Are you looking for some of the best Kyoto hidden gems to include in your itinerary?
Well, you are on the right site!
Hi there! Sam here—I love sharing free Japan travel guides and tips to help my readers explore the country with confidence, especially to off-the-beaten-path places and make the most of their trip without breaking the bank.
Kyoto is renowned for its famous landmarks such as the Golden Pavilion and Fushimi Inari Shrine, yet those willing to venture off the beaten path will discover that the city boasts a wealth of lesser-known attractions.
From tranquil temples to unique museums and scenic outdoor spots, there is much to explore in Kyoto that remains under the radar.
So keep reading and I hope you have a great time exploring these hidden gems!
Note: I have categorised the places based on the different areas in Kyoto to make it easier for you to plan your day and navigate around
TLDR: Hidden Gems in Kyoto
Kyoto City
- Rokkakudo Temple
- Shosei-en Garden
Southern Kyoto (Fushimi)
- Fushimi Momoyama Castle Park
- Oishi Shrine
Western Kyoto (Arashiyama, Nishikyo & Uzumasa)
- Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple
- Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple
- Seiryo-ji Temple
- Yoshimine-dera Temple
- Oharano Shrine
- Umenomiya Shrine
Eastern Kyoto (Higashiyama & Yamashina)
- Shogunzuka Seiryuden
- Choraku-ji Temple
- Shisen-do Temple
- Yobo-ji Temple
- Imakumano Kannon-ji Temple
- Yasui Konpiragu Shrine
- Kaiju-ji Temple
Northern Kyoto
- Ine
- Josho-ji Temple
- Kifune Shrine Upper Shrine
- Jakko-in
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Kyoto City
1. Rokkakudo Temple
Though it is located in the busy city centre, Rokkakudo Temple is often overlooked by tourists, making it one of the truly hidden gems in Kyoto.
Though small, this unique hexagonal-shaped temple is best known as the birthplace of Ikebana, the traditional Japanese art of flower arrangement!
You can stroll through the temple’s tranquil garden too, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere while taking a break from the city’s hustle and bustle.
2. Shosei-en Garden
One of the underrated but equally stunning Japanese gardens to visit in Kyoto is the Shosei-en Garden.
Despite being surrounded by tall buildings, the garden feels like a world away, with picturesque ponds, charming wooden bridges, and beautiful seasonal flowers that change throughout the year.
So if you are near Kyoto Station and have some time to spare, this lovely garden is well worth a visit and an addition to your Kyoto itinerary.
Travel tip: Entrance fee of 700 yen (US$5) is expected to enter the garden.
Southern Kyoto (Fushimi)
3. Fushimi Momoyama Castle Park
Located in the Fushimi district, Fushimi Momoyama Castle Park is a lesser-known spot that is home to historical structures and scenic walking trails.
While the castle itself is a replica of the original one, the reconstructed Fushimi Momoyama Castle offers a glimpse into the ancient castle architecture and history, besides acting as a great backdrop for photos!
Since it is far less crowded than Kyoto’s more popular landmarks, this park is an excellent place for a relaxed stroll or a hanami (cherry blossom watching) spot in spring 😉
Travel tip: If you are visiting Fushimi Inari Shrine or taking a sake tour in Fushimi, consider adding this hidden gem to your itinerary.
4. Oishi Shrine
If you are into samurai and its interesting history, then make your way to Fushimi’s Oishi Shrine.
Dedicated to a samurai named Oishi Kuranosuke, this Kyoto hidden gem is associated with the legendary story of the Forty-Seven Ronin.
Since Oishi Shrine does not fall into the typical tourists’ radar, this shrine retains a quiet, uncrowded atmosphere, allowing visitors to wander through its samurai statues, stone lanterns, and serene trails uninterrupted.
Western Kyoto (Arashiyama, Nishikyo, and Uzumasa)
5. Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple
Located in Arashiyama, Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple is a fascinating off-the-beaten-path site in the ever-crowded Western Kyoto.
This quiet temple is known for its moss-covered 1200 Rakan statues, each depicting a different facial expression and pose.
As you wander through the temple grounds, you will find yourself smiling at their quirky charm while being totally immersive in the peaceful atmosphere.
6. Adashino Nenbutsu-ji
If you are looking for an unexpected and unique temple experience in Kyoto, visiting Adashino Nenbutsu-ji is a must.
The temple is renowned for its thousands of small stone statues, each representing the souls of the forgotten dead—those who passed away without family to remember them.
While you are there, be sure to spend some time at the temple’s hidden bamboo grove located at the back, offering a quieter and less crowded but equally stunning alternative to the Insta-famous Arashiyama Bamboo Forest 😉
Travel tip: Join any of these photography tours in Kyoto if you want your beautiful photos in Kyoto to be taken by professional photographers as mementos
7. Seiryo-ji Temple
Another Kyoto hidden gem situated in Arashiyama that you can visit is Seiryo-ji Temple.
