Kyoto, Japan’s timeless ancient capital, is renowned for its iconic temples, shrines, and palaces. But beneath the shadow of these famed landmarks lie lesser-known treasures waiting to be explored. Venture beyond the tourist trails, and you’ll discover pockets of untouched history that breathe tales from a bygone era. Dive deep into these hidden corners of Kyoto and uncover its true essence.
1.Shinnyodo Temple
Away from the throngs of tourists, Shinnyodo Temple offers a tranquil haven. With lesser crowds, one can truly appreciate its gorgeous autumn colors and the understated beauty of its architecture.
Shinnyodo Temple Information
- Address: 82 Jodoji Shinnyochō, Sakyō-ku, Kyoto, 606-8417, Japan.
- How to Get There:
- By Bus: From Kyoto Station, you can take bus numbers 5, 17, or 100. Get off at the “Kinrin Shako” bus stop. Shinnyodo Temple is a short walk from there.
- Opening Hours:
- The temple grounds are usually open from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM. However, these hours may change depending on the season or special events, so it’s a good idea to check ahead before visiting.
- Cost:
- Entering the temple grounds is generally free, but there might be a fee (usually around 500 yen) if you want to enter certain buildings or gardens, especially during peak foliage seasons.
- Recommended Visit Duration:
- About 1 to 1.5 hours should be sufficient to explore the temple grounds and enjoy its serene atmosphere.
- Official Website: https://shin-nyo-do.jp/
2.Tofukuji Funda-in (Sesshu-ji)
Historical Significance:
- Funda-in was established in 1321 during the Kamakura period as a family temple for the Ichijo clan.
- The temple is associated with the renowned ink-painter and garden designer Sesshu Toyo (1420-1506) who is said to have designed one of its gardens.
Gardens
- Funda-in is famous for its exquisite gardens. The southern garden, believed to have been laid out by Sesshu in the mid-15th century, is known as the “Garden of a Crane & a Turtle.” This garden features symbolic stone arrangements representing a crane (“Tsurujima”) and a turtle (“Kamejima”), alluding to legends in Chinese mythology including that of Mt. Horai. It’s one of the oldest dry landscape gardens in Kyoto.
- The Eastern Garden is another highlight of Funda-in, which is also attributed to Sesshu Toyo.
- Additionally, there’s a modern garden designed by Japanese garden designer Shigemori Mirei (1896–1975).
Architecture and Interiors
- Visitors can view the gardens from a wooden veranda (engawa) that runs alongside the main building, leading to a beautiful tearoom (chashitsu) with a circular window and another smaller two-mat room. The temple also has a larger Zen tearoom (Tonantei) where visitors can enjoy quiet repose, especially during less crowded times midweek.
- Although Funda-in had the misfortune of being burnt down twice in its history, the present buildings, dating from 1899, were funded by the Dowager Empress Shoken.
Visitor Experience
- Funda-in tends to be less crowded compared to the more famous and frequented gardens and halls of Tofuku-ji, providing a peaceful and undisturbed experience for visitors.
Tofukuji Funda-in (Sesshu-ji) Information
- Address: 778 Honmachi, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0981, Japan.
- How to Get There:
- you can take Kyoto buses 南5 and #208 from Kyoto Station, or #207 from Shijo Kawaramachi Station. The #202 bus also runs close to the temple.
- Opening Hours:
- Funda-in is open from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm or 4:30 pm, depending on the source.
- Please note that the temple is open on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
- Cost:
- The admission fee is 300 yen for adults and 200 yen for children.
- There’s also an option to purchase a green tea set for an additional 600 yen.
- Recommended Visit Duration:
- It’s recommended to allocate 1 to 2 hours for your visit to Funda-in, so you have ample time to explore the gardens and the temple grounds ㄆ.
- Official Website: https://funda-in.com/
3.The Backstreets of Pontocho
When visiting Pontocho, particularly in the evenings, the ambiance with the lit lanterns and traditional wooden machiya structures offers a special experience that showcases Kyoto’s rich culture.
The Backstreets of Pontocho Information
- Address: Pontocho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8016, Japan.
- How to Get There:
- By Train: The nearest train stations are Kawaramachi Station on the Hankyu Kyoto Line and Gion-Shijo Station on the Keihan Main Line. Pontocho is within walking distance from both of these stations.
- By Bus: If you’re starting from Kyoto Station, you can take city buses number 4, 17, or 205 to Shijo Kawaramachi. Once you arrive at Shijo Kawaramachi bus stop, Pontocho is just a short walk away. If you’re starting from other parts of Kyoto, you’ll need to determine the best route based on your starting point. The comprehensive bus network in Kyoto makes Pontocho easily accessible from various locations.
- Opening Hours:
- Pontocho is a street, so it’s always accessible. However, individual establishments, such as restaurants, bars, and teahouses, have their own operating hours. Many dining places and bars open in the evening, around 5:00 PM or 6:00 PM, and close late at night.
