading through central Kyoto. Many are Important Cultural Properties.
Art-laden floats, draped in textiles and adorned with carvings, move in stately formation accompanied by traditional music. Evening events and additional processions amplify the splendor. Streets bustle with stalls, festive lanterns, and yukata-clad crowds.
Most accessible around Shijō-Karasuma. Check official notices for traffic restrictions and special viewings.
The guardian shrine of Gion Matsuri in Higashiyama—splendid vermilion halls and lively traditions.
Famed for Gion Matsuri—resplendent and beloved.
Said to originate as a Gion shrine to pacify epidemics, Yasaka Shrine’s current main hall dates to the Azuchi-Momoyama period and is an Important Cultural Property. Nicknamed “Gion-san,” its vermilion tower gate and main sanctuary exude festive brilliance.
Sub-shrines such as Utsukushi Gozensha (for beauty) and Eki Shrine (for business prosperity) enrich the precincts. Seasonal events and illuminations enhance the shrine’s appeal, especially with spring blossoms and autumn colors.
A 5-minute walk from Keihan Gion-Shijō Station; vistas over Shijō Ōhashi and the Kamo River are nearby favorites.
Kyoto’s bustling “kitchen”—a 390 m arcade lined with Kyoto vegetables, seafood, pickles, and local treats.
A lively market showcasing Kyoto’s culinary culture.
Stemming from fish peddlers in the Muromachi period and later a shogunal market in Edo times, today Nishiki hosts over 60 shops offering fresh Kyoto produce, seafood, pickles, dried goods, tofu, yuba, and sweets.
Stalls serve skewers and snacks hot off the grill for on-the-go bites. Covered arcades make rainy-day browsing a breeze. Go in the morning to early afternoon for the fullest experience. Nearby streets brim with restaurants and craft shops.
Close to Kawaramachi and Shijō Stations, the market is perfect for souvenir hunting and tastings.
A canal-side promenade along the Lake Biwa aqueduct—famed for rows of cherry trees in spring.
A contemplative stroll through seasonal beauty.
Running from near Ginkaku-ji toward Nanzen-ji, the path is named after philosopher Nishida Kitarō, who walked here in quiet reflection. Spring cherries and autumn colors enchant, while nearby temples—Hōnen-in, Anraku-ji—offer pockets of calm.
Cafés and riverside eateries dot the route. Early morning and dusk provide the most tranquil experience. Close to the Okazaki area with Heian Shrine and museums.
Built in 1895 to mark 1,100 years since the move to Heian-kyō; famed for a giant vermilion torii and vast gardens.
A striking shrine marked by an immense vermilion torii.
Dedicated to Emperor Kanmu and Emperor Kōmei, the shrine’s architecture re-creates the grandeur of the Heian imperial palace. The towering torii (about 24 m) and Ōten-mon gate dominate the approach.
The Shin’en gardens—strolling ponds designed by Ogawa Jihei—unfurl seasonal charms: spring cherries, summer lotuses, autumn foliage, and serene snowscapes. The October 22 Jidai Matsuri historical pageant departs from here.
About 5 minutes on foot from Subway Tōzai Line’s Higashiyama Station. Near Nanzen-ji, Kyoto City Zoo, and museums in Okazaki Park.
Stone-paved slopes leading to Kiyomizu-dera—lined with traditional townhouses and specialty shops.
Atmospheric lanes preserving Old Kyoto.
These historic approach roads host teahouses, craft stores, and sweet shops. Sample matcha treats, pick up Kyoto crafts, and enjoy the photogenic stone steps—especially magical under lantern light at night.
Seasonal charm abounds: spring blossoms, autumn foliage, winter snows. Historic markers and monuments recall centuries of pilgrim footsteps.
Easily reached by bus from Kyoto Station; a core of the Higashiyama walking route.
A hilltop park where you can observe wild Japanese macaques up close—plus panoramic Kyoto views.
