If you’re looking for the most Instagrammable places in Kyoto to curate an aesthetic travel feed, you’ve come to the right page! This is the complete list of the most beautiful, Instagram-worthy places in Kyoto that are unlike anywhere else in the world.
Having traveled here several times, I can see how this traditional city is globally recognized as one of the best cities in the world. Kyoto is simply stunning no matter what season you visit.
After all, it is home to 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, some of which are on this list. I’ve sorted these Instagrammable places in Kyoto by area as they are scattered widely throughout the city, which calls for planning to maximize your time.
Let Sue Ann, who has traveled to Japan more than a dozen times, introduce the best spots. Get your camera charged. Let’s start snapping!
21 Most Instagrammable Places in Kyoto
1. Kinkaku-ji Temple
2. Shimogamo Shrine
3. To-ji Temple
4. Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
5. Fushimi Sake District
6. Philosopher’s Path
7. Okazaki Shrine
8. Gion District
9. Yasaka Pagoda
10. Yasaka Koshin-do
11. Ninenzaka & Sannenzaka
12. Kiyomizu Dera Temple
13. Kamo River
14. Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
15. Togetsukyo Bridge
16. Kimono Forest
17. Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple
18. Kifune Shrine
19. Shojuin Temple
20. Daigo-ji Temple
21. Yokoku-ji Temple
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Northern Kyoto
1. Kinkaku-ji Temple 金閣寺
No trip to Kyoto is complete without a visit to Kinkaku-ji Temple, the Golden Pavilion. As its name suggests, this World Heritage Site is covered in gold.
It is set by a classic Japanese garden, against a reflective pond that frames its opulent design. Do arrive as soon as it opens on a weekday, to get that unobstructed selfie!
Kinkaku-ji Fudogama Chasho tea garden is near the exit. Here, you can enjoy matcha tea that comes with a traditional Japanese sweet for JPY500 (USD3.50).
Kinkaku-ji Temple
Address: 1 Kinkakujichō, Kita Ward, Kyoto
Opening Hours: 9.00 am – 5.00 pm | Opens daily
Entrance Fee: JPY400 (USD3)
Access
From Kyoto Station, the most direct way is to take Kyoto City Bus number 101 or 205 (40 minutes, JPY230 (USD2))
Alternatively, take the Karasuma Subway train line from Kyoto Station to Kitaoji Station then board bus numbers 101, 102, 204, or 205 (25 minutes, JPY490 (USD3.50)).
2. Shimogamo Jinja Shrine 下鴨神社
Shimogamo Jinja Shrine is one of Japan’s oldest shrines. It is tucked within a sacred forest – the Tadasu no Mori that has been largely untouched for centuries.
It is the quintessential Shinto shrine, with its bright white and vermilion red colors, distinctive two-storied entrance gate, and classic torii gate. The striking contrast of colors against lush greenery and blue skies will make your Instagram shot stand out.
Look out for the vermilion bridge over the Mitarashi River and strike a pose there!
Shimogamo Jinja Shrine
Address: 59 Shimogamo Izumigawacho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto
Opening Hours: 6.30 am – 5.00 pm | Opens daily
Entrance Fee: Free
Access
From Kinkaku-ji, hop on Kyoto City Bus number 205 at the Kinkakuji Michi bus stop to either Shimogamo Jinja Mae or Tadasu no Mori stop (20 minutes, JPY230 (USD2)).
From Kyoto Station, take Kyoto City Bus number 4 or 205 to either Shimogamo Jinja Mae or Tadasu no Mori for a lovely walk (30 minutes, JPY230 (USD2)).
Southern Kyoto
3. To-ji Temple 東寺
To-ji Temple’s famous five-storied wooden pagoda is the symbol of Kyoto, standing as the tallest pagoda in Japan at 180 feet high. The vast temple grounds give you plenty of space to leisurely explore angles to photograph to your heart’s content.
Be sure to check this Instagrammable spot out if you’re visiting at the end of any month! There is a lively Kobo-Ichi Market held every month on the 21st.
To-ji Temple
Address: 1 Kujocho, Minami Ward, Kyoto
Opening Hours: 8:30 am – 4.00 pm | Opens daily
Entrance Fee: Varies from JPY500 (USD3.50)
Access
From Kyoto Station, it’s easiest to just walk for about 15 minutes.
4. Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine 伏見稲荷大社
Fushimi Inari Taisha is one of the most Instagrammable places in Kyoto, if not the most. This iconic Inari shrine (referred to as Inari taisha in Japanese) is on every traveler’s bucket list with its world-famous vermilion red torii gates.
