2024 Kyoto Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in August)
Kyoto is an ancient city with over a thousand years of history. Before the Meiji Emperor moved the capital to Tokyo, it was the traditional home of the Japanese royal family. After thousands of years, from legends of ghosts and gods to history and culture, the air and atmosphere in Kyoto is filled with a great mystical charm. When Kyoto was constructed, its street layout and architecture was influenced by the style of Chang’an, and it still retains the same ancient charm. In the Higashiyama District, temples, shrines and altars embody the spiritual side to Kyoto, while the area around Arashiyama carries a classical and elegant atmosphere. No visit to Kyoto would be complete without a taste of traditional delicacies, a stroll along the flowered paths, or a fascinating geisha show.
Peak Season
March-April, September-November
Today's Weather
Cloudy 25-33℃
Popular Attractions
Gion
Arashiyama
Arashiyama Sagano Romantic Train
Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Fushimi Inari Taisha
The Best Things to See in Kyoto, Japan 🇯🇵
Save this guide for your next trip to Kyoto in Japan! 🇯🇵
📍 Kinkaku-ji, also known as the golden temple, is an absolutely beautiful gold covered temple. Take a bus to the North of the city to see it!
📍 Fushimi Inari might be one of the most iconic Japanese places you can visit. Thousands of vermilion gates and so many photo opportunities. Arrive early to avoid the crowds.
📍 Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is actually quite small and it can get very crowded too. The surrounding area is also really worth exploring too!
📍 Nanzen-ji has an aqueduct running through the middle of the temple grounds. Take some photos with the arches and then walk along the aqueduct to get some amazing views of the city!
#japan #japantrip #kyoto #kyototrip #mytravelhacks #historicallandmarks #localguides #familytrip
#summerdestinations
Hidden Gems in Kyoto, Japan 🇯🇵
Here are some hidden gems and less visited places in Kyoto. Save this guide for your next trip! 🇯🇵
📍 Matsuo-taisha shrine, located near Arashiyama. Take the metro about 30 minutes outside of Kyoto to get here. There were barely any tourists and it was very peaceful!
📍 Chomyo-ji ~ I stumbled across this small temple while wandering around the East of the city. It’s very photogenic and there was absolutely no one else there!
📍 Studio Ghibli Store is very close to To-ji and Kiyomizu-dera in the popular areas, but it’s slightly hidden away off the street! There are cute photo opportunities inside and so much merchandise!
📍 Ryozen Kannon ~ I also found this while walking around at night, so it was really cool with the lights. When it’s open in the daytime, you can see a large statue inside.
#kyoto #kyototrip #japan #japantrip #mytravelhacks #historicallandmarks #localguides #familytrip
#summerdestinations
Kyoto Trip Guide: Shrines, Nature, Food & More!
Save this guide for your next trip to Kyoto in Japan!
📍 Arashiyama Bamboo Forest ~ take the metro 30 minutes to the West of Kyoto to Arashiyama. Arrive early to avoid the crowds in this peaceful forest.
📍 Kiyomizu-dera ~ potentially the most iconic shrine and temple in the city. With vibrant vermilion buildings and a beautiful view of the city, this shrine and the surrounding area is usually very busy.
📍 Nishiki Market ~ a long path that runs through the city, perfect for a rainy day. Here you can find freshly caught fish, bustling local restaurants and many souvenir shops.
📍 Engine Ramen ~ maybe I'm biased, but this is the best ramen I've ever eaten in my life. I went here more than 10 times during my stay in Kyoto and I think about it every day since I left.
📍 To-ji ~ this shrine has a tall wooden pagoda and can be seen from the paths nearby. Just a short walk down the hill from Kiyomizu-dera, be sure to take many photos of this incredible piece of history!
#japan #japantrip #kyoto #kyototrip #mytravelhacks #historicallandmarks #localguides #familytrip
#summerdestinations
Amazingly cold summer in Kyoto ☀️
#summerdestinations
You will immerse yourself in Kyoto during summer season, where you will be in the heart of traditional Japanese culture.
Kyoto has a lot more to offer even in summer season, and Japan will always be amazing at any seasons.
Visit Kyoto is a must as if you are into rich cultural, religious, and artistic traditions.
#summerdestinations
When visiting Kyoto, do not forget to have a night walk in Kawaramachi area during you summer holiday.