A nature-rich park for friendly encounters with wild monkeys.
Around 120 macaques roam near the summit (~160 m elevation). After a 10-minute climb, visitors reach a feeding area and lookout. Watch families and troop dynamics up close amid forested slopes.
The summit deck offers sweeping views over Kyoto City and the Katsura River. Each season paints a different backdrop—fresh spring greens, fiery autumn leaves, snow-dusted winter scenes.
About 20 minutes on foot from JR Saga-Arashiyama (30 from Hankyu Arashiyama). Wear comfortable shoes; the trails include slopes.
An ancient shrine nestled within the primeval Tadasu no Mori forest—part of Kyoto’s UNESCO ensemble.
A historic sanctuary embraced by the beauty of Tadasu no Mori.
Officially Kamo Mioya Shrine, Shimogamo enshrines deities revered since antiquity for water and agriculture. Vermilion gates open onto serene precincts, with multiple halls and sub-shrines standing in quiet harmony.
On May 15, the Aoi Matsuri links Shimogamo with Kamigamo Shrine via a Heian-costumed procession. Seasonal events like summer firefly evenings add to the shrine’s allure.
About 5 minutes from Subway Karasuma Line’s Kitayama Station, or 15 from Keihan Demachiyanagi. The approach area hosts old-style tea shops; Kyoto University and the Kamo River delta are nearby.
Among Kyoto’s oldest shrines—starting point of the Aoi Matsuri and a UNESCO component site.
A venerable shrine—origin of the Aoi Matsuri procession.
Officially Kamo Wake-ikazuchi Shrine, dedicated to the thunder deity. The stately main sanctuaries and sacred streams convey deep antiquity. The precincts also host facilities tied to festival costumes and horse grounds.
On May 15, the Aoi Matsuri procession departs here, parading through Kyoto in exquisite Heian attire. Seasonal events and the tranquil, green grounds invite unhurried visits.
City buses stop at “Kamigamo Shrine,” with subway access via Kitayama. A beloved haven of calm and tradition.
In the forests north of Kyoto, dedicated to the water deity—also famed for romantic blessings.
A water-god shrine and beloved matchmaking power spot.
Set along a clear stream in the northern hills, Kifune enshrines Takaokami no Kami. The “water oracle” omikuji reveal characters when immersed. In summer, riverside dining platforms (kawadoko) offer cool retreats; in autumn, lantern-lit foliage glows at night.
Reachable from Eizan Railway’s Kibuneguchi Station by bus or a 15-minute walk. Plan extra time—it’s a serene mountain locale.
A northern mountain temple tied to the legend of Ushiwakamaru (Minamoto no Yoshitsune) and tengu lore.
A temple steeped in legend and mountain faith.
Kurama-dera venerates Kannon, Bishamonten, and the guardian spirit Gohō Maōson. The ascent passes imposing gates and halls amid soaring cedars, culminating in the main hall and inner sanctuary.
The famed Kurama Fire Festival (Oct 22) sees torch-bearing participants flood the night with flames—an unforgettable spectacle. Scenic overlooks offer views toward Kyoto city.
Steps from Eizan Railway’s Kurama Station; expect stairs and mountain paths—wear suitable footwear.
A cozy hot spring at the foot of Mount Kurama—soak in nature and unwind.
A nostalgic onsen town embraced by the mountains.
With history reaching back to the Heian era, inns and temple lodgings nestle among trees. The bicarbonate springs are said to relieve neuralgia and fatigue. Open-air baths overlook forested valleys—a delight across seasons.
Combine with visits to Kurama-dera and Kifune Shrine. Weekends can be busy; a tranquil escape on weekdays.
A World Heritage Shinto shrine paired with Byōdō-in—home to Japan’s oldest existing shrine hall.
World Heritage with Japan’s oldest shrine building.
Dating to the 10th century, Ujigami’s main hall (honden) is a National Treasure. The grounds feature a drum bridge and mossy gardens along the Uji River, serene in every season.
