Welcome to our guide to the 10 best beautiful places in Kyoto!
As the heart of traditional Japan, Kyoto is home to some of the country’s most stunning temples, serene gardens, and picturesque landscapes.
From the iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple to the tranquil pathways of the Philosopher’s Walk, each site offers a unique glimpse into Kyoto’s rich cultural tapestry and enduring beauty.
Join us as we explore these enchanting locations, each promising an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of this historic city.
Whether you are a history enthusiast, nature lover, or culture seeker, Kyoto’s breathtaking sites await to mesmerize you with their beauty and charm.
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Number 10: To-ji Temple.
Starting our countdown at number 10, To-ji Temple, located in southern Kyoto, is a significant historical and spiritual landmark. Home to Japan’s tallest wooden pagoda, the temple is a UNESCO World Heritage site that epitomizes ancient Kyoto’s architectural and cultural grandeur.
The five-story pagoda, which rises to 54.8 meters, not only dominates the temple’s skyline but also symbolizes the city’s enduring spiritual landscape.
Constructed in 796 AD during the Heian Period, To-ji Temple originally functioned as a guardian temple for the nation’s capital. The pagoda, rebuilt several times after fires, most recently in the Edo period, remains a masterful example of traditional Japanese wooden architecture. Its presence offers insight into Japan’s ancient builders’ engineering prowess and aesthetic sensibility.
To-ji Temple’s grounds are a haven of tranquility, featuring a rich variety of cherry trees bursting into spectacular spring bloom. The sight of the elegant pagoda framed by delicate cherry blossoms creates a quintessentially Japanese scene that attracts photographers and nature lovers alike.
During the cherry blossom season, the temple becomes one of Kyoto’s most cherished viewing spots. Visitors can experience hanami—the traditional custom of flower viewing—within the serene, historic surroundings.
Additionally, To-ji Temple hosts a bustling flea market on the 21st of each month, known as Kobo-san, in honor of Kobo Daishi (Kukai), who was pivotal in the temple’s history.
This market is a cultural extravaganza where locals and tourists can explore stalls filled with antiques, crafts, and food items. It offers a unique opportunity to engage with the local community and its traditions.
To-ji Temple, with its historic pagoda, serene landscapes, and vibrant monthly market, is not just a relic of the past but a living part of Kyoto’s cultural and spiritual life. It invites visitors to step back in time and experience Kyoto’s historical depth and beauty, making it a must-visit location in the city’s heart.
Number 9: Nanzen-ji Temple.
At number 9, Nanzen-ji Temple, a premier Zen Buddhist sanctuary in Kyoto, stands as a pinnacle of spiritual and architectural splendor. Located at the base of Kyoto’s forested Higashiyama mountains, this temple offers an environment of profound peace and contemplation, deeply rooted in the Zen tradition.
The temple’s origins date back to the mid-13th century, when it was initially established as a retirement villa for Emperor Kameyama and later transformed into a Zen temple. Nanzen-ji is particularly famous for its imposing Sanmon gate, one of Japan’s largest temple gates. This gate serves as an architectural marvel and offers visitors the opportunity to climb to its upper balcony.
From there, one can enjoy breathtaking views over the temple precincts and the surrounding city—a vista that has inspired monks and visitors alike for centuries.
Another unique feature of Nanzen-ji is the large brick aqueduct that passes through its grounds. Constructed during the Meiji period to carry water and goods between Kyoto and Lake Biwa, this structure blends a surprising element of Western industrial design into the traditional Japanese landscape, creating a striking contrast that has become a favorite subject for photographers.
The temple is also renowned for its meticulously maintained gardens, considered masterpieces of Japanese landscape design. The central garden, designed by the famous landscape architect and Zen monk Kobori Enshu, features a dry rock garden that evokes the essence of Zen minimalism, inviting meditation and introspection. Surrounding the rock garden are lush moss gardens, which provide a soft, verdant backdrop that changes with the seasons, reflecting the transient beauty of nature.
