Let’s start with recommended tourist spots in Northern Kyoto.
Centered around Demachiyanagi Station, which is the terminus of the private Keihan Line connecting Osaka and Kyoto, you’ll find many places to enjoy Kyoto’s unique charm and nature. Additionally, Demachiyanagi Station is the starting point for the Eizan Railway, which you can use to visit Kifune Shrine and Kurama Temple.
Additionally, on your way to popular spots like Kifune-guchi and Kurama, the area around Ichijoji Station is famous for its intense ramen scene. You’ll find a dense collection of ramen shops within a walkable area.
When you think of a trip to Kyoto, you might think of traditional Japanese foods like Kyoto vegetables, kaiseki cuisine, and obanzai. However, it can also be fun to explore ramen shops like the local students do.
Additionally, Kyoto University and Doshisha University are both within walking distance from Demachiyanagi Station. Both universities have long histories and are significant tourist attractions, drawing many school trips just like Kyoto’s famous landmarks.
The area is also close to major attractions like the Kyoto Imperial Palace and Shimogamo Shrine, so if you have some extra time, be sure to visit. The dining halls are open to visitors beyond students, but please avoid peak times like lunchtime to be considerate of students who have classes.
Experience Kyoto’s Charm at Ginkakuji (Silver Pavilion)
Alongside Kinkakuji, Ginkakuji is one of the most famous temples in Kyoto. Although it’s called “Ginkakuji” (Silver Pavilion), it is not covered in silver.
Do you remember who founded Ginkakuji? That’s right, it was Ashikaga Yoshimasa, the 8th shogun of the Ashikaga shogunate.
Ashikaga Yoshimasa was a shogun who showed no interest in politics and was solely devoted to culture. Ginkakuji represents the culmination of his cultural pursuits.
Ginkakuji was built in 1482 and was originally a private villa. Yoshimasa used this space to practice tea ceremonies and flower arranging. Ginkakuji can be considered a cultural center that gave rise to the “Higashiyama culture.”
After Yoshimasa’s death, he left a will for Ginkakuji to become a Zen temple.
Ginkakuji
Address: 2 Ginkakuji-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto
Map: Google Maps
Access: Take the Kyoto City Bus and get off at Ginkakuji-mae bus stop, then walk 5 minutes
Closed: Open every dayOpening Hours:
- March to November: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM (Last entry 5:00 PM, exit by 5:20 PM)
- December to February: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM (Last entry 4:30 PM, exit by 4:50 PM)
Admission Fee:
- Adults (high school students and above) ¥500,
- Elementary and junior high school students ¥300,
- Free for children under elementary school age
Official Website: Ginkakuji
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Nijo Castle: The Landmark That Ended the Edo Shogunate
Next, let’s visit a landmark that marked the end of the Edo Shogunate. Nijo Castle is the site of the historic event known as the “Restoration of Imperial Rule,” which you’ll often find in textbooks.
Nijo Castle has a relatively recent history compared to other temples and shrines, having been built in 1603. It was originally used as a lodging for the shogun’s visits to Kyoto and for guarding the city. In other words, it was like a hotel run by the Tokugawa Shogunate. The castle was expanded to its current size during the time of the 3rd shogun, Tokugawa Iemitsu.
By the way, do you know what “Restoration of Imperial Rule” means?
In simple terms, it refers to the act of “returning political power to the imperial court.” This event effectively marked the end of the Tokugawa Shogunate.
From this point, Japan rapidly transitioned into the Meiji era.
Nijo Castle
Address: 541 Nijojo-cho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto
Map: Google Maps
Access: Take the subway to Nijojo-mae Station
Phone: 075-841-0096
Closed: End of the year, Tuesdays (January, July, August, December)
Opening Hours: 8:45 AM – 4:00 PM (Last entry 4:00 PM, exit by 5:00 PM, Ninomaru Palace viewing until 4:10 PM)
Admission Fee:
- General: ¥800
- Junior and Senior High School Students: ¥400
- Elementary School Students: ¥300
- General admission includes access to Ninomaru Palace for an additional ¥500 (Junior and Senior High School students can view Ninomaru Palace with their admission fee.)
