2025 Kyoto Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in July)

This time, I stayed at Hiyori Stay Kamogawa, located near Shichijo Bridge, just a 14-minute walk from Kyoto Station. The Japanese-style apartment features a kitchen and offers stunning night views from the scenic rooms. The light Japanese-style breakfast is rich and perfect for families or long-term stays. It’s a 15-minute bus ride to Kiyomizu Temple, and you can enjoy a stroll along the Kamogawa River to admire cherry blossoms or relax on the summer terraces. Nearby attractions include Kyoto Tower and Sanjusangendo. In the evening, the Kamogawa River promenade is ideal for a walk, surrounded by bustling streets and street artists. Additionally, you can try the summer terrace restaurants, enjoying the cool Kamogawa breeze and Japanese kaiseki cuisine, adding a touch of summer charm. The apartment-style rooms are approximately 40 square meters, including standard suites (for 4 people), Kamogawa view rooms, and tatami rooms. The design blends Japanese aesthetics with modern minimalism, featuring wooden floors, light-colored fabrics, and bamboo decorations for a cozy ambiance. Each room is equipped with a full kitchen, including a refrigerator, microwave, ceramic stove, rice cooker, cookware, and tableware, making it suitable for family cooking or sukiyaki. Ingredients can be purchased at Nishiki Market. Some room types support accessibility features and wheelchairs, with elevators covering the entire building. Nearby dining options include Kamogawa summer terrace restaurants like Kibune Kiraku, Kyoto cuisine, outdoor dining, Unagi rice from Maruya Main Store, and the famous ramen from Tenkaippin, catering to diverse tastes.

#JulyGoodPlace2025 ✓Chion-in Temple A famous historic site in the suburbs of Kyoto, it is the head temple of the Chinseibatsu sect of the Pure Land Buddhism in Japan, and has one of the two largest wooden gates in Japan. Chion-in Temple is an ancient Buddhist temple located in Higashiyama District. It was founded in the 14th century and is one of the famous tourist attractions in Kyoto. The most famous attraction is a giant 24-meter-high Nirvana statue made of golden wood carvings, which is one of the largest wooden Buddha statues in Japan. Chion-in Temple has many buildings and cultural heritages, such as Tangetsu-an, Kazeza, and Jyoujido, all of which are full of ancient Japanese cultural atmosphere; in addition to the attractions, Chion-in Temple also has a Japanese-style garden, which has different beauty in different seasons.

✓ CITIC Art Museum Located just a few steps away from the Old Main Building of the Kyoto Prefectural Office, there stands a striking yellow building with a unique design that embodies contemporary aesthetics. This private art museum primarily exhibits the art collection of Kyoto Central Credit Bank. Although admission is free, the museum does not have permanent exhibitions and is only open during special exhibitions. It is recommended to check the official website for current exhibitions before visiting to avoid disappointment. The museum space is relatively small, with three exhibition halls on both the first and second floors. The compact layout creates a serene atmosphere for the exhibitions, allowing each artwork to quietly emerge. It is a beautiful and tranquil museum.

