Best 15 Kyoto Temples and Shrines to Visit in 2025 | Kyoto Temple Guide
Best 15 Kyoto Temples and Shrines to Visit in 2025 | Kyoto Temple Guide
2025/08/21
shrine
temple
kyoto
japaneseculture
Kyoto is often called the cultural heart of Japan, home to more than 1,600 Buddhist temples and 400 Shinto shrines. From iconic landmarks like Kiyomizudera to the mystical gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine, each site reflects centuries of tradition, spirituality, and artistry. For first-time visitors or returning travelers, exploring Kyoto’s temples and shrines is a must-do experience.
In this guide, we highlight the 15 best temples and shrines in Kyoto to visit in 2025, along with practical tips, history, and transportation advice to make your journey unforgettable.
1Kiyomizudera Temple (清水寺)
Kiyomizudera Temple in Autumn
One of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks, Kiyomizudera is famous for its massive wooden stage that offers panoramic views of the city. Built without nails in 778, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a symbol of Kyoto’s timeless beauty.
Highlight: The main hall’s wooden veranda overlooking cherry blossoms in spring or fiery foliage in autumn.
Tip: Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds. Combine with a walk through Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka streets nearby.
Address
1-294, Kiyomizu, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto, 605-0862, Japan
Known worldwide for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, Fushimi Inari Shrine is dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice and prosperity. The 4 km trail up Mt. Inari creates a mystical experience.
Highlight: The endless rows of red gates (“Senbon Torii”).
Tip: Visit early morning or late evening for a quieter, atmospheric experience.
Address
68 Fukakusa Yabunouchi-cho, Fushimi-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
Perhaps Kyoto’s most photographed temple, Kinkakuji dazzles with its golden exterior reflecting on the surrounding pond. Originally a shogun’s villa, it became a Zen temple in 1408.
Highlight: Stunning reflections in the “Mirror Pond.”
Tip: Winter mornings with fresh snow create postcard-perfect views.
Address
1 Kinkakuji-cho, Kita-ku, Kyoto
Opening hours
9:00 a.m.-5:00.p.m
Admission
[General] 500 yen
[Primary and Middle School Students] 300 yen
Despite its name, the Silver Pavilion is not actually silver but exudes a quiet elegance. Built in 1482 by the shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa, it embodies the spirit of wabi-sabi (beauty in simplicity).
Highlight: The Zen garden and moss-covered grounds.
Tip: Combine your visit with a walk along the Philosopher’s Path.
Located in the heart of Gion, Yasaka Shrine is a lively Shinto shrine known for the Gion Matsuri festival in July. Its lantern-lit grounds are beautiful at night.
Highlight: Evening visits with glowing lanterns.
Tip: Combine with nearby Hanamikoji Street for a geisha district walk.
Address
625, Giommachi Kitagawa, Kyoto Shi Higashiyama Ku, Kyoto
A sprawling Zen complex, Nanzenji is famous for its Sanmon Gate and the striking aqueduct from the Meiji era. The temple offers both spiritual calm and architectural charm.
Highlight: Climb the Sanmon Gate for city views.
Tip: Explore smaller sub-temples within the complex for hidden gems.
Home to Japan’s tallest wooden pagoda (five stories, 55m), Toji Temple is an emblem of Kyoto. Its flea market on the 21st of each month (“Kobo-san Market”) is a local favorite.
Highlight: The five-story pagoda silhouetted at sunset.
Tip: If visiting in spring, don’t miss the illuminated cherry blossoms.
[Chart A]
[Adult] 800 yen
[High school students] 700 yen
[Jonior high school students] 500 yen
[Elementary school children] 500 yen
The admission varies depending on the daily schedule found on the website.
Although technically a castle, Nijojo is deeply tied to Kyoto’s cultural history. Built by Tokugawa Ieyasu, it’s known for its “nightingale floors” that chirp as you walk—designed to prevent intruders.
Highlight: Ornate sliding doors (fusuma) with gold leaf.
