Seasonal activities in Kyoto – Top 9 events and when to visit!

Kyoto, the ancient capital, feels timeless with its enduring charm. The old temples and traditional townhouses whisper stories of Japan’s history.

And as each season brings its own events and sceneries, the allure only grows.

Spring 🌸

1. The Perfect Blend of Cherry Blossoms and Historic Landmarks 🌸

During cherry blossom season, Kyoto is especially bustling. No matter where you go, it’s crowded, but you’ll always be greeted by breathtaking places to see cherry blossoms paired with the city’s historic backdrop. 

Let me share some of my favorite spots I’ve visited.

Keage Incline

Now a pedestrian-only paradise, this former 600-meter railway track bursts into a breathtaking cherry blossom tunnel each spring. 

With cars out of the picture, you’re free to stroll and soak in the blooms at your own pace. 

Though a quick 10-minute walk covers the whole stretch, it’s so stunning I found myself wandering back and forth twice!

Maruyama Park

This gem lets you witness the drooping elegance of weeping cherry blossoms. I’ve dropped by both in broad daylight and at dusk, and I’ve got to say, the silhouettes of the cherry blossoms against the setting sun? Absolutely magical. 

Come nightfall, the trees light up, casting a glow on groups savoring nighttime feasts underneath. It’s a cherished tradition in Japan to eat and drink under these radiant blooms. (Hanami)

Beyond the blossoms, there’s a tranquil garden perfect for a calming wander. Trust me, it’s a serene experience you won’t want to miss!

Philosopher’s Path

This 2km-long walking path got its name because a famous philosopher used to stroll and ponder here daily.

It’s a modest path lined with cherry trees on both sides, but come peak bloom, you’ll find yourself walking under a mesmerizing arch of cherry blossoms.

Visit around early April, right when the petals start to fall, and you’ll see the nearby river transform into a pink carpet of petals. Truly a breathtaking sight you don’t want to miss.

2. Maiko Performances 👘

Twice a year, in spring and autumn, the maikos and geikos (that’s what they call geishas in Kyoto) put on a show. Enjoy their traditional dances, songs, stunning costumes, and intricate gestures. These shows are pretty popular, so snagging a ticket early is a good idea.

I’ll highlight some of the most sought-after performances. Expect to pay around 5,000 yen, though prices vary by seating. While I’ve mentioned a few shows, there are more on other days. Make sure to check it out!

Summer 🌞

3. Gion Festival 🏮

Held in July, this is Kyoto’s biggest festival and ranks among Japan’s top three. Expect huge crowds as both tourists and locals flock to it. With a history spanning over 1,150 years, it began as a ritual to appease plague gods.

The festival features grand floats with unique decorations parading through Kyoto.

It’s also a great chance to spot Maiko, as they partake in various festivities. Though the celebration lasts a month, it peaks from July 14th-17th, with the 17th being a major highlight.

4. Hana-Touro 💡

A hallmark of Kyoto’s summer, this mid-July event transforms the city with lanterns and special lights, creating a magical atmosphere.

It coincides with the Gion Festival. Key areas include Kiyomizu Temple and Maruyama Park.

5. Gozan no Okuribi 🔥

Held on August 16th, this traditional event sends off the spirits of ancestors with fires lit on five mountains. From July 15th to August 15th, known as “Obon” in Japan, Buddhists believe spirits of the departed return.

Lighting fires is a custom, with Kyoto’s Okuribi being the most renowned. The characters illuminated on the night mountains are truly enchanting.

6. Nagashi Somen 🥢

One of the fun summer traditions in Japan is catching cold thin noodles as they flow down a bamboo chute with water. 

You can enjoy this unique dining experience in the heart of Kyoto for a limited time each summer!

Hirobun

On a wooden terrace over a river, with a quaint waterfall in view, enjoy Nagashi Somen surrounded by nature. 

Born 400 years ago, this tradition lets you savor a meal while feeling the cool river breeze and hearing its flow, perfect for the humid summers. Available from May to September.

It’ll set you back 1700 yen, and it seems you can’t book ahead. Brace yourself for an average wait of about 3 hours. But if you’ve got time to spare, it’s an experience not to miss!

Kifune Shrine (Additional information)

Right around the corner is Kifune Shrine. Known as a spot for love, it’s also famed for its water deity. Heading to the shrine, the stairs are flanked by lights, giving off that quintessential Japanese vibe.

Speaking of water, the shrine’s fortune-telling is unique. Dip a blank paper in water, and voila, words magically appear! It’s the only place I’ve seen this quirky kind of fortune.

Autumn 🍁

7. Autumn Leaf Hunting 🍁

Kyoto’s autumn leaves are a big deal! Peak colors hit around late November. Kyoto’s streets and temples are always a sight to see, but when autumn leaves blend in, the city’s charm truly shines.

Let me share some of my favorite spots I’ve visited.

Ruriko-in

In a refined, tranquil study, you can relax and enjoy the autumn leaves. With over 100 types of trees, not all of them change color at once. But the blend of different colored leaves is something special.

The highlight here? Approaching the desk, you’ll see the leaves reflected on its surface, creating a breathtaking view.

Also, the garden is covered in moss, and the mix of green moss with red and orange leaves is truly a sight to behold. To experience this, you’ll need to book in advance. The reservation form is exclusively in Japanese, so you might need to navigate it with the help of a translator tool.

Especially in late November, when it’s at its peak, slots fill up quickly. So, make sure to plan ahead!

Hozukyo Gorge (Taking Sagano trolley train)

Hop on the Sagano Scenic Railway from Arashiyama for a ride you won’t forget. In just 25 minutes, you’ll be mesmerized by the mountains and valleys unfolding before your eyes.

The fall colors from this train? They’re a top hit in Kyoto and rank third in all of Japan!

Starting at 9am, the train offers a magical light-up of autumn leaves and illuminations from 4:30pm. The views are a total game-changer from daytime!

While a round trip on the train is fun, I’d personally recommend taking the train one-way, then hopping on a boat for a unique ride back to Arashiyama. It’s an experience you won’t forget!

Grab your ticket for 880 yen (adults) or 440 yen (kids). But here’s some friendly advice: it’s crazy popular, so book your seat ASAP! You can book from this website.

Tofuku-ji Temple

The grounds here are filled with a staggering 2,000 maple trees. The prime spot for autumn colors? That corridor you see in the top photo. From its elevated position, you get to look down on a sea of vibrant leaves.

Another gem? When you step down from that corridor into the garden and look back up, it feels like the corridor is wrapped in those fiery maple leaves.

Plus, this temple boasts a garden often hailed as a modern masterpiece. And don’t miss the grand dragon painted on the temple’s ceiling. Trust me, it’s worth a peek!

And if you can not get enough of this spectacular nature, I have good news, more where this came from in my breathtaking nature places in Japan article.

Winter ⛄️

8. Arashiyama Hanatouro 💡

For about 10 days in mid-December, there’s a magical light-up in Arashiyama. Not only the iconic bamboo forest, which looks otherworldly when lit from below, but also the famous Togetsukyo bridge and surrounding mountains glow in the evening.

Walking through, it feels like stepping into another world, with every corner offering a breathtaking view.

Sadly, the event did not happen in 2023. Fingers crossed it makes a comeback in 2024!

More things to do in Kyoto here.

Conslusion

If you’re still plotting out your travel dates, try syncing up with these Kyoto events.

And, beyond this page, I’ve dropped some hints about cool spots in Kyoto and Kyoto’s must-eat foods. Check out and get the most out of Kyoto!