In April, Uji hosts the “Uji Festival” with Heian-costumed processions. Pilgrims collect goshuin stamps and appreciate the shrine’s cultural treasures.
Around a 15-minute walk from JR or Keihan Uji Stations—pair with tea shops and riverside strolls.
Try on samurai and ninja costumes for photo shoots—hands-on exhibits and activities await.
Transform into a warrior or ninja—interactive fun for all ages.
Located in Fushimi, this museum offers costume rentals (samurai armor, ninja outfits, townsfolk attire) with staff guidance. Exhibits include swords and armor, illuminating warrior culture from the Sengoku through Edo periods.
Activities range from shuriken throwing to safe tameshigiri-style demos (on mock targets). Photography plans with pros are popular souvenirs. Recreated ninja house rooms, sword galleries, and shows round out the experience. English support is available.
Walkable from Keihan Chūshōjima or Kintetsu Momoyama Goryō-mae Stations. Combine with nearby Fushimi Inari for a full day.
One of Kyoto’s three great festivals—an elegant Heian-costumed procession through the city every May.
Graceful pageantry in Heian attire.
Centered on Shimogamo and Kamigamo Shrines, Aoi Matsuri dates back to ancient rites for national peace. The “Roto no Gi” procession sees the Saiōdai (imperial priestess stand-in) and nobles in court dress depart Kyoto Imperial Palace, with ox-drawn carriages and horses adorned with hollyhock leaves.
Traffic restrictions apply that day; shrine rituals and bugaku court dances take place at both shrines. The refined costumes and historical reenactments offer tangible links to Kyoto’s past.
Best viewed around Shijō-Kawaramachi and Kyoto Imperial Palace; access via Subway Karasuma Line or city buses.
On October 22, a historical pageant proceeds from Kyoto Imperial Palace to Heian Shrine—costumes across eras.
A grand historical panorama celebrating Kyoto’s ages.
Launched in 1895 to commemorate the Heian capital’s founding, the parade features around 2,000 participants dressed as figures from the Genji and Heike to early modern times. Musicians, archers, warriors, nobles, and commoners re-create scenes from history.
Elegant music and Noh-influenced performances accompany the procession, culminating at Heian Shrine. A living history lesson in motion.
Subway access from Marutamachi; nearby roads turn pedestrian-only during the event. A beloved annual spectacle.
Head temple of the Shingon Daigo school—famed for cherry blossoms and Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s “Daigo no Hanami.”
An ancient temple renowned for spectacular spring blossoms.
Founded in 874 by Saint Shōbō, Daigo-ji sprawls across mountain precincts with National Treasure halls, a five-storied pagoda, and gardens. In spring, some 1,000 cherry trees transform Daigo Mountain into a sea of pink; autumn foliage around Ōgon-ike pond is equally stunning.
The five-storied pagoda is a National Treasure; the Sanbō-in garden showcases Momoyama splendor. Trails link lower and upper precincts for varied experiences.
Around 10 minutes from Subway Tōzai Line’s Daigo Station or steps from the city bus stop. Night illuminations during peak seasons heighten the magic.
A sightseeing train along the Hozu River gorge—enjoy seasonal scenery through wide windows.
Soak up the Hozu Gorge from vintage-style carriages.
The Torokko line links Saga-Arashiyama and Kameoka in about 25 minutes, passing tunnels, bridges, and rapids. In spring and autumn, it’s one of Kyoto’s most scenic rides. Seats are reserved and sell out fast.
Occasionally, boats on the Hozu River run parallel for a double attraction. Each season brings fresh views—cherries, deep greens, blazing foliage, and snow.
Torokko Saga Station sits next to JR Saga-Arashiyama. Combine with Hozu River boat rides and Arashiyama walks.
A Rinzai Zen temple famed for a minimalist dry garden of 15 stones—an icon of Zen aesthetics.
