Exploring Kyoto’s Hidden Gems: Spots Away from the Crowds

Kyoto, an ancient capital with over a thousand years of history. While world-famous destinations like Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Kinkaku-ji Temple, and Fushimi Inari Shrine are abundant, they are always bustling with crowds.

“I want to experience Kyoto’s atmosphere in a quieter way…”
“I’ve seen all the classic spots; I want to find some hidden gems!”

For you, we have gathered recommendations for hidden spots that are relatively less crowded, allowing you to fully enjoy Kyoto’s unique charm at a relaxed pace. Wonderful sights and experiences await you—spots that rival the famous landmarks!

Hidden Spots Where You Can Enjoy Nature

These spots are recommended for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle and connect with nature in tranquility.

1. Shisendo (Sakyo Ward)

This mountain villa was a retreat for Ishikawa Jōzan, an Edo period scholar. Its beautiful gardens, which change with the seasons, are designated as a National Historic Site. Especially wonderful are early summers when azaleas and satsuki flowers bloom, and autumn when the foliage changes. Here, you can enjoy the slow passage of time while gazing at the garden in peaceful silence.

• Access: Take the city bus to “Ichijōji Shimomatsucho” stop, followed by a 7-minute walk.
• Tip: Early morning or late afternoon offers an even quieter and more serene atmosphere.

2. Enkoji Temple (Sakyo Ward)

A temple founded by Tokugawa Ieyasu as a study hall. The dry landscape garden, known as the “Jūni Garden,” is said to be one of the oldest pond gardens in northern Kyoto. It is also famous for its autumn foliage, and the beauty of the fallen leaves is exceptional.

• Access: Take the city bus to “Ichijōji Shimomatsucho” stop, followed by a 10-minute walk.
• Tip: Try listening closely to the sounds of the *suikinkutsu* (water echo chamber).

3. Ohara Shrine (Saikyō Ward)

A shrine dedicated to a branch spirit of Kasuga Taisha in Nara. The tunnel of autumn leaves lining the approach path is breathtaking. Outside of the peak foliage season, you can visit relatively quietly.

• Access: Immediately upon exiting the Hankyu bus at “Minami Kasuga-cho.”
• Tip: Nearby spots include Katsumadera Temple (the Flower Temple) and Shōhōji Temple, which are also worth visiting.

4. Shodenji Temple (Kita Ward)

It is famous for the dry landscape garden, “Shishi no Ko Watashi Garden,” which uses Mount Hiei as a borrowed view. The contrast between the white sand of the garden, the green satsuki flowers, and the distant view of Mount Hiei is beautiful. Here, you can feel the spirit of Zen in profound stillness.

• Access: Take the city bus to “Shokoinmae” stop, followed by a 5-minute walk.
• Tip: We recommend viewing the garden from the main hall (Hōjō).

5. Kifune Shrine (Sakyo Ward)

A shrine dedicated to the water deity. In summer, you can enjoy *kawadoko* dining (dining on floating platforms over the river). The path from the main sanctuary to the inner shrine is enveloped in a mysterious atmosphere.

• Access: Take the Eizan Electric Railway to “Kifune-guchi” station, followed by a 30-minute walk (or take a bus).
• Tip: Write your wishes on the “Musubimono” at the inner shrine and pray for good fortune.

6. Sanzen-in Monzeki Temple (Sakyo Ward)

A temple with a vast grounds, featuring beautiful gardens and important cultural properties like Buddhist statues scattered throughout. The “Warabe Jizō” statue, nestled in the mossy garden, soothes visitors with its charming appearance.

• Access: Take the Kyoto Bus to “Ohara” stop, followed by a 10-minute walk.
• Tip: The Amida Triad statue at “Ōjōkugakuen” is a must-see sight.

7. Kurama Temple (Sakyo Ward)

Known as the temple where Musashikagen (Minamoto no Yoshitsune) trained. The inner shrine, located further up the mountain path from the main hall, is also popular as a power spot.

• Access: Take the Eizan Electric Railway to “Kurama” station, followed by a walk (or take a cable car).
• Tip: Kurama Mountain is also known as the birthplace of Tengu folklore.

Hidden Spots for History and Culture

These spots are recommended for those who wish to immerse themselves in Kyoto’s history and culture.

8. Rengeji Temple (Sakyo Ward)

A temple known for its garden featuring azaleas trimmed into boat shapes. The view of the garden from the *shoin* (study room) is like a painting.

• Access: Take the city bus to “Kami-hashi” stop, followed by a 3-minute walk.
• Tip: The temple bell in the bell tower is designated as an Important Cultural Property.