Kyoto also known as one of the bustling city in Japan, so if you love to see people rushing, please have an enjoy on those area
Two-Day Trip Report in Kyoto
My two-day journey in Kyoto was enriching and memorable, filled with explorations of the city’s renowned temples, gardens, and historical landmarks.
Day One was dedicated to exploring the Arashiyama district, where I visited the iconic Bamboo Grove and Tenryu-ji Temple. The scenic walk along the Katsura River was particularly tranquil. The day concluded with a visit to Nijo Castle, which impressed with its elaborate paintings and architecture.
Day Two started with an early visit to Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of red torii gates that create a visually stunning landscape. The day continued with a stroll through the Gion district, known for its well-preserved machiya houses and the possibility of spotting a geiko or maiko in their traditional attire. I ended the day at Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, which was breathtaking at sunset. trip was a fantastic blend of natural beauty and cultural richness, making Kyoto a city that truly captivates the spirit of traditional Japan.
🌸 Kyoto's Hidden Gem: Stay in Style & Tradition 🌸
Dive into the heart of Kyoto's history with a stay at the enchanting Kyoto·Gosho Tsuta Hotel! 🏯 Nestled in a traditional townhouse, this boutique hotel marries the old-world charm with modern comforts in a way that can only be described as pure magic.
Each of the 7 themed rooms is a tribute to Kyoto's rich culture, with décor inspired by local classics and colorful fruits. 🛏️🍇 Think traditional tatami mats meet sleek, fruit-styled furnishings - a feast for the senses and a cozy nook for the soul.
But wait, there's more! The hotel boasts a special hearth space, offering a taste of Kyoto's exquisite wines and delicacies. 🍷🍱 Imagine sipping on fine sake while nibbling on local treats, all within the warm embrace of Kyoto's timeless ambiance.
Ready for a dip? The hotel's private baths, crafted from converted storehouses, pair relaxation with artistic light and sound displays. 🛁✨ Plus, the in-room semi-open-air baths overlook tranquil courtyards, perfect for that serene soak.
Located at Nakagyo-ku Hanatatecho 255-1, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto City, this hidden gem is where luxury meets legacy. Don't just visit Kyoto; live it at the Kyoto·Gosho Tsuta Hotel.
#Kyoto #KyotoHotel #KyotoTravel
Experience the rustic charm and happiness of Kyoto at Kiyomizu-dera
Kyoto seems to have a more rustic feel compared to Osaka, with cash-only establishments being more common. Visiting the distinctly Japanese-style Kiyomizu-dera 🏯, the cool breeze and the panoramic view of Kyoto city swept away the fatigue of climbing up. With temples at every step, Fushimi Inari Taisha always brings to mind the image of foxes... 🚶 Randomly walking into a few ramen shops 🍜, I found them to suit my taste better than some Michelin-starred restaurants. I even had the best sukiyaki 🥘 from a century-old restaurant. During the Gion Matsuri, the entire city is immersed in the festive atmosphere, with both locals and foreigners celebrating the grandest festival of the year. It's common to encounter parade teams in the streets, listen to traditional Japanese tunes 🎶, and occasionally see geishas just off work. Strolling along the Kamo River, feeling the cool breeze 🍃, one can completely relax and simply feel a sense of ease and happiness.
Traditional Children's Shichi-Go-San Kimono Experience in Japan
Shichi-Go-San kimonos are an ancient Japanese tradition 👘
It is said that Japanese parents take their 3-year-old boys and girls, 5-year-old boys, and 7-year-old girls to shrines to pray for the gods' blessings for their children's healthy growth 🥰🥰
Since my child is 5 years old this year, we took him to Kyoto to experience wearing a kimono 👘
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Kyoto Attractions|The Spectacular Thousand Torii Gates—Fushimi Inari Taisha—Memoirs of a Geisha.
Built in 711 AD, it is the head shrine of 30,000 Inari shrines across Japan. The main deity worshipped here is Inari Okami, also known as 'O-Inari-san', who is believed to bless bountiful harvests, prosperous businesses, safe childbirth, and success in exams.
When you think of Fushimi Inari, the 'Thousand Torii Gates' come to mind. Seeing them in person reveals their beauty and grandeur. Have you seen them in a movie before? Yes! It was in the scene where the young protagonist runs through them in 'Memoirs of a Geisha'. A must-visit when in Kyoto.
