The Kyoto prefecture is considered Japan’s place of natural scenic beauty. Here are my top 5 locations of natural beauty in Kyoto!
Japan is a land surrounded by ocean and engulfed between mountains, so it’s no wonder the country is home to some of the world’s most spectacular natural scenery!
After living in Japan for 6 months and visiting on several occasions prior to that, I’ve come to realize that few places in the world can contend with the majestic beauty of the Kyoto prefecture.
1. Mukaijima
Since moving into the humble countryside town of Mukaijima in 2023, I’ve been blown away by how stunning some of Kyoto’s relatively unknown towns really are.
There’s nothing quite as visually spectacular as Japan’s farmlands, featuring rich green rice fields and misty mountain backdrops that are easy on the eye and soothing to the soul.
2. Uji
Known for its premium green tea produce, Uji is a country city that is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes that offer ideal environments for growing tea leaves.
In particular, the Uji River is one of the defining landmarks of natural beauty in the Kyoto prefecture, a wide stream of water that flows a whopping 75 kilometers through Kyoto and Osaka.
3. Arashiyama
Known for the iconic bamboo grove, Arashiyama is considered one of Kyoto’s “Places of Scenic Beauty,” a testament to its eye-catching forests, peaceful koi ponds, and grand mountains full of wanderlust.
I especially love the way Arashiyama’s forests become colorful in the autumn season as the red and gold leaves sprout out and get carried along with the wind on breezy days.
4. Kamo River
It wouldn’t be a complete list if I didn’t mention the infamous Kamo River, a place I once called my favorite spot in Japan (it’s definitely still a top 5 choice!).
The key feature of the Kamo River that separates it from the Uji River is that it’s far more inhabited by civilization, making it a better place for hanging out with friends while still offering amazing natural scenery that we can all appreciate.
5. Kiyomizu-dera
Known for the infamous Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Kiyomizu-dera is a beautiful area engulfed by thick green forests and hilltops surrounded by mountain ranges.
Given its proximity to the central Kyoto city region, awesome cityscape views can be enjoyed from Kiyomizu-dera Temple, though that does not take away from it being a naturally beautiful area showcasing the heights of mother nature!
Of course, if you are planning to visit Japan, you’ll need a way to get around the country as efficiently and affordably as possible. Japan Rail provides an abundance of travel passes to suit your travel needs. So whether you are traveling individually or as a group, the JR Pass is every traveler’s go-to for getting around and making the most of your time in Japan!
