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Kyoto Dating Spots

[2024] From classic to hidden gems! 25 Recommended Dating Spots in Kyoto

Are you troubled by dates that gradually get stuck in a rut? In addition to famous shrines and temples, Kyoto offers a wide variety of fun facilities such as handmade crafts, theaters, museums, and archives.
In this issue, we will introduce a wide variety of editorially recommended date spots, from the standard to the obscure. Check out the places that interest you and go out to create precious memories. (TEXT/Yuko Hanawa, Eiko Itakura, Meimi Toyoda, EDIT/Miki Tamura)

Contents of this article

1.
Some games can be played in cooperation with two people! Increase your love level at the popular Nintendo Museum / Uji
2.
TEA SQUARE MORIHAN] / Uji, where you can enjoy tea and sweets made from high-quality tea leaves.
3.
Enjoy art close at hand [Kyoto Kyocera Museum of Art] / Okazaki, Japan
4.
Experience the traditional techniques of pottery at Zuikogama Kyoto Kiyomizu-ten, which has been handed down for over 250 years / Yasaka
5.
Make a wish on the colorful "kuri-monkeys" at Yasaka Koshindo (Yasaka Koshindo) that adorn the precincts of the temple / Yasaka
6.
Enjoy traditional gourmet food at Nishiki Market, the kitchen of Kyoto!
7.
A tempting array of gourmet foods! Eat up the taste of autumn in Arashiyama / Arashiyama
8.
A spectacular view from [Arashiyama Park] (Kameyama Park), where rich nature is woven together / Arashiyama
9.
Try your hand at making original dyed goods at ANDO, a long-established shop celebrating 100 years in business / Gojo
10.
Byodoin, a gorgeous and gorgeous temple reminiscent of the prosperity of the Heian period (794-1192) / Uji, Japan
11.
A collection of unique stores! The newly reborn Osaka-ya Market / Uji
12.
The heart-shaped inome window at Shoju-in Temple, where the heart is refreshed by the colorful seasonal scenery / Uji-Tawaramachi
13.
Visit the world of Toei Movie Land in Kyoto / Ohata, a place where you can forget about time and have fun.
14.
[Handmade pairings at glänta kyoto Sanjo Kawaramachi / Sanjo
15.
You will feel refreshed after a good laugh! [Live stage performance at Gion Kagetsu in Gion, Kyoto
16.
Sake and food pairing at Fushimisakagura Koji in the town of sake breweries / Fushimi
17.
Enjoy Manga Time at the Kyoto International Manga Museum, a one-of-a-kind cultural facility / Karasuma Oike
18.
Learn about the creatures that live in Kyoto at the Kyoto Aquarium, one of the largest inland aquariums in Japan / Umekoji Park
19.
Nidec Kyoto Tower and Kyoto Tower Sandwich are not only for looking up, but also for enjoying the inside of the tower / Kyoto Station
20.
Immerse yourself in the world of the stage "GEAR" in a retro building from the early Showa period / Sanjo
21.
Zen temple known for its "Window of Enlightenment/ Window of Lostness" and "Blood Ceiling" [Genkoan] / Takagamine
22.
From couples to families. Everyone can feel free to visit [JRA Kyoto Racecourse]/Fushimi
23.
Jizo-san, revered as a child-rearing Jizo, child-supporting Jizo, and child-supporting Jizo at Seifuku-ji Temple / Kiyomizu Gojo
24.
Experience making the world's one and only original carpet at tufting studio CREA / Shimogamo
25.
[MYBEAR STUDIO] Breathing Art into Bear Figures / Karasuma Matsubara

1.Some games can be played in cooperation with two people! Increase your love level at the popular Nintendo Museum / Uji

A hot spot that opened on October 2, 2024 (Wed.) in Uji and Kokura, Kyoto. [On the first floor, visitors can experience nostalgic games reborn with the latest technology using coins in a hands-on exhibit area. You can also experience the latest technology in the experience exhibit area on the first floor. When you are tired of playing, take a break at the café where you can order an original burger of your choice. Finally, you can buy souvenirs at the museum store, which also sells a variety of limited-edition goods!

