Kyoto is one of the most naturally aesthetic cities I’ve ever been to. Here are 5 of my favorite views in Japan’s former capital!
Kamo River
Perhaps the most underrated view in Kyoto would have to be the Kamo River, a gorgeous viewpoint that is simply not talked about enough. This stunning waterway spans Kyoto station right through the city of Sanjo and across the entire Kita Ward.
The best viewing spots of the Kamo River are near the many bridges it passes through, such as the famous Sanjo Bridge. There are plenty of areas along the grass and benches where you can sit and relax in a zen-like atmosphere.
Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
If you come from a western country as I do, chances are you’ve never seen a forest of bamboo trees like Kyoto’s Arashiyama. Located in the northwestern area of Kyoto prefecture, Arashiyama’s bamboo grove takes you into a world of intimate beauty and wanderlust.
The walking trail takes about an hour and takes you through several bamboo fields, temples, monuments, parks, and river streams. I’d recommend walking through in the early morning hours when there are hardly any people and the morning air is crisp and fresh.
Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Kiyomizu-dera Temple is a popular destination for tourists visiting Kyoto, but it’s so much more than just a temple. After walking on an incline of stairs for a few kilometers, you find yourself at an altitude that delivers one of the most stunning views of Kyoto city.
From the mountainous landscape to the beautiful trees and the city buildings sandwiched in between, it is truly a site to behold. The view gets even better with the classic Kiyomizu-dera temple resting in its handmade glory and flooded with enthusiastic visitors.
Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
A site you’ve likely seen in just about any “Visit Japan” postcard is the famous orange-red gates of Kyoto’s Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine. Otherwise known as the “fox god shrine,” the theme associated with this place honors our orange furry friends in the form of statues, colors, and monuments.
I’m not here to talk about cultural heritage though, but rather about the incredible views that can be seen as you go through Fushimi Inari Taisha’s winding walking trails. This particular photo I took can only be described as a glimpse of heaven as the sun beams through the trees and stone foxes to create a holy backdrop for the shrine’s gates.
Ninenzaka
Nowhere in Japan have I been to that gives me a more “samurai vibe” than the street of Ninenzaka. A photo comparison of this province with one from hundreds of years ago and you’d hardly be able to tell the difference.
Indeed, Ninenzaka is one of the few areas of Kyoto that has maintained its cultural and architectural heritage. As you walk through the street, you’ll be astounded by the beautiful natural landscapes, the many kimono-wearers walking by, and the traditional humble shops including a ryokan-style Starbucks!
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!