The shrine grounds are dotted with fox statues, each with unique appearances and expressions. The entire Inari mountain is considered sacred, and the 'Pilgrimage Tour' around various energy spots is very popular, attracting many visitors.
Fushimi Inari Taisha is not far from Kyoto Station. You can take the JR Nara Line to Inari Station or the Keihan Main Line to Fushimi Inari Station. For buses, take the South 5 or Express 105 to Inari Taisha-mae. The most convenient and closest transportation is the JR Nara Line to JR Inari Station, where you can see the main torii gate of Fushimi Inari Taisha right at the exit.
Since the shrine is located on Inari Mountain, the sun can be intense in spring and summer. Wear light clothing and make sure to use sunscreen. It's best to wear sneakers, and since there are no water fountains, bring your own water to stay hydrated. The best time to visit is usually from November to early December, during the autumn foliage season, when many events are also held.
Live|I repeatedly fall in love with those moments in Kyoto
Kyoto's summer is the breeze, the cicadas' chirping, the sound of wind chimes, and a dream soaked in greenery.
A temple, a courtyard, a shop, a cup of tea, it's easy to daydream away an afternoon.
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1️⃣ Yusai-tei
2️⃣ Yusai-tei
3️⃣ Ruriko-in
4️⃣ Kibune Shrine
5️⃣ Sanzen-in
6️⃣ Sanzen-in
7️⃣ Tenju-an
8️⃣ Eizan Electric Railway
9️⃣ Wakakusa Mountain
1️⃣0️⃣ Nakamura Tokichi Byodo-in Store
1️⃣1️⃣ Nara Shisui
1️⃣2️⃣ Kibune Shrine
1️⃣3️⃣ Sanzen-in
1️⃣4️⃣ Eizan Electric Railway
1️⃣5️⃣ Nanzen-ji
1️⃣6️⃣ Yusai-tei
1️⃣7️⃣ Sanzen-in
1️⃣8️⃣ Kamo River
Kyoto Free Travel
Kyoto Free Travel · 10 Kyoto Attractions Suitable for Traveling with Elders
❌ Do not plan a tight schedule; arrange a flexible itinerary with plenty of rest time.
⭕️ Take more photos of your parents and elders, which can be shared on social media for fun.
⭕️ Prepare commonly used medications, motion sickness pills, and masks just in case.
⭕️ Do some research on local specialties and introduce must-buy items to the elders.
·
Kyoto's Kitchen
Next to this market, there is a great shopping street, the health-conscious vegetarian restaurant 'Mumokuteki,' and the 300-year-old stationery store 'Kyukyodo,' all highly recommended.
🕙 10:00~17:00, each store varies, mostly closed on Wednesdays or Sundays.
More Beautiful Than a Postcard
Open only during spring and autumn each year, the main attraction is the view of the 'Ruri Garden' from the study hall, where the layered, lush foliage casts different colors with the light.
📅 Open only from April to June and October to December each year, exact dates vary annually, please refer to the official website for details.
🕙 10:00~17:00
💰 2,000 yen per person
Kyoto's Iconic Attraction
Kiyomizu-dera is one of Kyoto's important cultural properties and was listed as a World Cultural Heritage site in 1994. The 'Kiyomizu Stage' is built on the mountainside without a single nail, suspended solely by wooden joints.
🕙 Generally 6:00~18:00
Summer Tradition
From May to September each year, Kyoto's summer tradition 'Kamogawa Noryo Yuka'! It's a favorite holiday spot for Kyoto residents.
Most Beautiful Cherry Blossom Path
A 1.6-kilometer-long walking path, the cherry blossoms 🌸 blooming along the water flow every March are breathtaking!
Picturesque All Year Round
Especially the 'Sagano Bamboo Forest,' a representative scenic spot in Arashiyama, attracting tourists from all over.
Full of Legendary Charm
The 'Water Divination Omikuji' is quite famous, along with the riverbed cuisine for cooling off, flowing somen noodles, and the water deity 'Takakami no Kami,' widely worshiped by those in the food and beverage industry and other water-related businesses.
World Heritage
The design on the Japanese 10 yen coin is the Phoenix Hall of Byodoin Temple.