The world-famous stone garden of contemplation.
Founded in 1450 by Hosokawa Katsumoto, the rock garden presents 15 stones set in raked white gravel—its simplicity embodying Zen ideals. From certain angles, one stone is always hidden from view, prompting quiet reflection.
Halls retain Muromachi architectural character; azaleas and satsuki brighten spring, while autumn leaves frame the rocks in vivid color. Enjoy the garden from tatami rooms at an unhurried pace.
A short walk from Keifuku (Randen) Ryōan-ji Station or city buses. Crowds can form—arrive early for a serene visit.
Tour breweries and taste nihonshu in Kyoto’s famed Fushimi—don’t miss the white-walled breweries and Horikawa boat cruise.
Fine sake born of the famed Gokōnomiya spring
Over 20 breweries—including Gekkeikan, Kizakura, and Takara—cluster in Fushimi. Join guided tours with tastings to peek into fragrant fermentation halls.
During spring and autumn openings, limited-edition brews appear alongside sake-kasu sweets and ginjō soft-serve. Hopping from one brewery to the next with a tasting cup in hand is a classic course.
The Jikkokubune cruise on the Horikawa Canal glides past cherry trees and willows, revealing the red-brick brewery skyline from the water. At night, lanterns glow and reflections shimmer romantically.
From Keihan “Chūshōjima Station,” it’s a 5-minute walk. Sober up with a stroll to Teradaya (linked to Sakamoto Ryōma) and Chōken-ji to soak in local history and waterway culture.
The hall of a thousand Kannon statues—national treasure architecture; archery ritual (Tōshi-ya) every January.
An overwhelming sea of a thousand Kannon
The main hall runs about 120 m north–south with 33 bays—hence the name. Inside, 1,001 standing Thousand-Armed Kannon line ten rows, centered on a 3 m seated Amida. Expressions vary from serene to dignified—many say you’ll find one that resembles you.
Mid-January’s archery event sees young adults in vibrant kimono shooting at targets—a Kyoto winter tradition since the Edo period.
About 10 minutes by bus from Kyoto Station. Shoes off inside—slippers provided. Take your time to absorb the sublime sight.
Ahead temple of Shingon Buddhism near Kyoto Station—its 55 m five-story pagoda dominates the skyline.
A golden silhouette glowing against the night sky
Founded with Heian-kyō, later the base of Kūkai’s esoteric Buddhism. The pagoda—the tallest in Japan—shines during evening illuminations. The Kondō and Kōdō halls display National Treasure statues; Kōdō’s 3D mandala arranges 21 deities in a cosmic layout.
On the 21st of each month, Kōbō-ichi flea market sprawls with 1,200+ stalls from antiques to street food—irresistible treasure hunting for locals and visitors.
About 15 minutes’ walk from JR Kyoto (Hachijō Exit). Time your visit for special openings to view statues up close.
Supreme-ranking Zen temple; its grand Sanmon gate and brick aqueduct are iconic photo spots.
Majestic gate, atmospheric aqueduct
The Sanmon, famously praised “What a view!” in kabuki lore, offers panoramas of Kyoto from its upper deck—especially striking at sunrise and sunset.
The Meiji-era Suirokaku aqueduct slices through the temple’s rear—a rare blend of Japanese and Western aesthetics, beloved for selfies amid spring greens and fall hues. The Hōjō gardens (attributed to Kobori Enshū) present a crisp dry landscape.
About 10 minutes from Subway Tōzai Line’s Keage Station. Close to Philosopher’s Path and Heian Shrine—perfect for an East Kyoto loop.
Kyoto’s autumn-leaf icon—Tsūten-kyō bridge over a maple-filled ravine; innovative Hōjō gardens by Shigemori Mirei.
Immerse in a tunnel of crimson maples
One of the Five Great Zen Temples, Tōfuku-ji’s Tsūten-kyō spans the Sengyokukan ravine awash with maples. From the bridge, the blazing sea of leaves takes your breath away.
