When visiting Kyoto, renting a traditional kimono or yukata to explore the city is a special experience. There are many rental shops in front of Kyoto Station, and this is a great opportunity for tourists to easily experience Japanese culture.
 
In this article, we will introduce recommended sightseeing spots that are just a short walk from Kyoto Station. Why not spend a special time while enjoying the elegant cityscape of Kyoto?

Higashi Honganji Temple and Nishi Honganji Temple

Higashi Honganji Temple

The first place you should visit is Higashi Honganji, which is about a 10-minute walk from Kyoto Station. It is the head temple of the Jodo Shinshu sect, and its vast grounds and majestic buildings captivate visitors.
 
In particular, the path leading from the Mieido Gate to the main hall is full of highlights. There is also a garden where you can enjoy different scenery depending on the season, making it perfect for taking photos in kimono.

Nishi Honganji Temple

Nishi Honganji Temple, located a short walk from Higashi Honganji Temple, is also not to be missed. This is also the head temple of the Jodo Shinshu sect, and there are many buildings designated as national treasures.
 
In particular, the beautiful carvings on the Karamon gate and the splendid garden at the Shoin are must-sees. Please spend a relaxing time in this place where historical buildings and beautiful nature come together.

kyoto tower

Kyoto Tower, a landmark of Kyoto Station, boasts a height of 131 meters above ground. From the observation deck, you can see a panoramic view of Kyoto city, and the beautiful scenery is perfect for taking photos in kimono.
 
It is lit up at night and you can enjoy a fantastic atmosphere. In addition to the observation deck, there are souvenir shops and restaurants inside the tower, making it a perfect place to stop by in between sightseeing.

The charm of the observation deck

From the observation deck of Kyoto Tower, you can enjoy the scenery of Kyoto in all four seasons. With cherry blossoms in the spring and beautiful autumn leaves in the fall, the scenery is breathtaking no matter what season you visit.
 
There is also a telescope installed on the observatory, allowing you to carefully observe distant scenery.

large underground bath

There is also a large public bath in the basement of Kyoto Tower, perfect for relaxing your body after sightseeing. Why not spend some time relaxing in a yukata?

Shoseien

Shoseien, located about a 15-minute walk from Kyoto Station, is a beautiful Japanese garden known as the villa of Higashi Honganji Temple. The scenery of the seasonal flowers and pond is attractive, and you can spend a relaxing time in a quiet atmosphere.
 
Especially, many tourists visit during the cherry blossom season in spring and the autumn leaves. Take a leisurely stroll in a kimono or yukata and experience the traditional Japanese atmosphere.

Beauty of each season

The charm of Shosei-en is, above all, its natural beauty that changes throughout the seasons. You can enjoy beautiful scenery no matter what season you visit, with cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in summer, autumn leaves in autumn, and snowy scenery in winter.
 
The garden is especially beautiful during the autumn foliage season, when it turns bright red.

A break in the tea room

There is also a tea room inside Shosei-en, where you can enjoy matcha while looking out at the garden. Please enjoy the valuable experience of experiencing Japanese tea ceremony culture while relaxing.

summary

All of the sightseeing spots that you can go to directly from Kyoto Station are perfect for strolling around in a kimono or yukata. Special experiences await at each spot, such as the majestic atmosphere of Higashi Honganji and Nishi Honganji, the spectacular view of Kyoto Tower, and the seasonal beauty of Shosei-en.
 
Please spend a wonderful time while feeling the tradition and nature of Kyoto. We hope that your visit to Kyoto will be a wonderful memory.