Nintendo Museum Love Tester

There are also hands-on exhibits that are perfect for dates, such as a game in which pairs of people work together, and the Love Tester SP, in which people hold hands and try various tests to raise their level of love.

Nintendo Museum Bonus Stage

It is fun to choose a souvenir to commemorate your date. Game Hardware Keychain Collection 1983-1999, 1,320 yen per piece. You'll have to wait until after you purchase to see what you get out of the total of six types in the collection.

Nintendo Museum Exterior

<Rates
Adults 3300 yen / Junior high and high school students 2200 yen / Elementary school students 1100 yen / Preschool children free
<Ticket Reservations
Tickets must be reserved in advance and are currently sold by lottery.
Reservations arehere

Nintendo Museum

  • 56 Kagurada, Ogura-cho, Uji-shi, Kyoto
  • 5 min. walk from East Exit of Kintetsu "Kokura" Station
    8 min. walk from North Exit of JR Kokura Station
    Cabs, private cars, motorcycles, and bicycles are not allowed.
  • 10:00-18:00 (last admission/16:30)
  • Closed on Tuesdays (or the following day if Tuesday is a national holiday) and New Year's holidays (Dec. 30 - Jan. 3)
  • No parking
  • https://museum.nintendo.com/

2.TEA SQUARE MORIHAN] / Uji, where you can enjoy tea and sweets made from high-quality tea leaves.

Established in 1836, Morihan, a long-established tea manufacturer and seller in Uji, has opened a new complex in a renovated historic store building. In addition to gyokuro, sencha, and other drinks, visitors can taste freshly ground powdered green tea and sweets made from roasted tea. A visit to the viewing area, where tea masters judge the quality of tea, is also recommended through the glass. Located away from the center of the tourist attractions and with few people, this is the perfect place for two people who want to enjoy a relaxing time together.

Morihan Sweets and Tea

(Left) Matcha green tea mont blanc with homemade paste of Japanese chestnuts kneaded with Uji green tea and served squeezed in front of you for 1,100 yen and (right) matcha green tea with hojicha and tea sweets for 1,100 yen.

TEA SQUARE MORIHAN
TEA SQUARE MORIHAN

TEA SQUARE MORIHAN

  • Tea Square MORIHAN
  • 78 Kubo, Ogura-cho, Uji-shi, Kyoto
  • 10 min. walk from Kintetsu "Kokura" station.
  • Tel.0774-51-1519

3.Enjoy art close at hand [Kyoto Kyocera Museum of Art] / Okazaki, Japan

In 2020, the Kyoto Municipal Museum of Art will reopen under the name of the Kyoto Kyocera Museum of Art. The main building with its beautiful retro-modern design will be retained, while a new wing for contemporary art, a café, and a museum store will be added. The museum offers exhibitions at different times of the year that can be enjoyed by couples interested in art, as well as by beginners, allowing them to get up close and personal with art. After viewing the exhibits, visitors can enjoy spending time on the rooftop terrace or in the café.

Exterior view of Kyocera Museum of Art

Photo by Takeru Kurita

Kyoto Kyocera Museum of Art

  • Tokyo Metropolitan Museum of Art
  • 124 Enshoji-cho, Okazaki, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
  • Short walk from Okazaki Park Museum & Heian Jingu-mae bus stop on the city bus.
    Approximately 8 minutes walk from Higashiyama Subway Station
  • Tel. 075-771-4334

4.Experience the traditional techniques of pottery at Zuikogama Kyoto Kiyomizu-ten, which has been handed down for over 250 years / Yasaka

At Zuikogama Kyoto Kiyomizu Branch, founded in 1771 in Kiyomizu, Kyoto, you can try your hand at pottery making on a potter's wheel. The pieces you carefully create with your own hands are an unpredictable experience in which the shape of the piece can be determined by the slightest chance! Try your hand at making your own unique piece of Kyo-yaki or Kiyomizu-yaki pottery while being guided by a skilled craftsman. Enjoy the experience of sitting down at the dining table with the vessels you have made together.

