16-1 Yamatochō, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0802, Japan

Perfect location. A little loud at night.

Convenient, friendly, clean. Had a great stay here!

Use exit 1B if alight at Kawarachi or use exit 6 if alight at Gion Shijo. Gion Shijo will be much closer to Laon Inn but it is still within walking distance if alight at Kawarachi.

ラオンイン祇園縄手 Laon Inn Gion Nawate

541 Nijōjōchō, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8301, Japan

Enormous to just walk by and wonder how did they build that so long ago with the huge stones. Great history. Warriors challenged the existing emperor in Kyoto. Moats. Nightingale floors that squeaked to signal the presence of an invader. Build in 1600. Unique.

Of course Nijo Castle is beautiful. However, it really does not feel very special compared to some of the other options in Kyoto. If you are staying for several days, by all means go take a look. However, if you're short on time, I'd recommend skipping it. Most of the paintings in the building are reproductions, since the originals are safe elsewhere - which made the visit much less exciting. The garden is nice but there are nicer ones all over Japan. Date of experience: October 2016.

Currently doing some renovations so the outer areas are not as visible right now. Inside of the castle, you can see awesome paintings and lacquered artwork. Each room has a different theme.

Castello Nijō

400 Rinkachō, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-8686, Japan

The largest temple building in Kyoto (Japan?), this temple is worth the climb. You will need to ascend some serious steps to reach the temple grounds, but the view of both the temple and surrounding grounds make it totally worth it.

Be sure to look for the Great Bell sign to see the massive bell a little higher up in the temple. This bell is rung at New Years every year in a large ceremony. Definitely recommended if you are around at the time.

My review is mainly in regards to their autumn leaves illumination event. I've been twice, and both times were wonderful. The price isn't bad at all for how large the complex is, and everything looks beautiful lit up. I also noticed it seemed less crowded than other night illuminations when I went.

If you're looking to enjoy some of Kyoto's autumn light up events, this is a great option! Within walking distance of a few others as well, so you can visit multiple in one evening.

They also have a special fall goshuin, which is very pretty.

Chion-in is a temple complex with with a massive presence. It is located next to Maruyama Park as well as numerous other temples and is definitely worth a visit..

Chion-in

2 Ginkakujichō, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8402, Japan

My personal favourite temple in Kyoto.
The perfected nature around the temple itself is the highlight here. There's also the bamboo forest next door.
Word of advice though, once you leave the temple, towards the bamboo forest entrance, you would have to pay again to get back into the temple; otherwise it's a long walk back around the streets to get back to where you were. Not a bad walk though, you'll get to see other shrines and temples.

Beautiful quiet gardens with several paths to walk along, all leading to the final temple before the gift shop. Shop is clean and the items are not overly expensive. I bought a mirror excellent matcha powder, and several other items for a little under $50. My most expensive purchase was the tea, as I studied tea ceremony and wanted to enjoy quality tea and sweets with my friends when they come to my apartment.

This is my absolute favorite place in Kyoto so far .

The entrance fee is not expensive and the garden is huge. You can get really close up to the temple unlike at the Kinkakuji.

In certain season the have luminaries at night for an additional fee.

You can easily spend hours just walking around and admiring the garden.

Ginkaku-ji

Gionmachi Minamigawa, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 600-8340, Japan

its a famous kyoto street where a lot of maiko with traditional kimono will appear there

We had an outstanding Indian curry there. Basically everything else was closed, but throughly enjoyed it.

Very beautiful, full of history. A very worthwhile visit.

Hanamikoji Street

Japan, 〒605-0811 京都府京都市東山区小松町 大和大路通四条下る

Absolute must visit and see in Kyoto. It’s the first (and therefore oldest) zen temple in Japan.

Plan to take your time and spend a while here as the crowds pass through. There are multiple seating options so you can stop and take a breath. It’s only ¥600 adult entry and you take your shoes off at the entrance. You can use free red slipper to pass between the two buildings. Small gift shop at the end where a lady was giving out free samples of green tea.

