Guidebook for Kyōto-shi
Food Scene
This casual coffee and dessert shop right downtown on Kawaramachi-dōri, is smack in the middle of Kyoto's main shopping district. It's a great spot for a pick-me-up during a day of retail therapy. Japan is famous for its plastic food models, but this place takes them to a whole new level – it’s like some futuristic dessert museum. We like the centrepiece of the display: the mother of all sundaes that goes for ¥10,000 to ¥18,000 and requires advance reservation to order. Lesser mortals can try the tasty matcha (powdered green tea) parfait for ¥780 or any of the cafe drinks and light meals on offer.
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Karafuneya Coffee
Daikokuchō-39 Nakagyo WardThis casual coffee and dessert shop right downtown on Kawaramachi-dōri, is smack in the middle of Kyoto's main shopping district. It's a great spot for a pick-me-up during a day of retail therapy. Japan is famous for its plastic food models, but this place takes them to a whole new level – it’s like some futuristic dessert museum. We like the centrepiece of the display: the mother of all sundaes that goes for ¥10,000 to ¥18,000 and requires advance reservation to order. Lesser mortals can try the tasty matcha (powdered green tea) parfait for ¥780 or any of the cafe drinks and light meals on offer.
Locals line up for the tofu lunch sets at this famous restaurant across from Kitano Tenman-gū. Set meals usually include tofu, rice and miso soup. The problem is that it gets very crowded, especially when a market is on at the shrine. If you can get here when there’s no queue, pop in for a healthy meal.
Ayako Tenmangu Shrine
400 TenjinchōLocals line up for the tofu lunch sets at this famous restaurant across from Kitano Tenman-gū. Set meals usually include tofu, rice and miso soup. The problem is that it gets very crowded, especially when a market is on at the shrine. If you can get here when there’s no queue, pop in for a healthy meal.
This gorgeous tearoom-cafe is a stone's throw from the west side of the Kyoto Imperial Palace Park. It's fantastic for a break from sightseeing in this part of town. The menu has some pictures and simple English. You can enjoy a nice cup of matcha (powdered green tea) and a Japanese sweet for about ¥1200.
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Toraya Karyo Ichijo
400 HirohashidonochōThis gorgeous tearoom-cafe is a stone's throw from the west side of the Kyoto Imperial Palace Park. It's fantastic for a break from sightseeing in this part of town. The menu has some pictures and simple English. You can enjoy a nice cup of matcha (powdered green tea) and a Japanese sweet for about ¥1200.
Behind the blank white facade of Prinz, you’ll find a cafe-restaurant, gallery, bookshop, garden and library – a chic island of coolness in an otherwise bland residential neighbourhood. The lunch set usually includes a light assortment of Western and Japanese dishes, generally on the healthy side.
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Prinz
5 Tanaka TakaharachōBehind the blank white facade of Prinz, you’ll find a cafe-restaurant, gallery, bookshop, garden and library – a chic island of coolness in an otherwise bland residential neighbourhood. The lunch set usually includes a light assortment of Western and Japanese dishes, generally on the healthy side.
This is a good place to try unagi (eel), that most sublime of Japanese dishes. You can choose to either sit downstairs with a nice view of the waterfall, or upstairs on the tatami. The kane-yo donburi (eel over rice; ¥1200) set is excellent value. Look for the barrels of live eels outside and the wooden facade.
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Kyōgoku Kane-yo
456 MatsugaechōThis is a good place to try unagi (eel), that most sublime of Japanese dishes. You can choose to either sit downstairs with a nice view of the waterfall, or upstairs on the tatami. The kane-yo donburi (eel over rice; ¥1200) set is excellent value. Look for the barrels of live eels outside and the wooden facade.
This place is one of a kind: a Korean cafe in a converted old Japanese house. Dishes include bibimbap (a Korean rice dish) and kimchi (Korean pickles). A full range of coffee and tea is also available. It’s a woody, rustic place with both table and tatami seating. It makes a great stop while exploring southeastern Kyoto.
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ここはな
This place is one of a kind: a Korean cafe in a converted old Japanese house. Dishes include bibimbap (a Korean rice dish) and kimchi (Korean pickles). A full range of coffee and tea is also available. It’s a woody, rustic place with both table and tatami seating. It makes a great stop while exploring southeastern Kyoto.
A three-minute walk from the north border of the Kyoto Imperial Palace Park, this clean, well-lit place serves brilliant New York cheesecake and great coffee drinks. Other menu items include pizza, homemade quiche, soup and tasty salads. Paintings by local artists are on display. It's a great lunch stop in Central Kyoto.
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Papa Jon's
642-4 Sōkokuji MonzenchōA three-minute walk from the north border of the Kyoto Imperial Palace Park, this clean, well-lit place serves brilliant New York cheesecake and great coffee drinks. Other menu items include pizza, homemade quiche, soup and tasty salads. Paintings by local artists are on display. It's a great lunch stop in Central Kyoto.
There’s a reason that there’s usually a line outside this rāmen joint at lunchtime: the rāmen is awesome and the bite-sized gyōza (dumplings) are to die for. We recommend the gyōza set meal (¥750 or ¥850 depending on your choice of rāmen ). It’s on Nishiki-dōri, next to a post office and diagonally across from a Starbucks.
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Ippudo Nishiki-Koji
There’s a reason that there’s usually a line outside this rāmen joint at lunchtime: the rāmen is awesome and the bite-sized gyōza (dumplings) are to die for. We recommend the gyōza set meal (¥750 or ¥850 depending on your choice of rāmen ). It’s on Nishiki-dōri, next to a post office and diagonally across from a Starbucks.
Roan Kikunoi is a fantastic place to experience the wonders of kaiseki cuisine. It's a clean, intimate space located right downtown. The chef takes an experimental and creative approach to kaiseki and the results are a wonder for the eyes and palate. It's highly recommended. Reserve through your hotel or ryokan concierge.
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Kikunoi Roan
Saitōchō Shimogyo WardRoan Kikunoi is a fantastic place to experience the wonders of kaiseki cuisine. It's a clean, intimate space located right downtown. The chef takes an experimental and creative approach to kaiseki and the results are a wonder for the eyes and palate. It's highly recommended. Reserve through your hotel or ryokan concierge.
At Kasagi-ya, on Sannen-zaka near Kiyomizu-dera, you can enjoy a nice cup of matcha (powdered green tea) and a variety of sweets. This funky old wooden shop has atmosphere to boot and friendly staff – which makes it worth the wait if there’s a queue. It’s hard to spot – you may have to ask one of the local shop owners.
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Kasagiya
Masuyacho-349 Higashiyama WardAt Kasagi-ya, on Sannen-zaka near Kiyomizu-dera, you can enjoy a nice cup of matcha (powdered green tea) and a variety of sweets. This funky old wooden shop has atmosphere to boot and friendly staff – which makes it worth the wait if there’s a queue. It’s hard to spot – you may have to ask one of the local shop owners.
This is the place to go for delectable tempura. It offers table seating, but it’s much more interesting to sit and eat around the small counter and observe the chefs at work. It’s near Oike-dōri in a fine traditional Japanese-style building. Reservation required for tatami room; counter and table seating unavailable on Sunday.
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Yoshikawa Tempura
下ル Nakagyo WardThis is the place to go for delectable tempura. It offers table seating, but it’s much more interesting to sit and eat around the small counter and observe the chefs at work. It’s near Oike-dōri in a fine traditional Japanese-style building. Reservation required for tatami room; counter and table seating unavailable on Sunday.
This place, popular with Kyoto University students, dishes up creative variations on chicken, fish and meat. The menu is in Japanese only and if you’re at a loss for what to order try the tasty ‘roll chicken katsu’, a delectable and filling creation of chicken and vegetables. Look for the words ‘Casual Restaurant’ on the white awning.
Hiraganakan
44 Tanaka NishihinokuchichōThis place, popular with Kyoto University students, dishes up creative variations on chicken, fish and meat. The menu is in Japanese only and if you’re at a loss for what to order try the tasty ‘roll chicken katsu’, a delectable and filling creation of chicken and vegetables. Look for the words ‘Casual Restaurant’ on the white awning.
To sample shōjin ryōri (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine), try Shigetsu in the precincts of Tenryū-ji. This healthy fare has been sustaining monks for more than a thousand years in Japan, so it will probably get you through an afternoon of sightseeing, although carnivores may be left craving something. Shigetsu has beautiful garden views.
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Tenryuji Temple Shigetsu
嵯峨天龍寺芒ノ馬場町-68 右京区To sample shōjin ryōri (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine), try Shigetsu in the precincts of Tenryū-ji. This healthy fare has been sustaining monks for more than a thousand years in Japan, so it will probably get you through an afternoon of sightseeing, although carnivores may be left craving something. Shigetsu has beautiful garden views.
This is one of Kyoto’s most interesting cafes – it’s built inside an old sentō (public bathhouse) and the original tiles have been preserved. Light meals and coffee (¥480) are the staples here. The lunch plate (¥940) is decent value. Service can be slow and scattered but the interesting ambience makes it worth a look. It’s near Funaoka Onsen.
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Sarasa Nishijin
11-1 Murasakino HigashifujinomorichōThis is one of Kyoto’s most interesting cafes – it’s built inside an old sentō (public bathhouse) and the original tiles have been preserved. Light meals and coffee (¥480) are the staples here. The lunch plate (¥940) is decent value. Service can be slow and scattered but the interesting ambience makes it worth a look. It’s near Funaoka Onsen.
We love this Okinawan-style restaurant for its tasty food, stylish interior and comfortable upstairs seating. It’s perfect for lunch while exploring northern Higashiyama and it’s just a short walk from Ginkaku-ji. At lunch it serves simple dishes like taco rice (¥880) and gōya champurū (bitter melon stir-fry; ¥730), while dinners comprise a wide range of izakaya (Japanese pub) fare.
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goya
114-6 Jōdoji NishidachōWe love this Okinawan-style restaurant for its tasty food, stylish interior and comfortable upstairs seating. It’s perfect for lunch while exploring northern Higashiyama and it’s just a short walk from Ginkaku-ji. At lunch it serves simple dishes like taco rice (¥880) and gōya champurū (bitter melon stir-fry; ¥730), while dinners comprise a wide range of izakaya (Japanese pub) fare.
Yōshūji serves superb shōjin-ryōri in a delightful old Japanese farmhouse with an irori (open hearth). The house special, a sumptuous selection of vegetarian dishes served in red lacquered bowls, is called kurama-yama shōjin zen (¥2700). Or if you just feel like a quick bite, try the uzu-soba (soba topped with mountain vegetables; ¥1080). You'll find it halfway up the steps leading to the main gate of Kurama-dera; look for the orange lanterns out the front.
