Kyoto Off the Beaten Path: Hidden Gems and Secret Spots to Explore
Introduction:
While Kyoto is famous for its iconic attractions like Kinkaku-ji and Fushimi Inari Shrine, the city is also home to many hidden gems that offer a quieter, more intimate glimpse of its rich history and culture. These off-the-beaten-path spots allow visitors to explore Kyoto’s beauty away from the crowds, discovering secret temples, scenic gardens, and peaceful trails that are often overlooked. In this guide, we’ll introduce some of the best hidden gems in Kyoto that are perfect for travelers seeking a more tranquil and authentic experience.
Table of Contents:
- Otagi Nenbutsu-ji: A Temple Full of Quirky Statues
- Shisen-do Temple: A Tranquil Garden Escape
- Kurama and Kibune: Nature Trails and Mountain Temples
- Yoshimine-dera: Stunning Views and Hidden Beauty
- Honke Owariya: A 500-Year-Old Soba Restaurant
1. Otagi Nenbutsu-ji: A Temple Full of Quirky Statues
Discovering the 1,200 Unique Rakan Statues
Tucked away in the northern part of Arashiyama, Otagi Nenbutsu-ji is a hidden treasure that often goes unnoticed by tourists. This small temple is famous for its collection of over 1,200 rakan statues, each representing one of the disciples of Buddha. What makes these statues so special is their whimsical, often humorous expressions and poses. You’ll find rakan playing musical instruments, laughing, or striking unusual poses, making it a delightful and unique experience for visitors.
- Why It’s Special: The playful and creative statues offer a fun contrast to the serene atmosphere of most temples in Kyoto.
- Photography Tip: Capture close-up shots of the statues’ expressions for an interesting perspective on temple art.
Why Otagi Nenbutsu-ji is a Hidden Gem in Arashiyama
While Arashiyama is known for its famous Bamboo Grove and Tenryu-ji Temple, Otagi Nenbutsu-ji offers a quieter, less-crowded escape. It’s a bit further from the main tourist spots, which means you can explore the temple grounds at your own pace without the typical crowds. The surrounding nature and peaceful atmosphere make it a perfect spot for reflection.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for the beautiful seasonal foliage.
- How to Get There: Take a short bus or taxi ride from Arashiyama Station to reach this secluded temple.
2. Shisen-do Temple: A Tranquil Garden Escape
The Beauty of Shisen-do’s Zen Garden in Spring and Autumn
Shisen-do Temple, located in the Sakyo Ward of Kyoto, is a hidden gem known for its peaceful Zen garden and stunning seasonal beauty. The temple’s moss-covered garden features perfectly manicured azalea bushes, which bloom beautifully in spring. In autumn, the temple is surrounded by vibrant red and orange leaves, offering one of the best off-the-beaten-path spots for fall foliage viewing.
- Why It’s Special: The quiet garden offers a meditative escape from the busy tourist areas, with beautiful seasonal changes.
- Photography Tip: The large windows of the main hall provide a perfect frame for capturing the garden’s seasonal beauty.
Exploring the History and Significance of Shisen-do
Shisen-do was originally the home of a 17th-century scholar and poet, Jozan Ishikawa, who designed the temple’s garden with inspiration from Chinese poetry. The temple’s name comes from a collection of portraits of Chinese poets displayed within its halls. Visitors can sit inside the tatami room and enjoy the serene view of the garden, making it a perfect place to relax and soak in the tranquil atmosphere.
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring (May) for azaleas and November for autumn leaves.
- How to Get There: Shisen-do is about a 10-minute walk from Ichijoji Station on the Eizan Line.
3. Kurama and Kibune: Nature Trails and Mountain Temples
Hiking the Scenic Path Between Kurama and Kibune
If you’re looking for a mix of nature and spirituality, the Kurama to Kibune hike is a fantastic off-the-beaten-path adventure. Located in the northern mountains of Kyoto, this hike takes you through dense forests, past temples, and along mountain trails. The path connects Kurama-dera Temple, perched high on Mount Kurama, to the peaceful town of Kibune, home to the scenic Kifune Shrine.
- Why It’s Special: This hike offers a blend of natural beauty, mountain temples, and a peaceful retreat from the city.
- Photography Tip: Capture the lush forest scenery and the red torii gates leading to Kifune Shrine.