The Hōjō gardens showcase modernist dry landscape design—north garden’s checkerboard moss-and-stone and south garden’s “Eight Phases” composition.
In peak season, early morning admission offers softer light and fewer crowds. 10 minutes’ walk from JR/Keihan Tōfuku-ji Station.
Founded by Nene, wife of Toyotomi Hideyoshi; famed for night illuminations and projection mapping.
Where Nene spent her later years—gardens and light in harmony
Established in 1606 by Nene to honor Hideyoshi. The maki-e lacquer in the mausoleum gleams with Momoyama richness. Gardens refined by Kobori Enshū mirror the seasons on Garyū Pond; night mapping projects ethereal scenes onto water.
A bamboo path within the grounds offers a tranquil counterpart to Arashiyama’s grove. Steps from Yasaka Pagoda and Ninenzaka; pair with Entoku-in and Kōdaiji Tenmangū for deeper history.
Nicknamed “Kyoto’s maple temple”—renowned for autumn leaves and the unique “Looking-Back Amida.”
Maple tableau—pond reflections and tahōtō pagoda
Founded in the Heian period, the temple’s grounds host over 3,000 maples. At night, reflections shimmer on the pond during special illuminations. The “Looking-Back Amida” statue, turned gently over the shoulder, radiates compassion.
Climb to the pagoda for sweeping views of Kyoto. Expect entry control in peak season—early weekdays are most relaxed. 15 minutes from Subway Keage Station.
Watch artisan weaving demos and enjoy free kimono fashion shows—hands-on experiences available.
Dive into the shimmering world of Nishijin-ori
See handlooms in action as artisans intertwine silk and gold threads—craftsmanship you can hear. Several times a day, models strut runways in uchikake and furisode, dazzling under spotlights—a hit with overseas visitors.
Paid experiences include kimono dressing and obi workshops; make-and-take coaster weaving is a charming souvenir. 10 minutes from Subway Imadegawa; combine with Seimei Shrine and the Imperial Palace.
A 131 m lighthouse-inspired landmark by Kyoto Station—360° views from the observation deck.
A white tower guiding the city
Opened in 1964, the tower’s steel-plate ring structure uses no steel beams—a feat of engineering. At night, LED colors shift with seasons and events. From the 100 m deck, spot Kiyomizu-dera and Tō-ji; on clear days, gaze as far as Mount Hiei and Osaka.
Lower floors host souvenir shops and a public bath. Two minutes from JR Kyoto’s central exit—pair station-billboard shots with the lit-up tower.
From steam engines to Shinkansen—53 rolling stock on display with hands-on, moving exhibits.
Ride the SL Steam—fuel your rail passion
The roundhouse lines up working steam locomotives; hop aboard the SL Steam for a short ride filled with coal scent and whistles. From the 3F Sky Terrace, watch trains gliding in and out of Kyoto Station—photographers’ heaven.
Kids crowd the driver simulators; the café in the old Nijō Station building serves themed dishes. Souvenir shops sell N-scale models and headmark goods. Two minutes from JR Umekōji-Kyōtonishi; spend the day with adjacent Umekōji Park and Kyoto Aquarium.
Browse ~50,000 volumes freely from the towering “Wall of Manga”—sprawl on the lawn and read to your heart’s content.
Paradise for manga lovers—reading on the lawn
The 3 m-high, 200 m-long Wall of Manga spans classics to global titles. In classrooms preserved from the former elementary school, find original art exhibitions, live painting, and portrait corners. Workshops with pro artists are popular.
On fine days, readers laze on the lawn, chatting across languages. Two minutes from Subway Karasuma Line’s Karasuma Oike Station; themed café drinks and collab menus await inside.
A masterpiece strolling garden—reservations required; the pinnacle of courtly aesthetics.
