Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Kiyomizu-dera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Kyoto’s Higashiyama district, is famous for its dramatic wooden stage and the sacred Otowa Waterfall. It’s about a 20-minute walk or a 10-minute bus ride from GIN NO YADO, passing charming streets like Ninenzaka. Nearby are Gion, Yasaka Shrine, and Sannenzaka. The temple is especially stunning during cherry blossom season (March–April) and autumn foliage (November), offering unforgettable views and rich history.
Sanzen-in Temple
Kiyomizu-dera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Kyoto’s Higashiyama district, is famous for its dramatic wooden stage and the sacred Otowa Waterfall. It’s about a 20-minute walk or a 10-minute bus ride from GIN NO YADO, passing charming streets like Ninenzaka. Nearby are Gion, Yasaka Shrine, and Sannenzaka. The temple is especially stunning during cherry blossom season (March–April) and autumn foliage (November), offering unforgettable views and rich history.
Eikan-do Zenrinji Shrine
Eikando Temple, in Kyoto’s Sakyo Ward, is a top spot for autumn foliage. From GIN NO YADO, it's about 25 minutes by subway and bus. Its Tahoto Pagoda and pond garden offer breathtaking reflections of red maple leaves. Just a short walk from Higashiyama Station, it’s close to Nanzen-ji and the Philosopher’s Path—making it ideal for a fall foliage walking course.
Ginkakuji Temple
Ginkaku-ji, officially named Jisho-ji, is located in Kyoto’s Sakyo Ward and is famed for its Zen-inspired gardens and elegant simplicity. From GIN NO YADO, it takes about 30 minutes by subway and bus. Nearby attractions include the Philosopher’s Path and Nanzen-ji Temple. The sand garden and moss-covered grounds reflect the tranquil beauty of Higashiyama culture. It’s especially beautiful during cherry blossom season and the vibrant autumn leaves.
The Philosopher's Path
The Philosopher’s Path is a scenic 2km walkway in Kyoto, lined with hundreds of cherry trees along a quiet canal. From GIN NO YADO, it takes about 30 minutes by subway and bus. The path links Ginkaku-ji and Nanzen-ji, and is most stunning in March–April during cherry blossom season. A peaceful route for walking, it also passes temples like Eikando and Honen-in.
Golden Pavilion
Kinkaku-ji, or the Golden Pavilion, is a UNESCO site in Kyoto’s Kita Ward, famous for its gold-covered structure and reflective pond. From GIN NO YADO, it’s about a 40-minute bus ride. The view of the temple mirrored in the lake is stunning, especially in winter snow or autumn colors. Nearby sites include Ryoan-ji and Kitano Tenmangu Shrine.
Higashiyama District in the old town of Kyoto
Higashiyama is Kyoto’s historic old town, featuring preserved Edo-period streets and cultural landmarks. From GIN NO YADO, it’s a 20-minute walk to Ninenzaka or a short bus ride to Kiyomizu-michi. Highlights include Kiyomizu-dera, Yasaka Shrine, Gion, and Kennin-ji. Ideal for kimono walks, spring blossoms, or autumn foliage—this is where Kyoto’s tradition truly comes alive.
Toji Pagoda
To-ji, near Kyoto Station, is home to Japan’s tallest wooden pagoda and a major historic landmark. Just 15 minutes by subway from GIN NO YADO, or 10 minutes on foot from Kyoto Station. Cherry blossoms in spring and night illuminations make it especially photogenic. It also hosts monthly flea markets and cultural events on temple grounds.
