10 Hidden Gems in Kyoto

While everyone rushes to the famous Golden Pavilion and Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kyoto hides some amazing spots that most visitors never see.

From the peaceful Kuramadera Temple nestled in mountain forests to the magical Kimono Forest with its 600 illuminated pillars, these 10 hidden gems offer unique experiences without the crowds.

You’ll discover ancient temples, scenic boat rides, and special places that make your Kyoto trip truly unforgettable.

Let’s explore these hidden treasures one by one. 😊

1. Kuramadera Temple

a. What Makes It Special

• This peaceful mountain temple has stood since 770, surrounded by beautiful forest and nature
• The temple offers a unique blend of Buddhist teachings and ancient mountain worship
• The area is famed for tales of Tengu, mythical mountain spirits said to inhabit the surrounding forests
• Look for the special six-pointed star pattern on the ground called Kongosho – many people say they can feel its power

b. Must-See Attractions and Experiences

• Niomon Gate: Begin your temple journey here – it’s where you’ll buy your ticket and pass through the grand entrance.
• Un Tigers: Marvel at the two powerful tiger guardians that watch over the main hall.
• Main Hall (Honden): Take in the beautiful valley views and meet the three sacred Buddhist figures.
• Kongosho: Experience the temple’s energy by standing on this unique star-shaped stone pattern.
• Cable car ride: Take a scenic 2-minute ride up the mountain (or choose a 30-minute hike).
• Yuki Shrine: Visit this sub-shrine famous for its 800-year-old cedar tree.
• Bell tower: Try your hand at ringing a temple bell – something you can rarely do at other temples.

c. How to Get There

1. Take the JR Nara Line from Kyoto Station to Tofukuji Station (150 yen, 2 minutes)
2. At Tofukuji Station, transfer to the Keihan Main Line for Demachi-Yanagi Station (280 yen, 17 minutes)
3. From there, switch to the Eizan Railway Kurama Line to reach Kurama Station (470 yen, 30 minutes)
4. As you exit Kurama Station, you’ll see the Mount Kurama Daitengu Sculpture on your left
5. Take a short 5-minute walk to the temple entrance (Niomon Gate)
6. From the entrance, you can either:
   • Take the cable car at the Sanmon Station (200 yen one-way)
   • Enjoy a 30-minute walk up the mountain path

Read More: 11 Places I Regret Not Visiting in Kyoto

2. Kimono Forest

a. What Makes It Special

• You’ll discover a stunning art display with 600 see-through pillars, each wrapped in beautiful kimono fabric
• Each pillar shows off one of 32 different patterns made using Kyo-yuzen, Kyoto’s special fabric dyeing method
• When darkness falls, lights inside the pillars turn on, making the whole place glow like magic
• It’s free to visit and accessible at any time, making it a perfect addition to your Arashiyama itinerary
• Since it’s right by Randen Arashiyama Station, you can easily find it while exploring the area

b. Must-See Attractions and Experiences

• Pillar Walk: Take your time walking between these colorful pillars and get up close to see their beautiful patterns.
• Lucky Dragon Pond: Make sure to visit the special pond called “Atagoike” at the path’s end – people say it brings good fortune.
• Photo Spots: Bring your camera – especially in the evening when the lights make everything look magical.
• Rest Your Feet: After walking around, treat yourself to a relaxing foot bath at the Randen Arashiyama Station Footbath (Onsen), where you can soak your feet in herb-infused water.
• Combine with Nearby Attractions: The Kimono Forest is close to other Arashiyama highlights like the Bamboo Grove and Tenryu-ji Temple, making it easy to plan your day.

c. How to Get There

1. Take the JR San-in Line from Kyoto Station to Saga-Arashiyama Station (240 yen, 17 minutes)
2. Exit Saga-Arashiyama Station and walk for about 5 minutes towards Randen Arashiyama Station
3. The Kimono Forest is located directly outside Randen Arashiyama Station on the Keifuku Randen Line
4. As you approach the station, you’ll see the colorful pillars of the Kimono Forest lining the tracks and surrounding areas