🕙 08:30~17:30
💰 Adults 600 yen, high school and junior high school students 400 yen, elementary school students 300 yen
Healing Fairy Tale Village
Miyama Town in Kyoto, known for its thatched-roof village, is one of Japan's three major existing thatched-roof settlements. The thatched roofs stand in rows against a backdrop of green mountains, resembling an ancient Japanese landscape from afar.
Kyoto's Famous 'INODA COFFEE' Main Store
'Kyoto's morning starts with the aroma of INODA coffee.' Choose a morning to experience the nostalgic atmosphere of a Japanese-style tea shop.
🕙 7:00~19:00, open all year round
Kyoto most famous river 🏞️🦦
#japantrip
The famous Kamo river is located in Kyoto Perfecture as a walking spot for the local people and foreign tourists especially during the autumn season as you will be able to see the maple leaves surrounded the river.
Visiting here, do get yourself to enjoy a meal at the restaurant by the river in order to enjoy the view by the window!! If you are a vegetarian or vegan, I would highly recommend the Veg Out restaurant in the area as they have a bar table by the window where you can see the Kamo River directly as well!!
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟
An unforgettable train trip.
This train is a lot of fun and can easily be included in a day trip to the Kyoto Sagano district, alongside the bamboo grove and the Tenryu-ji temple. The train runs back and forth every 30 minutes between two stations and the ride last around 28 minutes.
The train was on time and clean. I truly enjoyed the whole journey, scenery and the atmosphere where people just admired the great views together.
I thought it one of the best travel experiences of a lifetime. overall we enjoyed the ride.
#songkran2024#mytravelhacks#cherryblossom2024#historicallandmarks#localguides#familytrip#trip#instatravel#goodfoods#langkawi#foodphotography#chinatown#ipoh#temples#familyfun#siemreap#edinburgh#คาเฟ่ห้ามพลาด
amazing and beautiful temple
Absolutely loved this temple, the architecture was gorgeous, the atmosphere was very peaceful. Paid for the tea serving and it tasted like the forest itself.
I visited in autumn, and although it was very warm in Kyoto, it did get a bit chilly so I’d definitely recommend bringing a windbreaker. A quietly environment, feeling calm when you entered into it.
The scent is subtle but makes you feeling fulfilled and calm for the whole day. The restaurant near to it served healthy food with a nice vibe
#songkran2024#mytravelhacks#cherryblossom2024#historicallandmarks#localguides#familytrip#trip#instatravel#goodfoods#langkawi#foodphotography#chinatown#ipoh#temples#familyfun#siemreap#edinburgh#คาเฟ่ห้ามพลาด
Kyoto Arashiyama & Sanzen-in Temple One-Day Flower Viewing Tour!!
Spring for cherry blossoms🌸, autumn for maple leaves🍁, and summer is definitely for hydrangeas! Travelers in Kyoto and Osaka can choose to visit Sanzen-in Temple for flower viewing! Then take a stroll through the bamboo grove path, Tenryu-ji Temple, and Togetsukyo Bridge in Arashiyama, and breathe in the fresh air😌 It's 100 times more interesting than staying in the city area!
To cover these two major attractions in one day, it might be difficult to come up with a convenient transportation strategy🥲 Poor planning can lead to unnecessary detours!! If there are no Japanese speakers among your companions, it's better to stick together (after all, making travel plans is really hard😭)
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You can choose to depart from the Osaka city area or Kyoto city area, which makes the itinerary easier to arrange! (It's not necessary to be in Kyoto to go hhh)💰345+ for a full day of fun, 🈶️Chinese leader, super friendly to those who don't speak Japanese! In short, you don't need to worry about anything, just follow along and enjoy!
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🗺️Itinerary
09:50 Depart from Kyoto city area
Take the bus from Kyoto Station Hachijo Exit to Sanzen-in Temple! You can even take a short nap💤 on the bus without worrying about missing your stop! If you're departing from Osaka, you need to board the bus one hour earlier at the Nihonbashi Station Exit 2 (08:40)
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10:30 Sanzen-in Temple
Sanzen-in Temple is the most attractive place in Kyoto for me🤩 Few people, beautiful scenery, and the full view of green is really healing! Soaking in this natural oxygen bar is truly refreshing😌 In addition, there are thousands of hydrangea bushes at Sanzen-in Temple, and they are in full bloom now🥰 Especially beautiful (The Hydrangea Festival at Sanzen-in Temple is from June 9 to July 7)
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13:30 Arashiyama
Arashiyama is a historic resort with lush greenery in summer that's truly beyond picturesque📷! The bamboo grove path, Nonomiya Shrine, Tenryu-ji Temple, the shopping street, and Togetsukyo Bridge are all must-visit spots! The one thing you can't miss in Arashiyama is the Sagano Scenic Railway🚂 Those who want to experience it can buy tickets on their own!
