Boat Ride along the Uji River

Uji Itinerary: Easy Day Trip + Travel Guide Blog

by | posted in: Kansai Japan | 0

Last updated on April 27th, 2024

Read on my half-day trip to Uji from Kyoto by train. My Uji itinerary included a suggested walking route, things to do, and must-eat food in Uji.

Uji (宇治) is a historical city surrounded by mountains located conveniently between Kyoto and Nara. It can be easily reached by a less than 30 minutes train ride from Kyoto. Unlike Kyoto which is renowned for its world-class temple and shrine which is always crowded with visitors. Uji is more like a hidden gem with peaceful charm yet historical importance. It is famous for its traditional green tea and historical shrine. You will enjoy your visit to Uji where you can stroll around leisurely at your own pace.

We love matcha and Uji is one of the must-visit places in my Japan Kansai itinerary. We spend about half a day in Uji and enjoy it. Its tastefully green tea, World Heritage sites, and Tale of Genji – the world’s first novel are something that can’t miss when visiting Uji.

Read on my Uji travel guide blog with itinerary included, one of the best day trips from Kyoto.

How To Get To Uji From Kyoto

The easier and fastest transportation to get to Uji from Kyoto is by train. Two train companies are running for this route: JR and Keihan line.

From Kyoto to JR Uji station: Train runs twice every hour by JR Nara Line which departs from platforms 8, 9, and 10. The journey takes about 18 minutes for rapid and 20 minutes for the local train. The train fare is ¥240 (covered by Japan Rail Pass).

Alternatively, you can get to Keihan Uji station from Central region Kyoto by Keihan railway. Keihan Uji station is better access to major sights in Uji. However, this route took a slightly longer time, and the transfer was required. Additionally, it is run by a private company with JR pass not covered.

Alternatively, you can get to Keihan Uji station from Central region Kyoto by Keihan railway. Keihan Uji station is better access to major sights in Uji. However, this route took a slightly longer time, and the transfer was required. Additionally, it is run by a private company with JR pass not covered.

How to get around: Uji is a relatively small town and many attractions can be explored on foot. All the major attractions are nearby and well signposted. Just make sure you have wifi connectivity and comfortable shoes for walking in town.

Added, if you are arriving by JR train, drop in at the Uji Tourist Information Center which is located right in front of the station. You can pick up a free copy sightseeing map or made any inquiry at the information counter here.

Things To Do on Day Trip To Uji

There are many things to do in Uji in one day. Uji is not only famous for its top-notch quality of green tea. Here you also can find the historical temple, Byodo-in, and Ujigami. During our day trip to Uji, we do not plan to discover the historical place in depth. Instead, we spend our time enjoying the best food in Uji with a relaxing stroll within the area.

Things to do in the 1-Day Uji itinerary:

  • Taste the matcha dishes in Nakamura Tokichi Honten (1-2 hours)
  • Cross the Uji-Bashi Bridge
  • Strolling in Byondo-in Street (1 hour)
  • Visit Byondo Temple (1 hour)
  • Walk along the Uji river to Uji Park (30 minutes)

Dine in Nakamura Tokichi Honten

Dine in Nakamura Tokichi Honten

Uji is the birthplace of Japanese green tea while Nakamura Tokichi Honten is the ancestor of producing original green tea. Its green tea dessert is must eat food in Uji. You really can’t miss this place if you are going to Uji.

Nakamura Tokichi Honten is easily accessed with only a 3-minutes walk from JR Uji station. We plan to have our early lunch here before proceeding with our day trip to Uji. So, Nakamura Tokichi Honten is our first destination when we arrived at Uji in the morning.

However, don’t underrate its popularity as there were already people waiting in line. Understand that approximately 30 minutes of waiting time ahead of us which is still reasonable. So we just wrote down our names on the waiting list and wait patiently.

Wide variety of green tea product in Nakamura Tokichi Honten

While waiting, we spend our time shopping in another section next to the restaurant. There is a wide selection of green tea products, such as high-quality tea, ice cream, sweets, and noodles available here. We bought some tea packs as souvenirs back to the home country.

