5 Best Photo Spots in Kyoto That Are Still Under the Radar
Kyoto is often synonymous with the massive crowds at Fushimi Inari or Kiyomizu-dera. However, for those seeking tranquility and a more unique camera angle, Kyoto still hides several gems that are far from the tourist throngs yet incredibly aesthetic to capture.
The following locations offer a secret look at the city, ensuring your social media feed looks distinct and authentic.
1. Otagi Nenbutsu-ji: The Temple of a Thousand Unique Faces
Located in the northern reaches of the Arashiyama area, this temple is frequently bypassed by travelers who only visit the famous bamboo forest. This temple houses 1,200 stone Rakan statues (disciples of Buddha), each possessing a completely unique facial expression, ranging from laughing and crying to holding bottles of sake.
The atmosphere here is magical and serene. The green moss covering these statues provides an incredible texture for photos, especially when sunlight filters through the dense forest canopy.
2. Shoju-in Temple: The Heart-Shaped Window to the Soul
Situated in the quiet town of Uji, Shoju-in Temple features a unique heart-shaped window known as Inome-mado. While it looks modern, this heart shape is actually a traditional Japanese motif meant to ward off misfortune.
The view through this window changes beautifully with the seasons, from cherry blossoms in spring to fiery red maples in autumn. Beyond the heart window, the temple ceiling is adorned with 160 colorful paintings of flowers and landscapes, which are stunning when photographed from a low angle.
3. The Spiral Staircase of the Museum of Kyoto
If you appreciate retro architectural aesthetics and symmetry, the old building of the Museum of Kyoto is a must-visit. This red-brick, Western-style building houses an elegant, well-preserved wooden spiral staircase.
The dark wood details combined with the classic design create a mysterious yet luxurious vibe. This spot is perfect for "dark academia" style photos or minimalist portraits that highlight ancient architectural lines and shadows.
4. Okazaki Canal Area Near Heian Shrine
While the Heian Shrine itself is quite famous, the paths along the nearby Okazaki Canal are often much quieter than the canals in the city center. Here, you can find rows of cherry trees leaning over the water and traditional wooden boats passing slowly by.
This location is ideal for capturing photos with the giant vermilion Torii gate in the background without having to jostle with hundreds of people. The best time to visit is at dusk when the lights along the canal begin to glow, creating beautiful reflections on the water's surface.
5. Genko-an and the Two Windows of Life
Located in northern Kyoto, this small temple offers a philosophical perspective through its photography. Genko-an features two iconic large windows: the Square Window of Confusion and the Round Window of Enlightenment.
Photographing the garden through these two frames yields images that are deeply peaceful and symbolic. Because it is located a bit further from the city center, it rarely sees large tour groups, allowing you the freedom to find the perfect composition without interruption.