Zuiko Kiln Experience

Light plan for a casual challenge starts from 2,900 yen. The smooth texture of the soil feels great!

Zuiko Kiln, Utsuwa

Zuikogama Kyoto Kiyomizu Store

  • Sweets and Gems
  • 385-5 Yasakaue-cho, Yasaka-dori Shimogawara Higashi-iru, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
  • 3 minutes walk from bus stop "Shimizu-michi".
    15-minute walk from Keihan Gion-Shijo Station
  • Tel. 075-744-6644
  • https://www.taiken-kiyomizu.com/

5.Make a wish on the colorful "kuri-monkeys" at Yasaka Koshindo (Yasaka Koshindo) that adorn the precincts of the temple / Yasaka

Yasaka Koshindo is one of the three most popular shrines in Japan and is also known as "Koshin-san. The main hall houses a statue of the three monkeys, "see no evil, speak no evil, hear no evil," and is also famous for prayers such as the "konjaku kojaku kojaku" prayer, which seals out intractable diseases, and the "kocho kocho" prayer, which attracts lost items. It is a standard practice to take pictures of couples wearing kimonos. Before taking pictures, do not forget to pay your respects at the main hall.

Yasaka Koshindo Kukuri Monkey

The "kukuri-monkeys" that adorn the precincts of the temple represent monkeys tied to human greed, and it is said that if you make a wish and endure one of your desires, your wish will be granted.

Yasaka Koshindo

Yasaka Koshindo

6.Enjoy traditional gourmet food at Nishiki Market, the kitchen of Kyoto!

Nishiki Ichiba, known as "Kyoto's kitchen," is a 390-meter-long shopping street stretching from Teramachi Dori to Takakura Dori in Kyoto. It is said to have been established about 400 years ago, and is a veritable treasure trove of gourmet food, with about 130 stores selling fresh fish, ingredients used in Kyoto cuisine, processed goods, snacks, and souvenirs! It is also a great place for lunchtime drinking, so couples who like to drink should definitely stop by. The narrow streets are sure to bring the two of you closer together. Satisfy your appetite to your heart's content in this long-established shopping street.

Tanaka's chicken egg roll

Tanaka Chicken & Egg, a dashimaki specialty restaurant that has maintained its unchanged taste since its establishment, offers a dashimaki roll for 1,450 yen. It contains plenty of broth and is soft to the touch, making it a perfect match for eel.

kai Octopus egg

Popular gourmet octopus eggs from 500 yen a piece at Oar KAI, a store specializing in furikake, delicacies, and snacks. The head of the octopus is filled with a quail egg. The octopus is slowly simmered in a sweet and spicy soy sauce-based sauce, making it soft and addictive once you try it!

7.A tempting array of gourmet foods! Eat up the taste of autumn in Arashiyama / Arashiyama

Arashiyama, Kyoto, offers a variety of spots ideal for eating and walking, such as gorgeous sweets that look great in photographs and food with a Kyoto-like atmosphere. Benches are placed at the foot of the Togetsu Bridge, where you can enjoy your meal while gazing at the Katsura River. There are also trash cans located throughout the area.Trash MAPCheck out the following. While protecting the beautiful scenery, let's savor the atmosphere of Arashiyama and its exquisite gourmet food as autumn deepens.

Tsuruya Chosei's Tsuru Dora

Tsuru-dora (crane-shaped dumplings) from Tsuruya Chosei, which brings happiness, are 500 yen each, and the matcha set is 1,100 yen. The red bean paste is moderately sweet and goes well with matcha green tea or coffee.

Ryo Ya's Yuba Cheese

Yuba cheese (yuba cheese) at Arashiyama's specialty restaurant Yoshiya Hon-dori-ten (Yoshiya Hon-dori-ten) is 500 yen. The chewy texture, the crispiness of the freshly fried yuba, and the melted cheese are addictive. No eggs or flour used.