Read More: 10 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Kyoto

3. Byodoin Temple

a. What Makes It Special

• This beautiful temple became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994, marking its importance in world history and culture
• You’ll be amazed by the Phoenix Hall – it’s been standing since 1053 and hasn’t changed since then! This makes it one of the few buildings left from the Heian Period
• The temple’s Phoenix Hall is so iconic that it’s featured on the Japanese 10-yen coin, highlighting its importance in Japanese culture
• The temple and its gardens were built to show what Buddhist paradise looks like, giving you a peaceful taste of heaven on Earth
• Inside, you’ll find many national treasures, including a stunning Amida Buddha statue and 52 Bodhisattva figures that show off the best of Buddhist art

b. Must-See Attractions and Experiences

• Phoenix Statues: Don’t forget to look up at the roof of the Phoenix Hall to spot the two golden phoenixes that gave the building its name.
• Phoenix Hall Tour: Step inside this famous building to see its beautiful design and golden Buddha statue. Tours run every 20 minutes and cost an extra 300 yen.
• Hoshokan Museum: Visit this museum to see precious items like the temple’s old bell and the original golden phoenixes that used to sit on the hall’s roof.
• Jodo-style Garden: Take your time walking through the peaceful garden, where you can see the Phoenix Hall reflected in a large pond.
• Tea Room Toka: Stop for a break at this tea house to try real Uji green tea – you can choose from matcha, gyokuro, or sencha.
• Seasonal Views: Come in spring to see cherry blossoms or in fall for red and gold leaves – the temple looks different and beautiful in every season.
• Uji River Walk: After you’ve explored the temple, take a walk along the nearby Uji River for some lovely views and a taste of local history.

c. How to Get There

1. Take the JR Nara Line from Kyoto Station to JR Uji Station (240 yen, 20 minutes)
2. Leave through JR Uji Station’s South Exit and walk about 15 minutes to Byodoin Temple

Read More: Kyoto Itinerary: Your Best 3 Days Travel Guide

4. Hozu River Boat Ride

a. What Makes It Special

• Experience a peaceful 16-kilometer boat ride down the Hozu River that takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes – it’s a journey you won’t forget
• Your ride will be on traditional wooden boats with flat bottoms, where expert guides use long bamboo poles and oars to steer you safely
• You’ll see nature at its best throughout the year – from pink cherry blossoms in spring to red and gold leaves in fall
• Get ready for a mix of gentle floating and exciting small rapids that add just the right amount of adventure
• You’re traveling a historic route that merchants used for over 400 years to carry goods between Kyoto and Osaka

b. Planning and Enjoying Your Visit

• Departure from Kameoka: Your journey begins in the quiet town of Kameoka, easily reached by train from Kyoto.
• Boat Schedule: Boats leave every hour from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM most days, but it’s good to check current times before you go.
• Scenic Views: Float through the beautiful Hozu Gorge where you’ll see mountains, interesting rock formations, and local wildlife.
• Railway Bridge: Watch trains cross the impressive JR Sanin Line Bridge above your head as you pass underneath.
• Romantic Train: Look for the Sagano Romantic Train running alongside the river – you might spot fellow sightseers waving from the tracks.

c. How to Get There

1. Take the JR Sagano Line (San-in Line) from Kyoto Station to Kameoka Station (420 yen, 20 minutes)
2. Exit through Kameoka Station’s North Exit and walk 8 minutes to reach the boat departure point

5. Shimogamo Shrine

a. What Makes It Special

• The shrine began in the 6th century – that’s even before Kyoto became a city! You’ll be walking through one of the oldest Shinto shrines in the area
• UNESCO recognizes it as one of Kyoto’s important historic places, making it truly special among the city’s many shrines
• The shrine has always been important to Kyoto, watching over both the old capital and Japan’s imperial family through the centuries

b. Must-See Attractions and Experiences

• Romon Gate: Your journey begins here, at a beautiful red two-story entrance. Take a moment to look at the hanging lanterns – each one carries the name of a shrine supporter.
• Main Sanctuary: Here you’ll find two stunning national treasure buildings. Their traditional roofs, made of cypress bark, show you the beauty of authentic Shinto architecture.
• Kawai Shrine: This smaller shrine is where people come to pray for beauty and good health. If you’re looking for these blessings, make sure to stop here!
• Kotosha Shrines: Look for seven small shrines lined up in front of the main hall. Each one protects a different zodiac sign – can you find yours?
• Tadasu no Mori Walk: Stroll through this ancient forest, enjoying the serene environment and the natural beauty that has been preserved for centuries.
• Mitarashi Dango: These sweet rice dumplings aren’t just any snack – they were first made right here at Shimogamo Shrine. Try this tasty piece of history!

c. How to Get There

1. Take the bus #4 or #205 from Kyoto Station to Shimogamo Jinja-mae stop (30 minutes, 230 yen)
2. Once you get off at Shimogamo Jinja-mae stop, you’ll find the shrine right next to it – you can’t miss it!