It’s hard to put such a striking and beautiful place into words! Go see and experience for yourself :)

I think this is the oldest Buddhist temple in Japan. It hosts some notable arts from the bygones era, rich with history of Japan. One of the famous one is the painting of twin dragons on the ceiling of the main temple. Among all Kyoto's old temples, this is one of my favourite.

Absolutely worth a visit. The self-proclaimed “oldest Zen temple in Japan” is beautiful with stunning Zen gardens and a dragon tapestry that covers the ceiling od the main hall. Stunning.

Kenninji

1 Kinkakujichō, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 603-8361, Japan

This is a really special place. Even though is very touristic and sometimes there's too many people, it manages to remain special and to convey calm and peace.
Beautiful surroundings, stunning temple. You can't get very close to it, but it is easy to take a round and see it from all angles.
Take your camera with you and spend time taking pictures after observing very well the scenery. There are many details and nuances that are wonderful to discover.
It's worthy a visit, don't rush it. Enjoy it.

I came here on a late autumn day, the weather was cold but it was wonderful to experience the beautiful scenery here. The rows of trees with brown, yellow, red colors of maple leaves interspersed with the golden pagoda located in the middle of the lake. calm blue water, you can't believe that the camera and phone can't capture the beauty of the real scenery we see. It's like a movie or an art picture. Walking here Breathing fresh air and sightseeing is an unforgettable experience. If you come here, please wear soft shoes so that when walking, your feet will be less painful and tired. You will enjoy it.

The temple is very beautiful and one of the places that is worth visiting if you are traveling to Kyoto. It's best to arrive early in the morning to avoid the queues. This temple can be reached by taking the Kyoto city bus.  Inside the temple complex we will find beautiful typically Japanese gardens. The area around the temple is also very exotic to explore by walk.

Kinkaku-ji

1-chōme-294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0862, Japan

The first place I went to on my last trip to Japan back in Sept'19. It did not disappoint, a really great place to visit to start my trip. I stayed in an inn located around 5-10 minutes walk from the Kiyomizu-dera and I got there around 7 am, where it was really quite and very calm. The temple itself is really beautiful, even though it was still renovated and the roof was covered, it was still majestic. The scenery around the temple is also beautiful and amazing, as you can see whole Kyoto from here.
I read that the roof renovation is already finished, the temple will be more magnificent on my next visit.

Great temple, there are many things to checkout there. The place is the size of an entire park, there is so much history to learn signs with English and Japanese are available at every area with information about the history of the place. During the winter it’s a fun place to go. Tourist markets at the street leading up to the temple aren’t expensive. Highly recommend people interested into history to visit the place.

Great during the day or at night. Made extra special but the old shops and streets as you walk up. Can be a bit of a steep slope but worth every step for the panoramic views and peaceful wooden structure. One of a kind.

Kiyomizu-dera

526 Shimokawarachō, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0825, Japan

Difficult to capture with pictures, but this temple is stunning during fall. This is especially so during their night illumination event. I've been twice now and both times were breathtaking. The grounds are fairly large, so you really get to meander and enjoy the views, even if it is really crowded. Still, I think its still worth it for the experience. Within walking distance of other many other famous temples with night illuminations, so its possible to see multiple in one evening.

For those of you who collect goshuin, they offer a few different ones at different areas, including one with a glow in the dark portion.

I went early in the morning to avoid lots of people.Its pretty great to walk around.

The Night Parade of 100 Demons by Kawanabe Kyōsai. A special Summer Exhibition with highly detailed scrolls and descriptions of the paintings. Kodaiji temple is placed within the east side of Kyoto , near Gion area. There is a rest area where you could order green tea and motchi ! A little rice cake stuffed with sweet bean paste. Luckily there were not too many people , so walking through the tour was peaceful. Outside the temple there is another rest area for drinks and shaved ice. This experience is recommended for anyone wanting to learn about Japanese ghosts and history.

Kōdai-ji

Japan, 〒606-8435 京都府京都市左京区南禅寺福地町８６

Beautiful and one of beat place to see autumn leaves, autumn colours in autumn season, Kyoto. Too crowded because of autumn colours. Lot's of couples come to feel autumn colours in cool weather wearing kimono. It's traditional trend in Kyoto. Recommend to go there day after rainy day, rain refresh autumn leaves and colours.....

