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2025.3.24
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Morning Sightseeing Banner

Early morning sightseeing in Kyoto is recommended! 〜Information on early morning sightseeing, temples, morning markets, and more!

Kyoto is crowded with many tourists. In the morning, you can take your time to explore popular areas such as Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Arashiyama, and Fushimi Inari, which are the staple sightseeing spots in Kyoto. In this article, we will introduce some of the unique ways to enjoy Kyoto in the morning. Wake up a little earlier than usual to experience Kyoto in a different light than during the day.

1.Morning is the best time to visit the very popular tourist spots.

⚫︎ Kiyomizu Temple
Kiyomizu-Dera Temple (Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture), one of the most popular tourist attractions in Kyoto and a World Heritage Site "Ancient Capital of Kyoto," opens its gates at 6:00 am. Kiyomizu-Dera Temple is crowded with worshippers during the daytime, but in the early morning, you can visit the temple quietly in the clear atmosphere. The view of Kyoto from the "Kiyomizu-no-butai" (stage of Kiyomizu), which is located in front of the main hall on a slope called "Kin-un-kei," is sure to impress you. Other popular power spots, such as Otowa Falls, which is said to be beneficial for prolonging one's life, fulfilling love, and achieving academic success, are also recommended for a leisurely morning stroll.

Kiyomizu Temple

Niomon Gate, the main gate of Kiyomizu Temple, is designated as a National Important Cultural Property.

Address] 1-294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
Access】11 min. walk from bus stop "Kiyomizu-michi", 13 min. walk from "Gojozaka".
Tel. 075-551-1234
Hours/6:00-18:00 (varies according to the season) *Close at 21:00 during special nighttime tours.
Fee/500 yen, elementary and junior high school students 200 yen

Detail ishere


⚫︎ stormyama
Arashiyama has long been known as a scenic spot. [Arashiyama has long been known as a scenic spot, with new tourist attractions such as the Wataratsukibashi Bridge and the Bamboo Grove Trail, as well as new landmarks and new specialties appearing one after another. The symbol of Arashiyama, Wataratsukibashi Bridge, which is usually crowded with people and traffic, is quiet in the early morning, and visitors can enjoy the elegant scenery surrounded by mountains and rivers. Also, the 400-meter-long path from the entrance to Okusaga to the north side of Tenryu-ji Temple [Bamboo Grove Path] can be strolled in the clear air in the early morning. The extraordinary space created by the nature of Arashiyama will surely refresh you. Enjoy a refreshing morning feeling close to nature.

Watarizukibashi Bridge (between Tokyo and Yokohama)

Watarizukibashi Bridge (between Tokyo and Yokohama)

Bamboo grove path

Bamboo grove path

⚫︎Wataratogetsu Bridge
Address] 1-5 Sagano-baba-cho, Tenryuji, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
Access】5 minutes walk from Randen "Arashiyama" station, 9 minutes walk from Hankyu "Saga-Arashiyama" station.

⚫︎ Bamboo grove pathway
Address] Tenryuji Sagano-baba-cho, Saga Tenryuji, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
Access】10 minutes walk from Randen "Arashiyama" station, 13 minutes walk from JR "Saga-Arashiyama" station.


⚫︎ Fushimi Inari-taisha
Fushimi Inari Taisha is a popular tourist destination for both domestic and international visitors. Inari, or Inari-san, is the god of agriculture, and is believed to bring good fortune in the form of fertility, prosperous business, and traffic safety. Early in the morning, the shrine is less crowded and more peaceful, but it is also a good place for a morning walk, which takes about one hour round trip from the Senbon-torii gate behind the main shrine to Yotsutsuji Street, from where you can enjoy a magnificent view of the southern part of Kyoto City. There are also various other shrines within the precincts of the shrine, such as Kumatakusha, Ganryokusha, and Yakuryokusha, which are full of attractions! One of them is the statue of a fox that you often see on your way around the mountain. Take your time and enjoy the charms of Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine and Mount Inari.

Fushimi Inari shrine (in Kyoto)

Romon, the face of Fushimi Inari Taisha

Address] 68 Yabunouchi-cho, Fukakusa, Fushimi-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
Access】A short walk from JR Inari Station and Keihan Fushimi Inari Station
Tel.075-641-7331
Hours: 8:00-18:00 at the awarding office
Fee/Free visit to the precincts of the temple
Detail ishere

2.Participation in morning service

⚫︎Toji
Toji Temple, located a 15-minute walk from Kyoto Station, is a popular sightseeing spot in Kyoto, known for its 55-meter-high five-story pagoda, a national treasure. At To-ji Temple, the Shojinku, a morning service that has been held since the Kamakura period (1185-1333), is held. Every morning from 6:00 a.m., the first meal, second meal, and tea are offered in the Miedo Hall, which used to be the abode of Kobo Daishi Kukai. This is a special experience to start your day in Kyoto.