Nanzen-ji’s serene atmosphere is further enhanced during the autumn months when the temple’s maple trees erupt in fiery colors, drawing visitors worldwide. This spectacular display of fall foliage provides a stunning contrast to the temple’s grey stone and white gravel, making it one of the best times to experience the tranquil beauty of Nanzen-ji.
Through its blend of breathtaking natural scenery, historical architecture, and profound spiritual setting, Nanzen-ji Temple remains a sanctuary for those seeking tranquility and beauty within the bustling city of Kyoto. It offers a place for quiet reflection and a deep connection to the cultural and religious practices that have shaped Japan for centuries.
Number 8: Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.
At number 8, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is a standout destination in the western outskirts of Kyoto. It transports visitors to a surreal and enchanting world, featuring a pathway that cuts through densely packed towering bamboo, creating an ethereal atmosphere that seems almost otherworldly.
The sound of the wind rustling through the bamboo stalks adds an auditory layer to the experience, often referred to as the “sound of Arashiyama,” designated as one of the “100 Soundscapes of Japan” by the Japanese government.
The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is a feast for the senses and a profound cultural and historical site. The area around Arashiyama has been a celebrated destination since the Heian Period (794-1185), with nobles enjoying its natural setting as a retreat from the city.
Today, the bamboo itself, which symbolizes strength and resilience in Japan, contributes to the grove’s Zen-like ambiance, making it a favorite among those seeking a moment of peace and a break from the bustling tourist spots.
Walking through the bamboo grove, the light filters softly through the dense stalks, casting gentle shadows on the path and creating a calm, green hue that envelops visitors. This natural light show changes depending on the time of day and season, offering a different experience with each visit. Photographers and nature lovers cherish the grove’s picturesque scenery and tranquil vibe.
Adjacent to the grove are several temples and shrines, adding spiritual depth to the visit. Tenryu-ji, a World Heritage Site with an exquisite garden, and Jojakko-ji, nestled among maple trees on the mountainside, are within walking distance.
The nearby scenic Togetsukyo Bridge over the Katsura River complements the experience, providing stunning views of the river against the backdrop of Mount Arashiyama.
Visiting the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove allows for a total immersion into the beauty and tranquility of natural Japan. It’s an essential experience for any Kyoto itinerary, promising a serene walk that feels like stepping through time, embodying old Kyoto’s historical and natural beauty.
Number 7: Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion.
At number 7, Kinkaku-ji, known as the Golden Pavilion, is one of Kyoto’s most iconic and visually stunning landmarks. Initially built in the late 14th century as a retirement villa for Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, it was later converted into a Zen Buddhist temple.
The temple’s top two floors are entirely covered in gold leaf, reflecting a striking image against the backdrop of the surrounding lush garden and mirrored in the calm waters of the pond before it.
The design of Kinkaku-ji is intended to epitomize the harmony between heaven and earth, making it a masterpiece of Japanese aesthetic expression. The golden pavilion harmoniously integrates different architectural styles; each floor represents a different style of Japanese architecture: the first floor in the Shinden style used for palace buildings during the Heian Period, the second in the Buke style of samurai residences, and the third in the style of a Chinese Zen Hall, which is crowned with a golden phoenix.
Set in a meticulously maintained strolling garden that represents the pure land of Buddha, the reflection of the golden pavilion in Kyoko-chi, the Mirror Pond, is a celebrated view known worldwide. The pond is dotted with islands and stones representing the Buddhist creation story.
Kinkaku-ji is breathtaking throughout the year, and each season casts a new light on its beauty. In spring, the surrounding cherry blossoms frame the pavilion in pink; in summer, the lush greenery forms a vibrant backdrop; in autumn, the rich colors of the falling leaves create a fiery palette; and in winter, the golden structure contrasted against a layer of snow offers a serene and pristine sight.
Visiting Kinkaku-ji provides a glimpse into historic Japan’s artistic and religious culture and a moment of reflection and peace as visitors absorb the tranquil beauty that has captivated people for centuries.
The Golden Pavilion continues to be a pinnacle of beauty, embodying the peaceful coexistence of natural and artificial beauty, making it a must-visit destination in Kyoto.