#7月發文留言活动2025 Kiyomizudera Temple is one of the oldest temples. It was founded in 778. It was built by Nobujin Shonin on the orders of the monks of Todaiji Temple in Nara. It was later expanded by Sakanoue Tamuramaro to enshrine the Eleven-faced Thousand-armed Avalokitesvara. The main hall and Kiyomizu stage rebuilt in 1633 became what they are today and were listed as a World Cultural Heritage in 1994. The name of the temple comes from the Otowa Falls (音羽の泷), whose clear springs never stop all year round, symbolizing purification and blessing. Most visitors pray for health, academic success and marriage. It attracts about 5.5 million tourists every year and is the core of tourism. • Transportation: Bus (most recommended): Take city bus No. 100 or 206 from Kyoto Station (about 15 minutes, ¥230) to "Gojozaka" or "Kiyomizu-michi" station, and walk 8-10 minutes uphill to the entrance. The bus runs frequently (every 10 minutes). Keihan Railway: Walk about 20 minutes from "Kiyomizu Gojo Station", or take a bus to Gojozaka (about ¥230). Kiyomizu Temple is located in Higashiyama District, close to Yasaka Shrine (10 minutes walk), Ninenzaka/Sannenzaka (5 minutes walk), Kodaiji Temple (10 minutes walk) and Gion Hanami-koji (15 minutes walk), suitable for half-day or full-day tours. You need to climb Gojozaka or Kiyomizuzaka (about 200-300 meters, medium slope), it is recommended to wear sneakers or flat shoes, those with limited mobility can take a taxi to the entrance (but there is no direct access to the temple gate). Kiyomizu Temple covers a large area and includes many cultural assets and landscapes. The following is an introduction in order of visit: • Niomon The vermilion gate at the entrance, built in the 15th century, is magnificent, and is guarded by Kongo Rikishi statues on both sides. The stone steps in front of the gate are a popular photo spot, and there are often tourists in kimonos in the background. • West Gate and Bell Tower The West Gate (red wooden door) and the quaint bell tower behind Niomon are suitable for photographing the traditional temple atmosphere. • Three-story Pagoda The tallest three-story pagoda in Japan (31 meters), rebuilt in 1632, enshrines Mahavairocana, with a bright red exterior and exquisite murals inside (not often open). • Kiyomizu Stage The suspended wooden platform in front of the main hall is 13 meters high and supported by 139 beech pillars without a single nail, showing the ancient architectural craftsmanship. Stand on the stage and overlook Kyoto, and feel the shock of being suspended in the air. Address: 1-294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama District, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture, located halfway up Mt. Otowa, overlooking the eastern part of Kyoto.

📍 Itinerary Overview A 3-day escape to Osaka that mixed lively street food scenes with peaceful nature trails — plus a full day of thrills at Universal Studios Japan. From the iconic Kuromon Market to a tranquil hike at Minoo Park, Osaka truly has it all. 🚩 Sightseeing Route Day 1: Arrived in Osaka → Lunch at Kuromon Market → Dotonbori night walk Day 2: Morning trip to Minoo Park → Afternoon café by the waterfall → Back to Namba Day 3: All-day adventure at Universal Studios Japan → Dinner near the hotel 🏖️ Must-Visit Attractions • Minoo Park Waterfall: Just 30 minutes from the city, this peaceful nature trail leads to a stunning waterfall. Especially beautiful in autumn. Don’t miss the deep-fried maple leaves! • Kuromon Ichiba Market: A must for seafood lovers. Grilled otoro (fatty tuna) and scallops are juicy and cooked to perfection. • Universal Studios Japan: A full day of fun for all ages. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Minion Park, and thrill rides make it an unforgettable experience. 🚇 Transportation Super convenient with Osaka’s extensive subway and train system. Use the ICOCA card for fast access. Minoo Park via Hankyu Line, and USJ via JR Yumesaki Line. 📷 Photo Spots • The waterfall at Minoo Park in fall • Kuromon Market’s vibrant food stalls • Neon lights at Dotonbori • Hogwarts Castle at USJ — magical both day and night! 🍜 Local Cuisine • Grilled Otoro & scallops at Kuromon Market • Takoyaki and okonomiyaki from street vendors • Café drinks and sweets near Minoo Park • Themed snacks and butterbeer at USJ 🏠 Accommodation Stayed at Hotel The Rock near Namba Station — a stylish and cozy hotel in a perfect location. Easy access to Kuromon Market, Dotonbori, and direct train routes to USJ and Minoo Park. #osaka #universaljapan #minohwaterfallosaka #travel #เที่ยวโอซาก้า

#JulyGoodPlace2025 ✓Rokkakudo Rokkakudo, full name "Shiunzun Mountain Dharma Temple", is a historic Tendai sect temple with a history of more than a thousand years. It is named after the hexagonal building of the main hall. It is one of the famous ancient temples in Kyoto. The special thing about Rokkakudo is that it is surrounded by office buildings on all sides. It is quite difficult to capture the Rokkakudo in the photo. The best location is to see the entire building of Starbucks in front through the glass floor-to-ceiling windows. In addition, Rokkakudo is also the birthplace of "Ikebana Kado" and is revered as the birthplace of Kado. The headquarters of Ikebana is located here. The temple has Ikebana Hall and flower arrangement exhibitions, which inherit the beauty of traditional Japanese art.