Yoshuji Restaurant
Yōshūji serves superb shōjin-ryōri in a delightful old Japanese farmhouse with an irori (open hearth). The house special, a sumptuous selection of vegetarian dishes served in red lacquered bowls, is called kurama-yama shōjin zen (¥2700). Or if you just feel like a quick bite, try the uzu-soba (soba topped with mountain vegetables; ¥1080). You'll find it halfway up the steps leading to the main gate of Kurama-dera; look for the orange lanterns out the front.
Located next to the Atago Torii (a large Shintō shrine gate), this thatched-roof restaurant is about as atmospheric as they get. It serves a simple cup of matcha (powdered green tea) for a relatively modest ¥840 (it comes with a traditional sweet). It's the perfect way to cool off after a long slog around the temples of Arashiyama and Sagano. You can also sample full-course kaiseki (Japanese haute cuisine) meals here from ¥15,000 (by telephone reservation in Japanese only).
Hiranoya
嵯峨鳥居本仙翁町-16 右京区Located next to the Atago Torii (a large Shintō shrine gate), this thatched-roof restaurant is about as atmospheric as they get. It serves a simple cup of matcha (powdered green tea) for a relatively modest ¥840 (it comes with a traditional sweet). It's the perfect way to cool off after a long slog around the temples of Arashiyama and Sagano. You can also sample full-course kaiseki (Japanese haute cuisine) meals here from ¥15,000 (by telephone reservation in Japanese only).
A small traditional place not far from Funaoka Onsen, Kanei is the place to go if you’re a soba (buckwheat noodles) connoisseur – the noodles are made by hand here and are delicious. The owners don’t speak much English, so here’s what to order: zaru soba (¥950) or kake soba (soba in a broth; ¥1000). Note that handmade soba quickly loses its taste and texture, so we recommend that you eat it quickly. The servings are small and the dishes are only likely to please real soba fans. Kanei is on the corner, a few metres west of Saraca Nishijin.
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Teuchisoba Kanei
11-1 Murasakino HigashifujinomorichōA small traditional place not far from Funaoka Onsen, Kanei is the place to go if you’re a soba (buckwheat noodles) connoisseur – the noodles are made by hand here and are delicious. The owners don’t speak much English, so here’s what to order: zaru soba (¥950) or kake soba (soba in a broth; ¥1000). Note that handmade soba quickly loses its taste and texture, so we recommend that you eat it quickly. The servings are small and the dishes are only likely to please real soba fans. Kanei is on the corner, a few metres west of Saraca Nishijin.
The young chefs at this sleek restaurant dish out some seriously good Hokkaidō-style rāmen (noodles in a meat broth with meat and vegetables). You will be given a choice of three kinds of soup when you order: shio (salt), shōyu (soy sauce) or miso – we highly recommend you go for the miso soup. For something totally decadent, try the tokusen toroniku rāmen, which is made from pork cheeks, of which only 200g can be obtained from one animal. The pork will come on a separate plate from the rāmen – just shovel it all into your bowl. The restaurant is located on the east side and ground floor of the new Kyōen restaurant and shopping complex.
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Sanjo Station
Ōhashichō Higashiyama WardThe young chefs at this sleek restaurant dish out some seriously good Hokkaidō-style rāmen (noodles in a meat broth with meat and vegetables). You will be given a choice of three kinds of soup when you order: shio (salt), shōyu (soy sauce) or miso – we highly recommend you go for the miso soup. For something totally decadent, try the tokusen toroniku rāmen, which is made from pork cheeks, of which only 200g can be obtained from one animal. The pork will come on a separate plate from the rāmen – just shovel it all into your bowl. The restaurant is located on the east side and ground floor of the new Kyōen restaurant and shopping complex.
This elegant noodle shop is named after the thick white noodles that are served in broth with a selection of seven fresh vegetables. Just say omen and you’ll be given your choice of hot or cold noodles, a bowl of soup to dip them in and a plate of vegetables (put these into the soup along with sesame seeds). There's also an extensive à la carte menu. You can get a fine salad here, brilliant tori sansho yaki (chicken cooked with Japanese mountain spice), good tempura and occasionally a nice plate of sashimi. Best of all, there’s an English menu. It’s about five minutes’ walk from Ginkaku-ji in a traditional Japanese house with a lantern outside. Highly recommended.
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Omen
Jōdoji Ishibashichō Sakyo WardThis elegant noodle shop is named after the thick white noodles that are served in broth with a selection of seven fresh vegetables. Just say omen and you’ll be given your choice of hot or cold noodles, a bowl of soup to dip them in and a plate of vegetables (put these into the soup along with sesame seeds). There's also an extensive à la carte menu. You can get a fine salad here, brilliant tori sansho yaki (chicken cooked with Japanese mountain spice), good tempura and occasionally a nice plate of sashimi. Best of all, there’s an English menu. It’s about five minutes’ walk from Ginkaku-ji in a traditional Japanese house with a lantern outside. Highly recommended.
Everything Else
Roan Kikunoi is a fantastic place to experience the wonders of kaiseki cuisine. It's a clean, intimate space located right downtown. The chef takes an experimental and creative approach to kaiseki and the results are a wonder for the eyes and palate. It's highly recommended. Reserve through your hotel or ryokan concierge.
15 명의 현지인이 추천하는 곳
Kikunoi Roan
Saitōchō Shimogyo WardRoan Kikunoi is a fantastic place to experience the wonders of kaiseki cuisine. It's a clean, intimate space located right downtown. The chef takes an experimental and creative approach to kaiseki and the results are a wonder for the eyes and palate. It's highly recommended. Reserve through your hotel or ryokan concierge.
Walking into this extensive bamboo grove is like entering another world – the thick green bamboo stalks seem to continue endlessly in every direction and there’s a strange quality to the light. You’ll be unable to resist trying to take a few photos, but you might be disappointed with the results: photos just can’t capture the magic of this place. The grove runs from just outside the north gate of Tenryū-ji to just below Ōkōchi Sansō villa.
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아라시야마
Sagatenryuji Tateishicho Ukyo WardWalking into this extensive bamboo grove is like entering another world – the thick green bamboo stalks seem to continue endlessly in every direction and there’s a strange quality to the light. You’ll be unable to resist trying to take a few photos, but you might be disappointed with the results: photos just can’t capture the magic of this place. The grove runs from just outside the north gate of Tenryū-ji to just below Ōkōchi Sansō villa.
Drinks & Nightlife
This izakaya -cum-bar on Kiyamachi is one of our favourite spots for a drink in Kyoto. It offers cheap bar snacks (¥350 to ¥750) and drinks, good music and friendly staff. It’s in the Royal building; you’ll know you’re getting close when you see all the hostesses out trawling for customers on the streets nearby.
Rocking Bar ING
Minamikurumayachō Nakagyo WardThis izakaya -cum-bar on Kiyamachi is one of our favourite spots for a drink in Kyoto. It offers cheap bar snacks (¥350 to ¥750) and drinks, good music and friendly staff. It’s in the Royal building; you’ll know you’re getting close when you see all the hostesses out trawling for customers on the streets nearby.
Overlooking one of the prettiest stretches of Kiyamachi-dōri, this upscale modern Japanese bar has a great selection of single malts and some of the best cocktails in town. There's even a local craft brew on offer. It's popular with well-heeled locals and travellers staying at some of the top-flight hotels nearby.
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ＢＡＲ Ｋ６
Overlooking one of the prettiest stretches of Kiyamachi-dōri, this upscale modern Japanese bar has a great selection of single malts and some of the best cocktails in town. There's even a local craft brew on offer. It's popular with well-heeled locals and travellers staying at some of the top-flight hotels nearby.
This place seems like a very comfortable cave somewhere near the Mediterranean. Scoot up to the counter or make yourself at home on the floor cushions and enjoy a wide variety of drinks, some of them from Indonesia (like the owner). It’s down an alley just north of Sanjō; the alley has a sign for Sukiyaki Komai Tei.
スペインバルsamasama 木屋町店
182-1 ZaimokuchōThis place seems like a very comfortable cave somewhere near the Mediterranean. Scoot up to the counter or make yourself at home on the floor cushions and enjoy a wide variety of drinks, some of them from Indonesia (like the owner). It’s down an alley just north of Sanjō; the alley has a sign for Sukiyaki Komai Tei.
This intimate and uber-cool whiskey bar is a great place to go for a quiet drink when downtown. It can only seat a handful of guests around the small wooden counter. The friendly bartender will be happy to help you choose a tipple. If you're coming from Kawaramachi, turn at the Catholic church and look for it on your right.
文久 - Bar Bunkyu
This intimate and uber-cool whiskey bar is a great place to go for a quiet drink when downtown. It can only seat a handful of guests around the small wooden counter. The friendly bartender will be happy to help you choose a tipple. If you're coming from Kawaramachi, turn at the Catholic church and look for it on your right.
This is one of Kyoto’s most atmospheric live music clubs, with a long history of hosting some great local and international acts. Check the Kyoto Visitor's Guide and flyers in local coffee shops for details on upcoming events. It's rather hard to spot: the sign is only in Japanese. Look for the wooden sign with black kanji on it and go through the gate.
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Live House takutaku
139-4 SujiyachōThis is one of Kyoto’s most atmospheric live music clubs, with a long history of hosting some great local and international acts. Check the Kyoto Visitor's Guide and flyers in local coffee shops for details on upcoming events. It's rather hard to spot: the sign is only in Japanese. Look for the wooden sign with black kanji on it and go through the gate.
Metro is part disco, part ‘live house’ (small concert hall) and it even hosts the occasional art exhibition. It attracts an eclectic mix of creative types and has a different theme nightly, so check ahead in Kansai Scene to see what’s going on. Tourists are entitled to one free drink (bring your passport). Metro is inside exit 2 of the Jingū-Marutamachi Station on the Keihan line.
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CLUB METRO
82 ShimotsutsumichōMetro is part disco, part ‘live house’ (small concert hall) and it even hosts the occasional art exhibition. It attracts an eclectic mix of creative types and has a different theme nightly, so check ahead in Kansai Scene to see what’s going on. Tourists are entitled to one free drink (bring your passport). Metro is inside exit 2 of the Jingū-Marutamachi Station on the Keihan line.
This is one of the few bars on Ponto-chō that foreigners can walk into without a Japanese friend. It’s a slick, trendy place that draws a fair smattering of Kyoto’s beautiful people, and wannabe beautiful people. In summer you can sit outside on a platform looking over the Kamo-gawa. It’s often crowded so you may have to wait a bit to get in, especially if you want to sit outside.