8.A spectacular view from [Arashiyama Park] (Kameyama Park), where rich nature is woven together / Arashiyama

A 15-minute walk from the central area of Arashiyama brings you to [Arashiyama Park (Kameyama area)] (commonly known as Kameyama Park). Climbing further up from there, you will reach an observatory from which you can enjoy a panoramic view of Arashiyama. Only those who go there can enjoy the panoramic view of Arashiyama, including the Hozu River cruise boat and the trolley train, which look as small as miniatures. Enjoy a picnic or spend time as you wish while admiring the spectacular view.

The view from Kameyama Park

It is recommended to visit with comfortable walking shoes as it is a short distance to the observation deck.

Arashiyama Park (Kameyama area)

  • Arashiyama-Koen (Kameyama-zukuri)
  • Saga, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
  • 15 min. walk from Arashiyama Sta. on the Randen Line
  • Tel. 075-701-0102 (Kyoto Public Works Office, Kyoto Prefecture *Weekdays 8:30-17:15)

9.Try your hand at making original dyed goods at ANDO, a long-established shop celebrating 100 years in business / Gojo

ANDO, a long-established manufacturer of kimono accessories, celebrated its 100th anniversary last year. The company offers workshops on making dyed goods in the hope that people will become familiar with the traditional techniques of dyeing and shibori, which have become increasingly distant from our daily lives. Visitors can spend a moment to experience dyeing culture and refine their sensibility. Making a tote bag for each other and giving it as a gift will be a fun and exciting experience.

ANDO Experience

For the tie-dyeing experience, choose from T-shirts or tote bags, and either roll-up tie-dyeing or itajime tie-dyeing. Reservations are required from the official website at least 3 days in advance.

ANDO Interior view

ANDO

  • pea (Pisum sativum)
  • 327 Kashiwayacho, Gojo-agaru, Yanagibaba-dori, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto
  • 8 min. walk from Exit 1 of Gojo Subway Station
    9 minutes walk from Exit 3 of "Kiyomizu Gojo Station" of Keihan
  • Tel. 075-341-0361

10.Byodoin, a gorgeous and gorgeous temple reminiscent of the prosperity of the Heian period (794-1192) / Uji, Japan

In 1052, Yorimichi Fujiwara converted Uji-den, the villa of his father, Michinaga Fujiwara, into a Buddhist temple and founded Byodoin. At that time, the Pure Land faith, which prayed for rebirth in paradise, spread among aristocrats, Buddhist monks, and the general public, and the Amida Hall (now the Phoenix Hall) was built as a place of prayer. The main statue of Amida Nyorai, by Buddhist priest Teicho, is known as a masterpiece of Japanese-style sculpture. During the fall foliage season, the maple trees along the Aji-ike Pond in front of the Phoenix Hall change color, creating a beautiful scene.

Byodo-in Temple

©️ Byodoin

Byodo-in Temple

  • Byodoin
  • 116 Renge Uji, Uji City, Kyoto Prefecture
  • 10-minute walk from JR/Keihan Uji Station
  • Tel.0774-21-2861

11.A collection of unique stores! The newly reborn Osaka-ya Market / Uji

[In 2019, the Showa era market built on the Ujibashi-dori shopping street will be re-launched as a new market where unique stores will gather. From restaurants such as a store where you can taste authentic Neapolitan pizza and a popular bar where you can have a little drink with yakitori and yakiton, attractive stores offering home-roasted coffee and lifestyle goods are on standby! Gourmet-loving couples are sure to have a blast.

Osaka-ya Market

Retro and modern coexist well in this storefront. The long passageway seen from the entrance is also exciting.

1F Store
Watte Chai (chai) / Antica Pizzeria Razinello (pizzeria) / Chochotsuimi Hawaii (popular bar) / Uji Konoha Osteopathic Clinic (osteopathic clinic) / Nokays Wion & Copan (stand coffee & lifestyle goods) / Candy Shop Time Slip (candy, sundries) / Koyo Dyeing and Weaving (clothing) (soft ice cream) / Ogino Seisakusho (soft ice cream) / Chop Chop Bain Mee (Bain Mee) / Gift Shop Aoi Sora (gift store) / Niku ga Umai Ten Food Park (meat dishes) / Art Gallery A&M (gallery) / Minna no Ie (community space) / Tasuki (Japanese sweets shop) / Mizoguchi Sanchi (Sake BAR) / Neko standard (Cat goods)

2F Store
Osaka-ya (Restaurant)

*Confirm each store's business days, etc. on the website.