Official Website: Nijo Castle
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Kyoto Imperial Palace: A Must-Visit If You Have the Chance
Some of Kyoto’s tourist spots can be difficult to visit, and the Kyoto Imperial Palace is one of them.
The Kyoto Imperial Palace is managed by the Imperial Household Agency. Previously, it required advance reservations, but as of 2023, it is open year-round without the need for prior application. However, note that it may be closed on Mondays (or the following day if Monday is a holiday), during the New Year’s period, and on certain days when events are held.
The Kyoto Imperial Palace is famously known as the residence of the Emperor. It often appears in historical dramas.
The palace grounds are very large, measuring 250 meters east to west and 450 meters north to south. In the early mornings, you might see local residents jogging around the area.
The current buildings were reconstructed during the Edo period in 1855. Some areas are designed in the Heian style.
It’s quite moving to think that the Emperor once lived here. If you have the chance, it’s definitely worth a visit.
Kyoto Imperial Palace
Address: 3 Kyoto Gyoen, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto
Map: Google Maps
Access: Take the subway to Imadegawa Station, then walk 5 minutes
Closed: Mondays (or the following day if Monday is a holiday), end of the year, and on days when events are held
Opening Hours:
- September and March: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM (Last entry at 3:50 PM)
- October to February: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Last entry at 3:20 PM)
- April to August: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Last entry at 4:20 PM)
Admission Fee: Free
Official Website: Kyoto Imperial Palace
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Kamo River: Loved by All Ages in Kyoto
When it comes to a place that embodies the charm of Kyoto and is loved by everyone from young children to the elderly, Kamo River is the spot. People walk, cycle, read, or enjoy romantic dates by the river, spending their time in their own unique way.
The stretch between Shijo Bridge and the Kamo River Delta is about 3 kilometers and is a pleasant walk. You can enjoy the picturesque Kyoto scenery along the way without getting bored.
At the Kamo River Delta, you’ll find the point where the Koya River to the east and the Kamo River to the west diverge.
Kamo River Delta
Address: Imadegawa Street, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto
Map: Google Maps
Hours: Open for strolling at any time
Admission Fee: Free
Tadasu no Mori: A Mysterious Place to Fully Experience Nature
This is the forest within the grounds stretching from Shimogamo Shrine to Kawai Shrine. Surrounded by lush greenery in every direction, it offers a refreshing atmosphere filled with negative ions and a divine ambiance.
The divine atmosphere is no accident; it’s because the area is surrounded by trees that have been living since the Jomon period. The forest is home to many native trees, including Zelkova, Hackberry, and Mukuge.
It’s impressive from a general perspective, but it’s also highly valued from the viewpoints of forest ecology and environmental science. It is even listed as a World Heritage site.
A visit to Tadasu no Mori will refresh your spirit. It’s a great place to go if you’re looking to unwind and rejuvenate.
Tadasu no Mori
Address: 59 Shimogamo Izumigawa-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto
Map: Google Maps
Access:
- From JR Kyoto Station: Take the JR Nara Line from Kyoto Station to Tofukuji Station. Transfer to the Keihan Line (bound for Demachiyanagi) at Tofukuji Station and take the Keihan Line to Demachiyanagi Station. From there, walk 12 minutes to Shimogamo Shrine.
Phone Number: 075-781-0010
Hours:
- March 1 – May 15, August 16 – September 30: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- May 16 – August 15: 5:30 AM – 6:00 PM
- October 1 – October 15: 6:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- October 16 – December 31: 6:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- January 1 – February 28: 6:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Admission Fee: Free
Official Website: Tadasu no Mori
Shimogamo Shrine (Kamo Mioya Shrine): A UNESCO World Heritage Site in Kyoto
To the north of Tadasu no Mori, you’ll find a UNESCO World Heritage site: Shimogamo Shrine (Kamo Mioya Shrine). This shrine is dedicated to the deities Kamo Taketsunomi no Mikoto and Tamayori-hime.