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ＡＴＬＡＮＴＩＳ アトランティス
161 MatsumotochōThis is one of the few bars on Ponto-chō that foreigners can walk into without a Japanese friend. It’s a slick, trendy place that draws a fair smattering of Kyoto’s beautiful people, and wannabe beautiful people. In summer you can sit outside on a platform looking over the Kamo-gawa. It’s often crowded so you may have to wait a bit to get in, especially if you want to sit outside.
This is a raucous student izakaya with a log-cabin interior located in the Kiyamachi area. There’s a big menu to choose from and everything’s cheap (dishes ¥160 to ¥680). The best part comes when staff add up the bill – you’ll swear they’ve undercharged you by half It’s a little tough to find – look for the small black-and-white sign at the top of a flight of concrete steps above a place called Reims.
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Kyoto's "A" Bar
366 KamiyachōThis is a raucous student izakaya with a log-cabin interior located in the Kiyamachi area. There’s a big menu to choose from and everything’s cheap (dishes ¥160 to ¥680). The best part comes when staff add up the bill – you’ll swear they’ve undercharged you by half It’s a little tough to find – look for the small black-and-white sign at the top of a flight of concrete steps above a place called Reims.
Looking out on a particularly scenic stretch of Kiyamachi-dōri, Tadg's is a great place for a drink or two in the evening and you can choose from an extensive selection of craft beers, along with a variety of wines, sake and spirits. Seating is available, including an enclosed garden out the back for smokers. It's also a good place to grab a meal (from around ¥600); menu items include pizza, salads and some Irish dishes.
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Taigu
498 KamikorikichōLooking out on a particularly scenic stretch of Kiyamachi-dōri, Tadg's is a great place for a drink or two in the evening and you can choose from an extensive selection of craft beers, along with a variety of wines, sake and spirits. Seating is available, including an enclosed garden out the back for smokers. It's also a good place to grab a meal (from around ¥600); menu items include pizza, salads and some Irish dishes.
World is Kyoto’s largest club and it naturally hosts some of the biggest events. It has two floors, a dance floor and lockers where you can leave your stuff while you dance the night away. Events include everything from deep soul to reggae and techno to salsa.
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WORLD KYOTO
97 ShinchōWorld is Kyoto’s largest club and it naturally hosts some of the biggest events. It has two floors, a dance floor and lockers where you can leave your stuff while you dance the night away. Events include everything from deep soul to reggae and techno to salsa.
This slick and elegant bar in the Garden Oriental complex, right in the heart of the Southern Higashiyama sightseeing district, is a real stunner. You can choose from counter or table seating and the atmosphere is completely relaxing. Smart casual is the way to go here.
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The Sodoh
366 Yasaka KamimachiThis slick and elegant bar in the Garden Oriental complex, right in the heart of the Southern Higashiyama sightseeing district, is a real stunner. You can choose from counter or table seating and the atmosphere is completely relaxing. Smart casual is the way to go here.
Sightseeing
Jakkō-in sits on the opposite side of Ōhara from the famous Sanzen-in. It’s reached by a very pleasant walk through a quaint ‘old Japan’ village. It’s a relatively small temple and makes an interesting end point to a fine walk in the country. The history of the temple is exceedingly tragic. The actual founding date of the temple is subject to some debate (it’s thought to be somewhere between the 6th and 11th centuries), but it acquired fame as the temple that harboured Kenrei Mon-in, a lady of the Taira clan. In 1185 the Taira were soundly defeated in a sea battle against the Minamoto clan at Dan-no-ura. With the entire Taira clan slaughtered or drowned, Kenrei Mon-in threw herself into the waves with her son Antoku, the infant emperor; she was fished out – the only member of the clan to survive. She was returned to Kyoto, where she became a nun and lived in a bare hut until it collapsed during an earthquake. Kenrei Mon-in was then accepted into Jakkō-in and stayed there, immersed in prayer and sorrowful memories, until her death 27 years later. Her tomb is located high on the hill behind the temple. The main building of this temple burned down in May 2000 and the newly reconstructed main hall lacks some of the charm of the original. Nonetheless, it is a nice spot. Jakkō-in is west of Ōhara. Walk out of the bus stop up the road to the traffic lights, then follow the small road to the left. You might have to ask directions on the way.
102 명의 현지인이 추천하는 곳
작코인 절
大原草生町-676 左京区Jakkō-in sits on the opposite side of Ōhara from the famous Sanzen-in. It’s reached by a very pleasant walk through a quaint ‘old Japan’ village. It’s a relatively small temple and makes an interesting end point to a fine walk in the country. The history of the temple is exceedingly tragic. The actual founding date of the temple is subject to some debate (it’s thought to be somewhere between the 6th and 11th centuries), but it acquired fame as the temple that harboured Kenrei Mon-in, a lady of the Taira clan. In 1185 the Taira were soundly defeated in a sea battle against the Minamoto clan at Dan-no-ura. With the entire Taira clan slaughtered or drowned, Kenrei Mon-in threw herself into the waves with her son Antoku, the infant emperor; she was fished out – the only member of the clan to survive. She was returned to Kyoto, where she became a nun and lived in a bare hut until it collapsed during an earthquake. Kenrei Mon-in was then accepted into Jakkō-in and stayed there, immersed in prayer and sorrowful memories, until her death 27 years later. Her tomb is located high on the hill behind the temple. The main building of this temple burned down in May 2000 and the newly reconstructed main hall lacks some of the charm of the original. Nonetheless, it is a nice spot. Jakkō-in is west of Ōhara. Walk out of the bus stop up the road to the traffic lights, then follow the small road to the left. You might have to ask directions on the way.
Byōdō-in is the star attraction in the Kyoto suburb of Uji. It's home to one of the loveliest Buddhist structures in Japan: the Hōō-dō hall, which is depicted on the back of the Japanese ¥10 coin. Perched overlooked a serene reflecting pond, this recently refurbished hall is a stunning sight. Paired with a stroll along the banks of the nearby Uji-gawa, this temple makes a good half-day trip out of Kyoto City. This temple was converted from a Fujiwara villa into a Buddhist temple in 1052. The Hōō-dō (Phoenix Hall), the main hall of the temple, was built in 1053 and is the only original building remaining. The phoenix used to be a popular mythical bird in China and was revered by the Japanese as a protector of Buddha. The architecture of the building resembles the shape of the bird and there are two bronze phoenixes perched opposite each other on the roof. The Hōō-dō was originally intended to represent Amida’s heavenly palace in the Pure Land. This building is one of the few extant examples of Heian-period architecture, and its graceful lines make you wish that far more had survived the wars and fires that have plagued Kyoto’s past. Inside the hall is the famous statue of Amida Buddha and 52 bosatsu (Bodhisattvas) dating from the 11th century and attributed to the priest-sculptor Jōchō. Nearby, the Hōmotsukan Treasure House contains the original temple bell and door paintings and the original phoenix roof adornments. Allow about an hour to wander through the grounds.
549 명의 현지인이 추천하는 곳
아프리카현대미술박물관알마덴
657 SanjūsangendōmawariByōdō-in is the star attraction in the Kyoto suburb of Uji. It's home to one of the loveliest Buddhist structures in Japan: the Hōō-dō hall, which is depicted on the back of the Japanese ¥10 coin. Perched overlooked a serene reflecting pond, this recently refurbished hall is a stunning sight. Paired with a stroll along the banks of the nearby Uji-gawa, this temple makes a good half-day trip out of Kyoto City. This temple was converted from a Fujiwara villa into a Buddhist temple in 1052. The Hōō-dō (Phoenix Hall), the main hall of the temple, was built in 1053 and is the only original building remaining. The phoenix used to be a popular mythical bird in China and was revered by the Japanese as a protector of Buddha. The architecture of the building resembles the shape of the bird and there are two bronze phoenixes perched opposite each other on the roof. The Hōō-dō was originally intended to represent Amida’s heavenly palace in the Pure Land. This building is one of the few extant examples of Heian-period architecture, and its graceful lines make you wish that far more had survived the wars and fires that have plagued Kyoto’s past. Inside the hall is the famous statue of Amida Buddha and 52 bosatsu (Bodhisattvas) dating from the 11th century and attributed to the priest-sculptor Jōchō. Nearby, the Hōmotsukan Treasure House contains the original temple bell and door paintings and the original phoenix roof adornments. Allow about an hour to wander through the grounds.
Daigo-ji is a sprawling temple complex located in the Daigo district of Kyoto, which lies on the east side of the Higashiyama mountains, accessible by the Tōzai subway line. Outside of the cherry-blossom season (early April), it's not a high-priority destination, but it makes a good half-day trip for those who like hiking and want a break from the more famous temples in the city centre. Daigo-ji was founded in 874 by Shobo, who gave it the name Daigo (meaning ‘the ultimate essence of milk’). This refers to the five periods of Buddha’s teaching, which were compared to the five forms of milk prepared in India; the highest form is called daigo in Japanese. The temple was expanded into a vast complex on two levels, Shimo Daigo (lower) and Kami Daigo (upper). Kami Daigo is atop Daigo-yama , behind the temple. During the 15th century those buildings on the lower level were destroyed, with the sole exception of the five-storey pagoda. Built in 951, this pagoda is treasured as the oldest of its kind in Japan and is the oldest existing building in Kyoto. In the late 16th century, Hideyoshi took a fancy to Daigo-ji and ordered extensive rebuilding. It is now one of the Shingon school’s main temples. To explore Daigo-ji thoroughly and at a leisurely pace, mixing some hiking with your temple-viewing, you will need at least half a day. The subtemple Sampō-in is a fine example of the amazing opulence of that period. The Kanō paintings and the garden are special features. From Sampō-in it’s a steep and tiring 50-minute climb up to Kami Daigo. To get here, walk up the large avenue of cherry trees, through the Niō-mon gate, out the back gate of the lower temple, up a concrete incline and into the forest, past the pagoda. To get to Daigo-ji, take the Tōzai line subway east from central Kyoto to the Daigo stop, and walk east (towards the mountains) for about 10 minutes. Make sure that the train you board is bound for Rokujizō, as some head to Hama-Ōtsu instead. Admission to the grounds is free most of the year but during the cherry-blossom and autumn-foliage seasons it costs ¥600.