✓ Seiryo-in Monzeki One of the three major temples of the Tendai sect in Japan and the head temple of Sanzen-in Myoho-in. It is said that Seiryo-in was designed and constructed by the famous tea master of the Edo period, Kobori Enshu. The temple features a strolling garden centered around a pond at the foot of Kuroda Mountain, embodying the wabi-sabi aesthetics of Sen no Rikyu and the elegant aura of samurai nobility. Seiryo-in is renowned for its beautiful Japanese gardens, including the Ryushin Pond, Koryu Bridge, and Senshin Waterfall, all designed by the Muromachi period painter Soami. Each season offers a unique landscape. The temple enshrines the principal deity "Shijoko Nyorai" and is famous for its blue Fudo Myo-o statue, a national treasure and an important cultural asset of Japanese Buddhist art.

✓ Chion-in Hojo Garden The Hojo Garden of Chion-in Temple is a nationally designated scenic spot. Designed in the early Edo period by the monk Gyoku-en, the garden features a pond-centered strolling style. Within the garden, you'll find the Shinji Pond, Aoi-an, and Tokugawa Gongen Hall. The charm of the Hojo Garden lies in its harmonious space and beautiful composition. In the karesansui (dry landscape) area, white sand and stones symbolically represent mountains and water, creating a serene aesthetic that abstracts natural scenery to its utmost. In the pond garden, natural landscapes unfold around the pond, with seasonal flowers, plants, and trees adding vibrant colors to the surroundings.

#7月好去地方2025 ✓Yuzen-en The residence of Miyazaki Yuzen next to Chion-in Temple is said to be the founder of Yuzen dyeing and a master of fan painting and kimono design during the Genroku period. Yuzen-en is a garden renovated to commemorate the 300th anniversary of Miyazaki Yuzen's birth. It is a famous garden in the Showa era. There is a garden that draws water from the Higashiyama spring and a dry landscape garden, accompanied by a teahouse, which is very quiet and atmospheric. The entrance fee to Yuzen-en is ¥300 yen, and it is more cost-effective to buy a package ticket for the Hojo Garden of Chion-in Temple, which is ¥500 yen. It will be more beautiful to come to Yuzen-en in autumn, with distinct layers of five-color maple red, which is quite gorgeous.

✓ Yasaka Shrine Located next to the bustling Gion district, Yasaka Shrine is a striking Japanese shrine with vivid vermilion hues. It spans a vast area and connects to Maruyama Park. As the head shrine of over 2,000 Yasaka Shrines across Japan, it serves as the venue for Kyoto's famous "Gion Matsuri," one of Japan's three major festivals. With a history of over a thousand years, the shrine hosts various Shinto rituals and festival activities every July, aiming to ward off diseases and disasters. Yasaka Shrine, regarded as one of Kyoto's guardian shrines, boasts a history of over a millennium. Its vibrant red tower gate and elegant main hall showcase the beauty of traditional Japanese shrine architecture. A unique feature of the shrine is its "beauty water," which is believed to bless those who drink or wash their face with it, promoting healthy skin and well-being. This has made it a favorite among worshippers.

✓ Maruyama Park Located in Kyoto's Higashiyama district, Maruyama Park is one of the oldest parks in the area. Adjacent to Yasaka Shrine and Chion-in Temple, it serves as a green oasis in the urban landscape, blending traditional Japanese garden elements with natural scenery. The park features ponds, small bridges, stone lanterns, and winding paths, showcasing the elegant charm of Higashiyama. The park spans a large area and is densely planted with cherry trees, making it especially famous for its spring cherry blossom views. The most notable attraction is the Gion weeping cherry tree, which boasts a magnificent shape and becomes even more enchanting when illuminated at night, making it a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing in Kyoto. In addition to enjoying flowers and nature, the park also houses tea houses, restaurants, and a small stage where traditional performances are often held, creating a lively atmosphere.

