The World Heritage Site, Kinkaku-ji Temple, is Kyoto’s most popular tourist destination, with over 500,000 visitors per year.
In fact, there are many hidden gems and Instagram-worthy spots scattered around the area.
This time, we will introduce some hidden spots around Kinkakuji Temple.
table of contents
Ryoanji Temple (20 minutes from Kinkakuji Temple)
Image source: Kinukake no Michi This Zen temple is registered as a World Heritage Site, and its rock garden in particular is highly regarded both in Japan and overseas as a masterpiece of “karesansui” (dry landscape garden).
The garden, which consists of 15 stones arranged on white sand, is known for its mysterious design in which none of the stones are visible from any vantage point at the same time, and is also known as the “Garden of Enlightenment. “
The temple grounds also include the “Kyou-chi Pond,” a scenic spot where cherry blossoms in spring and autumn leaves are reflected on the water’s surface in autumn.
Furthermore, the stone basin engraved with the words “Thou shalt be content” resonates in the hearts of many visitors as a life lesson.
It is just a 20-minute walk from Kinkakuji Temple, making it a famous spot well worth visiting.
address 13 Ryoanji Goryo no Shitacho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture access 35 minutes by JR bus from JR Kyoto Station, get off at the bus stop: Ryoanji-mae, a short walk away Opening times 8:00-17:00 (8:30-16:30 from December to February) Closed Day none Fee Adults 600 yen
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Ninnaji Temple (10 minutes from Kinkakuji Temple)
Image source: Ninna-ji Temple official website It is an ancient Shingon Buddhist temple and is known as a famous spot for viewing Omuro cherry blossoms.
This temple is also registered as a World Heritage Site, and its five-story pagoda and main hall in particular have an overwhelming presence.
The Omuro Palace is a precious building that conveys the residence of an aristocrat from the Heian period to the present day, and it harmonizes beautifully with the elegant garden .
In early April, the approximately 200 Omuro cherry trees are in full bloom, making it a popular hidden spot where you can enjoy late-blooming cherry blossoms.
Additionally, there are many buildings of great historical value remaining, such as the national treasures of the Sutra Repository and the Emperor’s Palace, making it a place history fans cannot miss.
address 33 Omuro-Ouchi, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture access 3 minutes walk from Omuro-Ninnaji Station on the Keifuku Electric Railway Opening times March to November / 9:00 to 17:00 (last entry at 16:30) Closed Day none Fee Adults: 500 yen
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Kitano Tenmangu Shrine (30 minutes from Kinkakuji Temple)
Image source: Kitano Tenmangu Shrine official website This shrine enshrines Sugawara no Michizane, known as the god of learning, and is crowded with many worshippers during exam season.
The Tenjin Market, held on the 25th of every month, is a famous Kyoto tradition, with around 1,000 stalls selling antiques, used clothing, food and more .
Additionally, there are approximately 2,000 plum trees planted within the temple grounds, and the Plum Blossom Festival held from February to March is a spectacular sight.
In particular, drinking matcha while surrounded by the scent of plum blossoms at the “Nodate Kasa Chashiki” (open-air tea ceremony) is a special experience that can only be enjoyed in Kyoto.
It is within walking distance of Kinkakuji Temple or by bus.
address Bakuro-cho, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture, 602-8386 access A short walk from the city bus stop “Kitano Tenmangu-mae” Opening times 7:00-17:00 Closed Day none Fee Free entry to the temple grounds, 500 yen for the treasure hall
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Toji-in Temple (15 minutes from Kinkaku-ji Temple)
Image source: Toji-in Temple official website Known as the family temple of the Ashikaga Shogunate, it is an important temple that conveys the history of the Muromachi period to the present day.
The garden in particular is highly regarded as a representative dry landscape garden of the Muromachi period.
In autumn, you can enjoy the magnificent autumn leaves, especially the deep red leaves known as “blood-stained autumn leaves.”
The temple grounds also contain the tomb of Ashikaga Takauji, making it a place of great historical value.
With relatively few tourists, it has been attracting attention in recent years as a hidden gem where you can quietly experience history and nature.
address 63 Tojiin Kitamachi, Kita-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture 603-8346 access Take the Keifuku Electric Railway to “Tojiin-Ritsumeikan University Kinugasa Campus” station and walk for about 10 minutes Opening times 9:00-16:30 (last entry at 16:00) Closed Day 9:00-16:30 (last entry at 16:00) Fee Adults 600 yen Children 300 yen
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Daitokuji Temple (5 minutes from Kinkakuji Temple)
Image source: Daitokuji Temple official website This famous temple is known as the head temple of the Rinzai sect of Buddhism and is home to numerous important cultural properties and national treasures.