Finally, it’s our turn to get into the restaurant. Without hesitation, we ordered Set A and Set B as per recommended by the English spoken staff.

The Top-Notch Matcha Green Tea in Uji

Condensed green tea in Nakamura Tokichi Honten

We loved Set A which comes with condensed green tea and matcha dessert. The condensed green tea was tasted slightly bitter compared with general green tea. But the fragrance was very nice.

Green Tea Ice cream served in Nakamura Tokichi Honten

The green tea dessert served in Nakamura Tokichi Honten was amazing. The green tea ice cream was served in a bamboo cup that comes with green tea jelly, red bean, and mochi. The bitter taste of green tea perfectly matched ice cream. Great balance of flavors!

Green soba in Nakamura Tokichi Honten

While Set B comes with green tea soba and green tea set. The green tea soba was refreshing and tasted good. However, it does not rich in matcha flavor as I thought.

In short, we enjoy our green tea dining experience in Nakamura Tokichi Honten. Their food was delicious and most importantly at a reasonable price. However, both of us agree that Set A is a better choice compared with Set B.

If you are looking for what to eat in Uji, Nakamura Tokichi Honten is one of the best places for their excellent matcha. But take note that Nakamura Tokichi Honten is popular among locals and tourists. So be prepared for a long wait.

Nakamura Tokichi Honten

  • How to get there: 3 minutes wait from JR Uji station.
  • Operating hour: Daily 10:00 to 17:30

Cross the Uji-Bashi Bridge

Murasaki Shikibu Statue at south end of Uji-bashi Bridge

Next, we proceeded with our visit to Uji after the filling meal at Nakamura Tokichi Honten. About 5 minutes walk from the shops, the Uji-Bashi Bridge is the first major sight before visiting other attractions in Uji. It is one of the oldest bridges in Japan, first constructed around 646. It spans across the Uji river with fairy busy road passing over it.

You will spot the statue of Murasaki Shikibu at the south end of the Uji-Bashi Bridge. Murasaki Shikibu is Japan’s most well-known novelist. Her romantic novel, Tale of Genji is one of the essential parts of the Japanese literary world. This romantic tale is still read and loved by people today. Most scenes are associated with the story and still can be found in Uji town. If you are interested, you may visit The Tale of Genji Museum to learn all about this literary and historical masterpiece.

Take a Stroll on Byondo Street

Byodoin Omotesando Street

Located just beside the Uji River, you will find Byodoin Omotesando Street or Byodo-in street. This 300 meters long quaint street is lined with many restaurants and shops. The majority are selling green tea, tea-related product, and flavored green tea desserts.

The best place to purchase tea and tea-related souvenirs in Uji.

Itohkyuemon Uji

Itohkyuemon is a long-established Japanese tea shop based in Uji. You can also grab some green tea products at Itohkyuemon.

Japanese sweet in Byodoin Street

Feel free to take your stroll and explore the souvenir shops and eateries here. Don’t forget to try tea-flavored Japanese rice dumpling Dango, a sweet dessert, or sample some freshly brewed tea in traditional tea houses here. Although we were still full, really can’t resist getting another sweet to try.

Visit Byodoin Temple

Entrance to Byodoin Temple

Continue walking along Byodo-in street will lead you to the next famous attraction in Uji: Byodo-in Temple. As one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites in Uji, Byodoin Temple is a beautiful example of Japanese Buddhist architecture.

Byodoin Temple

Similar to most of the temples in Kyoto, Byodoin Temple was originally built as a villa for political Fujiwara no Michinaga in the late Heian period. But it was turned into the temple by his son after his death.

The entrance fee is ¥600 which will grant you access to the temple grounds and museums. But the fee does not include the admission to Phoenix Hall, famous for being featured on the back of a ¥10 coin. It required an extra ¥300 if you wish to admire the famous Phoenix Hall.