Osaka-ya Market

  • Osaka-ya Market
  • 41 Myoraku, Uji, Uji City, Kyoto, Japan
  • Six-minute walk from JR Uji Station
    7 minutes walk from "Uji" station of Keihan
  • https://www.osakayamarket.com/

12.The heart-shaped inome window at Shoju-in Temple, where the heart is refreshed by the colorful seasonal scenery / Uji-Tawaramachi

Located in the nature-rich Uji-Tawara area, Shoju-in Temple is also called "Fu-ring-dera" (wind-bell temple) because it holds a wind-bell festival every summer. The famous "inome" window here is a cute heart-shaped window. Inome, which resembles a heart shape, is a traditional Japanese pattern and is meant to invite good fortune and ward off misfortune. After praying at the temple, take a memorable picture.

Shoujuin's Inome Window
Red Seal of Shojuin Temple

Seven to eight types of red seals are available, starting at 300 yen. Many of the red seals are accompanied by atmospheric paintings, which will bring a smile to your face.

Shoju-in Temple

  • pineal gland
  • 149 Okuyamada Kawakami, Ujitawara-cho, Tsuzuki-gun, Kyoto Prefecture
  • 30 minutes drive from JR Uji Station
  • Tel.0774-88-3601

13.Visit the world of Toei Movie Land in Kyoto / Ohata, a place where you can forget about time and have fun.

Since its opening in 1975, Toei Movie Land has been loved by men and women of all ages. Visitors can try on period costumes, so it is recommended to take a memorable photo dressed in something out of the ordinary. In addition to the regular attractions, seasonal events are also held, so be sure to check it out.

Karakuri Yashiki (Karakuri House) in Eiga-mura

Karakuri Ninja House" has a lot of hidden tricks, such as a hidden passageway and a hidden surprise. Find the hidden treasures and try to get to the exit!

Toei Movie Village

Toei Movie Village

  • Tokyo-England
  • 10, Tahata Higashi Beeoka-cho, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
  • 5 min. walk from Randen "Taimata-Koryuji" station.
    
5 min. walk from JR "TAHATA" station.
  • Tel. 0570-06-4349
  • https://www.toei-eigamura.com/

14.[Handmade pairings at glänta kyoto Sanjo Kawaramachi / Sanjo

glänta kyoto Sanjo Kawaramachi" is located on the first floor of a renovated 100-year-old machiya townhouse. Here, you can enjoy My Ring, where a craftsman will make an original custom ring in 5 to 10 minutes according to your finger size, or the Work Shop, where you can experience making your own ring. The finished rings can be picked up on the spot, making it a perfect way for couples to create memories together. Wearing matching rings is sure to strengthen the bond between the couple.

glanta at work

The ring-making experience takes 40 to 60 minutes. You can choose from silver, white gold, and other materials, with prices starting at 4,180 yen. Free engraving is also available.

On the 2nd floor, the sister brand CRAFY, a store specializing in handmade wedding and engagement rings, will be located.

glänta kyoto Sanjo Kawaramachi

  • Glenta Kyouto Sanjo Kawaramachi
  • 1F, 87 Nakajimacho, Kawaramachi Higashi-iru, Sanjo-dori, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
  • 3 minutes walk from Exit 6 of Sanjo Station, Keihan
    4 minutes walk from Exit 2 of Sanjo Keihan Subway Station
  • Tel. 075-708-8419
  • https://www.kochentertainment.com/glanta/shop/kyoto/

15.You will feel refreshed after a good laugh! [Live stage performance at Gion Kagetsu in Gion, Kyoto

The theater [Yoshimoto Gion Kagetsu] is recommended for couples who love comedy. Here, many comedians, from young comedians to veterans, perform manzai, rakugo, and shinkigeki. Shinkigeki plays, which are familiar to audiences on TV, are even more entertaining when seen live. Since the theater is located in Gion, you can visit nearby sightseeing spots and cafes after the show.