✓neuf creperie Neuf Creperie Gosho Minami Branch (NEUF CRÊPERIE. Gosho Minami Branch) Didn't I just finish eating curry? But thanks to the recommendation of the barista at Kurasu, I ended up walking into the elegant French crepe shop across the street, neuf creperie. Everything here exudes elegance, until I told the owner that the coffee shop across the street recommended me to come here because no one was coming in. Upon hearing this, she couldn't hold back her laughter and burst out laughing! The owner recommended an Italian-style crepe, and I was shocked when it was served—the portion was huge, and it even came with a salad! The crepe's skin looked moist but was actually thin and crispy, topped with mozzarella cheese, tomato meat sauce, parsley, and a sunny-side-up egg. It was truly a savory crepe with exceptional flavor and texture.

✓ Soramitei This is a place I had reserved in advance. Ranked 16th among Japan's top tonkatsu restaurants and also recommended by Michelin, it's truly impressive. Without a reservation, it's almost impossible to get a seat! I ordered the Chiba Prefecture's 'Hayashi SPF Aged Pork' loin and tenderloin combo. This is a high-grade variety, and just looking at the perfectly fried, tender pink color, you can tell it's going to be delicious! Thick-cut, fresh, and sweet, it almost melts in your mouth—such a delightful taste! The entire set meal is very satisfying and highly recommended.

Who would have thought that in the lively heart of Kyoto, you could shop and take photos with a stunning hydrangea garden at the same time? This unique experience is likely only possible at the ShinPuhKan complex shopping center. Located near Karasuma Oike Station on the subway, ShinPuhKan is a building that blends retro charm with modern sophistication. It combines a shopping mall with curated stores, restaurants, and a hotel, while featuring a beautiful open-air garden in its courtyard. This makes the entire space incredibly photogenic, especially during May and June when the hydrangeas are in full bloom. Add a touch of light rain and the warm glow of ambient lighting, and the atmosphere becomes even more enchanting.

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#7月好去地方2025 Starting from the National Museum of Nature and Science in Tokyo, the popular special exhibition "Japanese Food --- The Wisdom of Japanese Nature and People" that has been touring all over Japan finally came to the Kyoto Museum. I happened to be in Kyoto, so of course I couldn't miss this educational and entertaining exhibition. Although I don't understand Japanese, I can get a glimpse of the power of Japanese food just by looking at the pictures and models. The exhibition is quite interesting from various perspectives such as science and history, as well as various specimens and materials. Just water quality and radish, there are so many varieties produced in Japan alone, no wonder Japanese pickles are so famous! I also saw the evolution of daily Japanese food, and it also incorporated foreign Western food, sashimi, Oyakodon, eel rice, sushi, tempura, etc. The whole tour really made me more and more hungry! The special exhibition of the Kyoto Museum is on the third and fourth floors, the permanent exhibition is on the second floor, and there is also a cafe on the first floor, which has a pretty nice dining atmosphere.

✓Kurasu Ebisugawa Located in the alleys of Marutamachi, this stylish coffee shop features an open workspace that doubles as a bar counter. Guests can enjoy watching the baristas craft their specialty drinks, creating a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere that seems to attract a younger crowd. I ordered the sweet matcha latte, which was impressively well-made. While there, I happened to notice the shop across the street. Isn't that the French crepe place recommended by Linlin, the owner? Curious, I asked the female barista if the shop was popular. (When it comes to French crepes, it's best to ask a woman for her opinion!) The barista immediately replied, "Yes, it's very popular! There's usually a long line. But hey, why isn't there a line today? Hurry up and finish your drink so you can go try it!" (After I finished eating, she came out to ask me how it was and we exchanged tips on exploring local spots. She mentioned that the curry place nearby is her favorite.)