Byodoin Temple

  • Operating hours: Daily 8:30 to 17:30 (last admission at 17:15)
  • Entrance Fee: ¥600 and an additional ¥300 for Phoenix Hall.

Walk Along the Uji River

Ralaxing Stroll along the Uji Park

Next, continue your Uji walking itinerary along the street will lead you to Prefectural Uji Park. Uji park is located on Tounoshima Island next to the Uji River. It is a popular spot among locals for leisure activities, especially during cherry blossoms in spring and fall colors in autumn.

There were beautiful views of sakura blossoms along the walking path to Uji Park. Benches are available where people can take a rest and take in the beautiful scenery. The atmosphere is incredibly relaxing and peaceful.

Beautiful Bridge linked to Uji Park

Uji Park consists of Tonoshima and Tatibanajima islands, which are linked by several stone bridges along the river. There are colorful vermillion colored Kisenbashi Bridge, Tachinbanabashi Bridge, Asagiri Bashi Bridge, and Nakajimabashi Bridge.

Enjoy the beautiful view of sakura blossom and forest hill with bridges along the Uji River. Stunning!

Boat Ride along the Uji River

There are also sakura viewing boat rides along the river during our visit to Uji. The reflections of vermillion bridges on the water with the lush greenery mountain were perfectly matching. A great way for mesmerizing the tranquility in Uji Park.

It was a nice stroll along the Uji river at your own pace leisurely. There are also several riverside cafes and tea houses where you can take your rest with a great view. Taiho-an Teahouse is the perfect place if you are looking for the best tea house along the Uji River.

After the leisure walk, we retrace our footsteps back to JR Uji station and take our train ride back to Kyoto.

Where To Stay in Uji

Uji is great for a day trip from Kyoto and staying overnight is not necessary. However, for those who love to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. If you are planning to stay in Uji, we recommended staying along the Uji River.

Below are a few recommendations if you are looking for where to stay in Uji:

Hanayashiki Ukifune-en is a traditional Japanese ryokan in Uji. Spacious room with comfortable bed, facing with Uji river. Some of the rooms are even featuring with private onsen bath. Added, Japanese Kaiseki Dinner is available. One of the best places for a luxury stay in Uji.

For the budget traveler, consider the Cha-gan-ju-tei House located nearby the JR Uji station. It is a cozy and clean accommodation in Uji. Free-flow beer and miso soup are available. Choose from the western or Japanese room.

Day Trip To Uji

All in all, we spend about 3 hours wandering around Uji. The beauty of Uji does not renowned like Arashiyama which is famous for the bamboo grove. However, it is a great place to see the rural side of southern Kyoto Prefecture with the locality surrounded.

Is Uji worth visiting?

Uji is a beautiful place that is highly recommended for a day trip from Kyoto, especially during the spring and autumn seasons. Uji is absolutely worth spending a half-day to a day visiting.

How much time do you need in Uji?

There are many more things to do in Uji where you can easily plan for your 1 or 2 days trip. However, if you are limited in time, 3 to 4 hours of the half-day trip to Uji should be included in your Kyoto itinerary.

What must eat in Uji?

Uji tea (宇治茶, Uji-cha) is arguably considered to be the finest matcha in Japan. You can taste the Uji matcha, green tea products, and food in Uji.

Hopefully, my Uji travel blog can help you to plan your best day trip to Uji. If you are interested to know more about our Japan Kansai itinerary, you may want to check below related post with the travel guide provided:

Osaka itinerary: Things to do in Osaka: Ultimate Travel Guide Blog

Kyoto itinerary: 15 Things To Do and Eat for 3 Days in Kyoto

Best Day trip from Kyoto or Osaka

Accommodation in Kyoto and Osaka:

Philosopher’s Path Kyoto During cherry blossom season

Philosopher’s walk: A Cherry Blossom Travel Blog

by | posted in: Kansai Japan | 0

Last updated on April 27th, 2024

Read on our post for the best place for cherry blossom viewing in philosopher’s walk Kyoto. A must visit during April with sakura blossoming when visiting Kyoto.