Gion Kagetsu 2024

*Photo is an image

Gion Kagetsu Exterior

Performance Schedule
Schedule/Web siteConfirmation required from
How to apply/Web sitePhone (075-532-1500), convenience store or theater box office

Yoshimoto Gion Kagetsu

  • Yoshimoto's gibbous moon
  • 323 Gion Kaikan, Gion-cho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto, Japan
  • 9 min. walk from Exit 7 of Gion-Shijo Station, Keihan
  • Tel. 075-532-1500
  • https://gion.yoshimoto.co.jp/

16.Sake and food pairing at Fushimisakagura Koji in the town of sake breweries / Fushimi

Blessed with an abundance of water, Fushimi is one of the top producers of sake in Japan, and Fushimizu Sake Brewery Alley in Fushimi is home to nine restaurants where you can taste sake from 18 breweries belonging to the Fushimi Sake Brewers Association along with a wide variety of food. No matter which restaurant you are seated at, you can order the most popular dish from each restaurant and sake from the brewery from the common delivery menu. If you two love to drink, you could spend a whole day here and not have enough time.

Fushimi Sake Brewery Alley Exterior

In the spacious premises, fairs and other events are held once or twice a month by each brewery. Enjoy yourself in a tipsy mood!

Fushimizu Sake Brewery Alley Interior view

Store]
Sake Brewery (Sake) / O-chan (Sushi) / Kyomachichaya (Kushikatsu, Oden) / Jusen (Teppanyaki) / Osaketomeshi -Tokidoki Yasai (Sosaku Izakaya) / Fushimizu Yakitetsu (Kyushu Hakata Sosaku) / Fushimizu 89-chome Shokudo (Charcoal BBQ) / Ramen Monohsen (Ramen) / Kitatsuka (Machinuka)

*Confirm hours of operation and other information on each store's website.

Fushimizu Sake Brewery Alley

  • Fushimi sakura kouji
  • 82-2 Hirano-cho, Fushimi-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
  • 9 minutes walk from "Fushimi Momoyama Station" of Keihan
    10 min. walk from Momoyama-Goryomae Sta. on the Kintetsu line.
  • Tel. 075-601-2430
  • https://fushimi-sakagura-kouji.com/

17.Enjoy Manga Time at the Kyoto International Manga Museum, a one-of-a-kind cultural facility / Karasuma Oike

The Kyoto International Manga Museum is both a museum and a library of manga. The museum has a collection of about 300,000 manga materials, ranging from caricatures and ukiyoe of the Edo period to current popular works and foreign ones, most of which can be read as much as one likes. In fine weather, reading manga on the grassy grounds of the museum is also a pleasant experience.

Manga Wall at Kyoto International Manga Museum

The "Wall of Manga," a stack of approximately 50,000 books that fills the entire wall of the museum, is an impressive sight. The museum also focuses on events and special exhibitions.

Kyoto International Manga Museum Main Gallery

Kyoto International Manga Museum

  • Tokyo International Manga Museum
  • 452 Kanabuki-cho, Karasuma-dori Oike-agaru, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
  • 2 minutes walk from Exit 2 of "Karasuma-Oike" subway station
  • Tel. 075-254-7414

18.Learn about the creatures that live in Kyoto at the Kyoto Aquarium, one of the largest inland aquariums in Japan / Umekoji Park

An aquarium is an essential first date. Located in Umekoji Park near Kyoto Station, the Kyoto Aquarium is easily accessible and easy to visit. The aquarium exhibits 15,000 living creatures of about 250 species in 10 areas, including the "Kyoto River" area, which displays giant salamanders, and the "Kyoto Sea" aquarium, which recreates the Kyoto sea. Check out the very popular dolphins, penguins, and other creatures program in advance. After a full day of sightseeing, enjoy the gourmet food available in the Umekoji Park area.