#July Good Places 2025 ✓ Kanin Palace Ruins The historic building in the southwest corner of Kyoto Imperial Garden was once the residence of the "Kanin Palace" of the Edo period. Now only some of the ruins remain. It was opened to the public for free in 2006. The original residence complex was magnificent, with facilities such as academies, gardens, and tea rooms, which was a typical aristocratic residential style. Today, some academy buildings and gardens are preserved, and photos, pictures and exhibits about the history of Kyoto Imperial Garden are stored indoors, as well as a small garden and lounge. The outdoor garden is beautifully landscaped, and seasonal plants such as plum blossoms, cherry blossoms, maple trees, etc. are planted in the garden. The environment is quiet and elegant, full of the atmosphere of the ancient capital.

#7月好去地方2025 ✓Kyoto Prefectural Government Office-Old Main Building The oldest existing government building in Japan, built in Meiji 37, is a Renaissance-style Western-style building. Its distinctive features are the regular design of the facade and the left-right symmetry. There is a weeping cherry tree in the atrium, which is as magnificent and beautiful as a picture when it blooms. It is said that this garden was created by the seventh generation master Ogawa Jibei, and it is a unique work that combines Japanese and Western styles. Although the old government office has been listed as a national cultural property, it is still used as a government agency, so there are many public officials coming in and out. There is also a retro restaurant on the first floor, and the dining environment is very atmospheric and antique.

If you're visiting Osaka and wish for success in work, studies, health, or love, Katsuo-ji Temple is a must-visit. This ancient temple, surrounded by mountains, is believed by the Japanese to grant blessings of "victory" in various aspects of life. 🍀 🌿 What makes this place unique Thousands of Daruma dolls are scattered throughout the temple! From the stairs and pavilions to the pondside, these dolls symbolize prayers and hope. Those who have their wishes fulfilled often return their Daruma to the temple, writing words of gratitude on them. ❤️ 📸 Stunning photo spots: • The red bridge over the pond • Stone steps amidst lush greenery • The "Daruma wall" filled with eyes of hope 🕰️ Best times to visit: During autumn (November) for vibrant foliage and spring (April) for blooming flowers and pleasant weather. 🚃 How to get there: Take a train from Umeda Station to Mino-o Station, then a bus for about 20 minutes. 💡 Tips: • Don’t forget to buy a Daruma doll, make your wish, and return it to the temple once your wish comes true. • There’s a small, cozy café within the temple grounds, perfect for enjoying a light green tea break. 🎯 If you’re looking for a serene, meaningful place to make a wish, Katsuo-ji is a hidden gem you shouldn’t miss. Close to the city yet immersed in nature, it’s a spot that offers both tranquility and inspiration. 🙏✨

Kyoto (/ki.ˈoʊ.toʊ/[3] or /ˈkjoʊ.toʊ/;[4] Japanese: 京都, Kyōto [kʲoꜜː.to], officially Kyoto City (京都市, Kyōto-shi; [kʲoː.toꜜ.ɕi], is the capital city of Kyoto Prefecture in the Kansai region of Japan's largest and most populous island of Honshu. As of 2020, the city had a population of 1.46 million, making it the ninth-most populous city in Japan. More than half (56.8%) of Kyoto Prefecture's population resides in the city. The city is the cultural anchor of the substantially larger Greater Kyoto, a metropolitan statistical area (MSA) home to a census-estimated 3.8 million people. It is also part of the even larger Keihanshin metropolitan area, along with Osaka and Kobe.

Eikando Temple, officially known as Eikan-do Zenrin-ji, is one of Kyoto’s most renowned temples, celebrated for its breathtaking autumn foliage and serene ambiance. Nestled in the Higashiyama district, it belongs to the Jodo-shu (Pure Land) sect of Buddhism and has a history dating back to the Heian Period (794–1185). Originally established in 853 by the monk Shinsho, a disciple of the famous Buddhist priest Kukai, the temple later gained prominence under the leadership of Eikan, from whom it derives its common name. The temple is best known for its striking garden landscapes, which feature a harmonious blend of traditional architecture, moss-covered grounds, and a large pond. During the autumn season, the vibrant colors of Japanese maple trees attract visitors from around the world, making it a premier destination for fall foliage viewing. The temple’s famous Mikaeri Amida (Looking Back Amida) statue, a unique Buddha figure gazing over its shoulder, is another highlight, symbolizing compassion and care.

