To make your date in Kyoto special, why not rent a kimono or yukata and enjoy the adult atmosphere?
 
In this article, we will introduce the perfect date plan for couples. We will tell you the points to enjoy an adult date, such as a course to visit a cafe with a calm atmosphere, a quiet garden, or a date plan to enjoy the night illumination.

Enjoy a morning kimono date

Kimono rental at Waplus Kyoto Yasaka Shrine store

First, rent a kimono at Waplus Kyoto Yasaka Shrine store.
 
This shop is well-known for its wide variety of designs and reasonable prices. There are special discounts for couples, so you can get a good deal. Professional staff will carefully help you put on a kimono, so even first-timers can feel at ease.

A peaceful stroll through the gardens of Nanzenji Temple

Once you’ve put on your kimono, head to Nanzenji Temple. The gardens of Nanzenji Temple have a tranquil atmosphere, making it the perfect place for two people to enjoy some quiet time together.
 
During the autumn foliage season, the gardens are a beautiful sight, making it a popular photo spot. You can feel the history and nature of Kyoto as you stroll through the gardens.

Lunchtime at Cafe “Murin-an”

After a morning stroll, enjoy lunch at the cafe at Murin-an. Murin-an is a cafe with a Meiji-era garden where you can savour delicious food in a relaxed atmosphere.
 
You can spend a relaxing time savoring the cuisine made with seasonal ingredients and gazing at the beautiful garden.

A romantic date from late afternoon to late evening

Stroll through the streets of Gion

After lunch, take a stroll through the streets of Gion, a neighborhood lined with cobblestone streets and historic buildings that’s the perfect place for kimono-clad couples.
 
There are many stylish cafes and shops scattered around, so it’s fun to stop by and check them out. If you’re lucky, you might even encounter a geisha or maiko.

Enjoy the evening view of the Kamo River

In the evening, take a stroll along the banks of the Kamo River, which runs through the center of Kyoto and has a romantic atmosphere at sunset.
 
There are benches along the river where you can sit and enjoy the view. Walking side by side, you can feel the atmosphere of Kyoto.

Dinner in Pontocho

Start your evening with dinner in Pontocho, a narrow street along the Kamo River lined with restaurants housed in traditional townhouses.
 
You can enjoy a wide variety of cuisines, from Japanese to Western to Italian, so try to find a restaurant that suits you both. In particular, restaurants with a riverside terrace allow you to enjoy your meal while feeling the summer night breeze.

A date to enjoy Kyoto’s nighttime illuminations

Nighttime visit to Kiyomizu-dera Temple

To end your date night, we recommend a night visit to Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Depending on the season, the temple is lit up, creating a fantastic atmosphere.
 
During the autumn leaves and cherry blossom seasons, the temple is beautifully lit up, making it an even more special experience if you visit in a kimono. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around Kiyomizu-dera at night and spend some quality time together.

A stroll through the illuminated Higashiyama area

After Kiyomizu-dera, enjoy the illuminated Higashiyama area. The surrounding temples and shrines, such as Kodai-ji Temple and Yasaka Shrine, are also lit up at night, creating a beautiful landscape that is different from the daytime.
 
Take a stroll around Higashiyama at night and fully experience the charm of Kyoto at night.

Cocktail time at Bar Noah

Finally, end your day at Bar Noah, a relaxed bar in the Higashiyama area where you can enjoy the evening with delicious cocktails.
 
Please sit at the counter and relax while reminiscing about your day.

summary

We have introduced a date plan for adults in Kyoto. This plan allows you to fully enjoy the charms of Kyoto from morning to night by renting a kimono or yukata.
 
From renting a kimono at Waplus Kyoto Yasaka Shrine, to strolling around Nanzenji Temple and Gion, to the night illuminations, this article is packed with ideas for a special day. Please use this article as a reference for your next date and enjoy a wonderful time in Kyoto.