The ancient capital of Kyoto is one of the largest and most culturally and historically rich cities in Japan. Along with that, there are hundreds of famous tourist attractions spread throughout the city, and it often takes weeks, even months to visit all the beautiful places here. However, for some reason, you can only have one day to visit and take pictures in Kyoto, making a reasonable travel plan is really difficult. You want to visit famous temples and pagodas, take pictures in famous ancient streets, and do not want to miss the bamboo forest - an extremely famous place in Kyoto.
Today I will suggest to you an itinerary that allows you to visit and take pictures of all the beautiful places mentioned above in just one day! Let's explore together 😉
First location: Yasaka no to (法観寺) .
Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/M78pCopiuvd1Vvay8
This is one of the most famous destinations, always topping the list of must-visit places when you come to Kyoto.
There are also many kimono shops around this area for you to choose from, most of which open at 9am. You can visit early to take photos of the street when it's empty, and then head to a kimono shop at 9am to rent clothes.
My favorite kimono shop is Okamoto, which has three locations around Kiyomizu-dera. The branch closest to Yasaka-no-to is the Kimono Okamoto Kiyomizu Higashiyama Shop (click HERE for the address).
*** See more of my Kimono ordering instructions HERE .
On the way from Yasaka-no-to to Kiyomizu, you'll find many shops and cafes with beautiful photography corners, so don't miss the opportunity to stop by and capture some great photos.
The next place is Ninenzaka & Sannenzaka .
Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/NB7ueBFUVi4vsPZi9
These two streets are located on the way from Yasaka-no-to to Kiyomizu, lined with many restaurants, cafes, and souvenir shops, offering plenty of opportunities to explore and enjoy.
Starbucks address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/xnShww96FfWytBWK6
After passing through the two streets, we will head to Kyomizu Dera, the temple located about 200 meters away.
Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/PGzZJ7ggYVfWAHjS9
This is a Buddhist temple with a history spanning hundreds of years. Click HERE to read more about the temple in my blog.
The next stop after exploring Kyomizu-dera is a beautiful and quiet street. When visitors arrive at Ninenzaka, most tend to walk straight ahead and return to Yasaka-no-to, unaware that just 100 meters away lies an old town called Nene-no-michi, a charming street that connects Ninenzaka to Yasaka Shrine!
Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/psKWsrpnxkQSAJK36
There are also many shops selling food, souvenirs, and hidden photo spots that very few people know about!
Let's take a look at the "secret photo angles" on this street.
The next destination, also located on this street, is Kodai-ji – a Buddhist temple with a vast courtyard, known for hosting seasonal light festivals.
Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/UiKLoK3F6eUhgkZM8
Admission to kodai-ji is 600 JPY/person.
In the fall, there is an event where the area is illuminated by red maple trees and an incredibly impressive light show. Let’s watch the light show video I filmed below:
Inside Kodai-ji there is also a “miniature version” of the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, which is of course much less crowded. It is extremely easy and convenient for taking pictures here.
Bamboo forest inside Kodai-ji.
In just half a day, we managed to capture photos of the famous temples, pagodas, old towns, and bamboo forests. However, there are still many beautiful spots awaiting us. Let's continue exploring!
The next destination, located at the end of Nene-no-machi street, is Yasaka Shrine – one of the largest Shinto shrines in Japan.
Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/SngWttbdABQLCt3Z9
Yasaka Shrine, also known as Gion Shrine, is a Shinto shrine founded in 656 BC. The main deity worshiped here is Susano, a god revered for his ability to ward off all disasters.
This is also a very famous "love-seeking" place in Kyoto. If you are single, you definitely cannot miss this place 😀
Inside this large temple there are also many beautiful photography angles.
After exploring the temple, our next stop will be the Kamo River, a majestic waterway flowing through the historic and iconic Gion district.
Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/1Frjg1ncS8uHvadm6
It is located near Gion-shijo Station, and you can either walk from Yasaka Shrine or take the bus here. The road is only about 600 meters long, so I recommend walking. Instead of waiting for the bus, you can stroll and enjoy the charming, historic streets of Gion in Kyoto.
The next location, which is also the last location of today, is located right near Gion-shijo station, the old town of Shirakawasuji, a favorite photo spot of mine.
Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/cmn2HwpbqEqepzVL8
This street is extremely popular during cherry blossom season, but in other seasons, it remains unusually quiet and peaceful, with fewer people around.
We can easily take photos here without worrying about too many people appearing in the frame.
Around there are also cafes and shops with ancient designs, very “Kyoto”. Let’s take a look at some super beautiful photo angles here:
A set of Vietnamese Ao Dai that I wore here, it blends so well with the scene, doesn't it?
A Yugata set here.
Not just during cherry blossom season, but also in red leaf season, this place stands out with many different photo-worthy angles.
At this point, we’ve wrapped up a full day of exploring Kyoto, visiting dozens of beautiful spots that are perfect for photos, leaving you with a fulfilling experience. The tips I’ve shared above aim to help you optimize your time during your trip to Kyoto. I hope it assists you in planning the best possible visit to this amazing city! Thank you for reading to the end of the article.
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Explore our useful services in Japan:
- Taking photos of individuals, couples, and families in Osaka, Kyoto, Nara: See more HERE
- Plan and schedule your trip to Japan: See more HERE
- eSim data, pocket wifi travel in Japan: See more HERE
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The article is so high quality and honest. Minh's blog is a great reference source