6. Yasaka Koshindo Temple

a. What Makes It Special

• The temple draws visitors with its colorful fabric balls – called kukurizaru – that create beautiful rainbow-like displays on its walls
• You’ll find a unique blend of three faiths here: Buddhism, Taoism, and Shinto, which makes it stand out among Koshin temples
• At its heart, the temple honors Koshin-san (also known as Shomen Kongo), a powerful guardian deity who helps people with their everyday challenges
• You’ll meet the famous three monkeys here – they remind us to stay away from wrongdoing with their “see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil” message
• If you love taking photos, you’re in for a treat – the temple’s bright decorations make for amazing pictures

b. Must-See Attractions and Experiences

• Main Hall: Step inside to discover the heart of the temple, where you’ll find important statues and offerings.
• Shomen Kongo Statue: Take your time to look at the main deity statue – you’ll recognize it by its distinctive bald head.
• Kukurizaru Wishes: Make your visit meaningful by getting your own colorful fabric ball, writing down your wish, and adding it to the temple’s decorative strings.
• Three Wise Monkeys Carvings: Near the entrance, you’ll spot wooden carvings of the three famous monkeys – each one shares an important life lesson.
• Nearby Yasaka Pagoda: Once you’re done exploring the temple, it’s just a short walk to the beautiful Yasaka Pagoda – definitely worth checking out.

c. How to Get There

1. Take the bus #86 or #206 from Kyoto Station to the Kiyomizu-michi bus stop (18 minutes, 230 yen)
2. Walk about 3 minutes from Kiyomizu-michi bus stop to Yasaka Koshindo Temple

7. Tofukuji Temple

a. What Makes It Special

• Built in 1236, Tofukuji is one of Kyoto’s top five Zen temples. You’ll experience a piece of history built by the important Fujiwara family
• The temple is famous for its fall colors – with more than 200 maple trees turning bright red and orange, it’s one of the best places in Kyoto to see autumn leaves
• You’ll find many historic treasures here, including the Sanmon Gate from 1425 – the oldest Zen temple gate still standing in Japan
• The head priest’s former home (Hojo) is surrounded by four different rock gardens, each with its own special design and feel

b. Must-See Attractions and Experiences

• Tsutenkyo Bridge: Walk across this covered bridge that’s 100 meters long. From here, you can look down at a valley full of maple trees – it’s especially beautiful in fall.
• Sanmon Gate: This tall wooden gate (22 meters high) has guardian statues and makes you feel like you’re stepping into old Japan.
• Hojo and Gardens: Take time to see all four gardens around the priest’s old house. Each one is different and tells its own story through rocks and patterns.
• Kaisando Hall: This is where they honor the temple’s first head priest. You’ll see both a rock garden and a pond garden here.
• Autumn Lights: If you visit in fall, stay until evening to see the maple trees lit up – it creates a beautiful nighttime scene.

c. How to Get There

• Take the JR Nara Line from Kyoto Station to Tofukuji Station (150 yen, 2 minutes)
• Exit JR Tofukuji Station and walk about 7 minutes to Tofukuji Temple

8. Kitano Tenmangu Shrine

a. What Makes It Special

• This beautiful shrine was built in 947 to honor Sugawara no Michizane, a famous scholar who loved learning and writing poetry
• Many students come here to pray for good luck in their studies – it’s known as one of the best places in Japan for academic success
• You’ll find a beautiful garden with 1,500 plum trees of 50 different types. These trees were chosen because they were Michizane’s favorite

b. Must-See Attractions and Experiences

• Main Shrine: The main hall was built in 1607 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and it’s filled with beautiful decorations. Make sure to take a good look!
• Plum and Maple Gardens: Come in late winter to see the plum blossoms or in autumn for colorful maple leaves. Both seasons offer amazing photo opportunities
• Stone Cow Statues: Look for the bronze cows around the shrine – giving them a gentle touch is said to help with your health and studies
• Monthly Market: Every 25th of the month, the shrine hosts a fun market where you can buy old treasures, handmade items, and try local foods. It’s a great chance to experience Japanese culture

c. How to Get There

• Take the bus #50 from Kyoto Station to the Kitano Tenmangu-mae bus stop (230 yen, 35 minutes)
• Get off at the Kitano Tenmangu-mae bus stop and walk a short distance to the shrine entrance

9. Eikando Temple

a. What Makes It Special

• You’ll find a remarkable Buddha statue here – the Amida Buddha looks back over its shoulder, which you rarely see in Buddhist temples anywhere else
• The temple becomes a natural masterpiece in fall, with more than 3,000 maple trees turning brilliant shades of red and orange, usually in November or December
• When autumn arrives, you can visit in the evening to see something magical – the temple lights up all the colorful maple trees, creating an unforgettable sight

b. Must-See Attractions and Experiences

• Tahoto Pagoda: Head up this two-level pagoda for great views. From here, you can see both Kyoto city and the whole temple layout below.
• Hojo Pond Garden: This peaceful garden has a pretty pond with stone bridges crossing it, and flowers that change with the seasons.
• Amidado Hall: Here’s where you’ll find the famous looking-back Buddha statue – definitely worth a visit to see this unique piece.
• Garyuro Corridors: These wooden walkways are fun to explore. People say when seen from above, they look like a sleeping dragon.
• Shakado (Hall of Buddha): This 400-year-old building has two special features – a small rock garden outside and sliding doors with beautiful paintings inside.

c. How to Get There

1. Take the bus #5 from Kyoto Station to the Nanzenji Eikando-michi bus stop (230 yen, 40 minutes)
2. Get off at the Nanzenji Eikando-michi bus stop and walk about 3-4 minutes to Eikando Temple

Read More: Top 17 Things to Do in Kyoto

10. Lake Biwa

a. What Makes It Special

• You’re looking at Japan’s biggest lake with fresh water – Lake Biwa has been here for more than 4 million years
• This lake is extra special because it’s one of the few “old lakes” left in the world
• You’ll find over 1,000 types of plants and animals here, including some fish that only live in this lake
• The lake isn’t just beautiful – it’s super important too, providing water for about 15 million people who live in the Kansai area
• Beautiful mountains and old towns surround the lake, making it pretty in every season

b. Must-See Attractions and Experiences

• Biwako Terrace: Take a ride up high to 1,000 meters where you’ll get amazing views of the whole lake spread out below you.
• Shirahige Shrine: Come see the famous gate that seems to float right in the lake’s water – it’s most beautiful during sunrise and sunset.
• Michigan Cruise: Hop on this charming old-style paddle boat for a relaxing ride around the lake, where you can enjoy a meal while taking in the views.
• Cycling: Rent a bike and explore the lake’s edge at your own pace – it’s a great way to enjoy the scenery.

c. How to Get There

i. Getting to Biwako Terrace

1. Take the JR Kosei Line from Kyoto Station to Shiga Station (590 yen, 40 minutes)
2. From Shiga Station, catch the bus to Biwako Valley. Buses come once every hour and the trip takes about 10 minutes
3. At Biwako Valley, hop on the ropeway that takes you to the top. You’ll find Biwako Terrace there, with amazing views over Lake Biwa

ii. Getting to Shirahige Shrine

• Take the JR Kosei Line from Kyoto Station to Omi-Takashima Station (860 yen, 45 minutes)
• From Omi-Takashima Station, you have 2 options:
  • Bicycle: You can get a bike from the tourist information desk right at the station – it’s an easy 20-minute ride to the shrine
  • Taxi: Just hop in a taxi for a quick 5-minute drive to get there

iii. Getting to Michigan Cruise

1. Take the Tokaido-Sanyo Main Line Rapid from Kyoto Station to Yamashina Station (190 yen, 4 minutes)
2. At Yamashina Station, transfer to the Keihan-Yamashina Station and hop on the Keihan-Keishin Line to Biwako-Hamaotsu Station (240 yen, 14 minutes)
3. From Biwako-Hamaotsu Station, walk to Otsu Port where you’ll find the Michigan Cruise – it’s just a quick 3-minute walk

Read More: The Best 3-Day Osaka Itinerary

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