Amongst Kyoto’s nearly endless sea of temples and shrines, it’s nice to experience something a little different. Nijō Castle is just that: something truly unique. We almost missed this experience, we had some extra time leftover in our day and walked right up to the gates with no reservations and got in just fine. The architecture of the castle walls inside and out are stunning; the attention to detail is unreal. History lovers will have plenty to admire as well, being that the shogun rule both started and ended in this very place. Note that no pictures are allowed inside the castle, just outside. Aside from exploring the castle, there are also beautiful gardens and ponds on the premises to admire. Overall, expect to spend a few hours here if you want to admire the castle at a comfortable pace.

#7月發文留言活动2025 Fushimi Inari Taisha is one of the most impressive attractions in Kyoto. The most famous thing here is the thousands of vermilion torii gates that stretch endlessly to the top of Mount Inari. Walking through these torii gates, it seems like entering a mysterious and spiritual world. Each torii gate represents a donation and a prayer, and feels the devout heart of the believers. From the foot of the mountain to the top, although it requires a certain amount of physical strength, the scenery and unique atmosphere along the way are definitely worth it. There are also some snack stalls on the mountainside where you can taste local specialties such as roasted sparrows (雀の丸焼き), which is a bit challenging but fun. It is recommended to go early to avoid the peak of the crowd to better experience the tranquility and magnificence. Whether you are a photography enthusiast or a cultural explorer, Fushimi Inari Taisha can provide an unforgettable experience. This is not only an important Shinto shrine, but also an excellent window to understand Japanese culture and beliefs.

#Hydrangea ✓Fujimori Shrine Hydrangea Garden A famous spot for viewing hydrangeas in Kyoto. It is convenient to take the JR train from Kyoto Station to Fujimori Station and walk for 10 minutes. There are two hydrangea gardens in the shrine. You can visit both for ¥500. The gardens are dominated by hydrangeas (hydrangeas) and irises (irises). They are very beautiful when the flowers are in full bloom. With the pavilion and the small bridge and flowing water as the background, it is very suitable for posing. It attracts many Cosplay costumes to take pictures. It is a very popular flower viewing spot.

✓ Kyoto Prefectural Botanical Garden If you're looking to admire hydrangeas, aside from visiting temples and shrines nestled in Kyoto's mountains, there's another highly recommended spot—the Kyoto Prefectural Botanical Garden, home to a wide variety of plants and flowers. The hydrangeas planted here come in dozens of varieties, many of which are rarely seen. Some grow in clusters, while others have butterfly-like shapes, showcasing a vibrant array of colors that are truly breathtaking. The Kyoto Prefectural Botanical Garden boasts a history of over 100 years, making it the oldest public comprehensive botanical garden in Japan. Spanning a vast area of approximately 24 hectares, it houses around 12,000 species of plants. Admission is ¥500, and it's conveniently located just a 3-minute walk from Kitayama Station on the Karasuma Subway Line.

We had an amazing time visiting Japan for the first time, and one of the experiences that contributed to that was going to the Samurai museum. Our hilarious and informative guide, Hiro, was the best! He had amazing dry humor, he kept us all attentive and involved with the information. He was the best! If he noticed you really liked a certain room and wanted to take additional pictures he was so kind and even offered to take more pictures in that room. He was highly informative and a highlight of the museum. You can try on a traditional samurai headdress and hold a gun! At the end you can also take pictures with traditional samurai garb in front of different backdrops, I highly recommend!! We’re definitely going to go back just because of how amazing the staff is!

One of the main attractions in the Foodie world for anyone travelling around this area. Yes, it has a great orientation towards tourism and can get very crowded, BUT it is a great opportunity to try a lot of different things. I would suggest to get a street food tour so that you can get a local to walk you through the market and learn a bit more about the food that is specifically a local dish, and some other dishes that are a must try. Most of these tours already include in their price a set amount of dishes they will include as part of the tour, and then you are free to buy anything extra you would wish.