- Cost:
- There’s no fee to stroll down Pontocho. However, costs for dining or enjoying a drink vary, with options ranging from budget-friendly to high-end traditional experiences.
- Recommended Visit Duration:
- A walk from one end of Pontocho to the other might take about 15 minutes. If you’re planning to dine, drink, or immerse in the atmosphere, you might spend 2 hours or more.
4.Demachiyanagi
One notable feature of the area is the Shimogamo Shrine, one of the oldest Shinto shrines in Japan, and part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Kamogawa River also runs nearby, and the riverside is a popular spot for relaxation and occasional events.
Demachiyanagi Information
- Address: Demachiyanagi is located in the Sakyo Ward of Kyoto. A key landmark is the Demachiyanagi Station: Takano, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8204, Japan.
- How to Get There:
- By Train: The easiest way to reach Demachiyanagi is by train, via the Demachiyanagi Station which is serviced by the Keihan Main Line and the Eizan Main Line.
- By Bus: You can take Kyoto City Bus numbers 3, 4, 17, 31, 65, 67, 102, 201, 203, and many others that stop at or near Demachiyanagi. Always check current bus schedules and routes as they can change.
- Opening Hours:
- As Demachiyanagi is a district, it doesn’t have specific opening hours. However, shops and restaurants in the area will have their own operating times.
- Cost:
- There’s no cost to visit the area itself, but individual attractions, shops, or restaurants will have their own prices.
- Recommended Visit Duration:
- Depending on what you plan to do in the area, a few hours should suffice. The area offers various shopping and dining experiences, and it’s also a starting point for those heading to attractions such as the Philosopher’s Path.
5.Otagi Nenbutsu-ji
Otagi Nenbutsu-ji is a little off the beaten track compared to some of Kyoto’s other temples but is notable for its 1200 stone statues of rakan, the disciples of Buddha. Each statue is unique, and many have playful expressions, making it an intriguing place to explore. The temple offers a serene atmosphere and is especially beautiful during the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons.
Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Information
- Address: 2-5 Sagatoriimoto Fukatanicho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8439, Japan.
- How to Get There:
- By Train and Bus: The easiest way might be to take the JR Sagano Line to Arashiyama, then take a bus or taxi. The Kyoto City Bus 64 or 94 goes near Otagi Nenbutsu-ji. If you choose to walk from the Arashiyama area, it would take about 30 minutes.
- By Bus: From Kyoto Station, you can take the Kyoto Bus 62 or 72 to “Otagidera-mae” bus stop, which is just a short walk from the temple. Note that these buses don’t run very frequently, so it’s essential to check the schedule in advance.
- Opening Hours:
- Otagi Nenbutsu-ji is usually open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Cost:
- The entrance fee is typically around 300 yen for adults. Prices might vary during special events or occasions.
- Recommended Visit Duration:
- 1 to 1.5 hours should suffice to explore the temple grounds and view the unique stone statues.
- Official Website: https://www.otagiji.com/
6.Kurama and Kibune
Kurama and Kibune are located in the mountains to the north of Kyoto and are popular for their natural beauty, especially during the autumn leaf season. While visiting, many travelers enjoy the walk between Kurama and Kibune, which takes about 1-2 hours and offers beautiful forest scenery. Besides, Kibune is famous for its riverside dining platforms (kawadoko) during the summer, where you can enjoy a meal above the flowing river.
Kurama Temple (Kurama-dera) Information
- Address: 1074 Kurama Honmachi, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 601-1111, Japan.
- How to Get There:
- By Train: The most straightforward way is to take the Eizan Railway from Demachiyanagi Station in Kyoto to Kurama Station. The temple can be reached in a short hike from the station.
- By Bus: While buses are less convenient for reaching Kurama, Kyoto Bus 52 runs from Kyoto Station to Kurama.
- Opening Hours:
- 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
- Cost:
- Entry to Kurama-dera requires an admission fee of around 300 yen for adults.
- Recommended Visit Duration:
- Approximately 2-3 hours, considering the time to hike and explore the temple grounds.
- Official Website: https://www.kuramadera.or.jp/
Kibune Shrine (Kifune-jinja) Information
- Address: 180 Kuramakibunecho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 601-1112, Japan.
- How to Get There:
- By Train: Take the Eizan Railway from Demachiyanagi Station in Kyoto to Kibuneguchi Station. From there, it’s a short walk or bus ride (Kyoto Bus 33) to Kibune.
- By Bus: You can also take Kyoto Bus 33 directly from Kokusaikaikan Station.
- Opening Hours:
- 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM (times may vary slightly by season).
- Cost:
- No admission fee for the main shrine, but certain sub-shrines or specific areas may require a small fee.