The garden at Daisen-in Temple in particular is highly regarded as a masterpiece of dry landscape gardens.
The small temples known as Tatchu each have their own garden with a different atmosphere, allowing you to experience the world of Zen .
You can also enjoy vegetarian cuisine at Jukoin, experiencing the culture unique to Zen temples.
Another attractive feature is its proximity to Kinkakuji Temple, just five minutes away, and it is recommended for those looking for a tranquil atmosphere.
address 〒603-8231 53 Daitokuji-cho, Murasakino, Kita-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture access Get off at the city bus stop “Daitokuji-mae” and walk for 5 minutes Opening times 9:00-17:00 Closed Day none Fee Free entry to the temple grounds, 500 yen for the treasure hall
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Ginkakuji Temple (35 minutes from Kinkakuji Temple)
Image source: Ginkakuji Temple official website Its official name is “Jishoji Temple” and it is a temple that embodies the essence of Muromachi culture.
The Kannon Hall, also known as the Silver Pavilion, is famous as an architectural masterpiece that symbolizes the beauty of wabi-sabi .
The view from Kogetsudai is particularly spectacular, and it blends beautifully with the garden.
The garden, with its unique designs such as “Ginshadan” (Silver Sand Beach) and “Kogetsuda (Moon-Moon Platform),” is said to be the pinnacle of Japanese gardens.
Additionally, the Philosopher’s Path around the temple is known as a famous spot for viewing cherry blossoms and autumn leaves, and is a popular walking course.
Although it is a little far from Kinkakuji Temple, it is a must-see tourist spot.
address 2 Ginkakuji-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture 606-8402 access Get off at the city bus stop “Ginkakuji-mae” or “Ginkakuji-michi” and walk for about 5-10 minutes. Opening times March to November 8:30-17:00 Closed Day none Fee Adults: 500 yen, elementary and junior high school students: 300 yen
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Hirano Shrine (5 minutes from Kinkakuji Temple)
Image source: Hirano Shrine official website This shrine is known as a famous cherry blossom viewing spot, with around 60 varieties of cherry blossoms planted.
In particular, the “Sakigake Sakura” is famous as the earliest cherry blossom in Kyoto.
In addition, during the Cherry Blossom Festival held every April, the area is lit up at night, allowing you to enjoy a fantastic night view of the cherry blossoms.
Within the temple grounds is a Nadeshiko cherry tree that is over 400 years old, and its graceful appearance captivates many visitors.
Another attractive feature is its proximity to Kinkaku-ji Temple, just a five-minute walk away, and it is a popular place of relaxation for locals during cherry blossom season.
address 1 Hiranomiya Honmachi, Kita-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture access From JR Kyoto Station, take the city bus to “Kinugasa School Front” and walk for about 3 minutes. Opening times 6:00-17:00 (only during cherry blossom season, from sunset to around 21:00) Closed Day none Fee free
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Imamiya Shrine (10 minutes from Kinkakuji Temple)
Image source: Imamiya Shrine official website It is known as the birthplace of Aburimochi, and Yakimochi in particular is a popular local delicacy among visitors.
The Yasurai Festival is an ancient festival that has been held since the Heian period and is famous as an event to pray for the elimination of epidemics.
The god of “Tamanokoshi” is enshrined within the precincts, and many visitors come to pray for good relationships.
In particular, the Ogame Ceremony held every October attracts many worshippers, as it is said that wishes will come true if you stroke the back of a large turtle placed within the shrine grounds.
Located just a 10-minute walk from Kinkaku-ji Temple, this shrine continues to convey the faith of local people.
address 21 Murasakino Imamiya-cho, Kita-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture, 603-8243 access Get off at “Imamiya Jinja-mae” on the city bus. Opening times Shrine office: 9:00-17:00, free visit Closed Day none Fee Free entry to the temple grounds
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Kinugasayama (20 minutes from Kinkakuji Temple)
Image source: YAMAP Although it is a low mountain with an altitude of 198 meters, it is a spectacular spot that offers a panoramic view of Kyoto city.
From the summit you can see not only Kinkaku-ji Temple, but also Kyoto Tower and Mount Hiei.
It is a popular walking course where you can enjoy nature throughout the seasons, with cherry blossoms in the spring and autumn leaves in the fall.
Also in the mountains is Kinugasayama Jizoin Temple, where you can find peace and tranquility.
Another appealing feature is that it is only about a 20-minute walk from Kinkakuji Temple, making it a great spot to refresh yourself between sightseeing.
