KYOTO LOCATION LIST

1. Fushimi Inari Taisha – Iconic Torii Gate Pathway

• A magical tunnel of thousands of vermillion torii gates leading up the mountain.
• Best visited early morning or late evening to avoid crowds.
  🔗 More Info: Fushimi Inari Official Site (EN)

 

2. Kiyomizu-dera Temple – Breathtaking Kyoto Panorama

• A UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning city views and seasonal beauty.
• Especially gorgeous in cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons.
  🔗 More Info: Kiyomizu-dera Official Site (EN)

 

3. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove – Mystical Green Wonderland

• A dreamy bamboo forest where sunlight filters beautifully through towering stalks.
• Perfect for serene and ethereal couple shots.
  🔗 More Info: Kyoto Travel Guide (EN)

 

4. Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) – Kyoto’s Most Photogenic Temple

• A gold-leaf-covered Zen temple reflecting on a tranquil pond.
• Stunning in every season, with cherry blossoms, autumn leaves, or snowy landscapes.
  🔗 More Info: Kinkaku-ji Official Site (EN)

 

5. Gion District – Kyoto’s Traditional Geisha Quarter

• Stone-paved streets, historic wooden teahouses, and traditional vibes.
• A fantastic place for sunset and nighttime photography.
  🔗 More Info: Kyoto Travel Guide (EN)

 

6. Philosopher’s Path – Romantic Walkway Along a Stream

• A charming cherry blossom-lined path along a peaceful canal.
• Especially magical during spring and autumn.
  🔗 More Info: Kyoto Travel Guide (EN)

 

7. Yasaka Shrine & Maruyama Park – Kyoto’s Vibrant Heart

• A lively shrine known for its illuminated lanterns and giant cherry tree in spring.
• Night photography here is stunning.
  🔗 More Info: Kyoto Travel Guide (EN)

 

8. Tofuku-ji Temple – Kyoto’s Best Autumn Foliage Spot

• A wooden bridge overlooking a sea of red maple trees in autumn.
• Lesser known than Kiyomizu-dera but equally stunning.
  🔗 More Info: Tofuku-ji Official Site (EN)

 

9. Nijo Castle – Samurai-Era Elegance

• A historic Shogunate castle with beautiful gardens and grand interiors.
• Stunning cherry blossoms and illuminated gardens at night.
  🔗 More Info: Nijo Castle Official Site (EN)

 

10. Ryoan-ji Temple – Kyoto’s Famous Zen Rock Garden

• A peaceful spot featuring Japan’s most famous rock garden.
• Ideal for minimalist, artistic photography.
  🔗 More Info: Ryoan-ji Official Site (EN)

 

11. Heian Shrine & Garden – Kyoto’s Grand Vermillion Torii

• A huge torii gate, spacious shrine grounds, and hidden gardens.
• Beautiful seasonal flowers, including weeping cherry blossoms.
  🔗 More Info: Heian Shrine Official Site (EN)

 

12. Kyoto Imperial Palace – A Royal Backdrop

• Former residence of Japan’s emperors, with stunning gardens and historic architecture.
• Less crowded than other Kyoto sites, great for a private photoshoot.
  🔗 More Info: Imperial Household Agency (EN)

 

13. Eikando Temple – Hidden Gem with Stunning Autumn Leaves

• One of Kyoto’s best-kept secrets, known for its breathtaking maple trees.
• Romantic pathways perfect for couple photography.
  🔗 More Info: Eikando Official Site (EN)

 

14. Kamigamo Shrine – Kyoto’s Oldest Shrine

• A UNESCO-listed shrine with a picturesque river and historic torii gates.
• Serene and less crowded, great for an intimate photoshoot.
  🔗 More Info: Kyoto Travel Guide (EN)

 

15. Kifune Shrine – Mountain Shrine with Red Lantern Path

• A hidden mountain shrine north of Kyoto, famous for its lantern-lined staircase.
• Absolutely magical in winter with snow-covered steps.
  🔗 More Info: Kifune Shrine Official Site (EN)

 

16. Kurama & Kibune – Kyoto’s Romantic Mountain Retreat

• Peaceful countryside vibes, hot springs, and lush forests.
• Perfect for adventurous couples who love nature.
  🔗 More Info: Kyoto Travel Guide (EN)

 

17. Daigo-ji Temple – Stunning Pagoda & Autumn Beauty

• A beautiful five-story pagoda surrounded by seasonal colors.
• Breathtaking in autumn and spring.
  🔗 More Info: Daigo-ji Official Site (EN)

 

18. Byodo-in Temple – Kyoto’s Phoenix Temple

• A UNESCO-listed temple, famous for being on the 10-yen coin.
• A majestic pond reflection shot is a must!
  🔗 More Info: Byodo-in Official Site (EN)

 

19. Uji River & Tea Fields – Kyoto’s Green Tea Paradise

• A peaceful riverside town famous for matcha and traditional bridges.
• Ideal for romantic, natural settings with fewer crowds.
  🔗 More Info: Uji City Official Site (EN)

 

20. Amanohashidate – Japan’s Most Scenic Sandbar

• A picturesque, pine-covered sandbar, often called "the bridge to heaven."
• A day trip from Kyoto, but well worth it for breathtaking views.
  🔗 More Info: Amanohashidate Travel Guide (EN)

Shinji & Tomoko, photographers based in Tokyo & Okayama, Japan, here to capture your most precious memories.We specialize in couples, weddings, elopement, pre-weddings, and proposal moments, as well as family anniversaries, vacations, and soro portrait.
Let's explore Japan together, not only Tokyo but also Mt.fuji(kawaguchiko), Hokkaido, Aomori, Yamagata, Nagano, Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Okayama, Hiroshima, Kagawa, Fukuoka, Okinawa and more.