- Recommended Visit Duration:
- Approximately 1-2 hours, considering the time to walk and explore the shrine area and the scenic surroundings.
- Official Website: https://kifunejinja.jp/en/
7.Keage Incline
Keage Incline is famous for its historical significance and its stunning cherry blossom views during spring. The inclined plane once served as a canal to transport boats between different levels of the canal, but today, it’s a peaceful walking path lined with cherry trees.
Keage Incline Information
- Address: Keage, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0042, Japan.
- How to Get There:
- By Train: The closest station is Keage Station on the Tozai Subway Line. Once you exit the station, it’s a short walk to the Keage Incline.
- By Bus: Kyoto City Buses 5, 46, 100, and 110 stop at “Nanzenji-Eikando-michi,” from where it’s a 10-minute walk to Keage Incline.
- Opening Hours:
- The Keage Incline is an open area, so you can visit any time. However, for the best experience and safety, it’s advisable to go during daylight hours.
- Cost:
- Free.
- Recommended Visit Duration:
- Approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour, especially during cherry blossom season when the area is particularly scenic.
8.Zuihoin Garden
Zuihoin Garden is one of the sub-temples of the large Daitokuji temple complex in Kyoto. Known for its beautiful karesansui (dry landscape) gardens, it’s a peaceful spot to contemplate and appreciate traditional Japanese garden design. The garden’s stone arrangements are particularly thought-provoking and are meant to encourage deep meditation and reflection.
Zuihoin Garden Information
- Address: 82 Daitokuji-cho, Murasakino, Kita-ku, Kyoto 603-8231, Japan.
- How to Get There:
- By Train: The nearest train station is Kitaoji Station on the Karasuma Subway Line. From there, you can take a bus or a taxi to Daitokuji, where Zuihoin is located.
- By Bus: Kyoto City Buses 101, 204, 205, and 206 stop at “Daitokuji-mae” bus stop, which is a short walk from Zuihoin Garden.
- Opening Hours:
- 9:00 am to 5:00 pm (Entry until 4:30 pm).
- Cost:
- Adult: 400 yen.
- Children: 300 yen.
- Recommended Visit Duration:
- Approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour.
9.Honen-in Temple
Honen-in Temple is nestled on the eastern mountains of Kyoto and is known for its serene environment. The temple’s moss-covered entrance gate is particularly picturesque, especially when highlighted by the changing colors of autumn leaves or cherry blossoms in spring. The temple grounds offer tranquility and are an excellent spot for meditation and reflection, making it a must-visit for those seeking a more peaceful experience in Kyoto.
Honen-in Temple Information
- Address: 82 Jodoji Shinnyochō, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8416, Japan.
- How to Get There:
- By Bus: The nearest bus stop is “Kinrin Shako” which is serviced by several bus lines. From there, the temple is just a short walk away.
- By Train: The temple isn’t located super close to a train station, but the closest ones are the Demachiyanagi and Keage Stations. You’d still need a bit of a walk or a quick bus ride from these stations.
- Opening Hours:
- Shinnyodo Temple is generally open from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM. However, hours can slightly vary depending on the season.
- Cost:
- Entering the temple grounds is free. However, there is an entrance fee for the temple’s gardens and pagoda area, which is usually around 500 yen for adults.
- Recommended Visit Duration:
- Visitors typically spend between 1 to 1.5 hours exploring the temple grounds, gardens, and pagoda.
- Official Website: http://www.honen-in.jp/
10.Gyoganji (Kodo Temple)
Gyoganji, also known as Kodo Temple, is a temple located in the Sakyo Ward of Kyoto. Like many temples in Kyoto, it offers a peaceful and serene environment for visitors, ideal for reflection and meditation. Always remember to be respectful when visiting temples, as they are places of worship and cultural significance.
Gyoganji Information
- Address: 540-1 Yasekonoecho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 601-1253, Japan.
- How to Get There:
- By Bus: You can take Kyoto City Bus routes 5 or 31 to “Yase-Hieizanguchi,” and from there it’s a short walk to Gyoganji (Kodo Temple).
- Opening Hours:
- Usually, temples in Kyoto open around 9:00 am and close around 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm. However, it’s recommended to check with local sources or the temple’s official website for specific hours, as they can vary or change due to special events or seasonal factors.
- Cost:
- Many temples in Kyoto have a modest admission fee ranging from 300 yen to 1,000 yen, but it’s best to check directly with the temple or look for signs upon arrival for the exact fee.
- Recommended Visit Duration:
- About 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- Official Website: https://kaudau.jp/
Kyoto’s charm isn’t just in its popular spots, but also in its hidden corners that echo with whispers from the past. Each uncharted path and overlooked temple is a step into a story waiting to be heard. As you wander through the ancient capital, remember to listen closely, for sometimes the quietest places speak the loudest.
Klook.com