This lesser-known temple offers a tranquil retreat where visitors can admire its beautiful hall architecture, serene gardens, and the star highlight, the wooden statue of Shakyamuni Buddha.
The sacred Buddha statue was brought in from China in the 10th century, making it one of Japan’s national treasures!
8. Yoshimine-dera
Located in Nishikyo, Yoshimine-dera offers breathtaking panoramic views over Kyoto, especially during the autumn and spring seasons.
The major attraction of this hidden temple is the magnificent 600-year-old pine tree that stretches over 35 meters horizontally, creating a truly impressive sight.
Visitors are free to wander around the temple grounds and winding paths too, making it a great spot to enjoy the lush scenery away from the typical tourist crowd.
9. Oharano Shrine
Another hidden gem in Nishikyo that you can visit is Oharano Shrine.
Known as the ‘Kasuga Taisha of Kyoto, Oharano Shrine is particularly stunning in autumn and spring when its maple-lined pathways burst into brilliant shades of red and gold, and its cherry trees bloom in a pinkish hue.
Travel tip: It is free to enter too!
10. Umenomiya Shrine
Located in Uzumasa, Umenomiya Shrine is a hidden gem in Kyoto that boasts beautiful gardens and stunning plum blooms, especially in April.
Beyond the plum trees, the shrine’s spacious strolling garden features a picturesque pond, stone lanterns, and vibrant seasonal flowers, offering a lovely retreat from the city’s and Arashiyama crowds.
Travel tip: Umenomiya Shrine is located between central Kyoto and Arashiyama, making it a nice stop before or after visiting Arashiyama.
Eastern Kyoto (Higashiyama and Yamashina)
11. Shogunzuka Seiryuden
If you are looking for a breathtaking panoramic view of Kyoto away from the usual tourist crowds, Shogunzuka Seiryuden is the hidden gem to get to.
Located on the Higashiyama hillside, this site has a wooden observation deck offering one of the best vantage points to admire Kyoto’s cityscape, surrounded by lush greenery and distant mountains.
Visitors can also visit the Seiryuden Hall at Shogunzuka, where this stunning temple building houses a rare replica of a well-respected Buddhist deity called the Blue Fudo Myo-o.
Travel tip: Since some hiking is required to reach Shogunzuka Seiryuden’s viewpoint, I recommend visiting in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat.
Entrance fee: 600 yen (US$5)
12. Choraku-ji Temple
Unlike Kyoto’s more well-known temples, Choraku-ji Temple sits on a lush hillside, creating a serene atmosphere complemented by moss-covered stone lanterns, historical pagodas, and vibrant flowers.
With its elevated vantage point, the temple also offers a scenic view of Higashiyama that is particularly stunning in autumn.
13. Shisen-do Temple
Kyoto is home to many beautiful Zen gardens, and one of the best off-the-beaten-path spots to admire scenic floral views is Shisen-do Temple.
Its stunning Japanese garden features meticulously pruned shrubs, moss-covered stones, and a gently flowing stream, creating a tranquil and picturesque setting for strolling and photo taking.
Visitors can also sit back and soak in the beautiful garden scenery from the veranda, allowing them to take a break after a day exploring the city.
14. Yobo-ji Temple
Located in Yamashina, Yobo-ji Temple is one of the oldest temples in Kyoto, with origins tracing back to the 14th century.
Nevertheless, this temple remains uncrowded, making it a great spot for travellers looking to experience Kyoto’s quieter side.
The temple grounds feature traditional wooden halls, landscaped gardens, and walking paths that are particularly beautiful during cherry blossom season.
Over here, visitors can enjoy the serenity of the temple while also appreciating the intricate details of its traditional architecture!
15. Imakumano Kannon-ji Temple
Located near the famous Tofuku-ji Temple, Imakumano Kannon-ji is a hidden gem in Kyoto that offers a quiet sanctuary from the city’s busier attractions.
As one of the stops on the 33 Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage, this temple is dedicated to Kannon, the Buddhist deity of mercy, and has long been a place of prayer and healing among the locals.
Feel free to explore its tranquil temple grounds, moss-covered stone paths, and old praying halls while you are here.
The scenery around Imakumano Kannon-ji Temple is particularly captivating during autumn when the maple tree leaves turn into vibrant red and golden colours!
16. Yasui Konpiragu Shrine
If experiencing a lesser-known Kyoto tradition has always been on your bucket list, then you need to visit the Yasui Konpiragu Shrine.
Unlike other traditional shrines, Yasui Konpiragu Shrine is known for its “enkiri/enmusubi” stone monument which is believed to help sever bad relationships and bring in positive new connections.
