Top 10 Hidden Tourist Spots In Kyoto [Secret Gem Edition]

23 aprile 2025

Kyoto Prefecture has many wonderful hidden spots that are not yet known to tourists!

We have carefully selected famous spots where you can quietly enjoy history, nature, and culture.

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1. Renge-ji Temple

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A small temple with beautiful moss that stands quietly in the mountains.

The garden viewed from the shoin is charming throughout the four seasons, and is especially beautiful during the autumn leaves.

- Access: About 30 minutes by bus from Demachiyanagi Station, get off at "Kamihashi" and walk for about 3 minutes

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2. Shoju-in Temple

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A temple that is also popular on social media for its "heart-shaped boar's eye window".

Seasonal ceiling paintings and wind chime festivals are also held, making it a healing space where cuteness and tranquility coexist.

- Access: About 40 minutes by bus from Uji Station + about 10 minutes on foot

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3. Iwashimizu Hachiman Shrine

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A prestigious shrine enshrined on top of Mt. Otoko.
It can also be accessed by cable car. The view from the observation deck and the quiet approach to the temple through the forest are also attractive.

- Access: 10 minutes on foot from Iwashimizu-Hachimangu Station + cable car

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4. Kyoto International Manga Museum

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A must-see for manga fans! A spot where you can experience Japanese manga culture.
You can read manga freely inside the museum.

- Access: A short walk from Karasuma-Oike Station

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5. Genko-an

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A Zen temple known for its "Window of Enlightenment" and "Window of Mayoi".
It is also famous as a hidden spot for autumn leaves, but it is quiet on weekdays, making it perfect for those who want to calm their mind.

- Access: 25 minutes by bus from Kitaoji Station, get off at "Takamine Genko-an-mae"

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6. Shisendo

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A mountain villa built by Ishikawa Jozan, a literary man in the early Edo period.
Its charm lies in its quiet and sophisticated garden and architectural beauty that allows you to feel the spirit of the poet.

- Access: 25 minutes by bus from Demachiyanagi Station, get off at "Ichijoji Shimogurimatsumachi" and walk for 7 minutes

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7. Maizuru

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A port town facing the Sea of Japan.
A quiet destination perfect for those who want to feel the sea, history, and nostalgia.

Access: 2 hours by train from Kyoto Station

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8. Toriimoto

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Saga Toriimoto is a historic townscape that has been selected as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings.
It is surprisingly quiet, despite being very close to the tourist destination of Arashiyama.

- Access: 20 minutes by foot from Saga Arashiyama Station

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9. Ajiki Alley

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An artistic back alley space renovated from a Meiji-era tenement house.
A hidden gem lined with young artists' studios and cafes, it is a must-see for those who love to walk around the town.

- Access: About 7 minutes walk from Kiyomizu-Gojo Station

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10. Oharano Shrine

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Also known as "Kyoto's Kasuga Taisha," this shrine has beautiful moss-covered paths and autumn leaves.

Since it is not a tourist destination, you can quietly enjoy nature and holiness.

- Access: About 25 minutes by bus from Katsura Station, get off at "Minami Kasuga-cho" and walk for about 10 minutes

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[Summary]

There are many hidden spots in Kyoto Prefecture where you can quietly enjoy history and nature away from the hustle and bustle.
If you visit these little-known spots as well as the famous spots, you will definitely be able to experience the deeper charms of Kyoto.
On your next trip to Kyoto, be sure to visit them along with the classics!

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