Jellyfish Wonder at Kyoto Aquarium

360-degree panoramic aquarium "GURURI" allows visitors to experience the fantastic sea world of jellyfish drifting in the water.

Exterior view of Kyoto Aquarium

Kyoto Aquarium

  • moorish idol
  • 35-1 Kankiji-cho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan Umekoji Park
  • 7 min. walk from JR Umekoji-Kyoto Nishi Sta.
  • Tel. 075-354-3130

19.Nidec Kyoto Tower and Kyoto Tower Sandwich are not only for looking up, but also for enjoying the inside of the tower / Kyoto Station

Nidec Kyoto Tower is a landmark of Kyoto located right in front of Kyoto Station. The observation deck, the highest in the city at 100 meters above ground level, offers a 360-degree view of the Kyoto cityscape. It is recommended to visit at night to enjoy a romantic moment while viewing the nightscape. Kyoto Tower Sand" (B1F to 2F) offers gourmet foods, souvenirs, and Japanese experience stores to satisfy both your appetite and your soul. This popular spot has many fans not only among tourists but also among locals.

Nidec Kyoto Tower

Admission to the observation deck is 900 yen for adults. The observation deck offers a 360° view of the city, and World Heritage and National Treasure buildings can be seen from the observation deck.

Kyoto Tower Sand

On the first floor, there is a market where you can find a variety of Kyoto's finest products, making it a great place to pick up souvenirs!

Nidec Kyoto Tower/Kyoto Tower Sand

  • Nidec Kyoto Tower / Kyoto Tower Sand
  • 721-1 Higashishiokoji-cho, Shichijo-sagaru, Karasuma-dori, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
  • Short walk from "Kyoto Station" of each line
  • Tel. not listed (Nidec Kyoto Tower) / 075-746-5830 (10:00-20:00 / Kyoto Tower Sand)

20.Immerse yourself in the world of the stage "GEAR" in a retro building from the early Showa period / Sanjo

The first non-verbal (i.e., wordless) stage show "Gear" from Kyoto, Japan, has been performed 4,500 times and attracted more than 300,000 spectators, and is now in its 13th year of long-run performance. The powerful performances of mime, breakdance, and magic linked with light and images entertain all audiences, from children to adults. Movie dates are great, but why not experience something out of the ordinary on a casual stage?

Gear Performance Office 02

Watch out for the realistic stage full of tricks and performances at close range!

Gear Performance Office 01

Date/Time/Official siteConfirmation of
Price/ General S seats 7200 yen, Elementary to high school students S seats 5200 yen, Preschool children (4 to 6 years old) 1200 yen *Prices vary depending on seats.

Non-verbal theater "GEAR

  • Nonverbal Theatre Gear
  • 1928 Bldg. 3F, 56 Benkeiishi-cho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto (Gear-only theater ART COMPLEX 1928)
  • 8 min. walk from "Kyoto Shiyakusho Mae" subway station.
    8 minutes walk from Exit 6 of Sanjo Station, Keihan
  • Tel. 0120-937-882
  • https://www.gear.ac/

21.Zen temple known for its "Window of Enlightenment/ Window of Lostness" and "Blood Ceiling" [Genkoan] / Takagamine

Genkoan is a Zen temple of the Soto sect located in Takagamine. The main hall has a round window named "Window of Enlightenment" and a square window named "Window of Lostness," from which one can view the beautiful seasonal scenery of fresh greenery and autumn leaves. Once a month, regular zazen meditation sessions (free of charge) are held, so those interested should inquire in advance. Take some time to calm your mind away from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Genkoan

Quietly gazing at the swaying blue maples, I feel grateful that I am part of nature and that I am being kept alive.

Genkoan

Genkoan

  • motion picture
  • 47 Takagamine Kitatakagamine-cho, Takagamine, Kita-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
  • A short walk from Takagamine Genkoan-mae bus stop
  • Tel. 075-492-1858
  • 500 yen entrance fee during the fall foliage season; parking is not available.

