Top 10 Instagrammable Locations in Kyoto

The shrine is famous for its endless arcades of thousands of vermilion torii gates along the 4km pathway up the sacred mountain Inari (233 meters). To avoid the crowds go there in the early morning and capture the amazing scenery.

Address: 68 Fukakusa, Yabunouchi-cho, Fushimi-ku, Kyoto, 612-0882

The tall thick green moso bamboo stalks (5 to 10 m high) create a unique and mystic atmosphere. Narrow paths lead through this fairy-tale bamboo forest and offer the perfect picture opportunity on every corner. The early morning is the best time to come here.

Address: 6 Sagakamenoocho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8386

Kinkaku-ji officially named Rokuonji Temple is a three-story building with a height of 12.5 meters. The two upper stories are completely covered in gold leaf. It is one of the most popular buildings in Japan and a perfect example of the construction style during the Muromachi period (1337 - 1573). A special photo highlight is to capture the reflection of the golden building in the water of the pond.

Address: 1 Kinkakujicho, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 603-8361

Gion near the Yasaka Shrine is the largest and most popular Geisha district in Kyoto. The historical area with many traditional wooden teahouses and machiya houses stretches from the south side of Shijo Street to the north side of Hanamikoji Street. The number of Geisha in this area is the highest in Kyoto. Walk here in the early evening and enjoy the lantern-lit streets. The most beautiful spots are the Shirakawa Canal and the Hanamikoji Street.

Kiyomizu-dera or "Pure Water Temple" is one of the most famous and popular Buddhist temples in Japan. The main hall with its wooden stage hovering 13 meters above ground is a masterpiece of Japanese temple architecture and a tourist photo hotspot. My tip: The scenery gets especially beautiful with the Spring Illumination (27th of March till 5th of April) of the Kiyomizu-dera temple complex during the cherry blossom season from 6:30 pm till 9:30 pm.

Address: 1-294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, 605-0862

The approx. 2km long pedestrian stone path along the scenic canal, especially during cherry blossom season (late March or early April), is a must see for every Kyoto visitor. You can take lovely pictures of the overhanging sakura or autumn leaves reflecting in the water below.

Address: Start at Ginkaku-ji - 2 Ginakuji-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8402

Yasaka Pagoda (Yasaka-no-to) is with a height of 46m the most prominent landmark sign and symbol of the Higashiyama District in Kyoto. The five-story pagoda with the temple treasure (Yasakato-ezu), a designated Important Cultural Property, belongs to the last remaining parts of the Hokanji Temple. The existing structure was rebuilt in 1440 by the 6th Shogun of Muromachi government Yoshinori Ashikaga. The best lighting and atmosphere for an amazing picture is at dawn or dusk

Address: 388 Yasakakamimachi, Kiyomizu Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, 605-0862

People visit the Tofukuji Temple for its famous Zen gardens and the 100m long Tsutenkyo Bridge, which offers amazing views of vibrant autumn leaves or lush greenery of the approx. 2000 maple trees (momiji). The Tofukuji complex consists of 24 sub-temples and covers an area of 240000 square meters, which makes it the largest in Kyoto.

Address: 15 Chome-778 Honmachi, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, 605-0981

The park is one of the most famous cherry blossom spots in Kyoto. Especially the 12m tall and over 80 years old Shidarezakura (weeping cherry tree) is the main photo attraction during the cherry blossom season. I came here at night when the tree was illuminated. It was an unforgettable experience.

Address: 473 Maruyama-cho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, 605-0071

Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Kyoto, was the former residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu (1543 - 1616), founder and first shogun of the Tokugawa shogunate. It is the oldest existing palace building in Japan. The massive stone walls, the wide moat, and the huge gates of the castle are an impressive sight and offer endless photo opportunities.

Address: 541 Nijo-jo-cho, Horikawa-nishi-iru, Nijo-dori, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto, 604-8301

I have visited Japan nearly every year since 2004. This is my collection of the 100 best moments in my favorite country. Enjoy the pictures and I hope you will start your own journey soon.
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