Luckily, there are plenty of photo spots to capture all the beauty that Kyoto has to offer. Here are some of the most Instagram-worthy places in Kyoto:
Kinkakuji Temple
Known for its gorgeous golden pavilion, Kinkakuji Temple is one of Kyoto’s most visited and admired landmarks. It’s a must-see for visitors to Kyoto and it’s easy to get to by public transport from downtown Kyoto or Ryoanji Station (the closest famous temple to Kinkakuji).
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located in northwest Kyoto and is one of the most visited spots in Japan year-round. It’s a popular place for meditation and strolling through its pine woods and gardens.
The main feature of Kinkakuji is the three-story golden pavilion overlooking a pond called Kyokochi. It was originally designed to serve as a residence for the Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, but it was converted into a Zen temple after his death. The pavilion has suffered damage and been burned several times throughout history, but was restored in 1955.
Kifune Shrine
Kifune Shrine is a stunning temple surrounded by beautiful natural scenery. It is a popular destination for both tourists and locals to relax, pray for good fortune, and experience traditional Shinto rituals.
During the summer, you can enjoy a variety of events at the shrine. These include Nagoshi no Harae (Nagoshi is the god of rain), Kifune Water Festival, and Tanabata Festival.
This shrine is also known for its Kasuga lanterns lined up on the stone staircase leading up to the main hall. They create a beautiful contrast with the surrounding nature during the day and are often seen on TV and in magazines.
The shrine also enshrines the water god Takaokami-no-kami and Kuraokami-no-kami, and followers have long prayed to them for protection against heavy rains. Its waters are said to be particularly pure and have long been a source of enlightenment for those who have been affected by floods.
Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
Founded in 711, Fushimi Inari Taisha is one of Kyoto’s oldest and most historic shrines. It was originally founded on Inariyama hill in the southwest of the city, before moving to its present location in 816.
There are several buildings at the entrance to the shrine, including a giant gate called the Romon Gate, which was donated by Toyotomi Hideyoshi in 1589. Visitors are expected to make small offerings at this entrance and the rest of the shrine is just beyond.
The main shrine of Fushimi Inari Taisha is located on Mount Inari and consists of many smaller sub-shrines spread across a 4-kilometre trail. Almost 10,000 torii (an archway to a Shinto shrine) are dedicated here, each with the name of a god engraved on it.
Yasaka Pagoda
Located in Kyoto’s Higashiyama district, Yasaka Pagoda is one of the city’s most stunning structures. Originally built in 589, this gorgeous 5-story Buddhist pagoda has been destroyed and rebuilt many times but is still a prime example of Japanese art.
This beautiful structure is a highlight of any Kyoto trip and is the perfect backdrop for photographs! Standing at 46 meters high (151 feet), it has a central wood shaft that helps it maintain its stability even during earthquakes.
The surrounding area of Yasaka Pagoda is also home to two traditional pedestrian streets. Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka are cobblestone streets with historic Japanese-style wooden buildings lining both sides.
Ninenzaka Sannenzaka Streets
The quaint streets of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka are one of the best spots to capture Kyoto’s old-world charm. The stone-paved streets are lined with traditional Japanese buildings, shops, cafes and inns.
They also have a beautiful view of Yasaka no To Pagoda and Maruyama Park. They are also surrounded by other famous landmarks such as Kiyomizu-Dera Temple, Yasaka Shrine, and Kodaiji Zen Temple.
It’s a popular sightseeing spot with plenty of attractions that make it perfect for people who want to experience Japan’s old-world charm. The quaint street is the perfect location to take photographs of nature and historic sights, especially during cherry blossom season.
Depending on the time of year you visit, the area will be crowded with tourists. So, if you want to enjoy the beautiful scenery of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka without a crowd, it’s recommended to go during the evening.