Number 6: Gion District.
At number 6, the Gion District stands as Kyoto’s famous geisha district, a fascinating and atmospheric area that offers visitors a window into the traditional, elusive world of the geisha.
As the sun sets, Gion’s historic streets, lined with traditional machiya (wooden townhouses), come alive with the soft glow of lanterns and the discreet movements of geisha and maiko (apprentice geisha) as they hurry to their evening appointments.
Gion has preserved much of Kyoto’s past look and ambiance. The district is characterized by its narrow lanes and traditional architecture, making it ideal for those seeking to experience the authentic flavor of an old Japanese city.
The area is famous for its geisha and teahouses and its high concentration of traditional wooden machiya merchant houses. These and the exclusive ochaya (teahouses), where geisha entertain patrons with dances, songs, and games, add to the district’s historic charm.
Walking through Gion, especially in the early evening, provides a unique cultural experience. The air fills with the subtle sounds of shamisen (a three-stringed traditional Japanese musical instrument) being played inside teahouses, and the beauty of the district’s narrow streets is enhanced by the kimono-clad geisha who can occasionally be seen slipping through secret wooden doors, offering a fleeting glimpse into a hidden world of Japanese art and culture.
The district is also home to the famous Hanami-koji Street, the best place to see geisha in Kyoto and enjoy a meal or drink in one of the traditional restaurants or tea houses. Another significant landmark within Gion is the Yasaka Shrine, which is known for its beautiful gate and as the host of the annual Gion Matsuri, one of Japan’s most famous festivals.
Visiting Gion is like stepping back in time. It captivates with its blend of mystery, beauty, and history, offering deeper insight into the cultural fabric of Kyoto. This historic district is not just a hub for traditional Japanese arts but also a living museum of Kyoto’s heritage, making it an essential experience for any visitor to the city.
Number 5: Fushimi Inari Taisha.
Coming in at number 5, Fushimi Inari Taisha is one of Kyoto’s most iconic and spiritually significant sites. Renowned for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, which trail into the wooded forest of the sacred Mount Inari, this sprawling Shinto shrine offers a visually stunning and profoundly symbolic journey for all who visit.
Dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice, sake, and prosperity, Fushimi Inari Taisha has been a place of worship since its foundation in the early 8th century. The shrine has grown over the centuries and now encompasses several smaller sub-shrines, each nestled along the pathways that wind up the mountain.
The shrine’s most famous feature, the Senbon Torii (thousands of torii gates), is a pathway made of bright red gates donated by individuals and businesses praying for success and good fortune. As visitors walk through these gates, they follow a tradition that has been continued for hundreds of years, each representing hope or prayer.
The Torii gates cover a network of trails that lead up the sacred mountain, providing visitors with a meditative walking experience that can take a couple of hours to complete.
Along the way, there are multiple viewing spots where one can pause and look out over Kyoto, making the journey both spiritual and visually captivating. The hike also passes numerous smaller altars and traditional purification springs, where visitors can participate in rituals meant to bring blessings and cleanse the spirit.
Additionally, the shrine’s grounds are home to numerous statues of foxes, believed to be the messengers of Inari. These fox statues often hold symbolic items in their mouths, such as keys or sheaves of rice, further emphasizing the shrine’s associations with wealth and prosperity.
Visiting Fushimi Inari Taisha is more than just a tourist activity; it is an immersive cultural and spiritual experience highlighting the deep connection between Japan’s natural landscapes and religious traditions.
Whether visited for its breathtaking scenery or spiritual reasons, Fushimi Inari Taisha remains one of Kyoto’s most unforgettable destinations, drawing millions of visitors worldwide each year to wander beneath its iconic torii gates.
Number 4: Ryoan-ji Temple.
At number 4, Ryoan-ji Temple is celebrated for hosting Japan’s most famous Zen rock garden. It epitomizes minimalist beauty and is a profound emblem of Zen Buddhism’s emphasis on simplicity and contemplation. Located in Kyoto, this temple is a crucial destination for those seeking peace and a deeper understanding of Zen principles through meditation.
