Kyoto Hidden Gem Tour to Avoid Crowds

SO12Updated 4/7/2026

Even in Kyoto, which suffers from overtourism, there are still places where you can enjoy peace and quiet. Local residents share hidden temples and shrines, and famous spots for flower water features. For those tired of the 'usual Kyoto'.

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27 Monguchi-cho, Ichijoji, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8154, Japan

The former villa of the poet Ishikawa Jozan in Ichijoji, a literary world highlighted by the beauty of its white sand and trimmed gardens.

32 Kosaka-cho, Toriiimoto, Sagano, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8435, Japan

A hermitage nestled in the inner recesses of Sagano, its moss garden's beauty and tranquility make you forget the hustle and bustle of tourist spots.

2 Dōno-tani, Jōdo-tani, Nagaokakyō, 617-0855, Japan

A Kannon revered for healing eye ailments, nestled in the mountains of Nagaokakyō, particularly beautiful during the hydrangea and autumn foliage seasons.

586-2, Ba-no-cho, Karasuma-dori, Aneyakoji-sagaru, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8185, Japan

A complex facility renovated from a Taisho-era telephone exchange building, discovering new Kyoto culture rooted in the local community.

318-6, Inari-cho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8022, Japan

A new lifestyle hub in Kawaramachi, a sophisticated gourmet space with an organic focus.

55 Higashiyama, Kamitakano, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-0067, Japan

An exceptional autumn foliage spot nestled in the mountains of Kamitakano, available for viewing in peace with a reservation system.

149 Kawakami, Okuyamada, Ujitawara-cho, Tsuzuki-gun, Kyoto, 610-0211, Japan

A temple in the mountainous area of Ujitawara, famous for its wind chimes and heart-shaped windows, with the charm of cool summer sounds.

22-2 Kamiyata-cho, Kamigakiuchi, Kameoka, 621-0856, Japan

A hidden gem for autumn foliage in Kameoka, a beautiful mountain maple can be enjoyed exclusively by venturing a little from the city.

47-47 Takamine-kitacho, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 603-8468, Japan

A tranquil Zen temple in Takamine, its 'windows of enlightenment' and 'windows of confusion' offer views of the changing seasons that cleanse the soul.

10 Haraiden-cho, Ichijoji, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8184, Japan

A long-established independent bookstore in Ichijoji, a subculture mecca in Kyoto where culture lovers gather.

236 Seiryucho, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto, 602-0822, Japan

A long-established traditional Japanese confectionery shop in Demachi Yanagi, where the line for mame mochi can be relatively smooth on weekdays.

339 Kamigamo Motoyama, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 603-8047, Japan

A World Heritage site and Kyoto's oldest shrine, its vast grounds in Kamigamo can be visited peacefully on weekdays.

Related lists

Kyoto/Uji: Exploring Famous Sites and Serene Temples/Shrines

Stroll along the Philosopher's Path and the banks of the Kamo River Delta, visit the moss-covered Saiho-ji Temple, and the tranquil gardens of Shisendo and Honen-in. From famous sites like To-ji Temple and Uji's Byodo-in, to the townscape of Saga-Toriimoto and the signature ramen of Ichijoji. A 14-spot walking tour of Kyoto and Uji.

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