160 명의 현지인이 추천하는 곳
Daigo-ji Temple
22 DaigohigashiōjichōDaigo-ji is a sprawling temple complex located in the Daigo district of Kyoto, which lies on the east side of the Higashiyama mountains, accessible by the Tōzai subway line. Outside of the cherry-blossom season (early April), it's not a high-priority destination, but it makes a good half-day trip for those who like hiking and want a break from the more famous temples in the city centre. Daigo-ji was founded in 874 by Shobo, who gave it the name Daigo (meaning ‘the ultimate essence of milk’). This refers to the five periods of Buddha’s teaching, which were compared to the five forms of milk prepared in India; the highest form is called daigo in Japanese. The temple was expanded into a vast complex on two levels, Shimo Daigo (lower) and Kami Daigo (upper). Kami Daigo is atop Daigo-yama , behind the temple. During the 15th century those buildings on the lower level were destroyed, with the sole exception of the five-storey pagoda. Built in 951, this pagoda is treasured as the oldest of its kind in Japan and is the oldest existing building in Kyoto. In the late 16th century, Hideyoshi took a fancy to Daigo-ji and ordered extensive rebuilding. It is now one of the Shingon school’s main temples. To explore Daigo-ji thoroughly and at a leisurely pace, mixing some hiking with your temple-viewing, you will need at least half a day. The subtemple Sampō-in is a fine example of the amazing opulence of that period. The Kanō paintings and the garden are special features. From Sampō-in it’s a steep and tiring 50-minute climb up to Kami Daigo. To get here, walk up the large avenue of cherry trees, through the Niō-mon gate, out the back gate of the lower temple, up a concrete incline and into the forest, past the pagoda. To get to Daigo-ji, take the Tōzai line subway east from central Kyoto to the Daigo stop, and walk east (towards the mountains) for about 10 minutes. Make sure that the train you board is bound for Rokujizō, as some head to Hama-Ōtsu instead. Admission to the grounds is free most of the year but during the cherry-blossom and autumn-foliage seasons it costs ¥600.
Located atop 848m-high Hiei-zan (the mountain that dominates the skyline in the northeast of the city), the Enryaku-ji temple complex is an entire world of temples and dark forests that feels a long way from the hustle and bustle of the city below. A visit to this temple is a good way to spend half a day hiking, poking around temples and enjoying the atmosphere of a key site in Japanese history. Enryaku-ji was founded in 788 by Saichō, also known as Dengyō-daishi, the priest who established the Tenzai school. This school did not receive imperial recognition until 823, after Saichō’s death; however, from the 8th century the temple grew in power. At its height, Enryaku-ji possessed some 3000 buildings and an army of thousands of sōhei (warrior monks). In 1571 Oda Nobunaga saw the temple’s power as a threat to his aims to unify the nation and he destroyed most of the buildings, along with the monks inside. Today only three pagodas and 120 minor temples remain. The complex is divided into three sections: Tōtō , Saitō and Yokawa . The Tōtō (eastern pagoda section) contains the Kompon Chū-dō (Primary Central Hall), which is the most important building in the complex. The flames on the three dharma lamps in front of the altar have been kept lit for more than 1200 years. The Daikō-dō (Great Lecture Hall) displays life-sized wooden statues of the founders of various Buddhist schools. This part of the temple is heavily geared to group access, with large expanses of asphalt for parking. The Saitō (western pagoda section) contains the Shaka-dō, which dates from 1595 and houses a rare Buddha sculpture of the Shaka Nyorai (Historical Buddha). The Saitō, with its stone paths winding through forests of tall trees, temples shrouded in mist and the sound of distant gongs, is the most atmospheric part of the temple. Hold on to your ticket from the Tōtō section, as you may need to show it here. The Yokawa is of minimal interest and a 4km bus ride away from the Saitō area. The Chū-dō here was originally built in 848. It was destroyed by fire several times and has undergone repeated reconstruction (most recently in 1971). If you plan to visit this area as well as Tōtō and Saitō, allow a full day for in-depth exploration.
130 명의 현지인이 추천하는 곳
엔류쿠지
SakamotohonmachiLocated atop 848m-high Hiei-zan (the mountain that dominates the skyline in the northeast of the city), the Enryaku-ji temple complex is an entire world of temples and dark forests that feels a long way from the hustle and bustle of the city below. A visit to this temple is a good way to spend half a day hiking, poking around temples and enjoying the atmosphere of a key site in Japanese history. Enryaku-ji was founded in 788 by Saichō, also known as Dengyō-daishi, the priest who established the Tenzai school. This school did not receive imperial recognition until 823, after Saichō’s death; however, from the 8th century the temple grew in power. At its height, Enryaku-ji possessed some 3000 buildings and an army of thousands of sōhei (warrior monks). In 1571 Oda Nobunaga saw the temple’s power as a threat to his aims to unify the nation and he destroyed most of the buildings, along with the monks inside. Today only three pagodas and 120 minor temples remain. The complex is divided into three sections: Tōtō , Saitō and Yokawa . The Tōtō (eastern pagoda section) contains the Kompon Chū-dō (Primary Central Hall), which is the most important building in the complex. The flames on the three dharma lamps in front of the altar have been kept lit for more than 1200 years. The Daikō-dō (Great Lecture Hall) displays life-sized wooden statues of the founders of various Buddhist schools. This part of the temple is heavily geared to group access, with large expanses of asphalt for parking. The Saitō (western pagoda section) contains the Shaka-dō, which dates from 1595 and houses a rare Buddha sculpture of the Shaka Nyorai (Historical Buddha). The Saitō, with its stone paths winding through forests of tall trees, temples shrouded in mist and the sound of distant gongs, is the most atmospheric part of the temple. Hold on to your ticket from the Tōtō section, as you may need to show it here. The Yokawa is of minimal interest and a 4km bus ride away from the Saitō area. The Chū-dō here was originally built in 848. It was destroyed by fire several times and has undergone repeated reconstruction (most recently in 1971). If you plan to visit this area as well as Tōtō and Saitō, allow a full day for in-depth exploration.
This is the lavish estate of Ōkōchi Denjirō, an actor famous for his samurai films. The sprawling stroll gardens may well be the most lovely in all of Kyoto, particularly when you consider the brilliant views eastwards across the city. The house and teahouse are also sublime. Be sure to follow all the trails around the gardens. Hold onto the tea ticket you were given upon entry to claim the tea and cake that comes with admission.
9 명의 현지인이 추천하는 곳
오코치산소정원
Sagaogurayama Tabuchiyamachō-8 Ukyo WardThis is the lavish estate of Ōkōchi Denjirō, an actor famous for his samurai films. The sprawling stroll gardens may well be the most lovely in all of Kyoto, particularly when you consider the brilliant views eastwards across the city. The house and teahouse are also sublime. Be sure to follow all the trails around the gardens. Hold onto the tea ticket you were given upon entry to claim the tea and cake that comes with admission.
Walking into this extensive bamboo grove is like entering another world – the thick green bamboo stalks seem to continue endlessly in every direction and there’s a strange quality to the light. You’ll be unable to resist trying to take a few photos, but you might be disappointed with the results: photos just can’t capture the magic of this place. The grove runs from just outside the north gate of Tenryū-ji to just below Ōkōchi Sansō villa.
508 명의 현지인이 추천하는 곳
아라시야마
Sagatenryuji Tateishicho Ukyo WardWalking into this extensive bamboo grove is like entering another world – the thick green bamboo stalks seem to continue endlessly in every direction and there’s a strange quality to the light. You’ll be unable to resist trying to take a few photos, but you might be disappointed with the results: photos just can’t capture the magic of this place. The grove runs from just outside the north gate of Tenryū-ji to just below Ōkōchi Sansō villa.
One of Kyoto’s hidden pleasures, this temple was founded in 1680 to honour the priest Hōnen. It’s a lovely, secluded temple with carefully raked gardens set back in the woods. The temple buildings include a small gallery where frequent exhibitions featuring local and international artists are held. If you need to escape the crowds that positively plague nearby Ginkaku-ji, come to this serene refuge. Hōnen-in is a 12-minute walk from Ginkaku-ji, on a side street above the Tetsugaku-no-Michi; you may have to ask for directions.
26 명의 현지인이 추천하는 곳
호넨인
Shishigatani Goshonodanchō Sakyo WardOne of Kyoto’s hidden pleasures, this temple was founded in 1680 to honour the priest Hōnen. It’s a lovely, secluded temple with carefully raked gardens set back in the woods. The temple buildings include a small gallery where frequent exhibitions featuring local and international artists are held. If you need to escape the crowds that positively plague nearby Ginkaku-ji, come to this serene refuge. Hōnen-in is a 12-minute walk from Ginkaku-ji, on a side street above the Tetsugaku-no-Michi; you may have to ask for directions.
This temple is hard to miss, with its giant camphor trees growing just outside the walls. Fortunately, most tourists march right on past, heading to the area's more famous temples. That is their loss, because this intimate little sanctuary contains a superb landscape garden, that you can enjoy while drinking a cup of green tea (ask at the reception office). Shōren-in, commonly called Awata Palace after the neighbourhood in which it is located, was originally the residence of the chief abbot of the Tendai school. Founded in 1150, the present building dates from 1895 and the main hall has sliding screens with paintings from the 16th and 17th centuries.
184 명의 현지인이 추천하는 곳
쇼렌인몬세키
69-1 Awadaguchi SanjōbōchōThis temple is hard to miss, with its giant camphor trees growing just outside the walls. Fortunately, most tourists march right on past, heading to the area's more famous temples. That is their loss, because this intimate little sanctuary contains a superb landscape garden, that you can enjoy while drinking a cup of green tea (ask at the reception office). Shōren-in, commonly called Awata Palace after the neighbourhood in which it is located, was originally the residence of the chief abbot of the Tendai school. Founded in 1150, the present building dates from 1895 and the main hall has sliding screens with paintings from the 16th and 17th centuries.
Kyoto's famed 'Golden Pavilion', Kinkaku-ji is one of Japan's best-known sights. The main hall, covered in brilliant gold leaf, shining above its reflecting pond is truly spectacular. Needless to say, due to its beauty, the temple can be packed any day of the year. Thus, we recommend going early in the day or just before closing, ideally on a weekday. The original building was built in 1397 as a retirement villa for Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu. His son converted it into a temple. In 1950 a young monk consummated his obsession with the temple by burning it to the ground. The monk's story was fictionalised in Mishima Yukio's The Golden Pavilion . In 1955 a full reconstruction was completed that followed the original design, but the gold-foil covering was extended to the lower floors.
1389 명의 현지인이 추천하는 곳
로쿠온지
KinkakujichōKyoto's famed 'Golden Pavilion', Kinkaku-ji is one of Japan's best-known sights. The main hall, covered in brilliant gold leaf, shining above its reflecting pond is truly spectacular. Needless to say, due to its beauty, the temple can be packed any day of the year. Thus, we recommend going early in the day or just before closing, ideally on a weekday. The original building was built in 1397 as a retirement villa for Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu. His son converted it into a temple. In 1950 a young monk consummated his obsession with the temple by burning it to the ground. The monk's story was fictionalised in Mishima Yukio's The Golden Pavilion . In 1955 a full reconstruction was completed that followed the original design, but the gold-foil covering was extended to the lower floors.
