Recommended Tourist Spots in Southern Kyoto (Kyoto Station, Fushimi, Uji)

Kyoto Station serves as the main gateway to Kyoto. Not only does it have Shinkansen (bullet train) service, but it also connects to most local train lines and serves as a hub for buses, including night buses and local transportation.

The station itself is a popular attraction, designed by the famous architect Hiroshi Hara. It’s home to the famous “Ramen Street,” where you can try various regional ramen from across Japan, as well as many souvenir shops. The underground shopping mall “PORTA” and the long-established “Kyoto Avanti” offer a variety of trendy clothing stores and shopping opportunities, especially for younger visitors.

Stepping outside the north exit, you’ll find iconic spots like Kyoto Tower and Kyoto Aquarium, along with famous historical temples within walking distance, such as Nishi Hongan-ji, Higashi Hongan-ji, and To-ji. These temples are the headquarters of their respective Buddhist sects and are well-known pilgrimage sites, often visited for family celebrations and memorial services.

To-ji, the Head Temple of Shingon Buddhism

To-ji Temple, established by the famous Buddhist monk Kobo Daishi Kukai, is the head temple of Shingon Buddhism. It’s a well-known historical site that everyone in Japan studies in school.

The temple’s most iconic feature is its Five-Story Pagoda, which was once the tallest structure in Japan. You may have seen it in souvenirs from Kyoto.

Interestingly, Kyoto is home to four five-story pagodas, but To-ji’s is the most famous. The others can be found at Ninna-ji in Ukyo Ward, Daigo-ji in Fushimi Ward, and Hokan-ji in Higashiyama.

To-ji is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its main hall contains an impressive display of 21 statues centered around Dainichi Nyorai, creating a breathtaking scene known as the three-dimensional mandala.

To-ji is the last remaining structure from the Heian Period in Kyoto, standing for over 1,200 years. It was originally built as a national temple during the relocation of the capital to Heian-kyo, and was later entrusted to Kukai after his return from studying Buddhism and esoteric teachings in China.

When visiting To-ji, be sure to stop by Mieido Hall, where Kukai once lived. Here, you can get a glimpse of his life and the history of the temple.

Nishi Hongan-ji, Head Temple of the Jodo Shinshu Sect

Following To-ji, another must-see is Nishi Hongan-ji, the head temple of the Jodo Shinshu sect, founded by Shinran Shonin.

This temple is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with several buildings designated as National Treasures. Among these, the Karamon Gate is so beautiful that it’s nicknamed the Sunset Gate because people forget time when admiring it.

Although it’s the head temple of the Jodo Shinshu sect, Shinran Shonin himself never lived here, and the temple was only built in 1591, making it relatively new compared to other temples.

Nishi Hongan-ji is also famous for its giant ginkgo tree, said to be over 400 years old. The sheer size of the tree is sure to leave you in awe.

Kyoto Aquarium, Opened in 2012

Kyoto has recently seen the opening of several cultural facilities, one of the most exciting being the Kyoto Aquarium, which opened in 2012.

Unlike traditional aquariums, this one is divided into nine unique zones. A highlight is the Main Tank, holding 500 tons of water and recreating the Sea of Japan. The water is incredibly clear, and the lighting creates an immersive experience as if you’re swimming underwater.

A must-see here is the rare and protected Japanese Giant Salamander, found in the River of Kyoto zone.

Another popular area is the Mountain, River, and Sea zone, which introduces visitors to the wildlife native to Kyoto’s environment. This makes the aquarium a great stop for those interested in nature beyond temples and shrines.

The aquarium hosts events like the popular Night Aquarium for couples, as well as hands-on programs for children, so there’s something for everyone.

Kyoto Tower, Beloved by Locals

Many people recognize Kyoto Tower, located right in front of JR Kyoto Station and easily visible from the Shinkansen.