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16:50 Return to Kyoto city area
You can only get off the bus where you boarded! (⚠️You cannot board in Kyoto and get off in Osaka)
Enjoy the Serene Tranquility of a Deep Mountain Temple in Kyoto, Japan: Kurama-dera.
Located in the northern mountains of Kyoto, Kurama Temple is a secluded and serene deep mountain Buddhist temple. The Great Tengu is the symbol of Kurama, and you can see Tengu decorations and a large statue from the station.
You can get there directly by taking the Eizan Electric Railway from Demachiyanagi. If you want to visit Kifune Shrine, get off at Kibune-guchi, the station before Kurama, and then take a bus or walk.
The Eizan Electric Railway has only two short carriages, and if you're lucky, you can ride in a scenic carriage with seats facing the windows, allowing you to enjoy the mountainous scenery along the way.
Kurama Temple is quiet with few visitors, but it really involves climbing a mountain. There are towering sacred trees and various staircases and slopes to ascend, which take at least 30 minutes to walk through. Alternatively, you can choose to pay for a cable car ride up, but you still have to walk a bit to see everything.
At the entrance gate, there is a whole row of stone steps and red lanterns, giving the illusion of arriving at Kifune Shrine, and it's even better for taking pictures because there are fewer people.
Behind Kurama Temple, there is a trail called the Kinone Path that leads to Kifune Shrine. It takes about 60-90 minutes to walk, allowing you to slowly enjoy the beauty of the forest. However, if you're not physically fit, please be cautious, as it really is a mountain climb!
grandiose spots around Kyoto
One of our favourite temples in Kyoto, just before the start of the Philosophers Path. Had access to the buildings and gardens. Beautifully set garden with a view of the main temple and pagoda.
A stark contrast to the kyomizu or kinkakuju or Fushimi inari taisha, this place is borderlining being neglected which is PERFECT for me. Far from those loud and selfie-crazed foreigners mob, this temple kept its zen
Best to go here early if you want less people around
#songkran2024#mytravelhacks#cherryblossom2024#historicallandmarks#localguides#familytrip#trip#instatravel#goodfoods#langkawi#foodphotography#chinatown#ipoh#temples#familyfun#siemreap#edinburgh#คาเฟ่ห้ามพลาด
Exploring the Majestic Nijo Castle, a World Heritage Site in Kyoto
Kyoto is known for its plethora of temples and shrines, yet castles are fewer in number, with Nijo Castle standing out as a World Heritage Site. Built in 1603 from hinoki cypress, it was erected by Tokugawa Ieyasu to protect the Imperial Palace and serve as the shogunate's residence in Kyoto. The castle is renowned for its expansive gardens and moat, reflecting its historic grandeur.
Encircled by a moat, Nijo Castle welcomes visitors with the Ninomaru Palace, a complex of six buildings that served as the opulent palace of the Tokugawa shogunate, one of Japan's few remaining palace complexes. The wooden palace floors creak underfoot, even when walking in socks, instilling a sense of reverence.
Inside, the castle boasts murals from the prominent Kano school, intricate beam carvings, and ornate metal decorations, rivaling the luxury of a shogun's palace. Photography of these national treasures, however, is not permitted.
The castle's centerpiece, the Honmaru Palace, is a 'castle within a castle,' encircled by an inner moat and once used as a royal villa. It has been preserved as a cultural property, showcasing the lifestyle of the imperial family, and was recently renovated.
The castle's extensive Japanese garden presents a variety of seasonal landscapes: cherry blossoms and azaleas in spring, crape myrtles in summer, colorful maple leaves in autumn, and peach and plum blossoms against winter snow.
In spring and summer evenings, the castle hosts a spectacular light projection event, casting vibrant, dreamlike patterns on the imposing walls—a breathtaking experience not to be missed during a nighttime visit.