This is one of the most rewarding temples in Kyoto, with its expansive grounds and numerous subtemples. At its entrance stands the massive San-mon . Steps lead up to the 2nd storey, which has a fine view over the city. Beyond the gate is the main hall of the temple, above which you will find the Hōjō , where the Leaping Tiger Garden is a classic Zen garden well worth a look. Nanzen-ji began as a retirement villa for Emperor Kameyama but was dedicated as a Zen temple on his death in 1291. Civil war in the 15th century destroyed most of the temple; the present buildings date from the 17th century. It operates now as headquarters for the Rinzai school of Zen. While you're in the Hōjō, you can enjoy a cup of tea while gazing at a small waterfall (¥500; ask at the reception desk of the Hōjō).
411 명의 현지인이 추천하는 곳
남선사
南禅寺福地町-86 左京区This is one of the most rewarding temples in Kyoto, with its expansive grounds and numerous subtemples. At its entrance stands the massive San-mon . Steps lead up to the 2nd storey, which has a fine view over the city. Beyond the gate is the main hall of the temple, above which you will find the Hōjō , where the Leaping Tiger Garden is a classic Zen garden well worth a look. Nanzen-ji began as a retirement villa for Emperor Kameyama but was dedicated as a Zen temple on his death in 1291. Civil war in the 15th century destroyed most of the temple; the present buildings date from the 17th century. It operates now as headquarters for the Rinzai school of Zen. While you're in the Hōjō, you can enjoy a cup of tea while gazing at a small waterfall (¥500; ask at the reception desk of the Hōjō).
The Kyoto Imperial Palace, known as the Gosho in Japanese, is a walled complex that sits in the middle of the Kyoto Imperial Palace Park. While no longer the official residence of the Japanese emperor, it's still a grand edifice. The original imperial palace was built in 794 and was replaced numerous times after destruction by fire. The present building, on a different site and smaller than the original, was constructed in 1855. Enthronement of a new emperor and other state ceremonies are still held here. The Gosho does not rate highly in comparison with other attractions in Kyoto and you must apply for permission to visit. However, the surrounding Kyoto Imperial Palace Park is open to the public from dawn to dusk and can be visited freely without any application procedure. It's Kyoto's premier green space.
990 명의 현지인이 추천하는 곳
교토고쇼
3 KyōtogyoenThe Kyoto Imperial Palace, known as the Gosho in Japanese, is a walled complex that sits in the middle of the Kyoto Imperial Palace Park. While no longer the official residence of the Japanese emperor, it's still a grand edifice. The original imperial palace was built in 794 and was replaced numerous times after destruction by fire. The present building, on a different site and smaller than the original, was constructed in 1855. Enthronement of a new emperor and other state ceremonies are still held here. The Gosho does not rate highly in comparison with other attractions in Kyoto and you must apply for permission to visit. However, the surrounding Kyoto Imperial Palace Park is open to the public from dawn to dusk and can be visited freely without any application procedure. It's Kyoto's premier green space.
Home to a sumptuous garden and elegant structures, Ginkaku-ji is one of Kyoto's premier sites. The temple started its life in 1482 as a retirement villa Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa, who desired a place to retreat from the turmoil of a civil war. While the name Ginkaku-ji literally translates as 'Silver Pavilion', the shogun's ambition to cover the building with silver was never realised. After Yoshimasa's death, the villa was converted into a temple. Walkways lead through the gardens, which include meticulously raked cones of white sand (said to be symbolic of a mountain and a lake), tall pines and a pond in front of the temple. A path also leads up the mountainside through the trees. Note that Ginkaku-ji is one of the city's most popular sites, and it is almost always crowded, especially during spring and autumn. We strongly recommend visiting right after it opens or just before it closes.
607 명의 현지인이 추천하는 곳
히가시야마 지쇼지
GinkakujichōHome to a sumptuous garden and elegant structures, Ginkaku-ji is one of Kyoto's premier sites. The temple started its life in 1482 as a retirement villa Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa, who desired a place to retreat from the turmoil of a civil war. While the name Ginkaku-ji literally translates as 'Silver Pavilion', the shogun's ambition to cover the building with silver was never realised. After Yoshimasa's death, the villa was converted into a temple. Walkways lead through the gardens, which include meticulously raked cones of white sand (said to be symbolic of a mountain and a lake), tall pines and a pond in front of the temple. A path also leads up the mountainside through the trees. Note that Ginkaku-ji is one of the city's most popular sites, and it is almost always crowded, especially during spring and autumn. We strongly recommend visiting right after it opens or just before it closes.
Daitoku-ji is a separate world within Kyoto – a world of Zen temples, perfectly raked gardens and wandering lanes. It's one of the most rewarding destinations in this part of the city, particularly for those with an interest in Japanese gardens. The temple serves as the headquarters of the Rinzai Daitoku-ji school of Zen Buddhism. The highlights among the 24 subtemples include Daisen-in , Kōtō-in , Ōbai-in , Ryōgen-in and Zuihō-in . The eponymous Daitoku-ji is on the eastern side of the grounds. It was founded in 1319, burnt down in the next century and rebuilt in the 16th century. The San-mon gate (1589) has a self-carved statue of its erector, the famous tea-master Sen no Rikyū, on its 2nd storey. The Karasuma subway line is the best way to get here. From the station, walk west along Kitaōji-dōri for about 15 minutes. You’ll see the temple complex on your right. The main entrance is bit north of Kitaōji. If you enter from the main gate, which is on the east side of the complex, you'll soon after find Daitoku-ji on your right.
129 명의 현지인이 추천하는 곳
대토쿠지
53 Murasakino DaitokujichōDaitoku-ji is a separate world within Kyoto – a world of Zen temples, perfectly raked gardens and wandering lanes. It's one of the most rewarding destinations in this part of the city, particularly for those with an interest in Japanese gardens. The temple serves as the headquarters of the Rinzai Daitoku-ji school of Zen Buddhism. The highlights among the 24 subtemples include Daisen-in , Kōtō-in , Ōbai-in , Ryōgen-in and Zuihō-in . The eponymous Daitoku-ji is on the eastern side of the grounds. It was founded in 1319, burnt down in the next century and rebuilt in the 16th century. The San-mon gate (1589) has a self-carved statue of its erector, the famous tea-master Sen no Rikyū, on its 2nd storey. The Karasuma subway line is the best way to get here. From the station, walk west along Kitaōji-dōri for about 15 minutes. You’ll see the temple complex on your right. The main entrance is bit north of Kitaōji. If you enter from the main gate, which is on the east side of the complex, you'll soon after find Daitoku-ji on your right.
The military might of Japan's great warlord generals, the Tokugawa shoguns, is amply demonstrated by the imposing stone walls and ramparts of their great castle, Nijō-jō, which dominates a large part of Northwest Kyoto. Hidden behind these you will find a superb palace surrounded by beautiful gardens. As you might expect, a sight of this grandeur attracts a lot of crowds, so it's best to visit just after opening or shortly before closing. This castle was built in 1603 as the official Kyoto residence of the first Tokugawa shogun, Ieyasu. The ostentatious style of its construction was intended as a demonstration of Ieyasu's prestige and also to signal the demise of the emperor's power. As a safeguard against treachery, Ieyasu had the interior fitted with 'nightingale' floors, as well as concealed chambers where bodyguards could keep watch. After passing through the grand Kara-mon gate , you enter Ninomaru palace, which is divided into five buildings with numerous chambers. The Ōhiroma Yon-no-Ma (Fourth Chamber) has spectacular screen paintings. Don't miss the excellent Ninomaru Palace Garden , which was designed by the tea master and landscape architect Kobori Enshū.
1725 명의 현지인이 추천하는 곳
니조성
541 NijōjōchōThe military might of Japan's great warlord generals, the Tokugawa shoguns, is amply demonstrated by the imposing stone walls and ramparts of their great castle, Nijō-jō, which dominates a large part of Northwest Kyoto. Hidden behind these you will find a superb palace surrounded by beautiful gardens. As you might expect, a sight of this grandeur attracts a lot of crowds, so it's best to visit just after opening or shortly before closing. This castle was built in 1603 as the official Kyoto residence of the first Tokugawa shogun, Ieyasu. The ostentatious style of its construction was intended as a demonstration of Ieyasu's prestige and also to signal the demise of the emperor's power. As a safeguard against treachery, Ieyasu had the interior fitted with 'nightingale' floors, as well as concealed chambers where bodyguards could keep watch. After passing through the grand Kara-mon gate , you enter Ninomaru palace, which is divided into five buildings with numerous chambers. The Ōhiroma Yon-no-Ma (Fourth Chamber) has spectacular screen paintings. Don't miss the excellent Ninomaru Palace Garden , which was designed by the tea master and landscape architect Kobori Enshū.
A collection of soaring buildings and spacious courtyards, Chion-in serves as the headquarters of the Jōdo sect, the largest sect of Buddhism in Japan. It's the most popular pilgrimage temple in Kyoto and it's always a hive of activity. For visitors with a taste for the grand, this temple is sure to satisfy. Chion-in was established in 1234 on the site where Hōnen, one of the most famous figures in Japanese Buddhism, taught his brand of Buddhism (Jōdo, or Pure Land, Buddhism) and eventually fasted to death. The oldest of the present buildings date to the 17th century. The two-storey San-mon , a Buddhist temple gate at the main entrance, is the largest temple gate in Japan and prepares you for the massive scale of the temple. The immense main hall contains an image of Hōnen. It's connected to another hall, the Dai Hōjō , by a 'nightingale' floor (that sings and squeaks at every move, making it difficult for intruders to move about quietly). Up a flight of steps southeast of the main hall is the temple's giant bell , which was cast in 1633 and weighs 70 tonnes. It is the largest bell in Japan. The bell is rung by the temple's monks 108 times on New Year's Eve each year.
301 명의 현지인이 추천하는 곳
치온인
400 RinkachōA collection of soaring buildings and spacious courtyards, Chion-in serves as the headquarters of the Jōdo sect, the largest sect of Buddhism in Japan. It's the most popular pilgrimage temple in Kyoto and it's always a hive of activity. For visitors with a taste for the grand, this temple is sure to satisfy. Chion-in was established in 1234 on the site where Hōnen, one of the most famous figures in Japanese Buddhism, taught his brand of Buddhism (Jōdo, or Pure Land, Buddhism) and eventually fasted to death. The oldest of the present buildings date to the 17th century. The two-storey San-mon , a Buddhist temple gate at the main entrance, is the largest temple gate in Japan and prepares you for the massive scale of the temple. The immense main hall contains an image of Hōnen. It's connected to another hall, the Dai Hōjō , by a 'nightingale' floor (that sings and squeaks at every move, making it difficult for intruders to move about quietly). Up a flight of steps southeast of the main hall is the temple's giant bell , which was cast in 1633 and weighs 70 tonnes. It is the largest bell in Japan. The bell is rung by the temple's monks 108 times on New Year's Eve each year.