Toji Temple offering of life
Toji Temple offering of life

offerings made to a living person
Address] 1 Kujo-cho, Minami-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
Access】6 minutes on foot from Toji Station on the Kintetsu Line, 14 minutes on foot from Kyoto Station on each line.
Tel.075-691-3325
Time/6:00~.
Fee/No charge

Detail ishere


⚫︎ Higashi Hongwanji Temple
Higashi-honganji Temple, the head temple of the Otani sect of Shinshu Buddhism and popularly known as "Ohigashi-san," is located a seven-minute walk from Kyoto Station. After passing through the Mikado-mon Gate, said to be one of the world's largest wooden gates and the tallest double gate in Japan, you will see the Amida-do Hall and the Goeido Hall standing side by side. Every morning from 7:00 a.m., the Amida Hall and the Mikage Hall hold a service called "Jincho Hoyo" (morning service). [After reciting the Kannon Amida Sutra in the Amida Hall, Shoshin chants and hymns are recited in the Mikageido Hall. The morning service is open to all, and is a great way to prepare your mind.

Higashi Hongwanji Temple, Tokyo, Japan

Buddhist service held around the clock (orig. 15th of the 2nd month, now 15th of the 3rd month)
Address] Shichijo Kamigaru, Karasuma-dori, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
Access】6 minute walk from Exit 1 of Kyoto Station on each line, 3 minute walk from Karasuma Shichijo bus stop.
Tel. 075-371-9181
Time/7:00~.
Fee/No charge

Detail ishere


⚫︎ Chion-in
Chion-in Temple, the head temple of the Jodo sect, stands on the site where the founder of the sect, Honen Shonin, passed away. The temple houses many cultural assets, including the national treasure Mieido, and is also famous for the New Year's bell ringing on New Year's Eve. The day will surely be a wonderful one, starting with an extraordinary experience in the clear air.

Chion-in Temple Service

Buddhist service held around the clock (orig. 15th of the 2nd month, now 15th of the 3rd month)
Address] 400 Hayashi-shita-cho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
Access】5 min. walk from bus stop "Chion-in-mae".
Tel. 075-531-2111
Hours / Mar-May and Sep-Nov: 6:00~, Jun-Aug: 5:30~, Dec-Feb: 6:30~.
Fee/No charge

Detail ishere

3.Buy fresh vegetables at the morning market!

⚫︎ Ohara Fureai Morning Market
Ohara, located in the northeastern part of Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City and overflowing with tranquil nature, is famous for its vegetables whose sugar content is well preserved due to the temperature difference between day and night that is unique to the basin. Every Sunday, "Ohara Fureai Asaichi" (Ohara Fureai Morning Market) is held at "Satono-eki Ohara" (Village Station Ohara), where about 20 stores open their stalls. Producers sell Ohara vegetables, mackerel sushi, shibazuke pickles, flowers, trees, handicrafts, and other items directly to visitors. Enjoy shopping while chatting with the producers.

Ohara Fureai Morning Market Vegetables

A lineup of vegetables from Ohara

Address] 1012 Oharanomura-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
Access】4 minutes walk from bus stop "Nomura Farewell
Tel. 075-744-4321
Hours / Every Sunday 6:00-9:00

Detail ishere


⚫︎ Farmers Market Tatawa Asagiri//
Located in Kameoka City, the "Farmers Market Towa Asagiri" is one of the largest direct sales centers in Kyoto Prefecture. Every morning, traditional and brand-name vegetables grown in Kyoto's rich climate and shipped directly from the production area line the shelves. All of the vegetables are highly recommended for their nutritional content, freshness, and safety. Take a short walk to purchase fresh agricultural and livestock products from Kyoto.