Hydrangeas and Touken Ranbu Photo Ops at Fujinomori Shrine, Kyoto
On my eighth day in Kyoto, after marveling at the impressive twin dragon mural at Kennin-ji Temple, I looked up nearby spots for hydrangea viewing and chose the closest one, Fujinomori Shrine. Just a 10-minute walk from Sumizome, two stops away from Fushimi, and there it was!
Fujinomori Shrine seems to have quite a history, known for its large hydrangea garden and special equestrian festivals according to the introduction. However, recently the shrine has collaborated with Touken Ranbu for a Kyoto Sword Pilgrimage event, turning it into a pilgrimage site for anime fans and cosplayers, who flock here during the weekends when the flowers are in bloom to take photos!
Visiting the shrine is free, but if you want to see the hydrangea garden, there's a fee of ¥500. It was a bit of a pity that the hydrangeas weren't fully blooming when I visited in early June. Otherwise, the garden is densely planted with a wide variety of colors and species, complete with little bridges and streams against a Japanese garden backdrop, which is quite beautiful.
Watching the cosplayers take photos was also interesting. I can't help but think how hot it must be under the makeup and Touken Ranbu cosplay outfits in the summer heat! But they do complement the hydrangeas and Japanese garden scenery quite well.
Kyoto Ryokan with Open-Air Onsen
Located in Kyoto, this hot spring ryokan is a renovated complex of townhouses over 110 years old. The townhouses date back to the Meiji era, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the historical ambiance of the past. The ryokan has 23 independent rooms, each situated in a separate building. A cobblestone path leads to a secluded former geisha district, offering a high degree of privacy, making it perfect for visitors who cherish tranquility. At night, lanterns light up the cobblestone path, creating a superb atmosphere. Each room also comes with its own open-air hot spring, and there is a tatami space available. For those who wish to experience the local customs, futons can be laid out on the tatami for sleeping, providing a unique flavor.
A Unique Visit to Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple
Visiting the Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple was an interesting and unique experience. Located in the western part of Kyoto, Japan, this temple features a pond with large stone Buddha statues. These small statues are neatly and literally carved, each with a unique expression on its face. The statues are widely spread throughout the temple and surrounding gardens, creating an atmosphere of tranquility and meditation. The visit was an opportunity to enjoy peace, reflect on the beauty of Buddhist art, and the depth of spiritual teachings. Overall, visiting the Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple was a wonderful and special experience during my trip to Kyoto.
Kyoto | It's like stepping into Spirited Away
| It's like stepping into Spirited Away. I'm amazed by this little temple!
1200 uniquely shaped Arhat statues,
Each one is lifelike
The whole temple exudes a quiet beauty and an unspoken strength
Every patch of moss is the sediment of time
Temple enthusiasts really love it❤️
📍Atago Nenbutsu-ji Temple, Kyoto
Address: 〒616-8439 Kyoto Prefecture, Kyoto City, Ukyo Ward, Sagatoriimoto Fukatani-cho 2-5
Atago Nenbutsu-ji Temple
Kyoto | A lesser-known artistic travel route that 99% of people don't know about
Having lived in Kyoto for over three years
My favorite is this off-the-beaten-path citywalk artistic route
One can spend a whole day here alone
Recommended Route
Nanzen-ji Temple ➡️ Lake Biwa Canal ➡️ Blue Bottle Coffee ➡️ Heian Shrine ➡️ Kyoto City Kyocera Museum (Kyoto Art Museum) ➡️ Tsutaya Bookstore ➡️ Kyoto Prefectural Library ➡️ The National Museum of Modern Art, Kyoto
⛩️🎨☕️🎫
Filled with artistic atmosphere, encompassing all traditional cultural assets, highly recommended
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1⃣️ Nanzen-ji Temple
Apart from Kiyomizu-dera, this is the temple I recommend the most in Kyoto. It's a bit out of the way, but less crowded, and the photos are incredibly beautiful. The autumn leaves and summer green maple are also gorgeous, it's just a bit bare in winter
2⃣️ Lake Biwa Canal
An old canal project, the red bricks are super suitable for taking Taisho-era kimono photos, especially those with lace edges
3⃣️ Blue Bottle Coffee
The Blue Bottle Coffee at the entrance of Nanzen-ji is an old internet sensation, with menus in both Japanese and English. The staff speak English well, making for barrier-free communication, perfect for a drink after visiting Nanzen-ji
