The traditional Japanese attire, the kimono, perfectly matches the historical backdrop of Kyoto. Wrapped in a kimono and exploring spots filled with the ancient atmosphere of the old capital will undoubtedly be a once-in-a-lifetime special experience. Below, we introduce the top 10 breathtaking spots in Kyoto that you should visit in a kimono.
Kiyomizu-dera (清水寺)
Kiyomizu-dera is a representative tourist spot in Kyoto, visited by many tourists from both inside and outside of Japan due to its history and beautiful scenery. The temple itself is built on a site of spectacular beauty, and the view from its stage is exceptional. In spring, cherry blossoms and in autumn, colorful leaves enhance the temple, allowing you to enjoy the seasonal atmospheres.
Wearing a kimono when visiting Kiyomizu-dera allows you to fully appreciate the traditional beauty of Japan. The elegance of the kimono complements the historical and natural beauty of Kiyomizu-dera, allowing you to spend even more special time. Moreover, visiting the temple in a kimono will deepen your understanding of Japanese culture and will be an unforgettable experience.
Kinkaku-ji (金閣寺)
Kinkaku-ji, characterized by its beautiful building covered in shining gold leaf, is a representative tourist spot in Kyoto. Along with its garden, it is designated as a National Treasure of Japan and offers beautiful sceneries in every season. The golden brilliance of Kinkaku-ji captivates the visitors, harmonizing with the blue sky, lush garden, and its reflection in the pond.
Wearing a kimono when visiting Kinkaku-ji makes its magnificent scenery stand out even more. The solemnity of Kinkaku-ji and the elegance of the kimono come together, creating an even more memorable landscape. Walking around the premises allows you to feel the historical background and cultural significance, giving a profound sense of satisfaction.
Ginkaku-ji (銀閣寺)
Ginkaku-ji, like Kinkaku-ji, is one of the symbolic places of Kyoto, but it is charming due to its rustic and calm beauty. Including its garden, it provides a place where people can feel serenity and peace. Around Ginkaku-ji, beautiful gardens allow you to enjoy the different atmospheres of each season.
Visiting Ginkaku-ji in a kimono, you can feel its tranquility and grace even more. The elegance of the kimono and the tastefulness of Ginkaku-ji merge, making you feel as if time flows more slowly from the moment you enter. Additionally, walking in a kimono matches the historical atmosphere of the place, allowing you to spend even more attractive time.
Kamogawa (鴨川)
The Kamogawa River flows through Kyoto city, and its surroundings are popular places for walking, picnicking, and relaxing. Especially in spring, cherry blossoms bloom splendidly, and their reflections on the river surface create a breathtaking view. In summer, ‘Kawadoko’ (riverside platforms) are opened, where you can enjoy meals while feeling the cool river breeze.
Wearing a kimono and visiting Kamogawa allows you to feel the natural beauty and traditional elegance of Japan. The comfort felt from the sleeves fluttering in the wind and the dignity of the kimono beautifully blend with the natural beauty of Kamogawa, fully allowing visitors to experience the beauty and elegance of Japan.
Nanzen-ji (南禅寺)
Nanzen-ji is a Zen temple known for its vast grounds, beautiful gardens, and historical architecture. In particular, the aqueduct, known as Suirokaku, is famed for its architectural beauty and attracts many tourists. The gardens of Nanzen-ji offer a sense of the changing seasons, allowing visitors to experience nature in tranquility.
Wearing a kimono while visiting Nanzen-ji enhances the beauty of the historical architecture and gardens, making the kimono appear even more stunning. Spending time here allows you to deeply appreciate the history, culture, and natural beauty of Japan, making it a truly special experience. Strolling around in a kimono is the best way to fully appreciate the atmosphere of Nanzen-ji.
Heian Shrine (平安神宮)
Heian Shrine is a relatively new yet esteemed shrine built to commemorate the 1100th anniversary of the establishment of Heian-kyo. Its grand torii gate is one of Kyoto’s landmarks. The extensive grounds of the shrine also feature beautiful gardens, and the surrounding area is rich in historical architecture and natural beauty.
Visiting Heian Shrine in a kimono makes the history and natural beauty of the place stand out even more. The sacred atmosphere of the shrine, coupled with the traditional beauty of the kimono, ensures a memorable time. Wearing a kimono while worshipping at the shrine makes the visit a special experience for visitors.
Yasaka Shrine (八坂神社)
Yasaka Shrine, known for the Gion Festival, is one of Kyoto’s most popular shrines, attracting many tourists and worshippers with its rich historical significance. The area around the shrine is surrounded by historical streetscapes, enabling visitors to experience the traditional atmosphere of old Kyoto.
Wearing a kimono while visiting Yasaka Shrine allows you to deeply experience the historical significance and sacred space of the shrine. The elegance of the kimono and the atmosphere of the shrine complement each other, leaving a strong impression of Japanese tradition and culture on visitors.
Arashiyama(嵐山)
Arashiyama, representing one of Kyoto’s scenic spots, is attractive for its beautiful natural sceneries that change with the seasons. Particularly in spring and autumn, cherry blossoms and colorful foliage are spectacular, attracting many visitors. Crossing the Togetsu-kyo Bridge and enjoying the fluttering cherry blossoms and vivid autumn leaves is an unforgettable experience.
Walking around Arashiyama in a kimono makes its scenery more captivating. The traditional Japanese attire harmonizes with the natural beauty and historical architecture of Arashiyama, allowing you to fully appreciate the beauty of Japan. The combination of Arashiyama’s picturesque scenery and the elegance of the kimono provides a magical experience.
Gion(祇園)
Gion is located at the heart of Kyoto and is a district where Japanese tradition and elegance are profoundly preserved. With its old wooden machiya houses and cobblestone streets, visiting Gion is like stepping back in time. Wearing a kimono while exploring the cobblestone streets of Gion allows you to feel the historic atmosphere and elegance of the place more intensely. In the evening, the soft light of lanterns illuminates the streets, providing a magical atmosphere.
Nishiki Market (錦市場)
Nishiki Market, situated in the heart of Kyoto, is a historical market known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen.” This centuries-old market allows visitors to richly experience Japanese food culture. A stroll through Nishiki Market in a kimono offers a unique and enriching experience. The vibrant market, filled with various colors and scents, allows you to feel the tradition and culture of Japan.
The scenic spots in Kyoto are enhanced by the beauty of kimonos. Wearing a kimono while visiting these spots will engrave the history, culture, and nature of each place deeply in your heart.
コメント