Visiting Kurama-dera Temple and Kibune Shrine for a Spiritual Retreat
Kurama-dera Temple is known for its connection to the legendary warrior monk, Minamoto no Yoshitsune, and for being a site of spiritual energy. The temple offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. After visiting Kurama-dera, follow the hiking trail through the forest to Kibune Shrine, a quiet and picturesque shrine dedicated to the god of water. The shrine is especially beautiful in summer when restaurants along the river serve meals on platforms above the flowing water.
- Best Time to Visit: Summer for cool mountain breezes, or autumn for vibrant foliage.
- How to Get There: Take the Eizan Electric Railway to Kurama Station, then begin the hike.
4. Yoshimine-dera: Stunning Views and Hidden Beauty
Enjoying the Panoramic View of Kyoto from Yoshimine-dera
Perched on the western mountains of Kyoto, Yoshimine-dera offers one of the most stunning panoramic views of the city. This quiet temple is often overlooked by tourists, making it an ideal spot for those seeking solitude and natural beauty. The temple is famous for its massive, 600-year-old pine tree, which spreads horizontally across the landscape, as well as its impressive array of seasonal flowers, including cherry blossoms in spring and hydrangeas in summer.
- Why It’s Special: The temple’s hillside location provides a breathtaking view of Kyoto, especially on clear days.
- Photography Tip: Capture wide-angle shots of the sprawling pine tree and panoramic views of Kyoto.
The History and Hidden Charm of This Lesser-Known Temple
Yoshimine-dera was founded in the 11th century by the monk Gesan, who dedicated the temple to the healing of Emperor Shirakawa. The temple grounds are expansive, with multiple walking paths leading to quiet prayer halls and viewpoints. Its peaceful, hidden location makes it a perfect off-the-beaten-path destination for visitors who want to experience Kyoto’s temples without the crowds.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring for cherry blossoms and summer for hydrangeas.
- How to Get There: A short bus ride from Mukomachi Station, followed by a 30-minute walk.
5. Honke Owariya: A 500-Year-Old Soba Restaurant
A Taste of History at Kyoto’s Oldest Soba Shop
For a culinary experience off the beaten path, visit Honke Owariya, one of Kyoto’s oldest restaurants, serving soba (buckwheat noodles) for over 500 years. Located near Kyoto Imperial Palace, this family-run restaurant has been a favorite of emperors and monks for centuries. Honke Owariya is known for its delicate, hand-made soba, served in various traditional styles.
- Why It’s Special: Dining at Honke Owariya is like stepping back in time, with a taste of Kyoto’s culinary history.
- Must-Try Dish: The Hourai Soba, a multi-tiered soba dish served with various toppings, is a specialty of the restaurant.
Why Honke Owariya is Worth a Visit for Food Lovers
Honke Owariya offers more than just a meal—it provides a connection to Kyoto’s long history of soba-making. The restaurant’s traditional interior, wooden beams, and serene ambiance create a dining experience that reflects the refined simplicity of Kyoto’s cuisine. Whether you’re a soba enthusiast or simply looking for a unique food experience, Honke Owariya is a must-visit.
- Best Time to Visit: Anytime, though the restaurant can get busy during lunchtime.
- How to Get There: A short walk from Imadegawa Station near Kyoto Imperial Palace.
Q&A
Q: How can I avoid crowds at Kyoto’s popular tourist spots?
A: The best way to avoid crowds is to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Alternatively, explore off-the-beaten-path destinations like Otagi Nenbutsu-ji, Shisen-do, or Yoshimine-dera, which are less crowded and offer a more peaceful experience.
Q: Are these off-the-beaten-path spots accessible by public transport?
A: Yes, most of the hidden gems mentioned in this guide are accessible by Kyoto’s bus or train system, though some may require a short walk or hike. For places like Kurama and Kibune, the Eizan Railway provides easy access, while buses can take you to temples like Yoshimine-dera.
Q: What’s the best time of year to visit Kyoto’s hidden spots?
A: Spring and autumn are ideal for visiting Kyoto’s hidden gems, as the cherry blossoms and fall foliage add an extra layer of beauty. Summer is also a good time for mountain hikes in Kurama and Kibune, while winter offers a quiet, peaceful atmosphere at less-crowded temples.
Conclusion:
Kyoto is full of hidden gems that provide a deeper, more serene experience of the city’s culture and history. From the quirky statues of Otagi Nenbutsu-ji to the breathtaking views of Yoshimine-dera, these off-the-beaten-path spots offer a unique way to explore Kyoto away from the crowds. Whether you’re hiking through the mountains of Kurama, strolling through Shisen-do’s tranquil gardens, or enjoying a traditional soba meal at Honke Owariya, these secret spots will give you a new appreciation for Kyoto’s timeless charm.