Architecture and landscape designed to adore the moon
Built in the 17th century by Prince Hachijō Toshihito, Katsura’s circuit path reveals fresh scenes at every step—like moving through a living painting. Moon-viewing platforms and beaches reflect the moon on the water’s surface.
The sukiya-style architecture—earthen walls, painted cedar doors, latticework shōji—helped shape Japanese minimalism. Tours are arranged via the Imperial Household Agency’s online system. From Hankyu Katsura Station, it’s a 20-minute walk (5 minutes by taxi).
Imperial villa using Mount Hiei as borrowed scenery—sweeping hedges and grand vistas across three precincts.
“Lower, Middle, Upper”—a vast composition ascending the slopes
Built by Emperor Go-Mizunoo, the villa’s three tiers climb the hillside, culminating at the Upper Villa with Bathing Dragon Pond reflecting Mount Hiei—an ideal lesson in framing landscape as art.
Massive clipped azalea hedges undulate like waves; autumn reflections double the color. Tours require advance reservation with the Imperial Household Agency. 20 minutes from Eizan Shugakuin Station; expect over 2 km of walking—wear suitable shoes.
Former imperial villa of Emperor Saga—famed for moon-viewing on Ōsawa Pond with music and boats.
Birthplace of the Saga school of ikebana
Once an imperial residence, later a temple with deep ties to sutra copying and flower arts. Ōsawa Pond is among Japan’s oldest man-made forest ponds—autumn boat rides reveal mirrored foliage in the water.
At the Mid-Autumn Moon Festival, dragon-headed boats glide while gagaku music plays—a Heian court scene brought to life. From JR Saga-Arashiyama, buses reach the quieter Sagano outskirts.
A Tendai monzeki temple in the Ōhara countryside—moss gardens dotted with adorable warabe-jizō statues.
Quiet Pure Land of moss and cedars
Linked to the monk Genshin, author of Ōjōyōshū, the temple’s Ōjō Gokuraku-in enshrines a gentle Heian triad of Amida. In the mossy Yūsei-en garden, smiling childlike jizō statues peek among greenery.
Autumn maples and spring rhododendrons color the grounds; in winter, a hush of snow transforms the scene. From Kyoto Bus “Ōhara,” it’s a 10-minute walk; sample local shibazuke pickles along the approach.
Kyoto’s oldest city park beside Yasaka Shrine—home to the iconic “Gion Shidare” weeping cherry.
Different faces by day and night—the famed weeping cherry
The century-old tree glows under night lights in spring, bathing the park in pink. Summer beer gardens, autumn colors, and winter snows offer year-round strolls. Statues of Sakamoto Ryōma and Nakaoka Shintarō stand within the grounds.
About 10 minutes from Keihan Gion-Shijō. During hanami, arrive early to secure picnic spots.
A narrow hanamachi alley between the Kamo River and Kiyamachi—lined with kaiseki restaurants and chic bars.
Evening becomes the soundtrack of the hanamachi
At dusk, shamisen and drum notes drift from behind lattice doors; lanterns sway with the silhouettes of maiko. In summer, dine on riverside noryō-yuka platforms, toasting in yukata with Minami-za theater across the river.
Hidden gems range from Michelin-starred kaiseki to standing wine bars—perfect for a delicious bar-hopping night. Three minutes from Keihan Sanjō; late-night car traffic is restricted for relaxed strolling.
Where the Kamo and Takano Rivers meet—cross the stepping stones and relax on the grassy triangle.
Unwind to the river’s gentle soundtrack
Students and families gather to read, strum guitars, and picnic. Turtle- and plover-shaped stepping stones invite playful crossing. Sunset gilds the water—photo-perfect moments abound.
A year-round charmer with spring blossoms, summer breezes, autumn leaves, and winter migratory ducks. Steps from Keihan Demachiyanagi; combine with Shimogamo Shrine and the Philosopher’s Path for a half-day course.