4⃣️ Heian Shrine
Take a photo with the super-sized torii gate ⛩️ + the inner garden is also huge, often used for wedding photos, suitable for spring (cherry blossoms) and winter (plum blossoms)
5⃣️ Kyoto City Kyocera Museum (Kyoto Art Museum)
The Kyocera Museum's exhibitions are always beautiful, and the museum building itself is a cultural asset. The interior is all white, making for superb photos, and it also has a Japanese garden, a perfect combination of modern and traditional❗️
6⃣️ Tsutaya Bookstore
With a coffee shop and restaurant, it's a great place to dine when tired
7⃣️ Kyoto Prefectural Library
The building is also a cultural asset, with a rich collection of books for those in need
8⃣️ The National Museum of Modern Art, Kyoto
A place people go to see exhibitions, with a new exhibition by Masakazu Kobayashi starting on 1.6, worth checking out if you're there at that time
Additionally, Kyoto Yamamoto Leather Craft Store (I love leather goods, the quality is superb) and the Kyoto Museum of Photography are also worth a visit
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This route includes art museums, libraries, temples, shrines, coffee shops, restaurants, and almost all the buildings themselves are cultural assets. You'll really regret it if you don't go
🔔 Finally, if you think this post is good, don't forget to like and save
Elegant Grocery Store in a Red Brick Building in Kyoto, Japan: DEAN & DELUCA
Located at the corner near Shijo Karasuma, close to Takoyakushi Dori in Kyoto, stands a striking Baroque-style building with a mix of red brick and gray plaster. It looks like a hall or a historical monument, and it is said to be designed by the same architect who designed Tokyo Station, Kingo Tatsuno.
DEAN & DELUCA is a store specializing in Japanese handcrafted goods, kitchenware, and food ingredients. The space is lofty and elegant, filled with a variety of European-style groceries.
DEAN & DELUCA also has a dining area where they serve coffee, tea, and light meals. Attracted by the entire space, even after having breakfast, why not try a Kyoto-exclusive iced matcha?
Unexpectedly, the matcha with maple syrup is a delightful pairing. The taste of moss green and cream white blends together, with a subtle sweetness and the mature bitterness of matcha, delicious.
I saw quite a few people working on their laptops here. In such a comfortable environment, I wonder about their work efficiency?
DEAN & DELUCA Kyoto
Business Hours: 10:00-21:00
Location: 645 Tearaimizucho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, Japan 〒604-8152
Kyoto, Japan | Kamo River city walk, the ultimate guide is here
First visit: What is this? 😔
Second visit: Wow, so nice to stroll and like 🤩
Following the 📍Kamo River, you usually go to the place shown in picture 2, which is also my first impression of Kamo River haha~ There are stairs at both ends of the bridge that you can walk down, and many locals like to sit by the river and chat, which is very pleasant 🍃~
Walk straight along the river, turn at the intersection shown in picture 5, and the whole street is full of surprises, with many famous shops such as Lelabo (coffee shop), blue bottle☕️, Sayori chestnut cake🍰, wife&husband🍞, etc., all on this street~
Little tips📝
1⃣️There are two subway stations that can take you to Kamo River
🚇: Kiyomizu-Gojo Station, after exiting, follow the location to get to the river as shown in picture 2
🚇: Kyoto Kawaramachi Station, after exiting from Exit 1, turn right and you will see the street with many beautiful shops
👣But no matter which station you get off at, you can walk to the other side~
2⃣️Shops in Kyoto are very laid-back, and it's normal for them to close 3-4 days a week. Before traveling, use Google Maps to check the business hours of the shops. Cake shops usually close at 18:00, with last orders taken half an hour before.
3⃣️It's recommended to set aside a whole day for Kamo River, to cycle or walk by the river during the day, have a chestnut cake in the afternoon, and then spontaneously enter any shop you like to discover unexpected surprises
Fushimi Inari is super efficacious | With strategy guide
Fushimi Inari Taisha's omikuji has a total of thirty-two lots
My family shook it twice, and incredibly got the 1st lot once, and the 32nd lot another time
The 32nd lot was a great blessing, so I might as well bask in the good fortune too👏🏻
【Strategy Guide】
⛩️Inari is the deity of wealth and business, and foxes are seen as his messengers. Walking through the mountains, you can see fox statues everywhere.
The dense vermilion torii gates are one of Kyoto's iconic landscapes.