Philosopher’s Walk (哲学の道) is located at the northern part of Higashiyama district in Kyoto. Philosopher Walk is a pedestrian path with a cherry tree lined along the canal in Kyoto. During normal days, it is just a walking trail located between temples and shrines in Kyoto. Great for a little detour with enjoyable natural leisure stroll when visiting these places.

However, do you know that Philosopher’s Path extremely popular during April? It is renowned as one of the best spots for hanami viewing during the cherry blossom season in Kyoto. It is enchanting about walking under interlocking canopy with plenty of sakura blooming.

We visit Kyoto for 3 days during early April. For sure, this beautiful Philosopher’s Path stroll must be taken into our Kyoto cherry blossom itinerary. Relax, take your time to follow us for an amazing stroll and enjoy.

History of Philosopher’s Walk

Philosopher’s Path Best place for sakura Viewing in Kyoto itinerary
Philosopher’s walk Kyoto during cherry blossom

First of all, some little basic information and touring tips for doing Philosopher’s Walk. It named after a Kyoto University philosopher, Kitaro Nishida, who used to practice meditation and undertake reflective thinking here. There are many different names for the Philosopher’s walk. For example, Philosopher’s Path, Path of Philosophy, Philosopher’s Path, Tetsugaku-no-Michi and more.

This walking path is approximately 1.8 km which started from Ginkakuji and end at Nanzenji. So if your Kyoto’s things to do bucket list have these two temples, consider to include Philosopher’s Walk into your Kyoto itinerary. You may extend your Kyoto walking itinerary to Maruyama Park, Gion or Kiyomizu Temple if you have more time and energy.

  • Getting there: Get off at Ginkakuji or nearby by Kyoto city bus (#5), (#17), (#100) at ¥230 from Kyoto station.
  • Entrance fee: Free!

Walking in Philosopher Path With Sakura

Philosopher Walk started from Ginkakuji and end at Nanzenji

Again, we were so lucky to be in Japan during the cherry blossom season. Although it was not my first time to the sakura viewing spot in Japan during the cherry blossom season. However, I must admit Philosopher Walk can be rated as one of the best spots for hanami viewing in Kyoto.

We arrived Philosopher Walk around afternoon. As expected, it was packed with people. But it did not detract from its loveliness.

Philosopher Walk With canal river with failing sakura

A canal river walking with falling sakura is what makes this street so scenery and picturesque view! You can even smell the fragrant cherry blossom in the air. The vibe was so romantic and beautiful.

Stunning View in Philosopher’s Walk With Sakura

Sakura tree densely lined along the Philosopher’s Path
Strolling in Philosopher’s walk

We were amazed by the stunning view with the sakura tree densely lined along the Philosopher’s Path. It just looked like a pink umbrella overlooking the whole passenger path.

Wearing kimono in Philosopher Path during sakura season
Beautiful View in Philosopher’s Path

The ladies were wearing with their colorful kimonos walking along the pathway. It is just beautiful and romantic under the cherry blossom. You can rent a kimono for a perfect picture. Price ranging around ¥1,000 to ¥3,000.

Spot fish in canal river in philosopher's walk

The little stream that flowed through the walk framed by cherry blossoms was very picturesque. It was very clean and so clear. Spot the fish were swimming in the canal.

There are lots of great cafes, restaurants, little boutiques, and unique antique shops along the way. We stopped and wander along the gentle walking journey. Keep your eyes open on your walking journey and you’ll have a nice surprise!

It probably take you about 30 minutes from start to end. However, we took a longer time than what we expected. You may take up to 1 to 2 hours if you visit the temples and shops along the walking journey. We enjoyed our lovely time shooting for a beautiful photo, stopping by for refreshment at the cafe.