Tawawa Asagiri Interior view

Address] 30 Nojo Kamimata, Shinocho, Kameoka City, Kyoto Prefecture (next to JA Kyoto Shino Branch)
Access】4 minutes walk from bus stop "Shino
Tel. 0771-23-8318
Hours/9:00-17:00
Detail ishere

4.Encounter once-in-a-lifetime items at flea markets

⚫︎ Heian Flea Market
The "Heian Flea Market" started as a place to connect things that are no longer needed by someone else to the next person. By recycling, the event aims to reduce waste and contribute to environmental issues in any way possible. It is also popular as a place for cultural exchange where 100 antique stores, antique stores, and secondhand clothing stores from all over the country gather and where antique lovers from all over the world gather. Currently, the event is held irregularly every month, so check the Heian Flea Market website or Instagram and X for the dates.

heian_nominoichi

Address] Okazaki Saikyoji-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture, etc.
Access】Two-minute walk from bus stop "Okazaki Park, Museum, Heian Jingu-mae".
Tel. 070-1745-1503 (Heian Flea Market Executive Committee)
Hours/9:00-16:00

Detail ishere

5.Find the best handmade products at the Handmade Market!

⚫︎ Umekoji Park
A handmade crafts market is held on the first Saturday of every month (no market in January, May, and August) at Umekoji Park, which is located near Kyoto Station. Various products ranging from food, ceramics, woodwork, small leather goods, and clothing are displayed in the spacious Umekoji Park, where visitors can enjoy shopping in a relaxed atmosphere. The market is also attractive because the vendors are the makers of the goods, so you can hear directly from them about their thoughts and ideas about their works.

Umekoji Park Handmade Market

Address] Umekoji Park, Shichijo Plaza, 56-3 Kankiji-cho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto
Access】A short walk from JR Umekoji Kyoto Nishi Station
Tel. 075-771-1631 (Handmade Market Office) *Open hours: 10:00-15:00
Date/Time: 1st Saturday of each month (closed in January, May, and August) 9:00-16:00 *Period: rain or shine

Detail ishere


⚫︎ Hyakumanben's Handmade Market//
A handmade crafts market held on the 15th of every month (except August) in the precincts of Chion-ji Temple. Every month, 300 to 380 stores open their stores. There is a wide variety of items from ceramics, woodworking, small leather goods, accessories, breads, sweets, and other genres. You are sure to find a unique item that you can only find here.

Hyakumanben Handmade Market

Many stores line the precincts of Chionji Temple

Address] 103 Tanakamonzen-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
Access】Two minutes walk from bus stop "Hyakumanben
Tel. 075-771-1631 (Handmade Market Office) *Hours: 10:00-15:00
Date/The 15th of every month except August 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. *Period: rain or shine

Detail ishere

6.Enjoy a morning bath at a well-known and well-loved bathhouse

⚫︎ plum-bath
Sauna no Umeyu is located in Gojo Rakuen with a retro atmosphere founded in the Meiji era. Sauna no Umeyu attracts public bathhouse lovers from all over Japan, and is open on Saturdays and Sundays only from 6 am. As the name suggests, the sauna, which is the store's main selling point, is free of charge (separate admission fee is required), which is one of its attractions. The shop is also easily accessible to people of all nationalities, young and old, male and female, so even those who do not usually go to public baths can easily make their debut in a public bath. Start your day with a morning bath at one of Kyoto's most popular public bathhouses.

Sauna Umeyu

The retro interior is another attraction.

Sauna Umeyu

Address] 175 Iwataki-cho, Kaminoguchi-agaru, Kiyamachi-dori, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
Access】6 min. walk from Exit 1 of "Shimizu Gojo Station" of Keihan
Tel. 080-2523-0626
Hours: 14:00 - 2:00, Saturday and Sunday 6:00 - 2:00
Closed/Thursdays
Bathing fee/510 yen, towel rental/50 yen

Detail ishere


⚫︎ Hakusan-yu Takatsuji Branch
Hakusan-yu is the most popular public bathhouse in Kyoto, visited by many tourists and entertainers from outside Kyoto, and is a must-see for sauna lovers. At this popular bathhouse, morning baths are available on Sundays only, starting at 7:00 a.m. [The attraction of Hakusan-yu is its water bath, which is full of natural groundwater and mild to the touch, and its high-temperature sauna. Chairs are provided in the open-air bath, so you can take a good rest in the open-air bath. Let's go soak in Hakusan-yu in the morning.

Hakusan-yu Takatsuji Branch

Public bathhouse using abundant groundwater that is gentle to the skin

Hakusan-yu Takatsuji Branch

Address] 665 Funaya-cho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
Access】10 minutes walk from Exit 6 of Subway "Shijo Station".
Tel. 075-351-3648
Hours: 15:00 - 24:00, Sunday 7:00 - 24:00
Closed on Saturdays
Bathing fee/550 yen, towel rental/50 yen

Detail ishere

*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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