The Zen rock garden at Ryoan-ji is an austere arrangement of fifteen rocks set amidst finely raked white gravel. The stones are strategically placed so that, from any vantage point at the viewing platform, only fourteen are visible at once.
It is said that only through attaining enlightenment can one view all fifteen rocks simultaneously. This intriguing feature invites visitors to delve into deep meditation and personal interpretation, reflecting on the bigger picture of life and the universe.
Ryoan-ji’s rock garden is enclosed by low earthen walls. The garden itself is devoid of plant life, except for the moss that grows around the rocks, which adds a subtle touch of color to the otherwise stark composition.
The garden’s design is a masterpiece of Japanese aesthetic — it eschews the overt for the implied, encouraging a contemplation that transcends the visual to explore one’s inner thoughts and feelings.
The temple complex also includes a traditional tea house and a beautifully preserved pond garden. The pond garden contrasts with the rock garden with its lush greenery and serene water features, offering a different kind of meditative space.
The pond garden represents paradise gardens typical in aristocratic Japanese garden design, complete with stone lanterns and a small waterfall.
Visitors to Ryoan-ji Temple are encouraged to sit and contemplate the rock garden’s enigmatic beauty. Its precision and austerity catalyze introspection and philosophical pondering.
This garden, both stark and powerful, has captivated scholars, poets, and thinkers for centuries with its profound simplicity and has become a defining symbol of Zen Buddhism’s aesthetic and spiritual values. Ryoan-ji remains a sanctuary of calm in the bustling city of Kyoto, offering a unique spiritual and aesthetic experience that draws visitors back time and again.
Number 3: Philosopher’s Path.
At number 3, the Philosopher’s Path, or Tetsugaku-no-michi, in Kyoto offers a serene and contemplative environment that captivates visitors with its scenic beauty and historical significance.
Named after the influential Japanese philosopher Nishida Kitaro, who is reputed to have meditated while walking this route during his daily commute to Kyoto University, the path stretches about two kilometers along a quaint canal lined with hundreds of cherry trees.
This iconic path winds through the northern part of Kyoto’s Higashiyama district, a region rich with cultural sites and temples, making it a perfect setting for a quiet, reflective stroll. During cherry blossom season in early spring, the path transforms into one of the city’s most spectacular sights. The cherry trees burst into bloom, creating a stunning canopy of pink and white blossoms that float above the canal.
The sight is so breathtakingly beautiful that it attracts photographers, couples, and nature lovers worldwide who witness the fleeting beauty of Sakura blossoms.
But the allure of the Philosopher’s Path isn’t confined to the cherry blossom season alone. Each season brings charm to the path: the fresh green leaves of spring, the rich colors of autumn leaves, and the subtle beauty of winter’s quiet.
Along the way, visitors can explore several small temples and shrines, quaint cafes, and shops offering local crafts and snacks, deep diving into Kyoto’s rich cultural tapestry.
The path also poignantly reminds visitors of the deeper philosophical journeys mirrored in the physical walk along it, encouraging them to ponder life’s larger questions or simply find solace in the peaceful surroundings.
Whether seeking inspiration, peace, or a deeper connection with nature and history, the Philosopher’s Path offers a profound experience that resonates long after the journey ends.
Number 2: Kyoto Imperial Palace.
Our runner-up, the Kyoto Imperial Palace, is a significant cultural and historical landmark, encapsulating over a thousand years of Japanese imperial tradition. Located in the expansive Kyoto Imperial Park in the heart of the city, this palace was the residence of the Emperors of Japan until the capital was moved to Tokyo in 1869. It remains a powerful symbol of Japan’s imperial history and architectural elegance.
The Kyoto Imperial Palace is renowned for its classical Japanese architectural style, which reflects the aesthetic and technical prowess of different eras of Japanese history. The palace complex includes multiple buildings, such as the Shishinden (Ceremonial Hall), where enthronement ceremonies once took place, showcasing majestic roofs that are adorned with traditional Japanese cypress bark and elegantly designed tatami rooms that display the refined court culture of Japan.