Gion is the famous entertainment and geisha quarter on the eastern bank of the Kamo-gawa. While Gion’s true origins were in teahouses catering to weary visitors to Yasaka-jinja (a neighbourhood shrine), by the mid-18th century the area was Kyoto’s largest pleasure district. Despite the looming modern architecture, congested traffic and contemporary nightlife establishments that have compromised its historical beauty, there are still some places left in Gion for an enjoyable walk. Hanami-kōji runs north–south and bisects Shijō-dōri. The southern section is lined with 17th-century traditional restaurants and teahouses, many of which are exclusive establishments for geisha entertainment. At the south end you reach Gion Corner and Gion Kōbu Kaburen-jō Theatre (祇園甲部歌舞練場). If you walk from Shijō-dōri along the northern section of Hanami-kōji and take your third left, you will find yourself on Shimbashi (sometimes called Shirakawa Minami-dōri), which is one of Kyoto’s most beautiful streets and, arguably, the most beautiful street in all of Asia, especially in the evening and during cherry-blossom season. A bit further north lie Shinmonzen-dōri and Furumonzen-dōri , running east–west. Wander in either direction along these streets, which are packed with old houses, art galleries and shops specialising in antiques – but don’t expect flea-market prices.
508 명의 현지인이 추천하는 곳
기온
Higashiyama WardGion is the famous entertainment and geisha quarter on the eastern bank of the Kamo-gawa. While Gion’s true origins were in teahouses catering to weary visitors to Yasaka-jinja (a neighbourhood shrine), by the mid-18th century the area was Kyoto’s largest pleasure district. Despite the looming modern architecture, congested traffic and contemporary nightlife establishments that have compromised its historical beauty, there are still some places left in Gion for an enjoyable walk. Hanami-kōji runs north–south and bisects Shijō-dōri. The southern section is lined with 17th-century traditional restaurants and teahouses, many of which are exclusive establishments for geisha entertainment. At the south end you reach Gion Corner and Gion Kōbu Kaburen-jō Theatre (祇園甲部歌舞練場). If you walk from Shijō-dōri along the northern section of Hanami-kōji and take your third left, you will find yourself on Shimbashi (sometimes called Shirakawa Minami-dōri), which is one of Kyoto’s most beautiful streets and, arguably, the most beautiful street in all of Asia, especially in the evening and during cherry-blossom season. A bit further north lie Shinmonzen-dōri and Furumonzen-dōri , running east–west. Wander in either direction along these streets, which are packed with old houses, art galleries and shops specialising in antiques – but don’t expect flea-market prices.
Famed for its autumn foliage, hydrangea garden and stunning Buddha images, this temple is deservedly popular with foreign and domestic tourists alike. The temple’s garden, Yūsei-en , is one of the most photographed sights in Japan, and rightly so. Take some time to sit on the steps of the Shin-den hall and admire the beauty of the Yūsei-en. Then head off to see Ōjō-gokuraku-in (Temple of Rebirth in Paradise), the hall in which stands the impressive Amitabha trinity, a large Amida image flanked by attendants Kannon and Seishi (god of wisdom). After this, walk up to the garden at the back of the temple where, in late spring and summer, you can walk among hectares of blooming hydrangeas. Sanzen-in was founded in 784 by the priest Saichō and belongs to the Tendai school. Saichō, considered one of the great patriarchs of Buddhism in Japan, also founded Enryaku-ji. If you’re keen for a short hike after leaving the temple, continue up the hill to see the rather oddly named Soundless Waterfall (Oto-nashi-no-taki; 音無の滝). Though in fact it sounds like any other waterfall, its resonance is believed to have inspired Shōmyō Buddhist chanting. The approach to Sanzen-in is opposite the bus stop; there is no English sign but you can usually just follow the Japanese tourists. The temple is located about 600m up this walk on your left as you crest the hill.
161 명의 현지인이 추천하는 곳
산젠인
540 ŌhararaikōinchōFamed for its autumn foliage, hydrangea garden and stunning Buddha images, this temple is deservedly popular with foreign and domestic tourists alike. The temple’s garden, Yūsei-en , is one of the most photographed sights in Japan, and rightly so. Take some time to sit on the steps of the Shin-den hall and admire the beauty of the Yūsei-en. Then head off to see Ōjō-gokuraku-in (Temple of Rebirth in Paradise), the hall in which stands the impressive Amitabha trinity, a large Amida image flanked by attendants Kannon and Seishi (god of wisdom). After this, walk up to the garden at the back of the temple where, in late spring and summer, you can walk among hectares of blooming hydrangeas. Sanzen-in was founded in 784 by the priest Saichō and belongs to the Tendai school. Saichō, considered one of the great patriarchs of Buddhism in Japan, also founded Enryaku-ji. If you’re keen for a short hike after leaving the temple, continue up the hill to see the rather oddly named Soundless Waterfall (Oto-nashi-no-taki; 音無の滝). Though in fact it sounds like any other waterfall, its resonance is believed to have inspired Shōmyō Buddhist chanting. The approach to Sanzen-in is opposite the bus stop; there is no English sign but you can usually just follow the Japanese tourists. The temple is located about 600m up this walk on your left as you crest the hill.
Home to a spectacular garden, several superb structures and beautiful precincts, Tōfuku-ji is one of the finest temples in Kyoto. It's well worth a special visit and can easily be paired with a trip to Fushimi Inari-Taisha (the two are linked by the Keihan train line). Founded in 1236 by the priest Enni, Tōfuku-ji belongs to the Rinzai sect of Zen Buddhism. As this temple was intended to compare with Tōdai-ji and Kōfuku-ji in Nara, it was given a name combining characters from the names of each of these temples. The present temple complex includes 24 subtemples; at one time there were 53. The huge San-mon is the oldest Zen main gate in Japan. The Hōjō (Abbot’s Hall) was reconstructed in 1890. The gardens, laid out in 1938, are well worth a visit. The northern garden has stones and moss neatly arranged in a chequerboard pattern. From a viewing platform at the back of the gardens, you can observe the Tsūten-kyō (Bridge to Heaven), which spans a valley filled with maples. Tōfuku-ji offers regular Zen meditation sessions for beginners, but don’t expect coddling or English-language explanations: this is the real deal. Get a Japanese speaker to inquire at the temple about the next session (it holds about four a month for beginners). Note that Tōfuku-ji is one of Kyoto’s most famous autumn foliage spots, and it is invariably packed during the peak of colours in November. Otherwise, it’s often very quiet.
375 명의 현지인이 추천하는 곳
기요미즈데라
15-chōme-778 HonmachiHome to a spectacular garden, several superb structures and beautiful precincts, Tōfuku-ji is one of the finest temples in Kyoto. It's well worth a special visit and can easily be paired with a trip to Fushimi Inari-Taisha (the two are linked by the Keihan train line). Founded in 1236 by the priest Enni, Tōfuku-ji belongs to the Rinzai sect of Zen Buddhism. As this temple was intended to compare with Tōdai-ji and Kōfuku-ji in Nara, it was given a name combining characters from the names of each of these temples. The present temple complex includes 24 subtemples; at one time there were 53. The huge San-mon is the oldest Zen main gate in Japan. The Hōjō (Abbot’s Hall) was reconstructed in 1890. The gardens, laid out in 1938, are well worth a visit. The northern garden has stones and moss neatly arranged in a chequerboard pattern. From a viewing platform at the back of the gardens, you can observe the Tsūten-kyō (Bridge to Heaven), which spans a valley filled with maples. Tōfuku-ji offers regular Zen meditation sessions for beginners, but don’t expect coddling or English-language explanations: this is the real deal. Get a Japanese speaker to inquire at the temple about the next session (it holds about four a month for beginners). Note that Tōfuku-ji is one of Kyoto’s most famous autumn foliage spots, and it is invariably packed during the peak of colours in November. Otherwise, it’s often very quiet.
Located high on a thickly wooded mountain, Kurama-dera is one of the few temples in modern Japan that still manages to retain an air of real spirituality. This is a magical place that gains a lot of its power from its brilliant natural setting. The temple also has a fascinating history: in 770 the monk Gantei left Nara’s Toshōdai-ji in search of a wilderness sanctuary in which to meditate. Wandering in the hills north of Kyoto, he came across a white horse that led him to the valley known today as Kurama. After seeing a vision of the deity Bishamon-ten, guardian of the northern quarter of the Buddhist heaven, Gantei established Kurama-dera just below the peak of Kurama-yama. Originally belonging to the Tendai school of Buddhism, Kurama has been independent since 1949, describing its own brand of Buddhism as Kurama-kyō. The entrance to the temple is just up the hill from Kurama Station. A tram goes to the top for ¥100 or you can hike up in about 30 minutes (follow the main path past the tram station). The trail is worth taking (if it’s not too hot), since it winds through a forest of towering old-growth cryptomeria trees, passing by Yuki-jinja , a small Shintō shrine, on the way. Near the peak, there is a courtyard dominated by the Honden (Main Hall); behind this a trail leads off to the mountain’s peak. At the top, you can take a brief detour across the ridge to Ōsugi-gongen , a quiet shrine in a grove of trees. Those who want to continue to Kibune can take the trail down the other side. It’s a 1.2km, 30-minute hike from the Honden to the valley floor of Kibune. On the way down are two mountain shrines, Sōjō-ga-dani Fudō-dō and Okuno-in Maō-den , which make pleasant rest stops.