Shimogamo Shrine is notable in Kyoto for having many of its buildings registered as Important Cultural Properties. While only the main halls on the east and west are classified as National Treasures, nearly all other structures are designated as Important Cultural Properties.
Shimogamo Shrine hosts various events and ceremonies, including weddings and festivals. Among these, the Aoi Matsuri (Hollyhock Festival) is particularly famous and was considered one of the most significant festivals during the Heian period. Visiting during these events can be a wonderful experience.
The shrine has a deep connection with the imperial family and has been revered by the court since the Nara period. This connection grew even stronger after Emperor Kanmu visited the shrine during the move to the Heian capital.
Shimogamo Shrine (Kamo Mioya Shrine)
Address: 59 Shimogamo Izumigawa-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan
Map: Google Maps
Access:
- 25 minutes by bus from Kyoto Station
- 12 minutes on foot from Demachiyanagi Station
Phone Number: 075-781-0010
Visiting Hours:
- Summer: 5:30 AM – 6:00 PM
- Winter: 6:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Note: The Ooino-dono and Kamo Nagamochi’s Hojo-an are open from 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM.
Official Website: Shimogamo Shrine
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Kifune Shrine: The Head Shrine of 450 Kifune Shrines Across Japan
Kifune Shrine, located in the Sakyo Ward of Kyoto, is the head shrine among the 450 Kifune shrines across Japan. It is dedicated to Takeminakata, the deity of water, and is known for its many water-related structures.
There are no records specifying its exact founding date, but historical traditions suggest it was already in existence over 1,300 years ago, indicating it was established even earlier.
Kifune Shrine is renowned for its blessings related to matchmaking, prosperity, and fulfilling various wishes. It is especially famous for its association with Emperor Saga, who prayed for rain here. The shrine has also been featured in many literary works, including poems by Izumi Shikibu and in the “Shinkokin Wakashu.”
Recently, Kifune Shrine has gained popularity as a shrine for matchmaking, attracting many women who wish for success in their romantic endeavors.
The shrine also hosts seasonal light-up events, transforming the grounds into a beautifully illuminated setting, which is highly recommended to visit.
Kifune Shrine
Address: 180 Kurama-Kifune-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture
Map: Google Maps
Access:
- About 20 minutes by bus from Kyoto International Conference Center Station
- About 30 minutes on foot from Kifune-guchi Station on the Eizan Electric Railway Kurama Line
- From Hiei Electric Railway Kifune-guchi Station, transfer to Kyoto Bus No. 33 and get off at Kifune Station
Phone Number: +81 75-741-2016
Visiting Hours:
- Main Shrine: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM (May 1 to November 30), 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM (December 1 to April 30)
- Office Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (for fortune slips, amulets, and stamps)
- Note: During the “Kifune Maple Lantern” light-up period, hours extend to 8:30 PM
Admission: Free; 300 yen for the stamp
Official Website: Kifune Shrine
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Shisen-do: The Birthplace of the Shishi-odoshi
Originally, Shisen-do was a retreat built by Ishikawa Jozan, a retainer of the Tokugawa family. The name “Shisen-do” comes from the “Shisen no Ma” (Poet’s Hall), which features portraits of 36 famous Chinese poets.
Ishikawa Jozan was also a master of garden design, and his garden allows visitors to enjoy the changing seasons of Kyoto. The autumn foliage, in particular, offers a spectacular view.
In the dry landscape garden, the red maple and momiji trees create a striking contrast. You’ll find yourself lost in the beauty of the vibrant autumn leaves, forgetting the passage of time.
As you gaze at the garden, you might hear a certain sound. It’s called “shishi-odoshi.”