This is a interesting temple to visit, the areas you are allowed to walk around gives you a very good image of temple life for a monk. You can view the rooms and how they prep the zen garden, it gives you a sense peace. The grounds are beautiful, full of lush greenery. There is a lot to look at here and I would recommend you adding this place to your travel list, but I would think most people would want to visit every single temple while they are in Kyoto!

A really beautiful temple in the heart of Kyoto. The aqueduct is a rare sight in Japan. The garden is charmingly peaceful although rather small.

Nanzen-ji

609番地 Nishidaimonjichō, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8054, Japan

This is a tourist must! My family spent hours walking up and down the market going in every shop trying most foods and just absorbing this lively market. The shop owners were very kind and happy to help. We went for lunch and there was no shortage of food, but you could definitely find restaurants in this area for dinner too. Bring Yen because most of the places don't take card.

Lovely market and has everything you are looking for and more. Get some tasty treats and the perfect trinket for a gift. Don’t be shy when looking at food but please be kind and ask before taking pictures. Never hesitate when asking for a fresh snack to be made. They will be happy to make you a new one anytime.

A great and cool market where you can spend one or two hours for window shopping or souvenirs hunting in Kyoto !

Nishiki Market

3 Kyōtogyoen, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto, 602-0881, Japan

The area was absolutely massive and was basically a super clean Times Square. Unfortunately the Palace itself was closed when my wife and I got there so I cant really review that. However, if you are trying to find a peaceful area to go on a walk or run, I highly recommend.

Almost In the center of the Kyoto city this place is really awesome .
We can be there by different means like train , bus  and personal vehicles too
The best place is Kyoto Imperial palace itself . There are many parks , playgrounds , gardens & picnic spot.
We can have the good times with friends, families and we can enjoy alone here too
We can also have the photoshoot here

The palace itself is beautiful, but really the best part is that it is a public park for everyone. You can bike, walk, jog, run, play on the playground, eat at the picnic tables... It really is the Central Park of downtown Kyoto City!

Palazzo imperiale di Kyōto

Vicolo stretto ma affascinante e pieno di locali dove mangiare bene. I prezzi sono per tutte le tasche. Potendo, disponibilità dei tavoli permettendo, in molti locali si può mangiare sulla terrazza che dà sul fiume Kamo.

Pontocho Alley

68 Fukakusa Yabunouchichō, Fushimi Ward, Kyoto, 612-0882, Japan

Simply a magical place... The best place I've been in Japan. I suggest to go early in the morning to avoid crowds and watch the sunrise. The get on top is more than an hour for sure but it's worth it! Such a beautiful place to see in a lifetime. Puts your life in perspective if you can take a time to immerse yourself in this area.... It's must for anyone visiting japan.... Photo ops are everywhere....

Fushimi Inari Taisha is one of the largest and most iconic Shinto shrines in Kyoto Japan.  It is well known for it's thousands of beautiful tall red tori gates, which lead into a scenic wooded forest trail.

Beautiful Fox statues representing messengers can be found all over the shrine grounds.

Many of the visitors veer off the main trail and enjoy the colorful landscape of trees, flowers and water.

It is definitely a place to highlight on your itinerary while in Kyoto.

It lives up to thy hype!
Fushimi Inari Taisha is one of the most iconic spots in Japan and for good reason. This temple and hike is beautiful. Photos don’t do it justice.

The hike took my family about 80 minutes total. We had a 6 year old and a two year old with us and both did well with all the stairs. My two year old did need to be carried from time to time, but mostly going downhill. I would say this is definitely a child friendly activity.

The crowd levels were astonishingly lower than I expected. This lead to more time on the path alone and a more peaceful climb. **

I recommend bringing yen on the climb as there are plenty of places to buy bottle water, tea, and even ice cream at the view point.

This temple is easily assessable by train and is located just outside of the station.