Funaokayama (15 minutes from Kinkakuji Temple)
Image source: Yahoo! Travel This artificial mountain was built as a key point to protect the evil spirits of the former Heian-kyo capital, and from an altitude of 112 meters it offers a panoramic view of the city of Kyoto.
The view at dusk is particularly spectacular, and you can enjoy the beautiful night view with the city lit up.
In spring, about 1,000 cherry trees bloom in full glory, making it a popular cherry blossom viewing spot for locals.
In addition, Funaokayama Park is located at the summit, where you can enjoy a relaxing picnic.
It’s just a 15-minute walk from Kinkakuji Temple, making it easy to drop in.
Myoshinji Temple (15 minutes from Kinkakuji Temple)
Image source: Myoshinji Temple official website It is the head temple of the Myoshinji school of the Rinzai sect of Buddhism, and its vast grounds contain as many as 46 sub-temples, giving it the nickname “the University of Zen Temples.”
The garden at Taizoin Temple in particular is known for its unique design that depicts a dragon.
Additionally, the painting of a cloud dragon in the Hatto Hall is a masterpiece and has been designated a national treasure.
It is also possible to experience morning zazen and copying sutras, making it a rare spot where you can experience the world of Zen.
At Myoshinji Hanazono Kaikan, you can also enjoy vegetarian cuisine and experience Zen culture in its entirety.
address 〒616-8035 Kyoto City, Ukyo Ward, Hanazono Myoshinji-cho 1 access About 5 minutes walk from Hanazono Station Opening times 9:00-12:00, 13:00-16:00 Closed Day none Fee Adults: 500 yen
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Kyoto Botanical Gardens (15 minutes from Kinkakuji Temple)
Image source: Kyoto Prefecture official website It is one of Japan’s leading comprehensive botanical gardens, with approximately 12,000 species of plants cultivated across a vast 12-hectare site.
You can enjoy seasonal flowers in the greenhouse, as well as various plants throughout the year, such as cherry blossoms in the spring and autumn leaves in the fall.
The Great Lawn in particular is a popular place for local residents to relax and enjoy picnics and leisurely strolls.
The Botanical Garden Hall also hosts plant-related exhibitions and lectures, making it a useful place of learning.
address Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture, Sakyo Ward, Shimogamo Hangicho access Subway “Kitayama Station” Exit 3 Opening times 9:00-17:00 (entry until 16:00) Closed Day December 28th – January 4th Fee Adults: 200 yen,
Kamigamo Shrine (30 minutes from Kinkakuji Temple)
Image source: Let’s go to Kyoto Its official name is Kamo Wakeikazuchi Shrine and it is one of the oldest shrines in Japan.
It is also registered as a World Heritage Site, and sacred ritual spaces from ancient times, particularly the Hosodono and Tachisuna, still remain today.
The Aoi Festival, held every May, is famous as one of Kyoto’s three major festivals.
Within the grounds, there remains a “shake townscape” with trees over 600 years old, making for a picturesque stroll.
Additionally, the Mitarai River that runs through the temple grounds is bustling with people enjoying the cool weather in the summer.
address 339 Kamigamomotoyama, Kita-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture access From Kitayama Station, take city bus route 4 for 11 minutes, get off at “Kamigamo Jinja-mae” bus stop, and then walk for a short distance Opening times 5:30-17:00 Closed Day none Fee Free entry to the temple grounds (500 yen for special visit to the main hall)
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Shimogamo Shrine (20 minutes from Kinkakuji Temple)
Image source: Shimogamo Shrine official website Its official name is Kamo Mioya Shrine, and it is registered as a World Heritage Site along with Kamigamo Shrine.
“Tadasu no Mori” is known as a virgin forest, creating a mysterious space in the city.
The Mitarashi Festival, held every July, is known as a rare Shinto ritual in which people soak their feet in the water to pray for good health.
Additionally, the Mitarai River within the temple grounds is the venue for the Summer Used Book Festival, which is a popular summer event and attracts many visitors.
address 59 Shimogamo Izumigawacho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture access A short walk from Shimogamo Jinja-mae city bus stop Opening times 6:00-17:00 Closed Day none Fee Free entry to the temple grounds
Kamogawa (35 minutes from Kinkakuji Temple)
This is one of Kyoto’s most famous rivers, and during the summer especially, riverside platforms are set up along the river, making it a seasonal feature of the city.
The riverbank is a popular place for local residents to relax, and is bustling with people enjoying jogging, cycling, barbecues, and other activities.
In spring, the rows of cherry blossom trees are beautiful, and in autumn, the autumn leaves are reflected on the river’s surface, making it a spectacular spot.