The layout of the palace grounds is a perfect example of traditional Japanese garden design. It features carefully manicured gardens, serene ponds, and beautifully shaped pine trees, which contribute to the peaceful atmosphere. These gardens served as a visual delight and a spiritual refuge for the Imperial family, offering them a connection to nature amidst their governmental duties.
Visitors to the Kyoto Imperial Palace can take guided tours, which provide a deeper understanding of the architectural features, historical artifacts, and their roles in the daily lives of the Imperial family. The tours also highlight the artistic and cultural significance of the palace’s interiors, including the exquisite paintings on sliding doors (fusuma) and carefully crafted carvings that decorate the palace chambers.
Throughout the year, the palace opens its doors to the public during special occasions, allowing visitors to explore its historic grounds and buildings. This access demystifies the royal residence and connects people worldwide to Japan’s rich imperial past.
The Kyoto Imperial Palace, with its refined architecture, historical significance, and tranquil gardens, offers a glimpse into the ceremonial and cultural life of the Japanese Imperial family. It is a must-visit for anyone interested in understanding the essence of traditional Japanese architecture and the historical context of Japan’s imperial lineage.
Number 1: Kiyomizu-dera Temple.
At number one, Kiyomizu-dera Temple rightfully claims the top spot as one of Kyoto’s most cherished and visually stunning landmarks. Perched on the side of Otowa Mountain, this historic temple offers spectacular panoramic views over the city of Kyoto, providing a breathtaking backdrop that attracts visitors worldwide.
Founded in the early Heian period, the temple is particularly famous for its vast wooden stage, which juts out from the main hall 13 meters above the hillside below, giving it a dramatic appearance and a sense of floating above the forest.
The stage, built without nails, is an architectural marvel supported by hundreds of wooden pillars and stands as a testament to the sophisticated craftsmanship of ancient Japanese carpenters.
This iconic stage offers visitors a unique vantage point to view the cherry blossoms in spring and the vibrant reds and oranges of autumn leaves, making it a perfect spot for seasonal contemplation and photography.
Kiyomizu-dera, meaning “Pure Water Temple,” is named after the Otowa Waterfall running beneath its main hall. The waterfall is divided into three separate streams, each believed to bestow different benefits: longevity, success in school, and a fortunate love life. Visitors often use cups attached to long poles to drink from them, hoping to receive these blessings.
The temple complex includes several other shrines and halls, such as the Jishu Shrine, which is dedicated to Okuninushi, a deity of love and matchmaking. A popular activity here involves walking between two stones placed 18 meters apart with closed eyes; successfully walking from one stone to the other is said to bring luck in finding love.
Kiyomizu-dera is a place of breathtaking beauty and historical significance and a profound cultural and spiritual site. The temple’s harmonious blend of natural scenery, architectural ingenuity, and spiritual tradition captures the essence of Kyoto’s enduring spirit and beauty, making it an unforgettable destination and a pinnacle of Kyoto’s cultural heritage.
Conclusion
As our journey through Kyoto’s best beautiful places comes to a close, it’s clear that the city’s charm lies in its ability to blend historical depth with stunning natural beauty.
Each location we’ve explored tells a story of centuries past, offering glimpses into traditional Japanese culture that resonate with tranquility and grandeur.
From the awe-inspiring architecture of Kiyomizu-dera to the peaceful serenity of Ryoan-ji’s Zen garden, Kyoto invites visitors to step into a living tapestry of history and natural splendor.
These sites, whether vibrant temple grounds brushed with cherry blossoms or ancient streets echoing the steps of geishas, are not just attractions; they are cultural experiences that embody the soul of Kyoto.
We hope this guide inspires you to explore these remarkable places, each offering a piece of Kyoto’s heart and a chance to connect with Japan’s rich heritage in a profoundly personal way.
Thank you for joining us on this beautiful journey through Kyoto. May your travels be filled with discovery and wonder, and may the spirit of Kyoto stay with you long after you’ve returned home.