**Disclaimer* My family and I went in spring of 2022 where Japan was still closed to tourist. If you are coming when the county is reopened be prepared for bigger crowds than I experienced

Santuario di Fushimi Inari-taisha

Okazaki Nishitennocho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8341, Japan

The shrine itself is extremely large, if a bit plain visually, and free to visit. The garden behind requires an entry free. It’s quite large as well and has a nice amount of variety but isn’t nearly as picturesque in autumn as the other famous gardens in Kyoto. If you want a long leisurely walk with some peace and quiet it’s a good option though.

Have visited here many times over the years on my numerous visits to Kyoto. From driving from Tokyo or Fuji san homes to flying in from overseas.   End of September 2021 at 10am on a Wednesday morning is the best visit I have ever had.  Sun and silence. Perfect

This is one of the most famous shrines in Kyoto with a massive gate and expansive grounds.

A wonderful place to spend time with friends and family on a spring sunny day!

Santuario Heian

625 Gionmachi Kitagawa, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0073, Japan

Very pretty shrine. Calm and quiet, probably because it wasn't crowded when we went there. Has benches to sit inside and enjoy the atmosphere.
The only issue - the toilet didn't have toilet paper. There was a toilet paper machine to buy it, but that just surprised me because I've never seen such thing in Japan before.

It would be nice to take a walk with your lover when the lights are on.

A must visit place in Kyoto. The place is very peaceful. The hike to the top is doable. After overcoming the initial rush of crowd, the rest of the trail is mostly devoid of tourist. Must must visit this if you are in Kyoto.

Tempio di Yasaka

Japan, 〒616-8385 京都府京都市右京区嵯峨天龍寺芒ノ馬場町６８

Easily one of my favorite spots in Kyoto. After walking around the surrounding area and the famed bamboo grove, we stopped here to take a rest but it turned out to so much more than that. We ended up spending a good while at this temple … just soaking in the breathtaking autumn foliage and the tranquil atmosphere. There was a serenity to this place that really made me feel like I was at home and at peace.

Here has great Japanese traditional garden with big pond. It’s the world heritage. Of course, fall and spring season are beautiful but early summer season is also fantastic because I can see beautiful greens!

The garden is very pretty, but of course also extremely popular = crowded. Walking around the temple was nice, but not a total must if you're pondering the additional 300 yen.

Tenryū-ji

Viale di circa 6 kilometri superconsigliato da percorrere. Anche questa è una delle attrazioni classiche di Kyoto. Solitamente consigliato nel periodo dell'hanami (fioritura dei ciliegi, marzo-aprile). Ma è bello in qualunque periodo. Si percorre senza fatica, soprattutto se si procede da nord a sud.
Consiglio vivamente di fermarsi in molti dei templi (es.: Honen-in e ovviamente il Nanzen-ji) e dei santuari che si incontrano lungo il cammino, che è fiancheggiato da piacevole corso d'acqua.

Viale del filosofo

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Laon Inn Gion Nawate

Nijo Castle

Offense

Japan, 605-0811 Kyoto Prefecture, Kyoto City, Higashiyama Ward, Komatsucho

Japan, 86 Fukuchicho, Nanzenji, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture 606-8435

609 Nishidaimonjichō, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8054, Japan

Kyoto Imperial Palace

Narrow but charming alley full of places to eat well. Prices are for all budgets. If possible, availability of tables permitting, in many places you can eat on the terrace overlooking the Kamo river.

Heian Shrine

Yasaka Temple

Japan, 68 Saga Tenryu-ji Amanobabacho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture 616-8385

Avenue of about 6 kilometers super recommended to go. This is also one of the classic attractions of Kyoto. Usually recommended during the hanami period (cherry blossom, March-April). But it is beautiful in any period. It can be traveled without effort, especially if you proceed from north to south.
I highly recommend stopping at many of the temples (eg Honen-in and of course Nanzen-ji) and shrines along the way, which is flanked by a pleasant waterway.

Avenue of the Philosopher

On my second trip to Japan I wanted to go to the heart of the history and spirituality of the Empire of the Rising Sun. First stop, the second capital: Kyoto. Here you breathe, much more than in Tokyo or Osaka, the air of tradition, history,...

Kyoto. Tradition and modernity in the second capital

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To the historical and spiritual origins of imperial Japan

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