To enjoy uninterrupted photography for the gram, visit as early as you can or before twilight when it is much quieter.
Besides thousands of endless torii gates, another point of interest is the countless kitsune fox statues at every corner!
Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
Address: 68 Fukakusa Yabunouchicho, Fushimi Ward, Kyoto
Opening Hours: 24 hours. Opens daily.
Entrance Fee: Free
Access
From Kyoto Station, the fastest way is to take the JR Nara train line to Inari Station (5 minutes, JPY150 (USD1)).
5. Fushimi Sake District 伏見の酒蔵
Fushimi Sake District is such a hidden gem! It is a historical sake-brewing neighborhood with a distinctive old-school charm, dotted with around 40 well-preserved nihonshu sake breweries.
Go for the jikkokubune wooden boat cruise that brings you along the district’s river. The picturesque journey takes about 1 hour, running in the daytime from April to late November at JPY1200 (USD8.50).
Access To Fushimi Sake District
From Fushimi Inari Shrine, take the Keihan Main train line from Fushimi Inari Station to Chushojima Station (16 minutes, JPY210 (USD1.50))
From Kyoto Station, board the Kintetsu-Kyoto train line to Kintetsu-Tambabashi Station then take a short walk to Tambabashi Station. There, take the Keihan Main train line to Chushojima Station (20 minutes, JPY550 (USD4)).
From Chushojima Station, walk about 5-10 minutes.
Eastern Kyoto (Higashiyama)
6. Philosopher’s Path 哲学の道
Start your walking tour here on the most beautiful street in the world. This photogenic path is lined with hundreds of sakura trees along a canal, making it an adored Instagrammable spot during the cherry blossom season.
In the summer, you may spot glowing fireflies in the evening as the day cools down. Even hydrangeas bloom along this pleasant path during the rainy season.
The 1-mile path is lined with quaint cafes and boutiques. Ao Onigiri is one of such charming eateries, known for its handmade rice balls.
Access To Philosopher’s Path
From Kyoto Station, take the Karasuma train line to Marutamachi Station.
Then, exit and walk shortly to Karasuma Marutamachi bus stop where you take Kyoto City Bus numbers 93 or 204 to the Kinrinshako-mae bus stop (30 minutes, JPY490 (USD3.50)). From there, walk for about 5 minutes.
7. Okazaki Jinja Shrine 岡崎神社
An Insta-worthy spot off the beaten path is Okazaki Jinja Shrine, also known as Usagi Jinja (Rabbit Shrine) among locals. It is possibly the cutest shrine in Kyoto!
The shrine grounds are awash with scores of bunny sculptures, images, and figurines. Let’s see if you can spot all of them for Instagram! Its omamori charms and omikuji fortune slips are also popular for their adorable bunny designs.
Okazaki Jinja Shrine
Address: 51, Okazaki-higashi-tennoucho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoton
Opening Hours: 9.00 am – 5.00 pm | Opens daily
Entrance Fee: Free
Access
From Philosopher’s Path, it’s an easy 10-minute walk.
From Kyoto Station, take the Karasuma train line to Marutamachi Station. Then, exit and walk shortly to Karasuma Marutamachi bus stop where you take Kyoto City Bus numbers 93 or 204 to the Okazaki Jinja-mae bus stop (30 minutes, JPY490 (USD3.50)).
8. Gion District 祇園
Gion is Kyoto’s center of traditional arts and entertainment, preserving its atmospheric charms well into the modern world. Exploring on foot is the best to soak in its old-world vibes that whisk you to another era.
Just stroll the cobbled streets and discover its many Instagrammable corners on your own. It’s appealing both in daylight and at night. The latter is recommended for a chance encounter with geishas, along Hanami-koji Street.
Access To Gion District
From Okazaki-jinja Shrine, take a 30-minute walk and stop by Chion-in Temple or Maruyama Park ( cherry blossom spot!) along the way.
From Kyoto Station, take Kyoto City bus numbers 86 or 206 which stops directly in Gion (25 minutes, JPY230 (USD2)).
9. Yasaka Pagoda 八坂の塔
Soaring tall in Eastern Kyoto, Yasaka Pagoda is another iconic landmark you cannot miss as one of the most Instagrammable places in Kyoto.
It is part of Hokan-ji Temple that has mostly been destroyed by earthquakes, fires, and wars over the centuries. Today, it stands alone in the photogenic Yasaka Street.
The best place to snap aesthetic shots is in the middle of Yasaka Street at dusk when it’s framed by the setting sun, wooden houses, and glowing lanterns.