Kyoto Tower was built in 1964, and although it was initially criticized for spoiling the city’s traditional landscape, it has since become a beloved symbol of Kyoto.

The tower stands 131 meters tall, with an observation deck at 100 meters. One of its little-known facts is that Kyoto Tower is the tallest structure in the world without a central steel frame.

At the base of the tower is a hotel, offering various ways to enjoy your visit. There are also restaurants and a shopping center called Kyoto Tower Sando, where you can try sushi, sweets, and even participate in craft workshops such as painting Kyoto pottery or decorating wind chimes.

Kyoto Tower is a great spot to visit, rain or shine, and offers a peaceful escape after a day of sightseeing.

Kyoto Railway Museum – See Many Steam Locomotives

The Kyoto Railway Museum opened on April 29, 2016.
Before the museum was built, there was another museum that showcased steam locomotives. The current Kyoto Railway Museum expanded upon that original idea.

The main highlight of the Kyoto Railway Museum is the collection of trains, from past to present, on display. The sight of the steam locomotives is particularly moving.
Even if you’re not a train enthusiast, you’ll recognize famous steam engines like the D51 and C62, which are preserved in working condition.

The museum offers more than just viewing trains – you can also experience them!
For example, you can ride a train pulled by a steam locomotive, or test your skills on an exciting train-driving simulator.
There’s also an area where you can learn about the safety systems, like the ATS, that protect trains through models and interactive exhibits.

In 2020, the museum expanded its Kids’ Park on the second floor and added a new playground in the SL Plaza. This makes it a fun place for both adults and children to enjoy all day long.

Fushimi Inari Shrine – Famous for Its Thousands of Torii Gates

Fushimi Inari Shrine is the head shrine of over 30,000 Inari shrines across Japan.

If you’re just visiting the main shrine, it won’t take much time, but if you want to explore the full hiking route around Mount Inari, it will take about 90 minutes. Be prepared, as it feels like a real hike. Wearing sneakers or comfortable walking shoes is highly recommended.

Inari refers to the god of rice and harvest, called Ukanomitama.
You’ll notice many white foxes, which are symbolic of this god, and even the shrine’s ema (wish plaques) are shaped like foxes.
It’s fun to see the creative drawings and messages people leave on them.

The most iconic feature of Fushimi Inari Shrine is the thousands of torii gates. Nearly 10,000 bright red gates have been donated and line the paths around the shrine.
Many tourists come to see these vibrant gates, making it one of the most photographed spots. However, it’s quite crowded, so if you want a photo with no people, you’ll need patience – early morning or rainy days are your best chance!

Byodoin Temple – A World Heritage Site You Must Visit in Uji

Byodoin Temple is a famous temple closely associated with the Fujiwara clan, one of Japan’s most powerful families. It is home to many cultural treasures, including the national treasure “Phoenix Hall” and the “Amida Nyorai Seated Statue,” and is also recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

One of the most well-known structures, the “Phoenix Hall,” is featured on the 10-yen coin, while the phoenix statue that sits atop the hall is depicted on the back of the 10,000-yen bill. These designs make Byodoin more familiar to people in Japan.

The temple, built in the mid-11th century, reflects the elegant architectural style of the late Heian period. Fujiwara no Yorimichi, a regent of Japan, turned his father’s villa, “Ujiden,” into this grand temple.

During the Heian period, many aristocrats had villas in Uji, enjoying it as a resort area just outside of Kyoto. It was also a time when beliefs about the Pure Land and afterlife were spreading among the nobility and monks. Byodoin was built as a reflection of these beliefs, offering a glimpse into the spiritual aspirations of people from that era.

The highlight of Byodoin is the Phoenix Hall, where the “Amida Nyorai Seated Statue” is enshrined. Surrounding the statue are beautiful “Unchu Kuyo Bosatsu” sculptures, creating a serene and sacred atmosphere inside the hall. Although the interior now has a calm appearance, in the past, it was decorated with vibrant colors, and the Amida Buddha glowed in gold.