⌚️Visiting time:
▫️If you're just there for photos and checking in, 1-2h is enough, you can head down after reaching Kumataka Shrine, as the torii gates are less dense beyond that point.
▪️If you have plenty of time and like hiking, it's highly recommended to walk further into the back mountains. There are fewer tourists, and it feels more mysterious, a full half-day is also enough.
🚉Transportation:
Fushimi Inari is very close to Kyoto city center, about 15-20 minutes by JR, on the Nara Line or Keihan Main Line, get off at Inari Station.
📝Tips:
📌The prices for amulets inside the shrine are uniform. There are more visitors at the entrance, so you can walk further in, past the Senbon Torii, there is another place for drawing lots and buying amulets.
📌Outside the shrine, compare prices at the small stalls selling fridge magnets and other souvenirs. I bought a 3D fridge magnet (picture 8) for 550 yen, but I saw others selling for 650, 750 yen, so the prices can vary quite a bit.
📌The snack stalls outside the shrine are worth trying, overall OK, not a rip-off.
sebastian_ambrose_thornfield Lunch by the river in Kyoto, Japan 🇯🇵🎋🦢
This restaurant in Arashiyama is the ideal spot for lunch! They offer a seasonal Japanese hotpot menu set, and you have the option to enjoy either a garden or river view while dining. 🍱🍚🍜
💵 Price: ¥4,000
TAKE NOTE‼️You have to reserve 1 month in advance! Check out their website about their reservation process ☺️
📍Arashiyama Itsukichaya
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High CP Value New Hotel Near Kyoto Station: Ala Hotel Kyoto
Ala Hotel Kyoto is a very modern hotel that opened in 2022. It is about a 10-minute walk from Kyoto Station. The design combines modern style with Japanese Zen, creating a comfortable and spacious environment with a unique and elegant atmosphere.
The hotel is larger than expected, with about 50 rooms on each floor, totaling ten floors. Half of the tenth floor is a hot spring bathhouse, and there is a restaurant and gym on the second floor. Each floor also features a dry landscape garden.
The hot spring is named "Natural Hot Spring Mikou no Yu," a beautiful name for a large pool. Both the men's and women's baths have indoor and outdoor sections, and you can catch a glimpse of the Kyoto Tower from certain angles through gaps in a louvered wall.
After soaking, your skin feels smooth, and there is a large landscaped rest area where you can watch sports games. Overall, the quality of the bathing experience is good, not on the same level as a business hotel.
The lobby of Ala hotel is an elongated L-shape, with wall reliefs of waves and LED-lit waterfall landscapes. The lounge area is specially partitioned off, adopting a modern classical style.
To be honest, the entire first-floor corridor is very spacious but somewhat underutilized. However, this also creates a comfortable and spacious atmosphere.
As for the price, if you book three months in advance and choose a non-refundable option, a standard double room without breakfast is $2000 per night. If you choose a room with a view of Kyoto Tower, it's only $4000, which is a great deal.
The rooms are about 6-7 ping in size, with a square layout, equipped with a double sofa and a large bathtub. What's special is the bathroom, which has the bathtub, washbasin, and toilet divided into three separate spaces. Usually, only five-star hotels with more than 10 ping have such a design. You can enjoy the view outside while soaking in the tub without the need for curtains!
Ala hotel's overall accommodation space and environmental quality are highly recommended. There is a barbecue restaurant right across the street, and the price is very reasonable if you book early. Even on weekends, you might be able to book at the weekday price of $2000. So I booked two more nights, and now the price has doubled to $4000!
Kyoto: The Seafood Yukke Bowl and Broth are Too Delicious for Lunch
At 'O-dashi Meshi Katsuo', you can drink broth as if it were tea. I finally managed to order the lunch-limited seafood yukke bowl (1,078 yen) that I've been wanting to try. It was a perfect combination for those who love seafood and broth. It was delicious whether as ochazuke or on its own. Located on the basement floor of Kyoto Tower, it's recommended for those who want an easy lunch with seafood near Kyoto Station.
[Shop] Kyoto no O-dashi Meshi Katsuo
[Location] 721-1 Higashishiokojicho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture, Basement Floor of Kyoto Tower Building
[Access] About a 4-minute walk from JR Kyoto Station
[Business Hours] 11:00 - 23:00 (Lunch 11:00 - 15:00)
[Regular Holiday] None
Visit Date: May 2024
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