Tip: A must-see for history lovers interested in samurai and shogun culture.
Tofukuji is Kyoto’s top spot for autumn foliage. Its Tsutenkyo Bridge offers a panoramic view of vibrant maple trees.
Highlight: Maple leaves in November.
Tip: Visit early November for peak colors.
Address
15-778 Honmachi Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto
Opening hours
[April to October ]9:00 a.m.- 4:30 p.m.
[November to early December] 8:30 a.m.- 4:00 p.m.
[early December to March] 9:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Admission
[Tsutenkyo Bridge and Kaisando Hall]
[Adult] 600 yen
[Children] 300 yen
[Hojo and gardens]
[Adult] 500 yen
[Children] 300 yen
[everything]
[Adult] 1000 yen
[Children] 500 yen
Built in 1895, this Shinto shrine honors the first and last emperors of Kyoto. Its bright vermilion gates and expansive gardens are striking.
Highlight: The vast torii gate and seasonal cherry blossoms.
Tip: Don’t miss the Heian Shrine Garden with its pond and stepping stones.
Address
97 Nishi Ten-no-cho, Okazaki Sakyo-ku, Kyoto
Opening hours
[Mar 15 to Sep. 30] 6:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m
[Oct] 6:00 a.m.- 5:30 p.m.
6:00 - 17:30 (Feb. 15 to Mar. 14)
6:00 - 12:00 on Oct. 22
(Garden hours differ from the hours of the main area)
Nestled in the mountains north of Kyoto, Kifune Shrine is famous for its lantern-lined stairway and connection to water blessings. In summer, visitors enjoy dining over riverside platforms (“kawadoko”).
Highlight: Magical winter snow scenes with red lanterns.
Tip: Pair with nearby Kurama-dera Temple and hike between the two.
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Daigoji is known for its five-story pagoda and stunning cherry blossoms. It played a central role in Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s famous “Cherry Blossom Viewing Party.”
Highlight: Spring blossoms and autumn leaves.
Tip: Plan at least half a day here, as the grounds are extensive.
Address
22 Daigo higashi ojicho, Fushimi Ward,Kyoto
Opening hours
9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Admission
[Regular season]1000 yen (Sanboin and Shimo Daigo)500 yen (Sanboin only)500 yen (Reihokan Museum)
Admission to the Reihokan Garden is free.
[Spring season ](March 20 to early May)1500 yen (Sanboin, Shimo Daigo and Reihokan Garden)500 yen (Sanboin only)500 yen (Reihokan Museum)
Method of payment
Credit card(VISA,JCB,UNION Pay,AMERICAN EXPRESS),QR code payment(PayPay,WeChatPay,Diners Club,DISCOVER and more)
Best Seasons: Spring (March–April) and autumn (October–November) are the most beautiful times.
Dress Comfortably: You’ll be walking a lot; wear comfortable shoes.
Respect Etiquette: Be mindful of photography rules, silence in meditation halls, and shrine customs (wash hands, bow).
Transportation: Temples are spread across the city. Public transport is useful, but chartered taxis or private transfers make visiting multiple sites in a day much easier.
Getting around Kyoto during peak seasons can be challenging. Taxi stands at major stations often have long lines, and hailing a cab on the street isn’t always easy.
For a smooth, stress-free journey, many travelers choose chartered taxis, vans, or buses.
Our company provides:
Charter buses (13–60 pax) for groups
Executive vans and limousines for families and business travelers
Airport transfers and private sightseeing tours
With professional staff and well-maintained vehicles, we make exploring Kyoto’s temples and shrines comfortable and memorable.
Chartered Taxis and Private Transfers in Kyoto
Travel in Kyoto
From the golden brilliance of Kinkakuji to the mystical paths of Fushimi Inari, Kyoto’s temples and shrines are living testaments to Japan’s rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a spiritual traveler, or simply someone seeking beauty, this Kyoto temple guide for 2025 ensures you won’t miss the highlights.
Let Kyoto’s timeless landmarks inspire your journey—and consider a private transfer to make the most of your visit!