Yasaka Pagoda
Address: 388 Yasaka Kami-machi, Kiyomizu Higashiyama Ward
Opening Hours: 10.00 am to 3.00 pm. Opens irregularly.
Entrance Fee: JPY400 (USD3)
Access
From Gion, It’s a quick 5-10 minutes walk.
From Kyoto Station, board Kyoto City bus number 206 to Gion or Kiyomizu-michi bus stop then walk for 5 minutes (20 minutes, JPY230 (USD2)).
10. Yasaka Koshindo Temple 八坂庚申堂
Yasaka Koshindo Temple is said to be the most colorful and Instagrammable temple in Kyoto, which makes this hidden gem a must-visit for a pop of color on your social feed.
It has only recently gained popularity in mainstream media.
Hanging garlands of vibrant kukurizaru balls are the main features. These “balls” are monkey talismans bound at their hands and feet, to symbolize concentration. Locals like to take selfies here in their yukata or kimono; rent one if you’d like to do the same!
Yasaka Koshindo Temple
Address: 390−1 Kinencho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto
Opening Hours: 9.00 am – 5.00 pm | Opens daily
Entrance Fee: Free
Access
From Yasaka Pagoda, walk for 1 minute and you’ve arrived!
From Kyoto Station, board Kyoto City bus number 206 to Kiyomizu-michi bus stop then walk for 5 minutes (20 minutes, JPY230 (USD2)).
11. Ninenzaka 二年坂 & Sannenzaka 三年坂
Savor the atmosphere of old Kyoto on the gentle slopes of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka.
These scenic pedestrian-only streets are lined with artisanal stores, old restaurants, machiya townhouses, and private homes preserved in their wooden front.
There aren’t any overhead power lines here, in keeping with the classical ambiance. Even the Kyoto Ninenzaka Yasaka Chaya Starbucks is designed into a 100-year-old house, with tatami seats that make it a great Instagrammable spot!
Access To Ninenzaka & Sannenzaka
From Yasaka Koshindo Temple, just walk for 3 minutes.
From Kyoto Station, board Kyoto City bus number 206 to Kiyomizu-michi bus stop then walk for 5 minutes (20 minutes, JPY230 (USD2)).
12. Kiyomizu-dera Temple 清水寺
A celebrated World Heritage Site, Kiyomizu-dera Temple is one of the most famous locations in Japan. Its majestic wooden terrace protruding from the main hall, on a lush hillside, offers a panoramic view of Kyoto!
It holds many interesting highlights, but what makes this temple one of the most Instagrammable places in Kyoto is its stunning views during fall and spring.
In fall, a display of blazing maple leaves surrounds the temple’s grand structures. In spring, more than 1,500 sakura cherry blossom trees bloom in a surreal pink wonderland that will take your breath away.
Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Address: 1-294, Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto
Opening Hours: 6.00 am – 6.00 pm | Opens daily
Entrance Fee: JPY400 (USD3)
Access
The end of Sannenzaka is the lively Matsubara-dori shopping street that takes you to Kiyomizu-dera Temple in 5-10 minutes on foot.
From Kyoto Station, board Kyoto City bus number 206 to Gojo-zaka or Kiyomizu-michi bus stop (20 minutes, JPY230 (USD2)). From there, walk uphill for about 10 minutes.
13. Kamo River 鴨川
The Kamo River is an idyllic oasis that stretches along Kyoto city.
The riverbanks are spotted with visitors and locals taking quiet strolls, enjoying picnics, dining at terraces overlooking the river, and photographing for Instagram.
It is romantic when the sun sets, as the river reflects soft glows of lanterns and streetlights. A great photo spot is where stepping stones are lined across the river. Stand on one and have a shot taken with you right in the middle of Kamo River!
Access To Kamo River
From Kiyomizu-dera Temple, just walk for 20-minutes. Once arrived, stroll along the river upwards towards the north, as that stretch is lovely.
Alternatively from Kyoto Station, walk 10 minutes toward the east.
Western Kyoto (Arashiyama)
14. Arashiyama Bamboo Forest 嵐山竹林
One of the most photographed spots in Japan is the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest.
It is also known as the Sagano Bamboo Grove. Here, paved walkways are shadowed by rustling bamboo trees, emerald green in any season. Truly an Instagrammable destination like nowhere else!
A cheeky tip to avoid crowds:
Enter Arashiyama Bamboo Grove through Tenryu-ji Temple’s north exit. From there, head left and enjoy relatively quiet paths. It costs JPY500 (USD3.50) to enter Tenryu-ji Temple; worth it to skip crowds and you get to see a World Heritage Site!
Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
Address: Sagatenryuji Tateishicho, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto
Opening Hours: 24 hours. Opens daily
Entrance Fee: Free
Access
From Kyoto Station, take the JR San-in Main train line to Saga-Arashiyama Station (15 minutes, JPY240 (USD2)). From there, walk for about 15 minutes.
15. Togetsukyo Bridge 渡月橋
A stone’s throw away from the Bamboo Forest is the Togetsukyo Bridge, Arashiyama’s most recognizable landmark that you shouldn’t miss.
This historic wooden bridge crosses the Katsura River in front of rolling mountains. It is one of the most Instagrammable places in Kyoto, against an unobstructed backdrop of crimson fall foliage or springtime sakura blossoms.
Take a break at the stylish % ARABICA nearby. This artisanal coffee shop with a minimalist aesthetic overlooks Togetsukyo Bridge and its scenic surroundings.
Togetsukyo Bridge
Address: 1-5 Sagatenryuji Susukinobabach, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto
Opening Hours: 24 hours. Opens daily
Entrance Fee: Free
Access
From Bamboo Forest, just take a 15-minutes walk here.
From Kyoto Station, get on the JR San-in Main train line to Saga-Arashiyama Station (12 minutes, JPY240 (USD2)). From there, walk for about 10 minutes.
16. Kimono Forest キモノフォレスト
Arashiyama’s Kimono Forest is a permanent art installation celebrating the rich culture and colors of the Japanese kimono. It is made up of about 600 pillars displaying a mix of traditionally-dyed kimono fabric patterns.
I stumbled on Kimono Forest by chance within the Randen Arashiyama Train Station and recommend this underrated Instagrammable spot! This “forest” is illuminated daily after dark, drawing you into its magical, immersive world.
Kimono Forest
Address: 20-2, Sagatenryuji Tsukurimichi Town, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto
Opening Hours: 24 hours. Illumination starts from sunset. Opens daily
Entrance Fee: Free
Access
From Togetsukyo Bridge, it’s just a quick 5-minutes walk.
From Kyoto Station, get on the JR San-in Main train line to Saga-Arashiyama Station (15 minutes, JPY240 (USD2)). From there, walk for about 8 minutes.
Outer Kyoto
17. Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple 愛宕念仏寺
While there are over 2,000 shrines and temples in Kyoto, none are as unique as this hidden gem. Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple greets adventurous visitors with 1,200 carved stone statues in many whimsical facial expressions.
Some smile, some laugh, and some hold little curiosities. These moss-covered statues lend such a curious atmosphere to this secluded temple.
Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple
Address: 2-5 Saga Torii-moto Fukatani-cho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto
Opening Hours: 8.00 am to 5.00 pm | Opens daily
Entrance Fee: JPY300 (USD2)
Access
From Kyoto Station, get on the JR San-in Main train line to Saga-Arashiyama Station (15 minutes, JPY240 (USD2)). From there, the easiest way is to take a 5-minute taxi ride for about JPY1,000 (USD7). Alternatively, walk uphill for about 1 hour.
18. Kifune Jinja Shrine 貴船神社
Also referred to as Kifune Shrine, this charming shrine is nestled in Kibune town within Kyoto’s northern mountains.
The most Instagrammable spot here is its otherworldly stone stairway leading to the shrine’s entrance, lined with vermilion Kasuga lanterns. Surely you’ve seen photographs of this enchanting stairway blanketed in snow!
Winter is one of the best times to visit, though it offers beautiful scenery too in warmer seasons like spring and summer. From May to September, you can experience Kibune town’s famous kawadoko dining concept on seated platforms that “float” over rivers.
Kifune Jinja Shrine
Address: 180 Kuramakibune-cho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto
Opening Hours: 6.00 am – 6.00 pm | Opens daily
Entrance Fee: Free
Access
From Kyoto Station, take the Karasuma train line to Kokusai-kaikan Station, where you’ll board bus number 52 to Kibune-guchi bus stop. Then walk 2 minutes to Kibune-guchi Eki-mae bus stop to board bus number 33 that takes you to Kibune bus stop.
This journey takes about an hour and costs JPY740 (USD5.50).
From there, walk for about 5 minutes.
19. Shoju-in Temple 正寿院
Shoju-in Temple is hidden in Kyoto’s tea-growing region of Uji, specifically Ujitawara town. Lately, this shrine has hit social media with the cutest, Instagrammable heart-shaped “Window of “Happiness” that opens up to a garden.
It displays a different view each season, from deep green in the summer to snowy white in the winter. On a sunny day, visit in the mid-afternoon between 3.00pm to 4.00pm to catch sight of a heart-shaped sunbeam on the floor, shining through the window.