58 명의 현지인이 추천하는 곳
구라마데라
1074 KuramahonmachiLocated high on a thickly wooded mountain, Kurama-dera is one of the few temples in modern Japan that still manages to retain an air of real spirituality. This is a magical place that gains a lot of its power from its brilliant natural setting. The temple also has a fascinating history: in 770 the monk Gantei left Nara’s Toshōdai-ji in search of a wilderness sanctuary in which to meditate. Wandering in the hills north of Kyoto, he came across a white horse that led him to the valley known today as Kurama. After seeing a vision of the deity Bishamon-ten, guardian of the northern quarter of the Buddhist heaven, Gantei established Kurama-dera just below the peak of Kurama-yama. Originally belonging to the Tendai school of Buddhism, Kurama has been independent since 1949, describing its own brand of Buddhism as Kurama-kyō. The entrance to the temple is just up the hill from Kurama Station. A tram goes to the top for ¥100 or you can hike up in about 30 minutes (follow the main path past the tram station). The trail is worth taking (if it’s not too hot), since it winds through a forest of towering old-growth cryptomeria trees, passing by Yuki-jinja , a small Shintō shrine, on the way. Near the peak, there is a courtyard dominated by the Honden (Main Hall); behind this a trail leads off to the mountain’s peak. At the top, you can take a brief detour across the ridge to Ōsugi-gongen , a quiet shrine in a grove of trees. Those who want to continue to Kibune can take the trail down the other side. It’s a 1.2km, 30-minute hike from the Honden to the valley floor of Kibune. On the way down are two mountain shrines, Sōjō-ga-dani Fudō-dō and Okuno-in Maō-den , which make pleasant rest stops.
With seemingly endless arcades of vermilion torii (shrine gates) spread across a thickly wooded mountain, this vast shrine complex is a world unto its own. It is, quite simply, one of the most impressive and memorable sights in all of Kyoto. The entire complex, consisting of five shrines, sprawls across the wooded slopes of Inari-san. A pathway wanders 4km up the mountain and is lined with dozens of atmospheric sub-shrines. Fushimi Inari was dedicated to the gods of rice and sake by the Hata family in the 8th century. As the role of agriculture diminished, deities were enrolled to ensure prosperity in business. Nowadays, the shrine is one of Japan’s most popular, and is the head shrine for some 40,000 Inari shrines scattered the length and breadth of the country. As you explore the shrine, you will come across hundreds of stone foxes. The fox is considered the messenger of Inari, the god of cereals, and the stone foxes, too, are often referred to as Inari. The key often seen in the fox’s mouth is for the rice granary. On an incidental note, the Japanese traditionally see the fox as a sacred, somewhat mysterious figure capable of ‘possessing’ humans – the favoured point of entry is under the fingernails. The walk around the upper precincts of the shrine is a pleasant day hike. It also makes for a very eerie stroll in the late afternoon and early evening, when the various graveyards and miniature shrines along the path take on a mysterious air. It’s best to go with a friend at this time. On 8 April there’s a Sangyō-sai festival with offerings and dances to ensure prosperity for national industry. During the first few days in January, thousands of believers visit this shrine as their hatsu-mōde (first shrine visit of the New Year) to pray for good fortune.
1229 명의 현지인이 추천하는 곳
후시미 이나리-타이샤 신사
68 Fukakusa YabunouchichōWith seemingly endless arcades of vermilion torii (shrine gates) spread across a thickly wooded mountain, this vast shrine complex is a world unto its own. It is, quite simply, one of the most impressive and memorable sights in all of Kyoto. The entire complex, consisting of five shrines, sprawls across the wooded slopes of Inari-san. A pathway wanders 4km up the mountain and is lined with dozens of atmospheric sub-shrines. Fushimi Inari was dedicated to the gods of rice and sake by the Hata family in the 8th century. As the role of agriculture diminished, deities were enrolled to ensure prosperity in business. Nowadays, the shrine is one of Japan’s most popular, and is the head shrine for some 40,000 Inari shrines scattered the length and breadth of the country. As you explore the shrine, you will come across hundreds of stone foxes. The fox is considered the messenger of Inari, the god of cereals, and the stone foxes, too, are often referred to as Inari. The key often seen in the fox’s mouth is for the rice granary. On an incidental note, the Japanese traditionally see the fox as a sacred, somewhat mysterious figure capable of ‘possessing’ humans – the favoured point of entry is under the fingernails. The walk around the upper precincts of the shrine is a pleasant day hike. It also makes for a very eerie stroll in the late afternoon and early evening, when the various graveyards and miniature shrines along the path take on a mysterious air. It’s best to go with a friend at this time. On 8 April there’s a Sangyō-sai festival with offerings and dances to ensure prosperity for national industry. During the first few days in January, thousands of believers visit this shrine as their hatsu-mōde (first shrine visit of the New Year) to pray for good fortune.
A buzzing hive of activity perched on a hill overlooking the basin of Kyoto, Kiyomizu-dera is one of Kyoto's most popular and most enjoyable temples. It may not be the tranquil refuge that many associate with Buddhist temples, but it represents the popular expression of faith in Japan. For those with children in tow, this temple is sure to delight as there are plenty of things to do here. This ancient temple was first built in 798, but the present buildings are reconstructions dating from 1633. As an affiliate of the Hossō school of Buddhism, which originated in Nara, it has successfully survived the many intrigues of local Kyoto schools of Buddhism through the centuries and is now one of the most famous landmarks of the city (for which reason it can get very crowded during spring and autumn). The Hondō (Main Hall) has a huge veranda that is supported by pillars and juts out over the hillside. Just below this hall is the waterfall Otowa-no-taki , where visitors drink sacred waters believed to bestow health and longevity. Dotted around the precincts are other halls and shrines. At Jishu-jinja , the shrine up the steps above the main hall, visitors try to ensure success in love by closing their eyes and walking about 18m between a pair of stones – if you miss the stone, your desire for love won't be fulfilled! Note that you can ask someone to guide you, but if you do, you'll need someone's assistance to find your true love. Before you enter the actual temple precincts, check out the Tainai-meguri , the entrance to which is just to the left (north) of the pagoda that is located in front of the main entrance to the temple (there is no English sign). We won't tell you too much about it as it will ruin the experience. Suffice to say that by entering the Tainai-meguri, you are symbolically entering the womb of a female bodhisattva. When you get to the rock in the darkness, spin it in either direction to make a wish. The steep approach to the temple is known as Chawan-zaka (Teapot Lane) and is lined with shops selling Kyoto handicrafts, local snacks and souvenirs. Check at the Tourist Information Center (TIC) for the scheduling of special night-time illuminations of the temple held in the spring and autumn.
1521 명의 현지인이 추천하는 곳
기요미즈데라
A buzzing hive of activity perched on a hill overlooking the basin of Kyoto, Kiyomizu-dera is one of Kyoto's most popular and most enjoyable temples. It may not be the tranquil refuge that many associate with Buddhist temples, but it represents the popular expression of faith in Japan. For those with children in tow, this temple is sure to delight as there are plenty of things to do here. This ancient temple was first built in 798, but the present buildings are reconstructions dating from 1633. As an affiliate of the Hossō school of Buddhism, which originated in Nara, it has successfully survived the many intrigues of local Kyoto schools of Buddhism through the centuries and is now one of the most famous landmarks of the city (for which reason it can get very crowded during spring and autumn). The Hondō (Main Hall) has a huge veranda that is supported by pillars and juts out over the hillside. Just below this hall is the waterfall Otowa-no-taki , where visitors drink sacred waters believed to bestow health and longevity. Dotted around the precincts are other halls and shrines. At Jishu-jinja , the shrine up the steps above the main hall, visitors try to ensure success in love by closing their eyes and walking about 18m between a pair of stones – if you miss the stone, your desire for love won't be fulfilled! Note that you can ask someone to guide you, but if you do, you'll need someone's assistance to find your true love. Before you enter the actual temple precincts, check out the Tainai-meguri , the entrance to which is just to the left (north) of the pagoda that is located in front of the main entrance to the temple (there is no English sign). We won't tell you too much about it as it will ruin the experience. Suffice to say that by entering the Tainai-meguri, you are symbolically entering the womb of a female bodhisattva. When you get to the rock in the darkness, spin it in either direction to make a wish. The steep approach to the temple is known as Chawan-zaka (Teapot Lane) and is lined with shops selling Kyoto handicrafts, local snacks and souvenirs. Check at the Tourist Information Center (TIC) for the scheduling of special night-time illuminations of the temple held in the spring and autumn.
Shopping
While the Kyoto branch of Tokyu Hands doesn't have the selection of bigger branches in places like Tokyo, it's still well worth a browse for fans of gadgets and interesting housewares. It's a good place for an interesting gift or souvenir.
54 명의 현지인이 추천하는 곳
Tokyu Hands Kyoto
Naginatabokochō Shimogyo WardWhile the Kyoto branch of Tokyu Hands doesn't have the selection of bigger branches in places like Tokyo, it's still well worth a browse for fans of gadgets and interesting housewares. It's a good place for an interesting gift or souvenir.
This department store has a decent bookshop on its 6th floor, and a food court and supermarket on its B1 floor. It’s geared mostly to younger Kyoto shoppers but it’s good for browsing if you have time to kill while waiting for a train. Take the underground passage from Kyoto Station.
115 명의 현지인이 추천하는 곳
Kyoto Avanti
31 Higashikujō NishisannōchōThis department store has a decent bookshop on its 6th floor, and a food court and supermarket on its B1 floor. It’s geared mostly to younger Kyoto shoppers but it’s good for browsing if you have time to kill while waiting for a train. Take the underground passage from Kyoto Station.
Kagoshin is a small semi-open bamboo craft shop on Sanjō-dōri, only a few minutes’ walk east of the Kamo-gawa. It has a good selection of baskets, chopstick holders, bamboo vases, decorations and knick-knacks. The baskets make a good, light souvenir and look great in alcove displays.
Kagoshin
七軒町-7 三条通大橋東四丁目Kagoshin is a small semi-open bamboo craft shop on Sanjō-dōri, only a few minutes’ walk east of the Kamo-gawa. It has a good selection of baskets, chopstick holders, bamboo vases, decorations and knick-knacks. The baskets make a good, light souvenir and look great in alcove displays.
This interesting shopping complex has a variety of boutiques and restaurants clustered around a huge open-air atrium. The offerings run to the cutting-edge and ephemeral, which attracts the young kids who congregate here. Occasional art and music performances are held in the atrium.
新風館ビアテラス
This interesting shopping complex has a variety of boutiques and restaurants clustered around a huge open-air atrium. The offerings run to the cutting-edge and ephemeral, which attracts the young kids who congregate here. Occasional art and music performances are held in the atrium.
A collection of semi-independent antique shops under one roof, this Teramachi-dōri emporium has oddities, curios and treasures to make those yen burn a hole in your pocket. If you’re in the market for an interesting (and possibly pricey) gift for the folks back home, you might find it here.
Kyoto Antiques Center
59 TokiwagichōA collection of semi-independent antique shops under one roof, this Teramachi-dōri emporium has oddities, curios and treasures to make those yen burn a hole in your pocket. If you’re in the market for an interesting (and possibly pricey) gift for the folks back home, you might find it here.