9. Myoshinji Taizo-in (Ukyo Ward)

A temple known for its National Treasure, the “Hyōnen Picture,” and its beautiful dry landscape garden, “Yokōen.” In spring, approximately 60-year-old weeping cherry blossoms bloom magnificently.

• Access: Take the JR train to “Hanazono” station, followed by a 7-minute walk.
• Tip: We recommend enjoying the garden while sipping matcha and eating Japanese sweets.

10. Tōjiin Temple (Kita Ward)

A temple dedicated to the Ashikaga Shogunate family. The garden, designed by Musō Jitoko, is designated as a National Historic Site and Scenic Spot.

• Access: Take the Keifuku Electric Railway to “Tōjiin/Ritsumeikan University Kinugasa Campus” station, followed by a 10-minute walk.
• Tip: The folding screen paintings in the main hall are also magnificent.

11. Kenninji Temple (Higashiyama Ward)

Kyoto’s oldest Zen temple. It is filled with attractions, such as a replica of Sesshū Tawaraya’s “Wind God and Thunder God Screen” and the ceiling painting “Double Dragons” in the main hall.

• Access: Take the Keihan train to “Gion-Shijo” station, followed by a 7-minute walk.
• Tip: Take your time strolling through the large temple grounds.

12. Kōzanji Temple (Ukyo Ward)

A temple famous for its National Treasure, “Chōjū Jinbutsu Giga.” It is also registered as a World Heritage Site.

• Access: Immediately upon exiting the JR bus at “Kenō” stop.
• Tip: The view from Ishimizu-in is spectacular.

13. Shinsen-en (Naka Ward)

A garden created during the construction of Heian-kyō. Located just south of Nijo Castle, it is a space enveloped in tranquility.

• Access: Take the subway to “Nijojo-mae” station, followed by a 2-minute walk.
• Tip: The Megata Shrine is unusual because it faces the year’s lucky direction (Eho).

Wandering Through Machiya and Alleys

If you want to feel Kyoto’s unique ambiance, wandering through traditional *machiya* townhouses and back alleys is highly recommended.

14. Nishijin Area

An area that once flourished with the textile industry. Many traditional *machiya* houses still remain today.

• Tip: It is also fun to explore cafes and craft shops housed in renovated machiya homes.

15. Kami-Nishijin

Kyoto’s oldest geisha district (hanamachi). The cobblestone streets are lined with tea houses and restaurants.

• Tip: Visiting at dusk enhances the sense of historical charm.

16. Pontocho

One of Kyoto’s representative geisha districts, running narrowly along the Kamo River. In summer, dining platforms (*kawadoko*) line the riverbanks.

• Tip: Stroll through the narrow alleys and discover your favorite shop.

17. Miyagawacho

Another geisha district, comparable to Gion. The cobblestone streets are lined with tea houses and restaurants.

• Tip: If you are lucky, you might spot a Maiko or Geiko.

Other Recommended Hidden Spots

18. Kyoto Prefectural Botanical Garden (Sakyo Ward)

A large garden featuring a variety of plants. You can enjoy flowers throughout the four seasons.

• Access: Immediately upon exiting the subway at “Kitayama” station.
• Tip: The exhibition greenhouse features tropical and rare plants.

19. Murin-an Villa (Sakyo Ward)

The former villa of Yamagata Aritomo, a politician from the Meiji/Taisho eras. Its beautiful garden is designated as a National Scenic Spot.

• Access: Take the subway to “Keage” station, followed by a 7-minute walk.
• Tip: We recommend viewing the garden from the second floor of the Western-style building.

20. Kyoto International Manga Museum (Naka Ward)

A museum that collects and displays manga from both Japan and abroad.

• Access: Take the subway to “Karasuma Oike” station, followed by a 2-minute walk.
• Tip: You can freely read approximately 50,000 volumes of manga here.

Tips for Exploring Hidden Gems

• Respect Local Manners: Since many places are quiet, please avoid shouting or littering trash.
• Photography: Some temples and shrines prohibit photography. Please check in advance.
• Attire: Comfortable walking shoes and easy-to-move clothing are recommended.
• Transportation: City buses and subways are convenient, but some locations may have infrequent service. Check the schedule beforehand.
• Advance Booking: Some facilities require advance reservations.

Conclusion: Discover Your Own Kyoto!

We have introduced you to Kyoto’s hidden gems this time. While the classic spots are appealing, the hidden gems offer a different kind of Kyoto charm. Please make sure to discover your own unique Kyoto and create wonderful memories.