Shoju-in Temple
Address: 149, Okuyamada Kawakami, Ujitawara, Tsuzuki, Kyoto,
Opening Hours: 9.00 am – 4.00 pm | Opens daily
Entrance Fee: JPY400 (USD3)
Access
From Kyoto Station, take the Nara train line to Uji Station (15 minutes, JPY240 (USD2)). From JR Uji Station, board Keihan Uji bus number 186 to Okuyamada Shojuin-guchi bus stop (40 minutes, JPY650 (USD4.50)). Then, walk for about 10-15 minutes.
Alternatively, for a fuss-free journey grab a taxi from Uji Station to Shoju-in Temple, which takes 30 minutes and costs approximately JPY5000 (USD35)
20. Daigo-ji Temple 醍醐寺
Daigo-ji Temple is a World Heritage Site set on a pleasant hillside. The temple’s classic Japanese ambiance puts it on this list of most Instagrammable places in Kyoto.
Capture magnificent views at its elegant Sanboin building, followed by the Benten-do hall. Set on a small island surrounded by a tranquil lake, Benten-do hall is framed by the mountain’s ginkgo and maple trees, especially exquisite in fall.
Daigo-ji Temple
Address: 22, Daigohigashiojicho, Fushimi Ward, Kyoto
Opening Hours: 9.00am to 4.30pm | Opens daily
Entrance Fee: Varies from JPY500 (USD3.50)
Access
From Kyoto Station, take the Tokaido-Sanyo train line to Yamashina Station then transfer to the Tozai Subway line and get off at Daigoji-mae Station (40 minutes, JPY410 (USD3)).
21. Yokoku-ji Temple 楊谷寺
Also known as Yanagidani Kannon, locals visit this “Temple of Hydrangeas” for its extraordinary view of 5,000 blossoming hydrangeas every June in the early summer.
It is also beautiful in the autumn. Yokoku-ji Temple is so well off of the beaten path that public transportation here is barely available. Will you take up the challenge and journey to this secret Instagrammable spot?
Yokoku-ji Temple
Address: 2, Jododani, Nagaokakyo-shi, Kyoto
Opening Hours: 9.00am to 5.00pm | Opens daily
Entrance Fee: Varies from JPY200 (USD1.50)
Access
From Kyoto Station, take the Tokaido-Sanyo train line to Nagaokakyo Station, transfer to Keihan Bus number 90 to Hankyu Nishiyama Tennozan bus stop (35 minutes, JPY450 (USD23.50)). Then, grab a 10-minute taxi ride for about JPY2000 (USD14).
FAQs on Instagrammable Places in Kyoto
Is Kyoto Worth Visiting?
Yes, Kyoto is worth visiting and should top any traveler’s Japan itinerary. It’s the most beautiful art and cultural destination in Japan. Kyoto has many of the best Japanese shrines, temples, festivals, gardens, food, artisans, and historical landmarks in the country. It is a must-visit in any season of the year.
・When Is The Best Time To Visit Kyoto?
The best times to visit Kyoto are in fall (October to November) and spring (March to May). The weather is fine and the views are spectacular. Kyoto can be visited any time of the year; though it’s hot and humid in the summer (June to August) and chilly in winter (December to February).
How Many Days Should I Spend In Kyoto?
You should spend at least two full days in Kyoto to enjoy some of the city’s most popular attractions. If you have the time, it’s recommended to spend a week in Kyoto to explore and experience the best cultural, historical, and world-famous sights that Japan’s ancient capital is celebrated for.
Instagrammable Places In Tokyo
・Shibuya Scramble Crossing
・Meiji Jingu Shrine
・Sensoji Temple
・Tokyu Plaza Omotesando
・Tokyo Tower
・Shinjuku Kabukicho
・Todoroki Valley
・Gotokuji Temple
・Nezu Shrine
・Meguro River
・TeamLab Planets Tokyo
Conclusion
There you have it, the most Instagrammable places in Kyoto you shouldn’t miss! I’m sure these charming spots will capture your heart and fulfill your travel aesthetic needs.
Kyoto Tower and Nijo Castle are also Insta-genic spots worth visiting if you’ve got extra time! As with any country you travel to, remember to respect the environment and locals who frequent spiritual spots as places of worship.
Kyoto is the cultural heart of Japan, home to countless modern and historical sights that have captivated avid photographers like yourself. It is an unforgettable destination in Japan that you should visit at least once in a lifetime.
Make sure to include these Instagrammable places in Kyoto in your itinerary!
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