While the shrine is relatively unknown to foreign tourists, it is well-loved by locals who come to pray for life changes, personal growth, and new opportunities!
Strengthen a relationshio = crawl from back to the front
Good luck! 🤞🏻
17. Kaiju-ji Temple
Located in the scenic Yamashina ward, Kaiju-ji Temple is renowned for its beautiful gardens and rich history, dating back to the 9th century.
One of the temple’s highlights is its picturesque pond garden, offering breathtaking scenery all year long.
You can also wander around and admire the well-preserved building architecture, as well as the priceless artefacts that are related to the Imperial family and the Fujiwara clan.
Northern Kyoto
18. Ine
For a change of scenery from Kyoto’s traditional temples and shrines, make your way to Ine—a picturesque fishing village that remains largely untouched by foreign travellers.
This village is home to well-preserved century-old Funaya (traditional boat houses), with the lower levels serving as boat garages and the upper floors as living spaces.
I recommend taking a boat tour when exploring Ine, where you can admire the Funaya from the sea and take in the breathtaking views of the bay.
Travel tip: Since Ine is about a three-hour journey from Kyoto city, staying overnight is the best way to explore the village and immerse in the local culture at a relaxed pace.
19. Josho-ji Temple
Situated in the tranquil mountains of Keihoku, Josho-ji Temple offers a serene, calming atmosphere to visitors, surrounded by lush forests that change beautifully with the seasons.
One of Josho-ji’s highlights is its stunning cherry blossom display in spring, creating a dreamlike scenery that complemented the old temple architecture.
20. Kifune Shrine
Located in Kibune, Kifune Shrine is dedicated to the deity of water and rain, making it a must-visit shrine among locals who seek blessings for love, fortune, and safe travels.
Its star attraction is the picturesque stone steps lined with red lanterns, offering excellent photo opportunities especially when illuminated at night or covered in snow during winter.
For a more secluded spot, you can hike the tranquil forested trail to the Upper Shrine after exploring the main shrine.
21. Jakko-in Temple
If you are planning to visit the rural areas of Kyoto like Ohara, then make sure to include Jakko-in Temple in your Kyoto hidden gems itinerary.
Surrounded by towering cedar trees and picturesque gardens, this small temple has a deep affiliation with samurai history and the Tale of the Heike, offering a glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural past.
Visitors can admire its related historical artefacts too, including ancient calligraphy scrolls, old Japanese paintings, and religious statues.
Where to Stay in Kyoto
You will be spoiled by choices since there are many accommodations to choose from in Kyoto!
Depending on your preference, I recommend staying either near Kyoto Station or Gion area for first-time travellers to Japan:
Near Kyoto Station: Offers easy access to public transport and has a variety of shopping and dining options.
Gion: Offers Kyoto’s traditional charm and cultural exposure to visitors, aside from being near iconic attractions like Kiyomizu-dera and Yasaka Shrine.
Near Kyoto Station
- Budget: WeBase Kyoto, OYO Ryokan Hotel Seiki
- Mid-range: Mercure Kyoto Station, Sakura Terrace
- Luxury: Hotel Takasegawa Bettei, Hotel Kanra Kyoto
- Ryokan: Daiya Ryokan
Near Gion
- Budget: The Pocket Hotel, Shiki Shiki Higashiyama
- Mid-range: Kyoto Gion U-BELL Hotel, Gionkoh
- Luxury: Good Nature Hotel Kyoto, Hotel Nikko Princess Kyoto
- Ryokan: Ryokan Nakajimaya, Gion Ryokan Karaku
Personal experience: This ryokan in Kyoto was my first ever Japanese ryokan that I stayed at and I love how convenient the location is to get to most of the city’s main highlights!
If you are looking to pamper yourself or immerse in Kyoto’s hospitality culture, check out my detailed guide to the best Kyoto ryokan with private onsen.
Final Thoughts: 21 Kyoto Hidden Gems
While Kyoto is famous for its iconic religious temples and bustling tourist attractions, venturing off the beaten path reveals a more tranquil, quieter side of the city.
From secluded mountain shrines to charming fishing villages and stunning Zen gardens, these 21 hidden gems offer unique local culture and travel experiences beyond the usual itinerary in Kyoto.
So I hope you have fun visiting these less-touristy spots and feel free to share your experience with me! 😉
Sam Lee, founder of Sam Lee Travel, is a seasoned traveler with over 10 years of experience exploring various Asian countries. Having lived in Singapore for almost a decade, Sam has developed a deep understanding of the culture, customs, and attractions in the region.
With a passion for outdoor travel adventures and water sports, Sam has helped over 25K readers per month plan their trips around Asia, including off-the-beaten-path destinations, offering helpful travel tips and unfiltered personal travel experience.