Shishi-odoshi, which originated here at Shisendo, creates a soothing sound that complements the view of the garden and the autumn leaves.
Shisendo (Jozanji)
Address: 27 Ichijoji-Monzeki-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8295, Japan
Map: Google Maps
Access: From Ichijoji-Shimmachi bus stop, walk east for 7 minutes.
Closed: May 23 (Jozan Memorial Day, general admission is closed)
Phone Number: +81 75-781-2954
Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Last entry at 4:45 PM)
Admission:
- Adults ¥500,
- High School Students ¥400,
- Elementary & Junior High School Students ¥200
Official Website: Shisendo
Manshuin: A Beautiful Dry Landscape Garden
Manshuin was founded by the Buddhist monk Saicho, also known as Dengyo Daishi, during the Enryaku era. Later, in the Tenryaku era, it was moved to the northern valley of the Western Pagoda on Mount Hiei by the monk Zensan. Zensan is considered the first head priest of Manshuin.
Manshuin has a strong connection with Kitano Shrine. The founder, Zensan, came from the Sugawara family, so he became the first head priest of Kitano Shrine, which worships Sugawara no Michizane. The head priest is like the manager of the shrine.
The dry landscape garden at Manshuin is meticulously designed and offers a beautiful view. It is a hidden gem where you can enjoy traditional Kyoto scenery.
From early November to early December, special evening viewings are held, attracting many visitors. It’s a great time to visit and enjoy the autumn leaves.
Manshuin is also close to Shisendo, so it’s worth visiting both places.
Manshuin
Address: 42 Ichijojitake-no-uchi-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8446
Map: Google Maps
Access:
- From the city bus stop “Ichijoji Kiyimizucho” (Lines: 5, 31, Kitano 8), it’s about a 20-minute walk.
- From Eizan Electric Railway’s “Shugakuin Station,” it’s about a 20-minute walk.
Hours:
- 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM)
- Special evening viewings extend until 7:30 PM
Admission:
- Adults: ¥600
- High School Students: ¥500
- Elementary and Junior High School Students: ¥400
Official Website: Manshuin
Enkoji Temple: A Garden of Picture-Perfect Beauty
Enkoji Temple is located in the Ichijoji area of Kyoto and is a Rinzai Zen temple founded by Tokugawa Ieyasu. It is close to other Kyoto landmarks like Shisen-do and Manshu-in, making it a great addition to your itinerary.
The temple features the beautiful “Jukyu no Niwa” (Garden of the Ten Bulls), known for its 200 maple trees. During the fall season, the garden offers especially stunning views with vibrant autumn colors.
The Jukyu no Niwa garden also features the Seiryu Pond, which is said to be the oldest in the northern part of Kyoto. The reflections of the autumn leaves on the pond’s surface create a particularly charming and picturesque scene.
Unfortunately, the night-time light displays that were once held here have been discontinued since 2008.
The top recommendation is to view the garden from the shoin (traditional Japanese study). The pillars act like a frame, making it feel as if you are looking at a beautiful painting of the garden.
Enkoji Temple
Address: 13 Ijōji Koya-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City
Map: Google Maps
Access:
- From Eizan Electric Railway’s Ijōji Station, it’s about a 15-minute walk east.
- From Demachiyanagi Station, take Kyoto Bus No. 56 to Ijōji Shitamatsu-cho, then walk about 10 minutes east.
Phone Number: 075-781-8025
Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Admission:
- Adults 500 yen,
- High School and Middle School Students 400 yen,
- Elementary School Students 300 yen
Official Website: Enkoji Temple
Rengeji Temple: A Beautiful Pond Garden
Located in the Sakyo ward of Kyoto, Rengeji Temple is a Tendai Buddhist temple. The temple grounds feature a stone-paved approach path, adding a touch of charm and serenity.
Rengeji Temple features a pond garden that is especially beautiful when combined with autumn foliage. In the fall, the temple is surrounded by many red maple and ginkgo trees, creating a stunning display.