If you want to see how the original colors might have looked, check out the Byodoin Museum Hoshokan. This museum displays replicas and artifacts that showcase the temple’s former splendor.

Byodoin Temple is a place where you can reflect on the elegant life of the nobility and their deep spiritual beliefs. A visit here is truly a journey through time.

Daigo-ji Temple – Famous for “Daigo no Hanami”

When it comes to cherry blossom viewing spots in southern Kyoto, Daigo-ji Temple is one of the most famous. The temple, founded by Rigen Daishi Shobo, a disciple of Kobo Daishi (Kukai), is the head temple of the Daigo sect of Shingon Buddhism.

Though most of the existing buildings are from the Momoyama period, the temple’s five-story pagoda, built in 952, is the oldest wooden structure in Kyoto and a designated national treasure.

The temple’s cherry blossoms date back to the time of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who famously planted 700 trees for a grand cherry blossom viewing party. Every year, on the second Sunday of April, the “Toyotomi Hideyoshi Cherry Blossom Festival Procession” takes place, recreating this historic event.

The sight of cherry blossoms like Somei Yoshino, Yaezakura, and weeping cherry trees covering the mountainside is simply breathtaking. Among the most beautiful spots are the large weeping cherry at Sanboin Temple and the weeping cherries around the Reihokan Museum.

Daigo-ji is also well-known for its autumn foliage. From mid-November to mid-December, the temple is adorned with vibrant colors, particularly around Bentendo Hall, which becomes a popular spot for photography. The crowds are much smaller compared to cherry blossom season, making it a perfect time to enjoy the beauty of the temple in peace.

Discover the Heart-Shaped Hydrangeas at Mimuroto-ji Temple

Mimuroto-ji Temple, also known as the “Hydrangea Temple,” is the 10th temple of the Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage and was founded in the Nara period by Emperor Kōnin.

The temple is famous for its vast garden, which spans over 5,000 square meters and boasts 10,000 hydrangea plants from around 50 different species. Each year, from June 1st to mid-July, the “Hydrangea Garden” is open to the public, offering a beautiful display of these vibrant flowers.

In addition to hydrangeas, Mimuroto-ji also opens its “Azalea and Rhododendron Garden” from late April for about a month, where you can enjoy the sight of around 20,000 azaleas and 10,000 rhododendrons in full bloom. After the hydrangea season, the lotus flowers bloom, and the “Lotus Garden” becomes another must-see attraction, making the temple one of Kyoto’s top spots for flower lovers.

There’s also a fun tradition at Mimuroto-ji: it’s said that finding a blue heart-shaped hydrangea will grant your wishes, while finding a pink one will bring luck in love. This has become a popular activity, especially among women, who come to search for these heart-shaped blooms. Since their locations are kept a secret, you’ll have to explore the garden to find them!

Kyoto Station Building: More Than Just a Transit Hub

If you’re staying near Kyoto Station or looking for indoor activities on a rainy day, the Kyoto Station Building is a fantastic spot to visit.

The building is much more than a station—it’s a multi-functional complex that houses restaurants, souvenir shops, a theater, and even an art museum. If you’re planning to stay near Kyoto Station, there are also hotels located right inside the station building for added convenience.

One highlight of the station is the Grand Staircase Graphic Illumination. With 171 steps, 125 of which are embedded with 15,000 LED lights, the stairway offers seasonal illuminations that reflect Japan’s cultural events and Kyoto’s famous festivals. From celebrations of Girls’ Day and cherry blossoms to tributes to Kyoto’s Aoi Matsuri, Gion Festival, and the Gozan no Okuribi fire festival, the staircase transforms with every season. Special illuminations for holidays like Halloween and Christmas create a magical atmosphere, too.

For a breathtaking view, head to the free observation deck on the rooftop, called the “Sky Garden.” It’s a hidden gem offering a panoramic view of the surrounding area.

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