Philosopher Path: Best Place For Sakura Blossom Viewing in Kyoto

Philosopher’s Path Kyoto During cherry blossom season
Philosopher’s Path Kyoto During cherry blossom season

All in all, the Philosopher’s walk is one of my favorite sakura viewing experiences in Kyoto Japan. The walk in the Path of Philosophers is a must-do in Kyoto during cherry blossom season. It a great experience worth for tranquil walk. Don’t forget to include this amazing beautifully walk into your 1 day, 2 or 3 days Kyoto itinerary. A must-do in Kyoto!

Besides, if you are looking for where to stay in Kyoto, we recommended staying nearby Kyoto station for easy getting around.

Best hotel or hostel nearby Kyoto Station:

For a budget traveler, Pieces Hostel Kyoto is your best budget hotel in Kyoto. It is a great option with a beautiful design hostel with clean room at a reasonable price. Strategically located with less than 5 minutes’ walk from Kyoto station. Meanwhile, there even have their second branch Pieces Hostel Sanjo if you prefer to stay in the downtown area.

Alternatively, you can also check out the Daiwa Royal Hotel Grande Kyoto. It is reputation Japan chain hotel with great sized room and professional staff. It has a variety of room choices that cater to solo, couple and family.

Best Ryokan Stay nearby Gion:

Kyoto Granbell Hotel is your best accommodation in Kyoto. It features modern architecture yet with traditional Japanese design. Located at a great location among all the attractions in Gion and close to the Gion-Shijo Subway Station with 3 minutes walk. Added, a public bath is available for hotel guests.

Don’t forget to check our Kansai Japan travel guide if you’re planning an itinerary that includes Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara.

Kinkakuji must visit in Kyoto itinerary

Trip To Kinkakuji, Golden Pavilion: A Travel Guide Blog

by | posted in: Kansai Japan | 0

Last updated on April 27th, 2024

Kinkakuji also called Gold Pavilion is one of the unique and must-visit temples in Kyoto and Japan. A trip to Kinkakuji is part of my visit to Arashiyama in 3 days Kyoto itinerary.

Kyoto has many historical important temples and shrines. All have their unique atmospheres and aesthetic appeals. Among them, Kinkakuji, also called as Golden Pavilion is one of the top attractions of Kyoto. A trip to Kinkakuji will never disappoint you. This stunning pavilion is famous for its unique gold shiny color and perfectly situated aside from a lovely lake and Japanese garden.

A trip to Kinkakuji is part of my Arashiyama itinerary in Kyoto. It is ideal to visit both Kinkaji and Ginkakuji temples in one day. But there are too many things to do and see in Kyoto. It is even worst especially since our Kyoto trip is during the cherry blossom season. After discussion, we decided to visit Kinkakuji and keep Ginkakuji for our next Kyoto trip. If you have more time, you may consider visiting its brother temple, Ginkakuji.

Take a look at our visit to Kinkakuji. Moreover, we also included the transportation guide on how to go to Kinkakuji.

Travel Tips: Explore Japan’s ancient capital Kyoto to Kyoto Temples & Shrines with Day Tour from Osaka: Fushimi Inari-taisha, Arashiyama, Kiyomizu-dera & More. Relax with comfortable and convenient transportation to and from Osaka.

Kinkakuji vs Ginkakuji

That is to say, Kinkakuji (Gold Pavilion) and Ginkakuji (Silver Pavilion) are two of the most famous temples in Kyoto. Both are great to put into your Kyoto itinerary when visiting Kansai Japan. Keep reading on some history on these two historical temples.

The Kinkakuji, Golden Pavilion is a gold shinning zen temple which overlooking a large pond. It was originally built as a retirement villa of Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu and become a temple after his death. This golden temple was burnt down numerous in the history and last present rebuild in 1955. The best time to visit Kinkakuji is on sunny days with golden sun reflect the stunning architecture of the temple.

While the Ginkakuji, Silver Pavilion is also a Zen temple that was built in 1482 by Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa as a retirement home. Unlike Kinkakuji with gold leaf-covered, Ginkakuji was never covered in silver. It is best to admire the Japanese culture with historical buildings, a beautiful Japanese garden, and a unique sand art garden. It is part of the popular Philosopher Walk Path and can be easily reached on foot from Nanzenji.