The view is so captivating that you’ll lose track of time while admiring it. It’s definitely a must-visit spot in Kyoto during the autumn foliage season.
Rengeji Temple
Address: 1 Kamitakano Hachiman-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
Map: Google Maps
Access: About a 6-minute walk from Miyake Hachimangu Station on the Eizan Electric Railway; 1-minute walk from Kamihashi Station on the Kyoto Bus
Phone Number: 075-781-3494
Closed: None
Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Admission: 500 yen
Note: Tripods and photography from within the garden are not allowed.
Sanzen-in Temple: Enjoy Seasonal Scenery
Sanzen-in Temple is a Tendai Buddhist temple located in the Ohara area of Kyoto’s Sakyo Ward. It is also known as Sanzen-in Monzeki.
Among the three Monzeki temples of the Tendai sect—Sanzen-in, Shoren-in, and Myoho-in—Sanzen-in is known for being the oldest.
The gardens of Jukyo-en and Yusei-en are renowned for their beautiful moss, making them well worth a visit. In spring, you can see cherry blossoms and hydrangeas, while in autumn, the colorful foliage is a highlight. Throughout the year, these gardens offer stunning seasonal views.
It’s a perfect spot to experience the charm of Kyoto. Take your time to stroll around Sanzen-in and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
Sanzen-in
Address: 540 Ohara Kannon-incho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City
Map: Google Maps
Access: A 10-minute walk from the Kyoto Bus stop “Ohara”
Phone Number: 075-744-2531
Closed: Open daily
Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (8:30 AM – 5:00 PM in November, 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM from December to February)
Admission:
- General ¥700 (Groups of 30 or more ¥600)
- Junior & Senior High School Students ¥400 (Groups of 30 or more ¥300)
- Elementary Students ¥150
Official Website: Sanzen-in
Kyoto City Zoo: One of Japan’s Historic Zoos
Kyoto City Zoo, which opened in 1903, is the second oldest zoo in Japan.
Throughout its long history, the zoo has been actively involved in “species conservation,” focusing on breeding endangered species. It has achieved milestones such as breeding three generations of Western lowland gorillas, Asian elephants, and Grevy’s zebras. Additionally, the zoo is actively participating in breeding programs for the endangered Tsushima leopard cat, a species native to Japan.
Today’s zoos often focus on helping visitors understand animals through interactive experiences. Kyoto City Zoo was a pioneer in this approach. It collaborates with various universities, including Kyoto University, to advance breeding, conservation, and research of animals.
The zoo is divided into six different sections:
- Fairy Tale Land : This area focuses on interactive experiences with small to medium-sized animals. You can interact with sheep, goats, and rabbits, and watch adorable red pandas, Humboldt penguins, and owls.
- Beast World : Here, you’ll find famous big cats like lions and jaguars, as well as displays of the endangered Tsushima leopard cat, a native Japanese species.
- Gorilla House – Forest Home : This section allows you to observe the three generations of endangered western lowland gorillas. You might see fascinating interactions among the gorillas that feel almost like a conversation.
What I’ve introduced is just a small part of the zoo. It is home to about 500 animals of 120 different species, including endangered ones.
The zoo is compact enough to explore in about 1 to 2 hours, making it a great outing destination for families with children.
Kyoto City Zoo
Address: Okazaki Hoshoji-cho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City
Map: Google Maps
Access:
- From JR Kyoto Station, take a city bus (1-minute walk from “Zoo-mae” bus stop)
- From JR Kyoto Station, take the Subway Tozai Line (10-minute walk from Higashiyama Station or Keage Station)
Phone: 075-771-0210
Closed: Mondays (or the following weekday if Monday is a holiday) / New Year’s (December 28 – January 1)
Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (4:30 PM closing from December to February) *Entrance is allowed until 30 minutes before closing
Admission: 750 yen for adults, free for middle school students and younger
Official Website: Kyoto City Zoo