22.From couples to families. Everyone can feel free to visit [JRA Kyoto Racecourse]/Fushimi

JRA Kyoto Racecourse, which will celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2025, will have a grand opening in April 2023 under the nickname "Centennial Park Kyoto Racecourse. In addition to the newly built main stand, the track has been reborn as a more attractive racetrack for men and women of all ages to enjoy, with a paddock that is easier to see and a "UMAJO SPOT" relaxation space for women. The racetrack, which has a strong male image, is now a place where couples can enjoy themselves together.

Kyoto Racecourse

The turf course is beautiful with dazzling greenery. A "multi-screen turf vision" system with high-definition and powerful images is installed in front of the stands.

Kyoto Racecourse Crepe

A limited number of crepes are sold for 1,200 yen at a kitchen car that opens irregularly during Kyoto horse races. You will be super lucky if you come across one!

JRA Kyoto Racecourse

  • Japan Railways (Railways) Convention on Meteorological Services
  • 32, Yoshijima-Tobajimacho, Fushimi-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
  • 2 minutes walk from Exit 2 of Keihan "Yodo" station
  • Tel. 075-631-3131
  • https://www.jra.go.jp/facilities/race/kyoto/

23.Jizo-san, revered as a child-rearing Jizo, child-supporting Jizo, and child-supporting Jizo at Seifuku-ji Temple / Kiyomizu Gojo

[Seifukuji Temple was founded in the Heian period (794-1185) by Kobo Daishi, who built a tsujido (temple hall) here and enshrined a Jizoson (a statue of the Ksitigarbha) that he had made himself. In 1983, Japanese-style painter Morimoto Yuzumi and his students dedicated a flower ceiling to the temple as a memorial service for the 1,150th anniversary of the death of Empress Danrin, a deity associated with Jizoson, which can be viewed from outside the main hall.

Flower ceiling up at Saifukuji Temple

The floral ceiling also depicts many Western flowers such as iris, gerbera, and bougainvillea.

Entrance to Seifukuji Temple

Saifukuji Temple

  • writing time
  • 81 Nishi-Turinokurikurakucho, Matsubara-dori Yamato-oji Higashi-iru, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
  • 9 min. walk from Exit 5 of "Kiyomizu Gojo Station" of Keihan
  • Tel. 075-551-0675

24.Experience making the world's one and only original carpet at tufting studio CREA / Shimogamo

At tufting studio CREA, a carpet specialty store in Shimogamo, you can choose your favorite color from 60 different colors of yarn to make your own original carpet. The workshop is limited to a small group of four people, so you can work at your leisure, even if it is your first time. Why not try making an item to add to your home interior together? Private reservations are available for couples and families.

Tufting Studio Clare Experience

Workshops start at 12,000 yen per person (30 cm square). Work takes about 2 hours.

Tufting Studio Clare Image

tufting studio CREA

  • Tufting Studio Clare
  • 7-1 Nishibayashi-cho, Shimogamo, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
  • 1 minute walk from Shimogamo-jinja-mae bus stop.
  • Tel.090-9765-0066
  • https://tuftingcrea.jp/

25.[MYBEAR STUDIO] Breathing Art into Bear Figures / Karasuma Matsubara

At MYBEAR STUDIO, you can experience creating your own colorful artwork using more than 20 different colors for your bear figure. You can mix your favorite colors to create a marbled pattern, or sprinkle lame for a sparkling finish. The production time is approximately one hour. The completed figure will be delivered to your home about a week after it dries.

My Bear Studio Figures

Workshop participation fees are 8,500 yen for a 23 cm bear (left) and 14,500 yen for a 33 cm bear (right).

MYBEAR STUDIO Interior

MYBEAR STUDIO

  • My Bear Studio
  • 3F European-style building, 400 Gojo Karasumaru-cho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
  • 4-minute walk from Subway Gojo Station
  • Tel.070-8572-3009
  • Reservations can be made through the link provided on Instagram.
  • https://www.instagram.com/mybearstudio
*Please note that the information contained herein is subject to change without notice.
*Since this site uses automatic translation, the translation may differ from the original Japanese content.

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