The Kyoto Handicraft Center sells a good range of Japanese arts and crafts, such as woodblock prints, Japanese dolls, damascene crafts, pearls, clothing and books. English-speaking staff are on hand and currency exchange is available. It's within walking distance of the main Higashiyama sightseeing route.
63 명의 현지인이 추천하는 곳
Kyoto Handicraft Centre
聖護院円頓美町-17 左京区The Kyoto Handicraft Center sells a good range of Japanese arts and crafts, such as woodblock prints, Japanese dolls, damascene crafts, pearls, clothing and books. English-speaking staff are on hand and currency exchange is available. It's within walking distance of the main Higashiyama sightseeing route.
This smallish department store on Shijō-dōri is very popular with local young ladies who flock here to peruse the interesting selection of up-to-the-minute fashions and jewellery. Older Kyotoites head to the basement food floor to snag great bargains on a wide selection of food, including great takeaway sushi and tropical fruit.
51 명의 현지인이 추천하는 곳
Fujii Daimaru
605 TeianmaenochōThis smallish department store on Shijō-dōri is very popular with local young ladies who flock here to peruse the interesting selection of up-to-the-minute fashions and jewellery. Older Kyotoites head to the basement food floor to snag great bargains on a wide selection of food, including great takeaway sushi and tropical fruit.
This old-style tea shop sells the best Japanese tea in Kyoto. Its matcha makes an excellent and lightweight souvenir. Try a 40g container of wa-no-mukashi (meaning ‘old-time Japan’) for ¥1600, which makes 25 cups of excellent green tea. Ippōdō is north of the city hall, on Teramachi-dōri. It has an adjoining teahouse (open 11am to 5.30pm).
50 명의 현지인이 추천하는 곳
Ion Mall Kyoto Gojo Bus Stop station
Saiinoiwakechō Ukyo WardThis old-style tea shop sells the best Japanese tea in Kyoto. Its matcha makes an excellent and lightweight souvenir. Try a 40g container of wa-no-mukashi (meaning ‘old-time Japan’) for ¥1600, which makes 25 cups of excellent green tea. Ippōdō is north of the city hall, on Teramachi-dōri. It has an adjoining teahouse (open 11am to 5.30pm).
Boxwood combs and hair clips are one of Kyoto’s most famous traditional crafts, and they are still used in the elaborate hairstyles of the city’s geisha and maiko. This tiny hole-in-the-wall shop has a fine selection for you to choose from (and if you don’t like what’s on view, you can ask if it has other choices in stock – it usually does).
二十三や・つげぐし
Shinchō Shimogyo WardBoxwood combs and hair clips are one of Kyoto’s most famous traditional crafts, and they are still used in the elaborate hairstyles of the city’s geisha and maiko. This tiny hole-in-the-wall shop has a fine selection for you to choose from (and if you don’t like what’s on view, you can ask if it has other choices in stock – it usually does).
Roughly opposite Takashimaya department store, Erizen is one of the best places in Kyoto to buy a kimono or kimono fabric. It has a great selection of kyō-yūzen (Kyoto dyed fabrics) and other kimono fabrics. Prices are not cheap but the service is of a high level. Staff can measure you for a kimono and are happy to post it to your home later.
Erizen
Roughly opposite Takashimaya department store, Erizen is one of the best places in Kyoto to buy a kimono or kimono fabric. It has a great selection of kyō-yūzen (Kyoto dyed fabrics) and other kimono fabrics. Prices are not cheap but the service is of a high level. Staff can measure you for a kimono and are happy to post it to your home later.
A five-minute walk southwest of Kyoto Station (exit Hachijō-guchi), this huge shopping mall is a good place to kill some time, grab a meal and do some shopping before getting on a train. You'll find branches of most of the big Japanese retailers here, including Muji, Uniqlo, Monbell, Daiso and Sofmap (computers etc). The 4th floor is the food floor and is home to the usual Japanese and international chains.
330 명의 현지인이 추천하는 곳
Aeon Mall Kyoto
西九条鳥居口町-1 南区A five-minute walk southwest of Kyoto Station (exit Hachijō-guchi), this huge shopping mall is a good place to kill some time, grab a meal and do some shopping before getting on a train. You'll find branches of most of the big Japanese retailers here, including Muji, Uniqlo, Monbell, Daiso and Sofmap (computers etc). The 4th floor is the food floor and is home to the usual Japanese and international chains.
This vast new shop is directly connected to Kyoto Station via the Nishinotō-in gate; otherwise, it’s accessed by leaving the north (Karasuma) gate and walking west. You will be amazed by the sheer amount of goods this store has on display. Just be sure that an English-operating manual is available for your purchases. For computer peripherals/software, keep in mind that not all items on offer will work with English-operating systems.
68 명의 현지인이 추천하는 곳
Bic Camera JR Kyoto Station
927 HigashishiokōjichōThis vast new shop is directly connected to Kyoto Station via the Nishinotō-in gate; otherwise, it’s accessed by leaving the north (Karasuma) gate and walking west. You will be amazed by the sheer amount of goods this store has on display. Just be sure that an English-operating manual is available for your purchases. For computer peripherals/software, keep in mind that not all items on offer will work with English-operating systems.
A short walk from the Shijō-Karasuma crossing, this place sells a fabulous variety of handmade washi (Japanese handmade paper) for reasonable prices. It’s one of our favourite shops in Kyoto for souvenirs.
森田和紙
扇酒屋町-298 東洞院通仏光寺上るA short walk from the Shijō-Karasuma crossing, this place sells a fabulous variety of handmade washi (Japanese handmade paper) for reasonable prices. It’s one of our favourite shops in Kyoto for souvenirs.
One of Kyoto’s trendiest shopping malls, Mina has branches of two of Japan’s most interesting chains: Uniqlo, a budget clothing brand that has spread overseas, and Loft, a fashionable department store that stocks all manner of curio and gift items.
10 명의 현지인이 추천하는 곳
UNIQLO Mina Kyoto Store
Daikokuchō Nakagyo WardOne of Kyoto’s trendiest shopping malls, Mina has branches of two of Japan’s most interesting chains: Uniqlo, a budget clothing brand that has spread overseas, and Loft, a fashionable department store that stocks all manner of curio and gift items.
The grande dame of Kyoto department stores, Takashimaya is almost a tourist attraction in its own right, from the mind-boggling riches of the basement food floor to the wonderful selection of lacquerware and ceramics on the 6th floor. And don’t miss the kimonos!
221 명의 현지인이 추천하는 곳
Takashimaya Kyoto Store
真町-52 下京区The grande dame of Kyoto department stores, Takashimaya is almost a tourist attraction in its own right, from the mind-boggling riches of the basement food floor to the wonderful selection of lacquerware and ceramics on the 6th floor. And don’t miss the kimonos!
This old shop in the Teramachi covered arcade sells a selection of incense, shodō (calligraphy) goods, tea-ceremony supplies and washi . Prices are on the high side but the quality is good. Overall, this is your best one-stop shop for distinctively Japanese souvenirs.
Kyukyodo
521 ShimohonnōjimaechōThis old shop in the Teramachi covered arcade sells a selection of incense, shodō (calligraphy) goods, tea-ceremony supplies and washi . Prices are on the high side but the quality is good. Overall, this is your best one-stop shop for distinctively Japanese souvenirs.
Zōhiko is the best place in Kyoto to buy one of Japan's most beguiling art/craft forms: lacquerware. If you aren't familiar with just how beautiful these products can be, you owe it to yourself to make the pilgrimage to Zōhiko. You'll find a great selection of cups, bowls, trays and various kinds of boxes. If you want a gift or souvenir that really makes an impression, this is a great choice!
Zohiko Lacquer Shop
Yōhōjimaechō Nakagyo WardZōhiko is the best place in Kyoto to buy one of Japan's most beguiling art/craft forms: lacquerware. If you aren't familiar with just how beautiful these products can be, you owe it to yourself to make the pilgrimage to Zōhiko. You'll find a great selection of cups, bowls, trays and various kinds of boxes. If you want a gift or souvenir that really makes an impression, this is a great choice!
Entertainment & Activities
This is the only Korean teahouse we’ve ever seen in Japan. It’s a good place to go when you need a change from the creeping monoculture of coffee chain stores. It’s a dark, woodsy and atmospheric spot with a variety of herbal teas (the menu details what they’re good for). The teahouse also serves a few light meals.
Somushi Kochaya
This is the only Korean teahouse we’ve ever seen in Japan. It’s a good place to go when you need a change from the creeping monoculture of coffee chain stores. It’s a dark, woodsy and atmospheric spot with a variety of herbal teas (the menu details what they’re good for). The teahouse also serves a few light meals.
Gion Corner presents regularly scheduled shows that include a bit of tea ceremony, koto (Japanese zither) music, ikebana (art of flower arranging), gagaku (court music), kyōgen (ancient comic plays), kyōmai (Kyoto-style dance) and bunraku (classical puppet theatre). It’s geared to a tourist market and is fairly pricey for what you get.
20 명의 현지인이 추천하는 곳
ギオンコーナー
570-2 Gionmachi MinamigawaGion Corner presents regularly scheduled shows that include a bit of tea ceremony, koto (Japanese zither) music, ikebana (art of flower arranging), gagaku (court music), kyōgen (ancient comic plays), kyōmai (Kyoto-style dance) and bunraku (classical puppet theatre). It’s geared to a tourist market and is fairly pricey for what you get.
Presented by the Gion Kōbu geisha district, this is our favourite geisha dance in Kyoto. It’s a real stunner and the colourful images will remain with you long after the curtain falls. It’s held throughout April at the Gion Kōbu Kaburen-jō Theatre, on Hanami-kōji, just south of Shijō-dōri.
6 명의 현지인이 추천하는 곳
Miyako Odori
Gionmachi Minamigawa Higashiyama WardPresented by the Gion Kōbu geisha district, this is our favourite geisha dance in Kyoto. It’s a real stunner and the colourful images will remain with you long after the curtain falls. It’s held throughout April at the Gion Kōbu Kaburen-jō Theatre, on Hanami-kōji, just south of Shijō-dōri.
The oldest kabuki theatre in Japan is the Minami-za theatre in Gion. The major event of the year is the Kaomise festival (1 to 26 December), which features Japan’s finest kabuki actors. Other performances take place on an irregular basis – check with the Tourist Information Center. The most likely months for performances are May, June and September.
254 명의 현지인이 추천하는 곳
Kyōto Minami-za
198 NakanochōThe oldest kabuki theatre in Japan is the Minami-za theatre in Gion. The major event of the year is the Kaomise festival (1 to 26 December), which features Japan’s finest kabuki actors. Other performances take place on an irregular basis – check with the Tourist Information Center. The most likely months for performances are May, June and September.