How To Go To Kinkakuji

Kinkakuji located at the northwest part of Kyoto. Similar to other attractions in Kyoto, there are no major train lines nearby. So the best way to get to Kinkakuji is by bus. It can be easily reached by Kyoto City Bus from Kyoto station.

From Kyoto station to Kinkakuji: Get off at Kinkakuji-michi Stop by Kyoto city bus (#101) and (#205). The bus journey is about 40 minutes with 230 yen.

Alternative, Kinkakuji is best coupled into a day trip together with Arashiyama. Well, the best transportation option is directly to get there by taxi. But for budget traveler, you can get to Kinkakuji from Arashiyama by train and then transfer with a short journey bus ride.

From Arashiyama to Kinkakaji:

  • By taxi ride with about 1000-2000 yen.
  • By JR train from Saga-Arashiyama station to Emmachi station. Next, take a bus ride (#205) to Kinkakuji bus stop. It cost about 400 yen with a short walk. 
  • By Keifuku Electric Railway (Randen-Kitano tram) to Kitano-Hakubaicho with one-time transfer. Next, walk about 15 minutes to Kinkakuji. Alternatively, take the bus (#102), (#204) and (#205) to Kinkakuji-michi.

Our Trip To Kinkakuji

Kinkakuji is part of our day trip to Arashiyama. The best time to visit Kinkakuji is early morning due to its popularity. It can be very crowded at the afternoon with school buses and organized tours. However, the Sagano scenic train ride required to choose on the time slot during purchase. For the best Kyoto itinerary arrangement, we decided to visit Arashiyama in the morning and only get to Kinkakuji in late afternoon.

As a result, we departed from Arashiyama to Kinkakuji at around 2 p.m. From JR Arashiyama station, we took the JR train from Saga-Arashiyama station to Emmachi station. Next, we transferred to a bus ride (#205) to Kinkakuji. Once you get off at the train station, there is a sign directing to the bus stop to catch the bus to the Kinkakuji. It is quite simple and straightforward. However, the bus ride probably be busy. But honestly, an unavoidable experience when visiting Kyoto. So be prepared.

Perfect Reflection of Kinkakuji

Kinkakuji with reflection

First of all, we were amazed by the main attraction Kinkakuji once entered into Kinkakuji. There are so many different temples and shrines in Kyoto, but I must admit Kinkakuji is something different.

The Zen temple is completely covered in gold leaf with golden shiny color. It situated perfectly aside lake and surrounded by a Japanese garden. The reflection of the temple was so picturesque and stunning. No doubt, a beautiful sight.

View inside Kinkakuji Temple

Next, follow the path and walk around the lake. This will ensure you get excellent views from different perspectives. It’s easy to get good pictures but there were too many people surrounded. So be patient and wait. You will find the best picture-perfect spot with a full view of the Temple. Take note no tripod allow inside Kinkakuji.

Lastly, there are some adequate souvenirs and rest stops along the way. You can have some rest or try the Japanese sweets and snacks here. Alternatively, enjoy a cup of green tea at a small tea house.

To sum up, it only took us about 1 hour to walk through around the Kinkakuji temple. That is to say, it was a long journey trip to get there for a very short time spent to mesmerize this stunning shrine. However, Kinkakuji is still rated as one of the must-visit in my Kyoto itinerary. Most importantly, you need to decide if a trip to Kinkakuji is worth for you. Happy travel to Kyoto!

Where To Stay

Need help on the best hotel in Kyoto? We recommended staying nearby the Kyoto station for easy moving around. Here are some of the best hotels in Kyoto if you are looking at the best accommodation nearby Kyoto station.

For a budget traveler, Pieces Hostel Kyoto is your best budget hotel in Kyoto. It is a great option with a beautiful design hostel with clean room at a reasonable price. Strategically located with less than 5 minutes’ walk from Kyoto station. Meanwhile, there even have their second branch Pieces Hostel Sanjo if you prefer to stay in the downtown area.