Kamogawa Delta is also a famous meeting spot for young people, and you can enjoy a unique atmosphere at dusk.
Takagamine (20 minutes from Kinkakuji Temple)
Image source: Maimai Kyoto This hilly area is located in the northern part of Kyoto City and once flourished as a villa area for aristocrats.
In particular, Koetsuji Temple is known as a precious temple that conveys the artistic world of Hon’ami Koetsu to the present day.
Additionally, the “Window of Enlightenment” and “Window of Mayoi” at Genko-an are famous for being architectural pieces that express the Zen worldview.
The walking path offers a panoramic view of Kyoto city, and is a popular spot for scenic views, especially during the autumn foliage season.
Daikakuji Temple (30 minutes from Kinkakuji Temple)
Image source: Daikakuji Temple official website The temple was originally a detached palace of Emperor Saga, and is characterized by its vast garden centered around Osawa Pond.
In particular, the autumn leaves reflected in the pond are known as “upside-down autumn leaves” and are a spectacular sight.
Additionally, the Shinden Hall is a valuable structure that continues to convey the Heian period’s Shinden-zukuri style.
The Daikakuji Cherry Blossom Festival is held in the spring, and the temple is also lit up at night.
It is also a popular photo spot and is garnering attention on social media.
address Kyoto City, Ukyo Ward, Saga Osawacho 4 access Approximately 20 minutes walk from JR Saga-Arashiyama Station Opening times 9:00-17:00 Closed Day None, Fee Adults 500 yen,
Koryuji Temple (30 minutes from Kinkakuji Temple)
Image source: Journey to National Treasures Known as the oldest temple in Kyoto, it is home to the National Treasure “Maitreya Bodhisattva Half-seated Pensive Statue.”
This Buddha statue is called “Treasure Crowned Maitreya” and is highly regarded as a masterpiece representing Buddhist art of the Asuka period.
Within the grounds is the “Five-Needle Pine,” a tree that is over 800 years old and is popular as a power spot.
At the Goshiba Festival held every March, five types of plays are dedicated and visitors can enjoy traditional performing arts.
address 〒616-8162 Kyoto City Ukyo Ward Uzumasa Hachiokacho 32 access 1 minute walk from Uzumasa Koryuji Station Opening times 9:00-17:00 (December to February: 9:00-16:30) Closed Day none Fee Adults: 800 yen
Arashiyama (45 minutes from Kinkakuji Temple)
Image source: Rakuten Travel It is one of Kyoto’s most famous tourist spots, and the view from Togetsukyo Bridge is particularly famous.
The bamboo forest path is a popular photo spot, and you can enjoy the beauty of the charming bamboo forest as you stroll through it.
You can enjoy the scenery of each season, such as cherry blossoms in the spring and autumn leaves, and the autumn foliage is particularly spectacular.
There are also plenty of activities available, such as the “Trolley Train” and “Hozugawa River Cruise,” which can be enjoyed for anywhere from half a day to a full day.
Tenryu-ji Temple (20 minutes from Kinkaku-ji Temple)
Image source: Tenryu-ji Temple official website This famous Rinzai Zen temple is registered as a World Heritage Site, and the Sogenchi Garden in particular is known as a masterpiece of Japanese gardens.
The garden incorporates borrowed scenery and blends beautifully with the Arashiyama mountains behind it.
There are also many other things to see, such as the famous ceiling painting “Cloud Dragon” and the “Tahoden Hall”, an important cultural property.
The autumn leaves are especially beautiful, and the gardens in the early mornings offer a tranquil atmosphere that makes you feel like you’re in the world of Zen.
address 68, Munobaba-cho, Sagatenryuji, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture access Approximately 13 minutes on foot from JR Saga-Arashiyama Station Opening times 8:30-17:00 (However, special viewing of the Hatto “Cloud Dragon Painting” is from 9:00-16:30) Closed Day none Fee Adults: 500 yen
summary
Kinkaku-ji Temple is a World Heritage Site that represents Kyoto, and the surrounding area is dotted with many other sights.
In particular, there are world heritage sites such as Ryoanji Temple and Ninnaji Temple within walking distance, and Kitano Tenmangu Shrine and Hirano Shrine are also popular tourist spots.
There are also many long-established Japanese confectionery shops and Kyoto cuisine restaurants beloved by locals, and you can stroll around the area enjoying the charming Kyoto atmosphere.
The easiest way to get to Kinkakuji is by city bus, about 40 minutes from Kyoto Station.
If you want to efficiently explore the surrounding facilities, we recommend that you start your trip in the morning.
It gets especially busy during the autumn foliage and cherry blossom seasons, so be sure to plan your visit early.
