Kyoto, with its rich history and stunning landscapes, is a magical destination year-round.
However, summer in Kyoto adds a special touch to its charm, despite the sweltering heat and humidity.
If you’re planning a summer trip to this enchanting city, here are the top places you should not miss:
1. Fushimi Inari Taisha: A Torii Gate Wonderland
One of Kyoto’s most iconic sights, Fushimi Inari Taisha is renowned for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that create a mesmerizing tunnel up the mountain.
Early mornings or late afternoons are the best times to visit, providing cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
As you walk through the gates, the shaded paths offer a pleasant break from the summer sun.
Make sure you visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the busiest times!
The torii gate path up Mount Inari is a hike that can take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours to reach the summit.
So wear comfortable, supportive shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain!
Lastly, Kyoto’s summer heat can be intense, so carry a water bottle and stay hydrated.
2. Kinkaku-ji: The Golden Pavilion’s Shimmering Beauty
Kinkaku-ji, or the Golden Pavilion, dazzles with its gold-leaf exterior that reflects beautifully in the surrounding pond.
Visiting in the early morning helps you escape the peak heat and avoid large tourist crowds.
Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, was built in 1397 by a powerful shogun and later turned into a Zen Buddhist temple.
Its shiny gold exterior and beautiful gardens showcase the art and style of historic Japan.
The temple is a symbol of peace and is admired for its stunning beauty, making it a key cultural and historical site in Kyoto.
It’s set in a peaceful garden that changes with the seasons, offering stunning views year-round.
Visiting it gives you a glimpse into Japanese culture and provides amazing photo opportunities.
3. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: A Lush, Green Escape
Arashiyama, in Kyoto, is a charming area known for its beautiful natural scenery and historic sites.
It’s famous for the picturesque bamboo grove, where tall bamboo stalks create a magical, peaceful atmosphere.
The area is also home to the famous Togetsukyo Bridge and offers lovely spots for enjoying nature and traditional Japanese culture.
You can also visit the Iwatayama Monkey Park to see wild monkeys up close.
Tenryu-ji Temple, a beautiful and important Zen temple, is also in Arashiyama, with a garden that blends perfectly with nature.
Plus, you can find traditional crafts like hand-made fans and incense in the local shops.
While you’re at Arashiyama, you should definitely try out the famous rickshaw ride!
A rickshaw ride in Arashiyama is a charming and leisurely way to explore the area.
As you ride in a traditional, pulled rickshaw, you’ll be guided by a driver who provides insights into the local history and attractions.
The ride offers a unique view of the picturesque bamboo grove, scenic river, and historic streets, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Arashiyama at a relaxed pace.
It’s a fun and memorable way to experience the area’s traditional atmosphere.
4. Kiyomizu-dera: A Temple with a View
Kiyomizu-dera Temple, located in Kyoto, is one of Japan’s most famous and historic temples.
Founded in the late 700s, it’s renowned for its impressive wooden stage that juts out over a hillside, offering stunning views of the city and surrounding nature.
The temple is also known for its vibrant cherry and maple trees, which create beautiful scenery throughout the seasons.
Kiyomizu-dera is named after the pure water from the Otowa Waterfall that runs beneath it, and the temple is dedicated to Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy.
It’s a popular spot for both its spiritual significance and its breathtaking views.
Kiyomizu-dera is famous for its vast wooden stage that juts out over the city, offering panoramic views of Kyoto.
The temple’s elevated location provides a slight cooling breeze, making it a more comfortable visit during the hotter parts of the day.
While you’re at it, don’t forget to make a stop at Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka, which are only 5-minutes walk away from Kiyomizudera.
It’s lined with old-style shops, tea houses, and boutiques selling local crafts and sweets.
“The street’s name “Sannenzaka” means “Three-Year Hill,” and it’s believed that falling here brings good luck for three years.
Walking down Sannenzaka gives you a taste of Kyoto’s traditional atmosphere and culture.
5. Gion District: Traditional Kyoto at Its Best
Step back in time in the Gion District, Kyoto’s historic geisha quarter.
The traditional wooden machiya houses and narrow streets offer a glimpse into old Kyoto.
Evening visits are particularly enjoyable as the temperatures drop and you might catch sight of a geisha or maiko on their way to an appointment.
You can visit old-style tea houses for a traditional tea ceremony or meal.
Nearby, Yasaka Shrine is worth a visit for its beautiful grounds.
Lastly, don’t forget to shop for local crafts and souvenirs to remember your visit.
And, if you are visiting in summer, you might catch the Gion festival!
The Gion Festival is a famous and vibrant celebration held every July in Kyoto.
It’s one of Japan’s largest and oldest festivals, with a history stretching back over 1,000 years.
The festival features grand, elaborately decorated floats called “yamaboko,” which are paraded through the streets.
There are also traditional performances, music, and local food stalls.
The festival originally started as a way to ward off disease and now attracts visitors from all over the world who come to experience its lively atmosphere and cultural richness.