Alternatively, you can also check out the Daiwa Royal Hotel Grande Kyoto. It is reputation Japan chain hotel with great sized room and professional staff. It has a variety of room choices that cater to solo, couple and family.

Read more

Lastly, if you’re heading to Kyoto, feel free to also check out my Kyoto travel stories:

Kiyomizudera Kyoto

Trip to Kiyomizudera Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog

by | posted in: Kansai Japan | 0

Last updated on April 27th, 2024

Planning your Kyoto Kiyomizudera itinerary by walking including to the Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka in Higashiyama district.

Kyoto has many top attractions and very ideal to plan for at least one day or two days itinerary in Kyoto. Among all the attractions, Kiyomizudera (清水寺) no doubt is one of the must-visit sight in Kyoto. It is world-famous for its spectacular historical building and added into UNESCO world heritage sites in 1994. Together with the various historical building in Higashiyama district, it is a pleasant walk through the ground area to the Kiyomizudera temple.

The best time to visit Kiyomizudera is during the sakura season in April and fall autumn in November when maple turns red. We were so lucky and visited Kiyomizudera in Spring during the cherry blossom in bloom. The view was so amazing with stunning buildings and beautiful sakura in bloom.

Travel Tips: Explore Japan’s ancient capital Kyoto to Kyoto Temples & Shrines with Day Tour from Osaka: Fushimi Inari-taisha, Arashiyama, Kiyomizu-dera & More. Relax with comfortable and convenient transportation to and from Osaka.

How To Get To Kiyomizudera

First of all, Kiyomizudera is accessible by public transport from various side of Kyoto. It can be reached by bus or railway to the temple. However, take note that all the transportation required at least 10-20 minutes uphill walk to the temple.

From JR Kyoto Station to Kiyomizudera by bus: Take the Kyoto bus (#206) or (#100) and get off at Gojozaka stop. Next, another 10 minutes walk will get you to Kiyomizudera entrance. Alternatively, Kiyomizudera can be reach from Kiyomizu-Gojo Station along the Keihan Railway Line with 20 minutes walk.

We recommended taking the Kyoto city bus to Kiyomizudera which cost about ¥230 for one way.

Kiyomizudera Walking Route Itinerary

Kiyomizudera is one of the must-visit attractions when getting to Kyoto. The best time to visit Kiyomizudera is morning before the crowd or late evening when everyone left. It can be very crowded as this is the top sightseeing in Kyoto. So, we decided to visit Kiyomizudera as the first stop during our second day in Kyoto itinerary.

Here is the Kiyomizudera Walking Route Itinerary:

  • Take the Kyoto Bus (#100) from Kyoto Station to Gojozaka Stop
  • Walk To the Kiyomizu-dera Temple entrance
  • Visit Kiyomizudera Temple
  • The wooden structure of Kiyomizudera Main Hall
  • Enjoy the best Kiyomizudera View From Okunoin Hall
  • Pray at Jishu Shrine
  • Take a sip of water from Otawa no taki
  • Stroll Around Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka Slope

From Kyoto Station To Gojozaka Stop

Street view when getting to Kiyomizudera

From Kyoto station, we took the Kyoto bus (#100) and got off at Gojozaka stop. There is no direct access to Kiyomizudera. You need to climb up picturesque shopping streets that line along the way up. Anyway, this is the only way to get to Kiyomizudera.

We arrived before 8:00 am and glad that we made the right decision. The surrounding streets are beautiful despite being overrun with tourists. It’s the best time to enjoy the view around the shrine with an old Japan street view.

It was a very serene and pleasant 10 minutes walk along the street in the early morning. Get some nice photoshoot before the crowd booming in. There are few visitors dressed up in Japanese traditional kimono along the street. If you are interested, you can rent the kimono at some shops and walk around the area.

We straight went up to visit the temple as the first stop in the Kiyomizudera itinerary. No worry as we will come back exploring Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka later.

Kinomizudera Entrance

Kiyomizudera becomes visible as you ascend the narrow street. We paid our entrance fee and walked among the historical buildings. There are various temple buildings such as Nio-mon and Sai-mon in the area.

  • Opening Hours: 6:00 to 18:00 (until 18:30 on weekends)
  • Entrance Fee: ¥400

Kinomizudera Main Hall

Best View of Kiyomizudera

We were impressed by the wooden structures when we walked into the main hall area. Kiyomizudera is renowned for its impressive wooden temple which standing on the cliff of the mountain. The Main Hall of Kiyomizudera is supported by 139 pillars but constructed without the use of a single nail. However, it was built solidly enough to support the stage.

We spent some time in the Main Hall, experiencing its serenity and taking part in some prayer rites. Enjoy the beautiful panorama view of Kyoto city from the stage.

Best Kiyomizudera View From Okunoin Hall

Kiyomizudera Kyoto

However, the best view of Kiyomizudera is from the viewing platform at Okunoin hall which diagonally opposite of the main temple. Follow the path will lead you to the Okunoin hall. This is where you could see the whole stunning wooden structures of Kiyomizudera from distance.

Jishu Shrine

Jisyu Jinjya, Shrine for Love

Enjoy your stroll at the Kiyomizudera temple area. There are some other attractions that worth spending some time.

Next, behind Kiyomizudera’s main hall stands the Jishu Shrine. It is a small shrine dedicated to love and matchmaking. Many people come here to wish for love life. Added, there is a legendary stone known as “love stones” where you can find your loved one soon. Just close your eyes and walk straight to another stone located at the opposite.

Legendary love stone in Jishu Shrine Kiyomizudera

Otowa no taki (Otowa Waterfall)

Added, you noticed there is a small waterfall at the base of Kiyomizudera’s main hall. The Otowa Waterfall is where you can wish for your longevity, love, and wisdom. Take a sip from one of them by using the long poles cups attached.

Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka Slope

Street view at Ninenzaka Slope

There are many wonderful things to do in Kiyomizudera. Lastly, we spend our time strolling around at the iconic street in Higashiyama district, Kyoto.

The Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka Slope is best known for its scenic street view. Take some time wandering around the street as it is worth it. You can find various types of souvenir shops, desserts, cafes, and restaurants around the busy street here.

Beautiful cherry blossom view in Higashiyama district

On our leisurely downhill walk, we ended up stopping at multiple stops to enjoy some local Japanese sweets and sake. However, many visitors started booming the busy lane in the late morning. So take your time to explore around and take some refreshment when you are tired. Most importantly, there are also some hidden photo spots where you can take a nice photo with beautiful scenery.

All in all, Kiyomizudera is a must-visit place especially for the first timer in Kyoto. We spend about 3 to 4 hours exploring around. Do come earlier in the morning to avoid the crowd.

Happy travel to Kiyomizudera!

Where To Stay

Looking for where to stay in Kyoto? We listed out some of the best hotels in Kyoto for your selection.

Pieces Hostel Kyoto is the best budget hotel in Kyoto and awarded with the best designer hostel. It strategic located less than 5 minutes from Kyoto station. Reasonable spacious room and clean bed at this price range. Added, free breakfast with a variety of choices including Japanese and western selection. Very popular accommodation for budget travelers. Meanwhile, there even have their second branch Pieces Hostel Sanjo if you prefer to stay in the downtown area.

Alternatively, consider Daiwa Royal Hotel Grande Kyoto which located a 5-minute walk from JR Kyoto Station. Great sized room, comfortable bed, and professional staff. Everything is perfect for this hotel.

Moreover, if you prefer for best Ryokan stay in Kyoto, Kyoto Granbell Hotel is your best accommodation in Kyoto. It features modern architecture yet with traditional Japanese design. Located in a great location among all the attractions in Gion and close to the Gion-Shijo Subway Station with 3 minutes walk. Added, a public bath is available for hotel guests.

Read More

Lastly, if you’re heading to Kyoto, feel free to also check out my Kyoto travel stories: